Unions and Compensation in Major League Baseball

Baseball as a game in the U.S. traces its origins back to the year 1978, when the game had no formal rules and special equipments. Although the game at this time was â€Å"crude† due to lack of rules, proper organization and representation, this never prevented its spreading because of its popularity that was spreading fast among the American citizens. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Unions and Compensation in Major League Baseball specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More By late 1860’s there was calls for need to professionalize the game; something that contributed to its development into a national game. Due to many complications that were arising due to the uncontrolled rate at which the game was expanding, there was need for formation of a national body that was to govern the game; hence the formation of the National Association of Baseball players (NABBP). Although not all clubs joined the organizati on, at least those that joined it made it to grow as a national organization that managed baseball activities. With time due to diversification of the game, there has been many major transformations and re-organization of the game, hence its present status as a well-known and respected game. For example, although previously individuals had tried to professionalize the game, there efforts achieved less due to many divisions and wrangles that existed. In many ways, this managerial wrangles and divisions were the main contributors or major building blocks of the currently existing baseball developments. For example, the managerial wrangles led to the formation of the USA Baseball in 1978; an organization mandated with the role of governing the game in the U.S. this organization closely collaborates with the U.S. Olympic committee in trying to improve the quality of the game. It achieves this through promoting of several activities that include major tournaments, minor and major leag ues. Majority of participants in these activities are either high school students or individual who have embraced the game as their professional activity. This organization has led to the success of the game, because it has enabled the team to win a number of medals both in national and international tournaments (History of Baseball, (n.d.), p.1). This paper will discuss concepts of the unionization of professional baseball, impacts of the unionization of the game to players, managers and the game in general. It will further discuss the roles played by the baseball unions as concerns player remuneration and compensation; primarily on factors that determine player compensations.Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More History of Professional Baseball Unions Prior to 1871, baseball had no organized professional management bodies, but rather the game followed informal procedures and rule s. In addition, because of the informal organization of the game, there were no special playing equipments and standards, which players and teams were to meet. Although this was the case, it never lasted for long with the formation of the National Association of professional Baseball players in 1871. The government mandated this organization with the overall role of controlling the game, organizing tournaments, and dealing with problems that arose in during the game or among different participants and stakeholders. Although this was a professional body, which in common scenarios is supposed to be well organized and structured, NABBP lacked the required structural organization, something that made it hard for it to control player’s affairs (Baseball Labor History, 1997, Para. 1-2) . This is because many players had no single clubs they could identify themselves with, because they kept on moving from one to another in for search â€Å"greener pastures†. This never las ted for long, because later on in 1876 under the leadership of Hulbert, the National League of Professional Baseball Players came to existence. The primary aim of this organization was to control the unrestrained movements of players across different teams with no formal procedures. In addition, William’s another aim was to ensure that, club managers had major control over these teams and not as the case was previously where players had all the freedom of doing whatever they wished. Many changes came as a result of the formation of this organization, an example being the selection of five best players to join major clubs that managements decided at the termination of each playing period. The managements named this the â€Å"reserve Clause†, something that contributed to the introduction of contractual terms. Contractual terms in many ways came with many limitations on players in that, there freedom was now limited because of denial of transfer rights. In addition, pre viously players could negotiate their payment terms, however with the introduction of this clause, such rights were limited to players, instead the team owner had the rights of deciding the remuneration and benefit amounts. On the other hand, these introduced a new concept of contract renewing, whereby clubs could â€Å"sell’ their players to other clubs in exchange for money although players were unwilling to join such clubs. The whole idea of baseball players’ remuneration underwent many changes as time advanced because the quality of the game was deteriorating; a factor that resulted due to low motivational levels in players because, clubs denied then chances of joining clubs of their choices. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Unions and Compensation in Major League Baseball specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In addition, the introduction of the salary cap by one baseball club proprietor; Goodwill Spalding led to increased wrangles in baseball management. This is because each club player was to receive approximately $2500 annually, an amount that was far below what was appropriate. Many individuals received this with mixed reactions, hence causing the formation of another baseball union called Brotherhood Professional Baseball Players. This organization came into being because majority of individual felt that club owners were overexploiting players hence, misusing their talent. This received a revolt from club owners, because they too felt isolated and despised by simple players whom they could control. This prompted them to react back by imposing some uniform fees on players (Baseball Labor History, 1997, Para. 4). Although this league helped to fight for players’ rights, it never lasted for long because of the opposition that it faced from club owners; primarily Spalding, hence the re-adoption of the previous reserve clause. Many players opposed this clause because it constrained their rights, something that led to the filing of a court case in early 1920’s, which the baseball won. This marked the onset of the many cases that followed due to wrangles between baseball players and club owners; a factor that primarily contributed to the call for reformulation of the baseball antitrust law. This calls yielded little because, the overexploitation continued for some time, hence making players to consider the option of forming a giant baseball organization to defend their rights. In addition, the fact that players had problems with club owners as concerns pension plans also contributed greatly to the call for the formation of a grand organization that was to foresee the articulation of players’ rights. Although most baseball leader’s efforts gained little, the fight to unionize baseball never stopped because as time advanced many other individuals and players came up with initiatives whose main mandate was to fight for baseball players rights. For example, in early 1990’s through collaboration with other baseball stakeholders, baseball players formed the Player’s Protective Association (PPA). This organization’s main mandate was to fight for players’ remuneration rights and enhancement of playing conditions. Later on in 1912, through collaboration with other bodies that fought for other sport players’ rights, baseball players came up with the Fraternity of Professional Baseball Players; an organization that also was to fight for their rights. Little success of these organizations never stopped players from struggling for representation, because in 1946 they formed another body that was to articulate their rights called the American Baseball Guild (Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), 2010, p.1).Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Still up to mid the 19th century these formed organizations had achieved little as concerned the abolishing or restructuring of the reserve clause. It is important to note here that, the major reason why the players wanted to eliminate or change the reserve clause is because, it had tied players to specific clubs hence, denying them transfer rights to clubs they longed to move to. The little achievement by previously formed baseball unions was not a demoralizing factor to players. This is because although the fruits from such organizations were less, in 1965 players re-organized themselves in order to develop proper strategies of putting forward their grief. Their struggle for recognition made then to seek help from external sources; hence the appointing of Marvin Miller as their leader. This marked the onset of a major transformation in terms of baseball unions because the appointment later turned out to be success factor because of his representational skills. Players appointed h im because they believed that Marvin had the power of influencing the government and negotiating with club owners on players’ rights. The concept of miller leading the players association received many oppositions from club owners, whereby their struggles to eliminate him from this leadership position were fruitless. Miller fought to ensure the union had enough funds to manage its affairs. To achieve this, he came up with the concept of a licensing plan that was to ensure that all baseball players were registered and accepted members of a specific representational organization. In addition, he came up with a tutoring and mentoring programs, whose main aim was to ensuring players expressed their grief with solidarity, hence the need to abolish differences that existed amongst them. His efforts gained many fruits for example, in 1968 through his leadership and using his influencing power, the union won a case that led to the formulation and signing of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is the sports sector. This agreement was one of its kinds in this industry because; it prompted most club managements to increase players’ salary to $10,000 (MLBPA, 2010, Para. 5). His struggle to see respect of players’ rights never stopped here, because in 1970 through negotiations with club owners and other stakeholders, players received arbitration rights, when it came to handling of players’ problems. Granting of arbitration rights marked the onset of many achievements that followed as concerned baseball players’ rights. It is necessary to note here that, Miller’s achievements not only enhanced the respect of baseball players, but rather it had impacts in all sports sectors; hence, the accordance of respect to professional sport. Throughout Miller’s reign much happened in the sports world, in terms of developments and respect of players’ rights. His great achievements included the introduction of licenses in spo rts, improvement of contractual terms, and adoption of correct pension schemes by organizations. In addition, his struggle to increase the unions saw the expansion of the union to international standards, something that unions and individual feel even today. This is because currently, MLBPA is one of the most prominent and powerful sports organizations in not only America, but also globally (Korr, 2003, p.1). The concept of the reserve clause received much opposition and faced many court challenges, whereby finally under arbitration the concept of free agency came into being. This abolished the monopoly enjoyed by many clubs in that, it helped to abolish the continuous tendencies of clubs renewing players’ contracts without their consent. MLBPA has undergone many changes, and has seen many leaders come an go, whereby some of the leaders who have seen the union sail through changing hard times include Ken Moffet (after miller) and Fehr. Other developments after Miller’s achievement include increase in revenue amounts, restricting of the free agent market that made club owners enjoy the monopoly as concerned the signing of new contracts. This in any ways has contributed to compensation of players for their rights abused by club owners, for example in 1990; players received $280 million from club owners. Achievement of these has never been smooth in that, it had to involve unrests and boycotts from players for example the 232-day boycott in 1994 to 1995. This in many ways enhanced negotiation standards and agreements rates, something that was very clear during the 2002 signing of a new sort contract (MLBPA, 2010, p.1). Impacts of the Unionization on Players, owners and the Baseball Game In common practice, the main aim of all players’ organizations is to fight and a ensure team managements and club owners respect all player rights. The case has not been different in MLBPA; owing to the many struggles, it has undergone to achieve its present status, primarily because of the much turmoil, which it had to undergo in the past. For example to achieve its present status, the union had to organize many strikes and work boycotts. In addition, in some instances it had to file court cases, whereby it lost and won some. On the other hand, where the court cases failed, arbitration had to prevail, hence the current achievements of the union. Although the quality of the game has had a major boost, players have benefited most because of the freedom that abolishing of the reserve clause granted them. Currently baseball players have employment rights, a scenario that contrasts to what existed previously where, club owners enjoyed the monopoly of controlling all baseball activities. Under Miller’s leadership, club owners granted players collective bargaining opportunities through agreements signed between the two parties; players and club owners. Such like developments have contributed to the currently earned good salaries by b aseball players, as compared to the past when their salary was little to sustain a good living (Goodman, 2000, p.1). In addition, players have arbitration rights, something that is a major boost to the formalities of solving players’ problems. These rights have achieved a lot for example, in 1989, players benefited from a damage compensation that amounted to $ 38 million. In addition through this arbitration rights, player have received other benefits either in form of salaries or compensations from club owners incase something in cases where problems occur during playing time. Currently players have information access rights, something that the club owners tried to constrain during early times when there existed many contending issues between the two parties. Apart from material gains, the unionization of baseball has created strong baseball teams whose solidarity has brought many achievements, which has contributed to talent exploitation hence the coming up of many stars fo r example, Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa (MLBPA, 2010, p.1). On the other hand, the unionization has contributed greatly to the increasing bargaining power of players. MLBPA represents all players’ grievances in court and to baseball club owners. Hence, due the nature of the power they posses, they have helped baseball players to express their grievance hence, bettering their negotiating terms. Although the unionization of professional baseball has contributed a lot to players’ well-being, to some extent it has contributed to the downfall of players who never participated in the strike. This is because to the union the young players’ act of not joining others in the strike deviated from the union’s rules hence, the only way of punishing them is by denying them union memberships. This has greatly contributed to talent wastage, because they are not entitled to benefit from any deals by the union (Kendrick, 2010, p.1). To club owners, considering the amount of fines resulting from compensations, management of most baseball teams have little to celebrate for, because these compensations are major sources of looses. Baseball unions from time to time have challenged any management orientation club owners adopt; any time they feel, such changes are violating player’s rights. In many ways, this has made management hard in that, from time to time there are policy changes, something that costs club owners substantial amounts of money. Although the above is the case as concerns managements, at least the same has helped to shape management practices of teams. This is because currently, clubs give players the required respect and recognition, something that was rare previously during the reign of Albert Spalding as a club owner. The game has received a major boost in terms of quality and standards. Previously, the â€Å"reserve clause† and the contractual terms was a major demoralizing factor because, players could not afford to play for their dream teams. With the formation of MLPBA, club managers adopted better managerial policies that saw the change of contractual terms hence, guaranteeing players their individual freedoms. On the other hand, previously there were much segregation in terms of players in specific baseball teams, whereby there existed clear divisions between the whites and black Americans. This led to the formation of the Negro League Baseball Players Association. However, due to unionization such segregations have vanished because of equal representation. This in many ways has contributed to the development of the game to international standards, because every registered player has equal chances of exhibiting their expertise as far as the game is concerned (Negro League Baseball Players Association, 2007, p.1). Factors that Determine Player Compensation Packages in Baseball Currently, professional sport has undergone many transformations in terms of diversification, hence making the entire fi eld a multifaceted field. Depending on one’s competence in terms of playing skills and how much fans like one, one becomes a good marketing tool of clubs they belong. Majority of organizations adopt the incentive plan, for most management considers it the most appropriate mechanism of encouraging performance. The same is not different when it comes to professional sports, because for players to maintain high playing standards, club managements have to adopt the same measures. The overall role of determining the remuneration packages of baseball players rests with the Major League Baseball players Union. The league achieves its mandate by employing the use of collective bargaining agreements. Depending whether a player is in the national league or in the American league, the remuneration packages vary accordingly. In addition, negotiation also forms the foundation of any remuneration package a player receives hence, the importance of unions as main negotiators (Manzano, 2006 , p.1). Any baseball player is entitled to a specific minimum salary. In addition, to the minimum salary, clubs add other performance related monetary benefits; depending on terms of agreements. For a player to have arbitration rights, they have to be in the league for a minimum of three years, whereby contractual renewal terms determine the amount of salary that a player earns. After the third year; when the clubs are renewing contracts, the salary varies depending also on the new contractual terms. Generally, a player’s remuneration package depends on achievements; in terms of game quality and the representing union’s agents during negotiations (Miller, 2000, pp. 87-88). Roles of Unions to Player Compensation The remuneration packages of baseball players in most cases depend primarily on the strength of the negotiator(s). Players on their own cannot afford to negotiate good contractual terms hence, the need for representation by agent provided by unions where they be long. This is the case, because sometimes working conditions may be unfavorable or their may exist many contending issue under consideration. In addition, because majority of players have little knowledge about the nature of benefits they should receive from their clubs, special representation by union agents ensures club managers do not take advantage over them. This ensures club owners award players good remuneration packages through the process of structuring the wage benefits (Milkovich Newman, 2007, pp. 94-97). Although one may argue that, contractual terms are clear hence, no need for one to be represented by a union member, it is necessary for individuals to remember that, contractual term are alterable before one signs a contract. Hence, the use of an agent guarantees improved contractual terms, which translates to better benefits. In addition, unions’ representation can act as a security measure because many changes can occur in terms of skill demand and competiti on (Milkovich Newman, 2007, p. 504). Therefore, to ensure there is job security and assurance of continuous gaining, it is important for players to have representation from a union, it being a corporate and registered body, hence has rights to defend an individual in case something wrong happens in the course of the game. Conclusion In conclusion, baseball unionization has undergone a major transformation process. This is because a comparison between the past and present quality and standards of the game clearly shows that, the game has undergone an evolution. The evolution is in terms of managerial qualities, policy developments, and changes in the general practice of the game. Reference List Baseball labor History. (1997). An old fashioned game with old fashioned traditions. Retrieved from http://xroads.virginia.edu/~CLASS/am483_97/projects/brady/labor.html Goodman, A. (2000). Sports Law History: the role of Marvin Miller. Retrieved from http://www.sportslawnews.com/archive/his tory/MarvinMiller.htm History of Baseball. (n.d.). Baseball. Retrieved from http://www.rpi.edu/~fiscap/history_files/hisproj1.htm Kendrick, S. (2010). 1994-95 effects are felt, at least on video games. About Baseball. Retrieved from http://baseball.about.com/b/2010/02/03/1994-95-strike-effects-are-still-felt-at-least-on-video-games.htm Korr, C. (2003). Baseball union. Dictionary of American History. Retrieved from http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G2-3401800383.html Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA). MLBPA information. MLBPA Players. Retrieved from http://mlbplayers.mlb.com/pa/info/ Manzano, C. (2006). The business of baseball: how do players earn such Big salaries. Law Offices of Catalina L. Manzano. Retrieved from http://manzanolaw.com/articles/baseball.html Milkovich, G., Newman, J. (2007). Compensation (9th e.d.). New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin Publishers. Miller, P. (2000). A theoretical and empirical comparison of free agent and Arbitration-eligible salaries ne gotiated in major league baseball. Southern Economic Journal, 67(1), 87-104. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/pss/1061614 Negro League Baseball Players Association. History of Major Negro Leagues Association. NLPBA. Retrieved from http://www.nlbpa.com/history.html This essay on Unions and Compensation in Major League Baseball was written and submitted by user Elisa K. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Term Vs Whole Life Essays - Life Insurance, Whole Life Insurance

Term Vs Whole Life Essays - Life Insurance, Whole Life Insurance Term Vs Whole Life TERM VS WHOLE LIFE If you're like most people, there's nothing more important to you than your family. As difficult as it is for you to imagine not being there for them, it's a risk we all face. To help be sure your loved ones have the financial protection they'll need, it's important to not only think about the unexpected, but to plan for it. If you were gone, who would provide for your loved ones? Who would help... Provide cash for family income? Cover the cost of raising your children? Pay off your mortgage? Pay off your debts? Life insurance can help give your family the protection they need while providing you with peace of mind. It can help provide continuing income and help pay the billskeeping your family's hopes and dreams alive even after your death. or to find out if you're approved for up to $150,000 of immediate 10-year term life insurance that could save you up to 30%.* Coverage starts today with no medical exam if you're approved.** Or, get more information on other life insurance coverage offered through U.S. Bancorp Insurance Services: in higher coverage amounts for maximum coverage at the lowest premiums that can be designed for long-term protection while providing flexibility in terms of premium payments and cash value accumulation. Applying for 10- and 20-year underwritten term and universal life insurance involves an interview and a medical exam (including blood and urine samples). Term Insurance Advantages Initially, premiums are lower than those for various forms of whole life insurance, thus allowing you to purchase higher amounts of insurance coverage. It is good for covering specific needs that will disappear in time, such as mortgages and other loans. Disadvantages Premiums will increase as you grow older and at the end of the term of the policy you purchase, such as 10 year term. In the 11th year the premiums will increase. Eventually, coverage may lapse due to the expense of the policy the older you do get.Generally, the policy does not have cash value. Permanent Insurance Advantages As long as the necessary premiums are paid, the life insurance policy is guaranteed to be there for your entire life. Your premium can be fixed or flexible to meet your own personal needs. The policy accumulates a cash value that you can borrow against. Loans would need to be paid back with interest or your beneficiaries will receive a reduced value of benefit if you pass away prematurely. If you ever needed to have your premiums paid for with you existing cash value, you can. If you surrender your policy, the cash value will be returned to you. Disadvantages The required premiums may make it to expensive to purchase the necessary amount of insurance you and your family needs. It may cost more than term insurance if you do not keep the policy long term. I think I would take the whole life insurance because it will adjust to your personal need as the term wont it is just a fixed rate but the whole life also has a fixed rate but it will fluxuate to fit your personal needs at the time that your in that would be why I pick whole life over term life. TERM VS WHOLE LIFE If you're like most people, there's nothing more important to you than your family. As difficult as it is for you to imagine not being there for them, it's a risk we all face. To help be sure your loved ones have the financial protection they'll need, it's important to not only think about the unexpected, but to plan for it. If you were gone, who would provide for your loved ones? Who would help... Provide cash for family income? Cover the cost of raising your children? Pay off your mortgage? Pay off your debts? Life insurance can help give your family the protection they need while providing you with peace of mind. It can help provide continuing income and help pay the billskeeping your family's hopes and dreams alive even after your death. or to find out if you're approved for up to $150,000 of immediate 10-year term life insurance that could save you up to 30%.* Coverage starts today with no medical exam if you're approved.** Or, get more information on other life insurance coverage offered through U.S. Bancorp Insurance Services: in higher coverage amounts for maximum

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The Children by Nina Fedorova - Essay Example Lida is the main child. Manchuria is China and hard. Many peoples refugee there and Japan controlled. Lida and her mother are Russian and escape violence in Russian Revolution. Lida sings good and loves Jimmy from U.S. They will have marry some day and mail letters, but Lida stops getting them. When traveling to sing. Lida sees friends in Harbin and Shanghai. She sees the Platova, Mother Abbess, and Mme. Militza. Mainly Lida worrys for Jimmy, because must marry to be happy. Glafira marrys George and they are happy with brothers in Australia. Mother Abbess even wants to marry, but she dies. Jimmy has accident in hospital and Lida sad and sick but Leon downstairs send her letters. Lida writes Jimmy how that Leon asked her to marry and Jimmy doesn't write until he leaves so she choose. Leon is in Spain and Mrs. Clark finds out about Jimmy to help Lida to go to U.S. Before Lida leave, her home flooded. Piano can't be sold. Rooms Mother rent are full of peoples without house, so Lida has no money to leave. Lida's friend Alla is sick because her mother did not like her husband. They stay with Lida but Alla dies. "Fate deprived Alla of many pleasures in life now refused her even the traditional accessory of death." (Fedorova 340). The city was under water. People moved in boats and tubs and rafts. With no place to bury Alla. Mother sew her in sackcloth and she in General took body on boat to Hei-ho river and push her in. Japan soldiers sit in boats over fences because of blockade. The town is almost dry when Second World War happens. Russians have party for Lida because Miss Clark pays for boat. Lida travels with Mr. Rind and Professor Kremenetz, but she is careful without Japanese permission. Mr Rind is American but Professor Kremenetz is Russian and says "A Russian girl is almost ridiculous in her devotion. A Russian heart is the pathetic heart of a child rushing for an illusion, hurting himself and others - still refusing to take reality as it is." (Fedorova 375). Lida gets to Seattle and Jimmy buys her oranges. Everyone is child and Russian child have to learn. Many learn in The Children. The Shanghai student are get impressed by Lida and come see her sing. The boys stop changing Mme. Militza's sign and bring her flowers because a book told them how. Nikitka's mother rents him to Mrs. Pitcher and she sends him to school with English. He learns with younger child and then he cheats. No other English students like him and Nikitka gets beat for cheating so he runs away. Comrade Dasha is Communist. She read newspapers for Mr. Rind in Harbin. When Lida watches the frozen river at Christmas, she talks that God means she is never lonely. Dasha laughs because she is atheist. Dasha take Mr. Rind to Communist meeting where she is dead. Dasha saves the speaker from a bullet and has a big funeral because she was a worker. Lida tells Mother Abbess and the mothers pray because Dasha was atheist. Sinner Vera is a liar about everything. Her parents are killed at six years old. Mother Abbess says "To lie i s perhaps her way to believe that one can change the facts." (Fedorova 145). Lida's cousin Dima in England. He can go to U.S. but stays to fight for Mrs. Parrish in England. Dima has plan for children. He writes to Lida and her Mother to tell them about plan. He takes all from all fighting countries and they go to island.

How to Keep A Good Job Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

How to Keep A Good Job - Essay Example Hence having a perspective is good, however keeping a few things to oneself is better for the period that the individual is at the job. b) Do not Excel at the Job nor underperform: At a job it is best not to try to excel, this is because it will cause unnecessary attention and talks in the office. Same is the case with underperformance. Hence it is best to keep a low profile and complete the job in hand at time and keep up with all the jobs that have been assigned. c) Make a Clear Decision: Making a clear decision as to the choice of wither staying or leaving the job needs to be planned and well decided. There is nothing worse than being on the edge and not being able to decide whether to stay or leave the job. This will only lead the person to show low performance and also unprofessional behaviour. It is however better if the plan is clear and if a person des want to leave the job, it is best to provide the employers with the notice and work professionally until the last day of the job to leave the place with a good name (MPR News, 2008). Also in some cases taking time out and thinking about the factors that affect the job is a good option rather than just jumping to conclusions. d) Be happy with the Job and No Complaints: In the current period having a job is a very great thing. It is essential that employees understand this and also do not complain about their job or the work that is involved in the job. It is always better to keep what one feels to themselves rather than sharing the issues within the office. At the current time the employers are not interested in the hearing the issues of the employees as the current economy is already quite taxing especially for the management. e) Being Content with the job and the salary: In the current period if one needs to keep the job it is essential to be content with the salary and to cope up with all the

Strategic Human Resource Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Strategic Human Resource Management - Essay Example Horizontal fit refers to the congruence among various HRM practices (Baird & Meshoulam, 1998), and vertical fit refers to the alignment of HRM practice with strategic management process of the firm (Schuler & Jackson, 1987)†. Several approaches have been developed to strategic international human resource management and each of these has their own advantages and disadvantages. The following section will detail the various approaches and aims to compare and contrast these approaches. Approaches to Strategic International Human Resource Management: There are four main approaches to strategic international human resource management. These include: a) Strategy Focused Approach: Some authors are of the view that human resource management and strategic HRM are the same. Authors believe that the nature of HRM is strategic (Dowling, Festing, & Engle, 2007). However this view has not been clearly accepted by a number of authors and it is believed that strategic human resources and HRM a lthough might be similar in a few aspects are not the same. This approach focuses on the strategy based view. b) Decision Focused Approach: Authors like Tichy et al express that there are three main levels of management. These they explain include, the long term, i.e. strategic, medium term, i.e. managerial and the short term, i.e. operational (Dowling, Festing, & Engle, 2007). Authors believe that the functions of human resources that are completed at strategic level together form strategic international human resource management. However there have been arguments that the managerial or also the operational level of human resource functions are more so the... This paper stresses that several approaches have been developed to strategic international human resource management and each of these has their own advantages and disadvantages. The following section will detail the various approaches and aims to compare and contrast these approaches. This report makes a conclusion that some approaches clearly include different views of the organization and also take into account different aspects of the organization which help give rise to the strategic human resource planning. Here it is important to note that although most of these are interlinked the main difference among them is the nature of the approach. Each approach takes into account various elements of business and on how the strategic international human resource management is developed within the organization. The author talks that it is also important to note here that these approaches are based on six main elements which include, a) The transformation of the human resource staff and structure, b) improving the overall administrative efficiency, c) creating a sync between human resource and strategic planning process of the organization, d) creating a fit between the human resources practices and the business strategy itself, e) taking into account the impact of the human resources on the business and also f) development of relationship with the line management. These elements clearly indicate all the areas that together help in the development of Strategic International Human Resource Management. Although all the approaches might be different and might undertake different areas to develop the human resource management, the main crux of all the approaches is clearly the above mentioned six elements.

Developing Learning Spaces in University

Developing Learning Spaces in University Science Learning Spaces and Transition into First Year Bachelor of Science Significant investment has been made in the past ten years in universities and schools in regard to learning spaces and engagement and retention of students as well as preparing students for the world of work outside of the education system. A learning space is one where the teacher and student engage in learning, where a task is realised and the ability to adopt new ways of seeing the world are understood. Research looking at learning spaces and the interaction between architecture and education, show that there is a disconnect between the designing of the learning space and those that teach in the learning space. Student feedback on the success of the learning space is not often considered or is the transition of the students from a school learning space environment to a university/tertiary learning space environment. Learning spaces have many different contexts school spaces, university spaces, virtual spaces, however the area of interest for this study is the transition of students from an innovative learning space in a secondary school environment to an innovative space in a tertiary environment. When researching and gathering information, the premise is that space (natural and built environments) shapes practices and outcomes in teaching and learning, in particular with students moving from secondary to tertiary environments. According to Oblinger (2006), the relationship and social practices that make up learning spaces are only one aspect of the complex relationships of teaching that inform learning outcomes. However, a learning space can improve conditions and mediate relationships that improve student learning along with the physical, mental and cognitive indicators (Oblinger 2006). The use and effect of learning spaces, particularly physical learning spaces are often related pedagogicall y and organisationally to changes in use and demands in any point of time. Arnot and Reay (2007) discuss an example any one particular space could be used for individual pathway planning, team teaching, personalised learning, teamwork, problem solving, community based learning, which can all be done in open multipurpose learning spaces that link the education to the real world environment. Bruckner (1997) and Nespor (2004) state that temporality is a key factor in how organisations, teachers and students respond to new learning spaces over time. Souter, Riddle, Keppell, Sellers (2010) suggest that innovative learning spaces such as the purpose built spaces that universities are investing in today, should support a constructivist approach to learning and support student centred learning that is collaborative and experiential. Often spaces are built for design without considering the learning and comfort of the students, as well as the success and retention of students in a particular program. Designing built environments on sound pedagogical and architectural principles that are appropriate to community needs provides new opportunities for academics to create new partnerships and new pedagogical possibilities (Blackmore et al, 2011). However, Elmore (2007) indicates that this means focusing on the purpose and rational for change which include teaching and learning practices to support the learning environment and student needs. Currently there is a lot of research looking at the transition of students from secondary to univer sity (Johnson, Johnson, Farenga Ness (2005); Sleeter 2008; Zeichner 2008, 2010) however the area of research looking at the use of traditional pedagogy and learning spaces at university show that there is a need for change (Zeichner 2010). The DEECD authorised The Connections between Learning Spaces and Learning Outcomes: A Literature Review (Blackmore et al. 2010) which concluded that while the investment of building new spaces has been based on sound architectural and educational principals, there was little evidence that showed the connectedness to improved student learning, and how the spaces were used by teachers, students and communities pedagogically, as well as what effect they had on different student social groups. The question then is how does community and governance in higher education relate to learning, teaching and space? Temple (2008) suggests that this is an under researched area and one that may have significance in retention and enjoyment of students at university. Often what universities and architects think people think about their buildings is unsupported when university staff members and students are actually asked (Temple 2008). Student-centred approach to university design often focus on issue s of pedagogy and the curriculum rather than the physical environment (Temple 2008). Some writers have noted that teaching and learning should drive design, rather than visa versa (Jamieson et al. 2000; Jamieson 2003). Guiding principal for new learning spaces secondary and tertiary. Case Studies New Chem labs, physics learning space and GCF and Education Perspectives on learning spaces and pedagogical needs. Learning spaces and pedagogy Retention and Attrition of students in tertiary education Pat Sanders Brighton Grammar Science lab, thorough case study Scotch College science labs Comparative analysis of planning between case studies planning, methodology and outcome References Arnot, M. and D. Reay (2007). A Sociology of Pedagogic Voice: Power, inequality and pupil consultation. Discourse: Studies in the Cultural Politics of Education 28(3): 311-325. Bruckner, M. (1997). Eavesdropping on Change: Listening to Teachers During the First Year of an Extended Block Schedule. NASSP Bulletin 81(593): 42-52. More and more high schools are moving to a block scheduling arrangement, which results in longer and fewer classes each day. Changes in teaching strategies are essential to the success of such programs, for without significant revisions in classroom time use, block scheduling results in lengthy lectures or multiple lessons forged together, sometimes without logic. Nespor, J. (2004). Educational scale-making. Pedagogy, Culture Society 12(3): 309 326. The article explores the complexities of educational scalemaking. Educational scales are defined as the spatial and temporal orders generated as pupils and teachers move and are moved through educational systems; scales are envelopes of spacetime into which certain schoolbased identities (and not others) can be folded. Scale is thus both an object and a means of power in educational practice. Using data from life history interviews with an elementary teacher in the USA, the article illustrates the multiplicity of scale-making processes, and raises the question of how certain scale definitions become more widely accepted and authoritative than others. Oblinger, D. (2006). Learning Spaces. D. Oblinger, Educause. Space, whether physical or virtual, can have a significant impact on learning. Learning Spaces focuses on how learner expectations influence such spaces, the principles and activities that facilitate learning, and the role of technology from the perspective of those who create learning environments: faculty, learning technologists, librarians, and administrators. Information technology has brought unique capabilities to learning spaces, whether stimulating greater interaction through the use of collaborative tools, videoconferencing with international experts, or opening virtual worlds for exploration. This e-book represents an ongoing exploration as we bring together space, technology, and pedagogy to ensure learner success.

Humanitys Fall in John Miltons Paradise Lost :: Milton Paradise Lost Essays

Humanity's Fall in Paradise Lost      Ã‚   The original sin that led to humanity's fall in the Garden of Eden is by far the worst sin committed by humankind.   It is this sin that led to future sins.   This original sin   must be emphasized by writers to depict the evil involved in it.   In writing Paradise Lost, John Milton recognizes this fact and uses a variety of literary techniques to stress the evil in the story over the good.   The techniques used include a series of parallels with the parallel between good and evil being first and foremost as well, as symmetry to keep the poem in balance.   Paradise Lost is a poem essentially about the origin of sin and evil, as a result, Milton presents evil in a more coercive manner than good.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Satan and his followers in Paradise Lost are presented as being more evil than God and his disciples are good.   God addresses the Son to be in the likeness of himself in Book three by saying, "The radiant image of his glory sat, his only Son."(Bk. 3, 63-64).   Although this implies that the Son is a model of perfection as is God, it does not clarify it by stating it outright.   Milton definitely portrays Satan's evil in Book four by asserting that Satan is hell and that evil is his good because good has been lost to him. (Bk. 4, lines 75, 108-110).   Satan's moral state further decays in Book nine as detailed in a soliloquy at the beginning of the book by Satan.   Satan recognizes his descent into bestiality after once being in contention with the gods to sit on top of the hierarchy of angels.   He is unhappy with this "foul descent" and in turn wants to take out his grief on humanity.   Despite recognizing that revenge eventually becomes bitter, Satan wants to make others as miserable as he is.   It is i n destruction that he finds comfort for his ceaseless thoughts.   (Bk. 9, lines 129-130, 163-165).   Satan is described at length in an epic simile that compares his great size to that of mythical figures.   This simile drags on for sixteen lines of direct comparison.   This comparison to mythical figures makes the reader think more about the subject therefore invoking more thought about