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Researching and Defining "Affordance", 2006.
This paper examines the origin and various definitions for the word 'affordance' which was coined by perceptual psychologist J. J. Gibson in the 1970s.
1,690 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 5 sources, APA, £ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper details the root meaning of the word 'affordance' as well as its plural 'affordances' which was invented by J.J. Gibson to refer to the actionable properties between the world and that of a living being. To Gibson, affordances were perceived as a relationship as well as a part of nature and as such did not have to be visible, desirable or known. The writer of this paper describes how these words have since been integrated into various fields such as: Academia, design, computers and business. The writer proves that the original conception of these words and their eventual usage soon became dissimilar when used in these different fields. The writer also discusses how both these words are defined and utilized into the fields of interest previously mentioned.
Table of Contents:
Thesis Statement
Affordance Defined
Important Current Research Findings
The Impacts and Conclusions
Bibliography
From the Paper
"Although the following research findings seem more of an historical nature than a current issue among researchers, quite the opposite is true. Affordance while not labeled as such has been in existence since the time of Aristotle and his models along with others have wound their way to the present time. However, research groups throughout the world today are finding a commonality or thread winding itself right into the heart of the affordance debate. These are the cultural constraints and the cultural conventions many of which are decades, if not centuries, old and still weigh heavily of affordance. For example, in graphical design, one is really talking about conventions that are normal to thinking of as logical and cultural restraints. Physical constraints have a close relationship to real affordances. Thus, it is not possible to move the cursor outside the screen."
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Bilingual Education in Early Childhood, 2006.
A study of nationally-mandated multi-lingual education for young migrant students in the United States.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, £ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper examines efforts by school districts to provide multi-lingual education, as required by the federal government. The paper focuses on special education services for migrant children and highlights shortcomings in the delivery of these services. The paper discusses identification of needy students and the process of inducting a student into the special education system. The paper concludes with recommendations for legislative and administrative change to dramatically improve the delivery of multi-lingual education. Thesis Statement A Brief Background and History Barriers in the System Identification of Students Conclusions and the Welfare Issue
From the Paper
"Bilingual Education and the word Bilingual itself are nothing more than "political buzzwords," designed to ease expensive and expansive legislation through the Congress. The actual study of the factors in this field of Education, particularly of early childhood periods, is the term Multi-lingual due to the many variants involved in the processes of teaching not only this group but their families as well. For example, in Texas where the problems are being addressed most aggressively these educators are dealing with a variety of Spanish languages speaking individuals. This becomes a multi-lingual problem therefore because of the paradigms of dialectics, syntax, sentence structures, and many other factors. These problems likewise are not in any manner limited to Texas, as almost every State in the country must deal with it on some level. Texas, and their recent Educational Reforms just happens to be the model producing system for others too effectively follow. Moreover, Spanish and all its variants is not the only language Educators are forced to deal with."
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Story Telling in Childhood Learning, 2006.
An analysis of how children learn and the importance of story telling in that process.
5,300 words (approx. 21.2 pages), 114 sources, MLA, £ 93.95
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Abstract
This paper studies how children develop language skills, as well as other auditory capacities, such as memory. The paper provides a detailed overview of the psychological and physiological changes that happen from infancy toward maturation. Then the paper explores the specific application of this research to language acquisition, focusing on the importance of story telling. The paper provides researched opinion that story telling helps young children to not only develop in their primary language, but in secondary languages as well. The paper concludes with recommendations to teachers for maximizing the language acquisition benefits of story-telling for their young students. Brief Analysis of the Quotation Why is Story Telling So Crucial in Childhood Learning What Implications Does Story Telling Have for Teaching English as a Second Language to Young Learners
From the Paper
"Developmental specialists have informed us that children must acquire a primary language by a certain age. What is not always understood by today's educators is that prior to age seven, children may acquire verbal facility in more than one language. After the age of seven, the child's ability to speak a second language as a native is limited as they appear to be unable make some specific sounds in second language that do not exist in the primary language. The younger a child or a young person acquires the second language after the age of seven the better their fluency. What does this tell us? Language is not just a tool; it is how we structure our reality. The latest theories in social science and linguistics reveal this to being true. Levi-Strauss, a linguistic anthropologist from the mid twentieth century, was one of the first social theorists to propose this."
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Krishna, the Divine Lover: Myth and Legend, 2006.
An investigation into the Hindu god Krishna's attribute, reflected in his nickname, of the "Divine Lover".
5,932 words (approx. 23.7 pages), 8 sources, MLA, £ 100.95
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Abstract
The paper begins by analyzing the meaning of gods and sacredness in the Hindu tradition, then it introduces the character of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. It discusses his use of flute music to seduce gopis (lit., "herds-women"), and analyzes the character of gopis (Krishna's female devotees) for what they say about women's sexuality in the Hindu tradition. The paper presents various stories from Hindu literature many focusing on Krishna and his favorite gopi Radha, and analyzes the different states of emotion and sensuality described in that literature, defining and explaining Hindi terms. The paper briefly reviews modern Krishna worship, too. In conclusion, the paper finds that this loving side of Krishna was merely one more extension of his warlike nature - a means to destroy the wicked.
From the Paper
"Over the past twenty years, Hindu Gods have become something of a cottage industry in the West. Ranging from detailed anthropological treatments of regional traditions, to critical translations of fundamental sources on the Goddess, to text-based overviews of the history of Goddess cults, these studies have done much to compensate for a prior penury of scholarship concerning the distaff side of the Hindu pantheon.
"Maria Powers (1980) has argued, the contemporary analysis of the rites, rituals, and beliefs of a non-Western society often has a Western cultural bias. However, an explanation based on Western presuppositions does not provide us with a correct analysis. The conceptual framework, social constructs, necessitating interpersonal relations, and roads for spiritual fulfillment of a non-Western society differ strikingly from those of a Western society."
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Noam Chomsky, 2006.
An overview of the work and politics of famous linguist and activist, Noam Chomsky.
989 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 6 sources, APA, £ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Noam Chomsky's pioneering and revolutionary work in linguistics (including a devastating dislike of a pioneer of another generation, B.F. Skinner), and his outlook on America's foreign policy.
From the Paper
"What is interesting about Chomsky's various linguistic investigations is that he seems to believe that there is a sort of universal repertoire of possible sounds from which natural language selects some. Chomsky, in this, opposes the once-popular views of B.F. Skinner, who felt that giving a baby repetitive sounds that have no formal meaning, that baby will ultimately respond, depending on the tone of those nonsense syllables. Chomsky, on the other hand, believes that anything other than a specific meaning for a specific tone and word is fallible and useless."
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Freud and Nietzsche, A Construction of Self, 2006.
An exploration and critical evaluation of the construction of the self as viewed by Sigmund Freud and Friedrich Nietzsche.
2,011 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 6 sources, MLA, £ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper evaluates and compares the philosophical point of view, as expressed by famous philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, of the construction of the self with that of Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytical point of view regarding the construction of the self. The paper concludes with a look at how each of these famous men contributed to the field of meta-psychology and by pointing out the urgency of developing a a common understandable language for this field.
From the Paper
"Although Friedrich Nietzche the famous German Rhetorician and Philosophical Language writer was never truly involved in psychoanalysis per se, his commentaries upon the use of linguistics do become important in the definition self for our purposes. For example, his many works concerning the meaning of truth not only deeply troubled the man and contributed to his early retirement from a prestigious university position they likewise created concerns for others in many and varied professions. The profession of teaching, on whatever level and the Medical Professions both physical and mental are good examples of the applications of his philosophies."
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William Shakespeare vs. Sheldon Zitner, 2006.
This paper discusses author Sheldon Zitner's criticism of William Shakespeare's comedic play "Much Ado About Nothing."
1,103 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, £ 27.95
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Abstract
This paper details author Sheldon Zitner's discourse and evaluation of William Shakespeare's comedic Elizabethan play "Much Ado About Nothing." Beyond the plot and character analysis Zitner asserts that the play lacks accessibility to the memory unlike some of Shakespeare's more studied and performed romantic comedies.
From the Paper
"Besides Shakespeare's literary control, Zitner points out the fact that "Much Ado About Nothing" makes no claim on class distinction like most other romantic comedies. I deeply agree with Zitner's thought since I did not feel heavy class distinction between the characters when I read the play. For instance, Dogberry is portrayed as being ingratiating and terribly unpleasant, which impedes justice rather than upholding the law. Although Leonato has some rank, he, unfortunately, has little ability. The play merely hints at Hero's lower class."
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Bilingual Education, 2006.
This paper discusses the urgent need for bilingual education to bring foreign-born students up to the level of their American born counterparts.
2,497 words (approx. 10.0 pages), 18 sources, MLA, £ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the various reasons why bilingual education is not only necessary but also effective. The writer of this paper stresses the need for bilingual education as a step to wean students from their native language as effectively as possible and to get them into the educational mainstream. Critics of bilingual education believe that non-English speaking students are not sufficiently mastering the English language and as a result low test scores prove that education is failing them in both their native as well as their second language.
From the Paper
"For children in primary, secondary, or even college level grades, as well as for their parents, bilingual education is a "must". Money must be found to develop and maintain a number of such bilingual programs. Bilingual education is, to repeat, a transitional step to wean school children from their native language, as effectively as possible, and to get them into the educational mainstream."
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English in the EU and UK, 2006.
A discussion whether English should be the lingua franca in the European Union. The papers also discusses the effect that globalization has had upon England and its language policies as well.
1,963 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, £ 44.95
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Abstract
The writer explains that in the European Union, all languages from member countries are to be given the same status. In practice, many documents are only translated into English and French as translating into all the member country's languages is too complicated. The paper explains that some feel that English should become the language of the EU, despite its policy to the contrary. The writer shows that some feel that English should be used in the EU as a common language, and not as a political stance. The paper goes on to discuss the effects of immigration, emigration and tourism to the UK, and how this has affected English in the UK. The writer explains that as policies of equality and human rights take precedence, foreign languages are being used more widely in education, where once, all education was only in English. The paper explains a recent language policy to use English as the sole language for education, in order to give all children in the UK an equal chance at making the best of their learning experience. In conclusion, while a lingua franca serves to overcome many obstacles, this should be balanced by a recognition of diversity in both the English language itself and in terms of different languages within the UK.
From the Paper
"However, there has recently been a greater emphasis on language diversity within the UK. As policies of human rights and equality take precedence, foreign languages enjoy more attention in schools. Since globalization and travel are greater realities today, it is possible to have a Dutch mother, a Spanish father, and be fluent in English, Spanish and Dutch. Some countries, including the UK, have begun to acknowledge this to a certain degree. It is also interesting to note the linguistic diversity locally within the UK. The United Kingdom is internally much more diverse than the general perception gives it credit for. There are many languages and cultures within this country. These include the Welsh, Scottish and Irish traditions, which remain cultures within themselves, despite the fact that English is perceived to be the dominant language within the United Kingdom. Bourne (Eggington & Wren, 1997:51) [2] notes that the modern United Kingdom has 500 000 Welsh speakers and at least 80 000 Scottish Gaelic speakers within its borders. A small number of Northern Ireland schools also still teach Irish Gaelic. Currently more than five percent of the total population in British schools is bilingual. The history of the UK is similarly colorful. Welsh, English, Latin, French and Flemish were used in Wales during the Middle Ages, while children with home languages such as Polish, Ukrainian, Chinese, Yiddish and French, among others, frequented British schools during the nineteenth century. Current language surveys reveal over 170 languages spoken in London schools, of which Bengali features the greatest number of speakers."
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The Character of Hamlet, 2006.
This paper discusses and analyzes the main character in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet."
895 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, £ 22.95
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Abstract
This paper centers on Hamlet's character which has been the subject of critical assessment by literary scholars such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Samuel Johnson in the 17th century and contemporary scholars like Harold Bloom and Northrope Frye. The fact that many continue to psychoanalyze and dissect Hamlet may be the true purpose of this literary gem. A subject of much discussion among critics is Hamlet's state of mind while others claim the biggest tragedy is his inability to act despite his larger-than-life heroic qualities.
From the Paper
"Although early critics viewed Hamlet's flaw as indecisiveness, modern critics have agreed that the character has had no problem deciding on the correct course of action in his situation; however he is unable to carry it out. (Bradley, Coleridge, Bloom,) The fact that Hamlet decides not to murder Claudius when he comes upon him engaged in prayer and vulnerable to attack does not mean that Hamlet has secretly doubted his decision, say these critics. He has made it clear that he thinks such a death too good for the murderer of his father."
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?Different Games, Different Rules?, 2005.
An overview of this book by Haru Yamada which explores the relationship between the Japanese and the Americans.
868 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 0 sources, £ 21.95
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Abstract
In his book "Different Games, Different Rules: Why Americans and Japanese Misunderstand Each Other", Haru Yamada attempts to explain the cultural disconnection that commonly occurs between people from the two very different cultures of the United States and Japan. The paper shows that, for Yamada, the explanation lies in linguistic differences. The paper examines the key thesis of the book that the main difference between the two cultures is found in the implicit and explicit delivery of messages.
From the Paper
"The language of both cultures functions to display and reinforce the values that the individual is brought up with. When people from each of these cultures attempts to communicate, the differences in values is what leads to misunderstandings. Words, phrases, and expressions in one language may have the same literal meaning in the other language, but because the connotations are completely different, they do not actually mean the same thing."
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The Cultural Function of Proverbs and Jokes, 2006.
Explores how English proverbs, as well as jokes, disguise deep-seated cultural elements.
1,283 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 30.95
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Abstract
A paper looking at how proverbs and jokes in English, as well as other languages, can be a great source of cultural insights and historical knowledge not found in grammars or guidebooks.
From the Paper
"The proverb "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink" is exceedingly familiar to Americans, from schoolchildren to cosmopolitan sophisticates. The saying is so well known that writer Dorothy Parker, when challenged to create a witty saying using the word 'horticulture' ultimately quipped "You can lead a whore to culture, but you can't make her drink." This well-known anecdote proves the fact that the original proverb is deeply ingrained in the minds of American English speakers."
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Bilingual Education and Development, 2006.
A position paper arguing against the educational approach of forcing all school children to learn English as their primary language.
1,880 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, £ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper presents arguments opposed to Ron Unz' efforts to eliminate bilingual education in the United States. The paper asserts that Unz' understanding of how children acquire both a primary and secondary language during their early years of development is in error, thereby making the premise for his argument that bilingual education should be eliminated faulty.
From the Paper
"This is not to say that Mr. Ron Unz is not very politically conservative when he demands that all American children be taught in English exclusively no matter what age. Unfortunately, he is badly informed as to the actual mechanism of how children acquire language and when it is best to totally immerse a child in the dominant language of the culture."
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Women's Status Across Cultures, 2006.
A paper examining problems in communication between the genders as a cultural issue.
1,589 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 11 sources, MLA, £ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper begins by highlighting the primary role played by communication in gender issues throughout the world and points up the variations within cultures. The paper then describes some salient elements of intercultural communication in order to illustrate how gender communication is a form of intercultural communications. Finally, the paper makes recommendations on how to develop effective intercultural communication skills to the situation of variations of women across cultures.
From the Paper
"There are two assumptions from communication theory (both classical and contemporary theories) that help situate one's overview on gender and communication. First, communication is epistemic. That is to say, communication is the medium by which one comes to know things (it has been argued that absolute truth was inaccessible to humans; hence, truth had to be established by human standards. Similarly, contemporary rhetorical theorists argue that truth is socially constructed through language and other symbol systems)."
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