How Successful Can The Management Of Fragile Environments Be?

How successful can the management of fragile environments be, given the constant and increasing demand for their exploitation? A fragile environment is an area where the flora and fauna have adapted to a specific climate and evolved to occupy many different niches due to extremely high competition for resources. Furthermore due to the constant abiotic conditions, specialisation and symbiotic relationships have occurred to such a degree that even the slightest ecological or environmental disruption cannot be accommodated, meaning individual habitats and ecosystems can be easily destroyed.This combination of specialisation and interdependence increases the overall fragility and vulnerability of this biome Fragile environments can be exploited in different ways, and for different reasons. For example the Amazon Rainforest, an equatorial tropical rainforest biome, has been significantly exploited for its agricultural potential and natural resources; cattle ranching, soya bean and palm oi l plantations, mining and timber. The most significant consequence of these forms of exploitation is deforestation.There are many management strategies to combat deforestation, popular choices are; legislation, ecotourism, selective logging and various tree regeneration schemes. In this essay I will assess the extent to which these management schemes are successful in terms of sustainability and environmental effectiveness, in light of inevitable increasing anthropogenic pressures on tropical biomes around the world. Firstly it is important to identify how fragile environments are exploited and for what gain. If we look at the Amazon Rainforest, one of the major forms of exploitation is land for cattle ranching.Vast expanses of the rainforest are deforested to make way for grassland to rear cattle. This form of exploitation was responsible for 80% of all Amazonian deforestation in 2009, due to the ever increasing global demand for beef as a new wave of middle classes emerge from dev eloping nations with a first world diet. Large soya bean plantations run by major agricultural TNC’s like Cargill in the Amazon increase its land for plantations at rates of 1. 3 million hectares every year. Brazil is one of the world’s top producers of soya bean.The expansion of this market is driven by low transportation costs from improved infrastructure (both in and out of the Amazon) and increasing international demands for livestock feed where China is one of the main consumers, due to rapid economic growth (9% annually) and high demand from its emerging middle classes. The creation of huge mechanised soy monocultures has already been the sole cause of 21 million hectares of deforested rainforest in Brazil and 80 million hectares from the Amazon as a whole, since the early 1970’s.While these industries stated above as well as mining and logging have contributed to 240,000km2 of deforestation in the Amazon, the hunting for bush meat by native Amazonian trib es has put considerable pressure on rainforest fauna. Since the late 1990’s Brazilian Amazon local people consume between 2. 2 to 5. 4 million primates each year. This process is unsustainable as the primates reproduce at a much slower rate than they are consumed. Moreover some of these primates are endangered, meaning reproduction is inherently slower.There is often a conflict of interests between the exploitation and conservation of fragile environments. Thus in order for a fragile environment to be managed successfully a balance must be established. However, in reality this can be difficult to achieve. It is often the case that many countries depend on natural resources from fragile environments for income and trade on the global markets thus making fragile environments an integral part of their economy. This is the case with many LEDC’s, who are reluctant to stop exploiting their activities for fear it will result in economic decline and slower development.In Brazi l for example, much of the mining industry that takes place in the Amazon brought in $9 billion to the country in 2006. Moreover it can be a misunderstanding that most people, who exploit fragile environments like through mining in the Amazon, are doing so out of choice. As most locals have no other viable alternative to generate income for their families. Furthermore indigenous peoples often receive little education regarding global affairs and may not recognise the need for conservation. In addition it is rare that a single fragile environment is endemic to one country, as they often span over several territories.A good example is the Amazon rainforest which lies within Brazil, holding 60% of the forest, Peru 13%, Columbia 10% and with Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana also holding small amounts. This makes it difficult to establish a uniform strategy across the whole are, and made harder still by low funds available for conservation in many of these countries. One of the more popular forms of conservation management is conservation reserves that protect biodiversity and ensure its population lives  sustainably with their environment.One example of such a scheme is the Central Amazon Conservation complex in the Brazilian Amazon. Established in 2003, it brings together four reserves in the Amazon; Jau National Park, Anavilhanas Ecological Station, Mamiraua Reserve and Amana reserve, a total area of 49,000 km2. Sustainable development reserves have protected areas from developments that could have seriously damaged the CACC. Dams, pipelines, mines and commercial logging projects have all been prevented from entering the area.These reserves have improved biodiversity and caused a 100% increase in the black caiman population, and a 300% increase in the pirarucu fish. Economic Alternatives Programs promote sustainable activities whereby local people who make goods from the forest’s natural resources can sell directly to buye rs without going through ‘middle men’ who charge a commission. Thus ensuring a decent income, preventing any local farmers giving up land to major commercial agricultural firms, where the land is likely to be deforested and indigenous communities displaced.Overall the economics alternative program has reduced poverty, increasing household incomes by 50-99%. However this protecting such a large area can be difficult. The vastness of the area means it is majorly understaffed, thus making the control and regulation of illegal activities difficult. Only 100 volunteer guards and 150 employed members of staff are present in the Amana and Mariraua reserves – combined area of 2,490,000 hectares of land. The size of the protected areas and the number of staff available makes it is very difficult to prevent access into the reserves.In Jau National park, an area of 2,272,000 hectares, there’re only 4 permanent members of staff. Thus fish and turtle poaching remains a n unresolved problem. As populations increase around peripheral settlements, more stress is put on it to satisfy the demands of the populations, for example many towns in the heart of the rainforest suffer from intensive poaching of primates and manatees. Overall it may seem that despite efforts, and indeed success, of implementing such conservation schemes, may decrease in effectiveness following growing demand for the Amazons resources from increasing population pressure.Ecotourism is also a popular way of generating income for the local people as well as promoting conservation. It is a popular method of generating income in developing countries without billion dollar investments. Local people can act as guides or be providers of transport and accommodation – creating a source of income. The environmental low impact theme and conservation awareness can potentially bring in public and private investment. In addition it is a more environmentally friendly form of employment co mpared to other occupations such as logging and commercial agriculture.Plus if the country makes the economic transition from a manufacture to service sector economy, the government will have an indirect economic incentive to conserve the environment through promoting ecotourism. Ecotourism has already proved to be an economic, environmental and social success. For example, Costa Rica has been pumping in US$1. 6 million annually since 2000 from ecotourism, resulting in jobs for local people and 25% of its land under government protection. GNP per capita rose from $1500-$2000 between 1978 and 1992.The village of Tortuguero, Costa Rica, a satellite settlement to the Talamancan national park took a survey which indicated that 88% were highly satisfied with the multiplier effects from ecotourism in the park; such as local employment empowerment and government funding into building eco lodges on old farmland in the village; attracting tourists to spend in their local economy. However, th ere are cases where ecotourism has not benefitted the local community or the country as a whole.It is often the case that an ecotourism service is provided by an international agent, whereby revenue is repatriated overseas, away from the local community. Moreover even if the service is provided by host nation companies, the jobs can be seasonal, menial and in most cases, low paid. The influx of wealth and foreign exchange can shift political and economic conditions to make the country or area dependant on tourism as opposed to domestic economic practises. This induces a degree of instability to the industry, making it vulnerable to sudden economic change, such as the global financial crisis in 2008.This can create a lack of demand and subsequent economic decline in the area and ultimately forcing the local population into occupations that unsustainably exploit natural resources. In conclusion, it is can be said with a degree of confidence that most schemes are beneficial to an exten t. Land which is protected, conserved and managed sustainably outweighs the possible environmental damage that can occur due to poor management and lack of funding towards the scheme. Moreover it is the schemes which involve the local community that have the biggest potential to be successful.Managing the environment whereby its inhabitants are able to reap the full economic benefits of its natural resources allows; growth, development and investment into the local economy – Thus resulting in a self-sustaining operation. However, as world population is not yet set to peak until 2050, the pressure on the environment and demand for resources is only set to increase. It is also worth noting that in the light of possible changes to our global climate system in the coming decades there will be an even greater threat to the Earth’s fragile environments.With the effects of anthropogenic induced climate change causing more extreme weather, the constant abiotic factors that hav e shaped our fragile environments across the globe face a deadly, permanent change. If we are to preserve any type of fragile environment at all, it could be argued that a universal effort to reduce our carbon footprint would be the most successful long term scheme to ensure the survival of the Earth’s biodiversity.

How to Get Your CDL in Wisconsin and Delaware

How to Get Your CDL in Wisconsin and Delaware If you live in Wisconsin or Delaware, learn the guideline for getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) below. For information regarding other states, TheJobNetwork has published a very comprehensive guide on how to apply for a CDL in all states. WisconsinIn Wisconsin, you must obtain a CDL if you are operating the following:A vehicle or vehicles with a combined weight of 26,000+ poundsA vehicle carrying  hazardous materials that require placarding under federal lawA vehicle  designed or used to carry 16 or more persons including the driverFirst, in order to obtain a CDL, you must take and pass the General Knowledge Test. A passing score is answering 80% of more of the questions correctly. You must present a valid Class D license at the time of testing.You are then eligible to obtain a Commercial Driver Learner Permit (CLP). In order to obtain one, you must:Complete a Wisconsin Driver  License ApplicationComplete a Commercial Driver CertificationPresent a  valid F ederal Medical CardProvide Proof of Citizenship or Legal Status in the U.S.Pay the required fee(s)Your CLP  is  valid for 180 days. When you have a CLP, you can  practice driving with a qualified instructor or CDL driver holding a valid license at or above the level of your permit.  You must hold the permit for 14 days prior to taking the road tests you must pass in order to obtain a CDL.Finally, you must take and pass your skills tests.  During the skills tests, you drive in the type of vehicle you seek a  license for.  You will be tested in pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.DelawareIn Delaware, you must have a CDL to operate:Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001+ poundsA combination vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001+ pounds, if  the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is more than  10,000 poundsA vehicle designed to transport 16+ passengers (including the driver)Any size vehicle requiring hazardous material placards or carrying materia l listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73Knowledge TestsTo obtain a CDL, you must first pass one or more knowledge tests,  depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need.The general knowledge test is taken by all applicants.The passenger transport test is taken by all bus driver applicants.The air brakes test is required  if your vehicle has air brakes (including air over hydraulic brakes).The combination vehicles test is required if you want to drive combination vehicles.The hazardous materials test is required if you want to haul hazardous materials as defined in 49 CFR 383.5.The tank vehicle test is required if you want to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank or tanks with  an individual rated capacity of 119+ gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000+ gallons permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassisThe doubles/triples test is required if you want to pull double or triple trailersThe school bus test is req uired if you want to drive a school busSkills TestsIf you pass the required knowledge test or tests, you must then  take and pass the CDL skills tests. There are three skills tested.   You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.Vehicle InspectionThis test will see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to complete an inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner exactly what you are doing and why.Basic Vehicle ControlThis test will assess your control of  your  vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area.On-Road TestThis test will assess  your skills safely driving your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations like left and right turns, intersections, railroad crossings, curves, up and down grades, single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways.

Paraphrase..rewrttin Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Paraphrase..rewrttin - Essay Example However, cancer treatments are conducted by two radiation methods i.e. ionizing and non-ionizing radiations. The ionizing radiation includes X-rays and Gamma rays, as (Yale 2001) identified a disadvantage of passing ionization radiation process from the body. The ionization radiations are absorbed by thick tissues in the body that enables them to be chemically reactive resulting in a cell damage. The study concluded restrictions for using ionization radiation to a minimal as it can raise issues related to human health. Disclosure to ionization radiation is another factor that needs consideration, as there are evidences available that has linked disclosure of low-level ionization radiation by the doses, which are given for the development of cancer by medical imaging. An inclusive review of biological and epidemiological data associated with health risk of ionization radiation exposure was conducted by the ‘National Academy of Sciences’ National Research Council. Moreover , the review is recently published in the form of a report named as the Biological Effects of Ionization Radiation (BEIR) VII Phase 2. In the report, the epidemiologic data demonstrated the survivors of the atomic bomb along with the population living near the facilities that are equipped with nuclear technology throughout the releases of Chernobyl, which is a radioactive material. Moreover, report also includes the workers who are exposed by occupations and populations, who faced exposure with the aid of therapeutic and diagnostic medical studies. Commonly used CT examinations that includes radiation doses that are received by humans, amplify the risk of cancer. For instance, increased risk of cancers is identified within the survivors of Hiroshima, as Nagasaki atomic bombs affects on these people were exposed by the ranges of 10 to 100 milli-sieverts (mSv). This value is equivalent to a single CT scan radiation exposure and patients do conduct CT scans multiple times during the tr eatment. (Smith-Bindman et al 2009) Risks involved in the use of Ionizing radiation The first hard tumour that was found, resulted from the ionization radiation effects. Consequently, securing from the ionization radiation methods that facilitates medical procedures has grabbed significant concerns. Predominantly, the rise in various medical procedures incorporating ionization radiation(Davros et al 2007). In order to protect people from this kind of radiation, an establishment of an International Commission for Radiation Protection took place in 1928. "The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) estimates that the average person has an approximately 4-5% increased relative risk of fatal cancer after a whole-body dose of 1 Sv. However, other studies on multiple cohorts of radiation workers have largely failed to establish statistically significant cancer risks. When multiple occupational cohorts were combined and evaluated in a somewhat systematic way, a combined excess relative risk of cancer death of just less than 1% was estimated" (Cardis et al 2005). In between years 1950s and 1960s, many traces become visible conclusion that the ionization radiation is dangerous for humans. Likewise, experimentations were conducted on rats by passing X-rays has also concluded the contribution of ionization radiation at low levels causing imminent deaths. Similarly, there are many proofs to conclude that the frequent use of radiation can cause

Explain how human resource management techniques can be a major Essay

Explain how human resource management techniques can be a major resource in the management of organisational culture - Essay Example A culture of power and an aura of personal authority extend from the CEO of the company and as the CEO often behaves in a radical, unconventional and anti-organisational way, so does the company follow in his mighty footsteps. At the same time, the traditional levels of secrecy and company loyalty at Apple means that the company manages to hold back the negative implications of having an anti-organisational culture at bay while making the positive implications into an advantage for itself. This peculiar ability of Apple to gain the benefits out of a group of reckless employees while avoiding the disadvantages can be observed with detailed information from examples of various everyday incidents at the company which are provided by those who worked for the company. There is no lack of information about Apple or the one person on which Apple banks for leading the company forward, i.e. Steve Jobs. Perhaps the best resource for the management of the company as well as the personality of Steve Jobs is the website folklore.org that gives details of hundreds of incidents that show how applicable human resources policies are used to define the culture of the company and for the people working for Apple Computers. The subjective analysis given by the writers and analysts working with Apple comes as first hand accounts of the organisation’s behaviour. This objective analysis is also presented in terms of how successful Apple’s products have been in the past and present. However, there is a limitation of how much inside information about the inner workings of the organisation can be obtained while remaining outside the company. Apple Computers is generally taken to be an American company that prides itself on creating innovative products for the consumer electronics and technology sectors (PC Magazine, 2006). In 2005, it

Google vs. Yahoo Web Browsers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Google vs. Yahoo Web Browsers - Essay Example Both these web browsers have an enormous portfolio for their users. Lets compare some of the services offered by both these web giants. (Luke, 2005)Yahoo groups are are more popular when compared to google groups mainly because yahoo has been in the market for a longer time. The groups are easily formed and mails are sent either as a digest or individually.Google revolutionized the mailing procedures by introducing huge inbox size which is now upto more that 6 GBs. Yahoo offers a lower limit however news is circulating that an unlimited inbox size for the users is in the works.As mentioned above, Google's point of differentiation is the complex algorithims used in their search engines for local searches, image searches and web searches. Yahoo doesn't have that much fire-power yet it still is a popular choice for some.Yahoo provides street maps and driving directions for US cities only. The Google maps are extremely diverse as they are capable of providing business locations, contact information, and driving directions for big cities of the world.Google's social networking site, Orkut is a popular choice for many Asians and users in Southern America. This popularity has been recently crushed by the vastness of Facebook which has conquered most of the continents. Yahoo's 360* was never popular and it still hasn't caught on as Orkut had. Others There is a list of other services such as online shopping, news, alerts, answers etc. that are available with both Google and Yahoo and not much differences are there in these services. Interface, Design, and Layout When comparing two important website browsers, it is important to compare their interface, design and layout from the evaluation point of view as well as user friendliness point of view. A good website must contain useful content that is simple to comprehend, flexible for use of multiple technologies and consistent with easy navigating capability. (Collins, 2006) Google has a very neat and simple user interface with the front page only containing the search bar and links on the top. On the other hand Yahoo!'s page is jumbled with information, links and lacks focus. Users generally like simple and easy to understand sites and Google's simplified interface means that people of any age and skill will be able to access their site. Advertisements Advertising is necessary for websites especially for websites like Google and Yahoo! that offer free services to their users. This is their main source of revenue. When the website opens up, Google presents only the services without any advertisements. Yahoo lines up its advertisements on the front page which is a nuisance value for the users. As such, it is important to avoid advertisements as much as possible. Advertisements are extremely unpopular with the users as they are completely useless for most people. Even though both Google and Yahoo! are text-based sites, Yahoo's advertisements are a source of user irritation. Consistency Another characteristic of a good web browser website is the consistency in the design. As mentioned above, there are a lot of similar services offered by both Yahoo! and Google. However the design of the services is remarkably different. Like the front page, Google is consistent with the minimum text on the page with just enough to help the user understand and comprehend it. This has the effect of uniformity and consistency, whereas Yahoo! keeps different layouts for each of its services page. Even though each service has a link

Accounting Practical Set Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Accounting Practical Set - Assignment Example Even if there is profit in the income statement, investors need to look at the cash flow statement to measure actual cash balance of the company. This report will provide an analysis of the cash flow statement and income statement. It will consider why the cash balance has decreased even though a profit has been achieved. This report is based on the information provided by Mr Albert Clarence. The limitation of this project is that it is short time project. Thus detailed analysis will be short. Income Statement might be characterized as a financial statement that measures an organizations financial execution over a particular accounting period. Financial execution is evaluated by giving an outline of how the business acquires its incomes and costs through both working and non-working exercises. It likewise demonstrates the net profit or loss caused over a particular accounting period, normally over a fiscal year or fiscal quarter. Balance Sheet could be characterized as a financial articulation that compresses an organizations liabilities, assets and equity of the shareholders at a particular point in time. These three asset report sections give speculators a thought in respect to what the organization claims and owes, and the sum contributed by the shareholders. Cash flow statement could be characterized as an income or cost stream that changes a cash account over a given period. Cash inflows normally emerge from one of three exercises - financing, operations or contributing - despite the fact that this likewise happens as an after effect of gifts or donations on account of particular fund. Cash outflows result from costs or ventures. This holds valid for both business and any personal account. Accrual Accounting might be characterized as an accounting technique that measures the execution and position of an organization by perceiving various economic occasions paying little respect to

The Cause And Consequence Of Boredom Nursing Essay

The Cause And Consequence Of Boredom Nursing Essay The purpose of this independent study is to identify a topic of my choice namely The Cause and Consequence of Boredom: An exploratory study of Patients Perceptions within a Psychiatric Inpatient Unit. A rationale will be given for the chosen topic, a literature review will be carried out and a Research Proposal formulated. This essay will explore the concept of boredom and the factors surrounding this issue, such as the causes, consequences and solutions from a patients perspective. These factors will constitute my learning outcomes. On completion of the essay I should be able to demonstrate a better understanding on the topic of boredom and from critically evaluating the literature will gain a more in-depth knowledge of the causal factors, the impact it has on patients and the suggested solutions to the problem identified within the literature. Additionally, on completion of the assignment I will have gained knowledge in writing an academic essay, thoroughly researching a topic utilizing critical analysis of academic literature and completing a research proposal thus achieving the stated outcomes. In completing a learning contract this will improve my incentive to focus on my essay and formulate and develop realistic aims and outcomes. In a study carried out by Wai-chi Chan Wai-tong (2000) it was fou nd that a learning contract could improve students autonomy and control over learning and increased motivation and sharing in learning. The rationale for choosing the topic is that as a student within an acute psychiatric admission ward I frequently encounter patients who complain of boredom, and some of the reasons they stated were, having nothing to do, confinement to the ward, nothing going on within the ward, nothing in common with other patients, amongst other perceived attributable factors. This prompted me to think about the legitimacy of their complaints and consider whether the ward environment was in fact hindering or promoting the patients recovery. Craig Power (2010) highlights the problem of boredom within acute ward settings and the notion that it is bad for the patients recovery and that therapeutic intervention tailored to their need should be considered. Similarly, Binnema (2004) suggests that to reduce boredom and enhance the patients experience psychological, physical and personal factors which include therapeutic activities, exercise, physical health, financial and housing issues should be addres sed during the patients hospital stay. Additionally, in consideration of the ward environment I realised that it was rather drab and space was extremely limited. Within the ward there is a large dayroom where social encounters can occur, but it is not conducive to enabling individual or group therapeutic interventions due to the common use of the facilities. Dijkstrak, Pieterse Pruyn (2006) suggest that there is research to support the notion that the healthcare environment can make a difference to the patients recovery. It is therefore important to consider this when supporting patients therapy and recovery. Consequently, it is important for nurses working within an acute environment to consider solution to these problems. Binnema (2004) purports that if nurses had a clear understanding of the concept of boredom, it would support them to enhance their ability to provide a more enhanced therapeutic environment. Therefore, Nurses have a pivotal role to play in improving both the therapeutic relationship with patients whilst ensuring that the environment is conducive to recovery. From a professional perspective, the Department of Health (2002) published a policy on adult acute inpatient care provision in which they highlighted that high levels of interaction between staff and patients within the ward environment reduce boredom. Furthermore, they stressed that in response to a dearth of research on acute inpatient care there was a need for research in the effectiveness of acute services. Binnema (2004) also highlight that many psychiatric patients experience boredom and lack the opportunity to engage therapeutically within the hospital environment, and indicate therefore that there is a necessity for further research of this concept. A concept map will be utilized to generate ideas and enable focus and structure within this essay. Concept maps can be used by students to both gain new knowledge and utilize prior knowledge breaking it down into ideas and put the information in order thus making sense of it and the connotations between and among the concepts (Hinck, Sims-Giddens et al, 2006). The central theme within the concept is Boredom, and this is illustrated along with the sub-themes in (appendix 1). The concept map constructed has particular reference to boredom within an acute psychiatric setting which has been shown to warrant further investigation. Literature Review The literature review was performed taking cognizance of the research topic chosen. Cormack (2000) highlights the importance of carrying out a critical review of what has been known previously within the literature in order to prepare the ground for new research. A literature search was carried utilizing keywords such as boredom, acute care, psychiatric inpatients, acute mental health, therapeutic environment, acute mental health nursing. A systematic review was carried out within academic journals relating to the topic by accessing databases such as EBSCOhost, CINAHL Plus with Full Tex, Ovid, Science Direct, Wiley InterScience, IngentaConnect, to uncover relevant literature pertaining to the subject and to retrieve up-to-date studies to elucidate what research had already been carried and the value of carrying out further research. To understand the concept of boredom it will be of benefit to review the definition within the literature. Kass et al (2001) support the view that boredom proneness as a multidimensional concept and point out that the literature lacks differentiation between boredom as a trait or a state, but that numerous writers suggest a distinction between situational and dispositional boredom. This would therefore pose a dilemma for researchers in proposing a solution to the problem. It is of no surprise therefore that concept of boredom has been studied from different perspectives and by diverse factions. Dahlenthe, Martin, Ragan et al (2004) state that boredom has generated a great deal of research in education, psychology, organizational behaviour, accident prevention and medicine. Anderson (2005) defines boredom as the death of meaning. Fahlman et al (2009) support this belief but are more conservative in their view suggesting it is a lack of meaning and purpose. Barbalet (1999, p.637) further describes boredom as a type or form of anxiety about the lack of meaningfulness of an activity, a condition, and (possibly) a life. These beliefs would suggest that boredom has a significant dispositional component. In contrast, Todman (2003, p.147) describes boredom as an unpleasant state that is invariably accompanied by attributions of environmental sameness, which would imply that it may be attributed to situational factors. As already stated boredom is a multidimensional concept many of which are too complex to address within this essay but those already described can offer a clearer understanding of the concept, that there may be both psychological and environmental components to boredom. Martin, Sadlo Stew (2006) state that modern philosophers are of the opinion that boredom may arise from over-stimulation rather than monotony which originated from ancient times and attribute this to trivia in the modern world. Whereas some studies have suggested that boredom is a result of enforced idleness (Meehan, McIntosh Bergen, 2006). These beliefs would advocate that the origins of boredom may be attributed to environmental factors. Fahlaman et al (2009) have described the relationship between the experience of boredom and negative affect which denotes a psychological phenomenon. It is therefore valid to consider that these could have a significant impact on the behaviour of a patient within an acute inpatient ward. It will be of interest to compare these concepts with the findings from the experiences of the patients within an acute inpatient setting. It is important to consider the impact of boredom within an inpatient setting regardless of the cause. There are significant similarities described within the literature. Beer et al (2001) purport that the negative consequences of overstimulation within acute psychiatric ward settings are violence and aggression. In contrast Stein Wilkinson (2007) attribute these behaviours to under stimulation. However, Khan et al (1987) suggests that low stimulus within the environment is known to decrease psychotic symptoms in the individual. Bracke (2004) associates the provision of rewarding activities with the reduction of boredom. This would imply that involvement in activities of interest to the individual is a significant factor in reducing boredom. In contemplating these views the consequences are varied and complex and could pose a dilemma within an acute ward setting. Consequently it would appear that individual factors would require to be taken account of when considering the solutions to the problem. On searching the literature it was found that there was a dearth of studies on the effects of boredom within a healthcare setting. However, three studies were found where the researchers carried out research within an acute care psychiatric environment, a high-secure forensic setting and a day activity program in rehabilitation centres in which boredom emerged as a concept of both environmental and individual characteristics of participants in the first two studies, and in the third the determinants of boredom were primarily studied which showed that both environmental and individual factors played a part. These will be discussed respectively taking account of Polit et al (2001) method of critiquing research articles namely, methodological, ethical and interpretive dimensions, and will take account of their relevance to the Research Proposal. Study One Shattell, Andes Thomas (2008) carried out a study which was specifically to ask inpatients within a 30 bedded ward, what stands out to them within the hospital environment. A phenomenological approach was utilized in order to acquire direct experiences from patients. 10 patients and 9 nurses took part. Patients diagnosis varied namely personality disorder, depression, substance abuse, bipolar, anxiety disorder and post traumatic stress disorder. Their ethnic background was also varied. Acutely psychotic patients were excluded. There were also various therapeutic activities available within the ward environment. Nurse participants were all female also from various ethnic backgrounds. Ethical factors were considered and informed consent was sought and approved by the sponsoring university. Phenomenological interviews were carried out to gain rich experiences of the participants, and participants were encouraged to elaborate if they wished on the topic. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Themes were generated from meaning units. The vigour of the study was enhanced by presenting the data to the research group who interpreted the data and finalized the thematic structure. Findings showed that experiences of both nurses and patients were similar. Both felt the effects of confinement to the ward and nurses agreed with patients that there was a lack of nurse/patient communication. Rules appeared restrictive to both and intimidating. Participants also highlighted the lack of interaction between nurses and patients. There were general feelings of powerlessness, mistrust which resulted in feelings of panic and agitation. Both nurses and patients questioned the ability of the hospital to help patients namely not addressing their illness effectively and patients being assigned to inappropriate groups. Workload was also a factor for nursing staff. One of the main themes which emerged was boredom and many attributed this to the locked door environment. The main outcome of the study was the lack of meaningful closeness between nurses and patients and the environment hindered the therapeutic relationship. The authors stated that this echoed previous studies. Study 2 Meehan et al (2006) carried out a study within a high security inpatient forensic setting. This study focussed on the reasons for aggressive behaviour of patients. Two wards took part 23 bedded high intensity and 23 bedded low intensity long term unit. 22 male and 5 female inpatients took part and 85% had a diagnosis of schizophrenia. 5 focus groups were conducted by an independent researcher and semi-structured interviews were carried out with a list of questions. Spontaneous feedback was encouraged. The sample was chosen by inviting people to participate through advertisements within wards. Inpatients of less than 3 months or those with acute symptoms were excluded. The study was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee within the organization. Data was transcribed and checked by a group moderator to ensure accuracy and authentication. Content analysis was utilized to transcribe the data and they were reviewed several times to generate units of information, produce a set of preliminary categories and cluster these into themes. These were carried out by two members of the research team who compared and discussed these before reaching an agreement on the final set of these. The main themes generated were; the environment, empty days, staff interactions, medication issues and personal characteristics of the patient themselves. Lack of space and prolonged confinement and ignorance of these factors by the staff were main issues. All participants highlighted that boredom was a source of frustration and cancellation of patient activities was a factor. The environment was seen as controlling rather than therapeutic. A lack of understanding and empathy was also identified. The main solutions identified to resolve these was to ensure early intervention to incidents that occurred, change in staff attitudes and provision of therapeutic activities to relieve boredom which was perceived to be the biggest problem within the unit. Study 3 Bracke et al (2006) carried out a study within Rehabilitation Centres and it focused on the conceptualization of boredom exploring some of its determinants. The study tested some hypotheses, and multilevel analysis was utilized to elucidate the contextual and individual determinants of boredom. The participants comprised of a random sample of 646 clients and an average sample of each was chosen. Clients were excluded due to lack of information of key variables. 63% were men with varying levels of educational attainment with a mean age of 44 years. Other demographic information i.e. age, marital status, housing and previous receipt of residential psychiatric care was considered. A survey utilizing a structured questionnaire was carried out and clients experiences of boredom were measured utilizing a Likert scale. Reliability was measured by questioning respondents outside the centre. Variances were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis. Independent variables were also measured e. g. degree or routinization, complexity, closeness of supervision and the intrinsic and extrinsic value of task was coded on a Likert-type scale. Other tools were utilized to measure mental health status (Global severity Index), the Brief Symptom Index and finally age; gender and education were used as control variables. Data was analysed by looking at associations between the experience of boredom and features of the rehabilitation centre. The findings led to the hypothesis that several characteristics of the day activity programs cause boredom, mainly task characteristics and reward structures. Findings showed that clients were significantly less bored during participation in rehabilitation programs. However programs that led to highly routinized tasks led more easily to experiences of boredom. Tasks with high intrinsic rewards reduced boredom. Clients with particular characteristics were found to be more easily bored i.e. older clients, educated persons experience more feelings of boredom and boredom is more prevalent among people reporting more intense psychiatric complaints. Study Comparisons These three studies were considered from various perspectives and utilizing different research methods. Each was robust in terms of validity and reliability utilizing quantitative and qualitative methodologies. There were commonalities within each of the research studies namely, the interests of patients within their respective healthcare environments and how experiences such as space, surroundings, activity levels, relationships, health state, interactions, and individual characteristics all played a part in precipitating boredom. Ethical dimensions was considered in the first two studies but absent within the third which is a weakness as there was no indication of client informed consent or that it was subject to scrutiny from an ethics committee to ensure that it caused no harm to the client. Each study either highlighted limitations or generalizability which would indicate that the findings may not be truly representative in respect of populations within other healthcare setting. The research proposal submitted within this independent study will potentially add to the body of research already available within the literature. Research Proposal The overall aim of the study is to identify the meaning of boredom within an acute mental health inpatient setting, and clarify the effects boredom on patients during their inpatient stay. This will help critically evaluate the consequences of boredom on patient behaviour and assist in making recommendations on how to alleviate boredom from patients perspective. Therefore, primary research will be utilized to facilitate the critical evaluation of boredom against the literature review and make recommendations on facilitating change within an acute inpatient environment that will improve patient outcomes in relation to alleviating boredom. An in-depth study of the literature has been undertaken which will support the analysis of data utilizing a case study approach. Within the context of the Cause and Effect of Boredom within a Psychiatric Inpatient Unit this research study aims to focus on a number of objectives: Define the term Boredom. Explore patients perceptions of the cause and effects of boredom during their inpatient stay. Critically evaluate the consequences of boredom on patient behaviour. Make recommendations on alleviating boredom from a patients perspective. Research Approach Primary empirical data will be collected utilizing a case study approach. This will allow the researcher to carry out an in-depth study and gain knowledge of patients experiences of boredom and the effect this has on their day to day functioning within the ward. Polit Beck (2010) suggest that case studies provide a wealth of information to enable the researcher to examine relationships between different phenomena. This will afford the researcher the opportunity to examine the relationship between boredom, its causes and consequences. It will also allow the opportunity for patients to express their views on the impact of boredom on them as individuals and provide valuable insights into this phenomenon Research Strategy This study will be carried out using qualitative data collection techniques and analysis. The case study approach adopted will allow the researcher to look real life situations (Descombe 2007). The collection of data from patients will contribute to the real-world views about boredom from an individual perspective. The case study will be approached from a phenomenological perspective. Schwandt (2001) informs that phenomenology affords the respondents the opportunity to voice their day to day experiences. This can be done by using these experiences to elicit data from the transcripts which may have been tape-recorded, and by formulating meaning from the words transcribed, add to the understanding of the experience (Morse, 1994). Sample Selection Sampling is important because it reproduces the characteristics of the defined population (Porter Carter, 2000). A purposeful sample will be utilized for this study as participants will be obtained from a cohort of patients within an acute psychiatric ward. Purposeful sampling is best used for this type of study as it enables the researcher to gain direct expert knowledge and experience of the topic being studied (Rehm, 2010). The patients within the acute ward will be able to provide first-hand knowledge of their experiences of boredom. The study participants will comprise of representatives from an acute inpatient psychiatric ward. All patients who are willing and psychologically able will have the opportunity to take part. There will be no exclusions as all experiences from all patients are relevant. It is anticipated that those patients who are acutely unwell are unlikely to volunteer. The study will be advertised on the ward notice board. The ward population comprises of approximately 24 patients. These participants represent inpatients that have variable psychiatric diagnosis and all should be representative of the population of other acute psychiatric inpatient wards. The sample has been chosen to provide quality of data from knowledgeable patients who are able to articulate their feelings about boredom. Burns Grove (2007) express that it requires few participants in a qualitative study in order to achieve saturation of data which is rich in content. Data Collection Techniques Empirical data will be gathered to explore the concept of boredom and critically analyse its causes and consequences in relation to patients within an acute psychiatric ward. Recommendations on how to alleviate boredom from the patients perspective will also be generated from the data. The most suitable data collection technique will therefore be Focus Group interviews. These will be carried out in groups of 6 and the number of Focus Groups will be dependent on the number of volunteers participating. An open-ended interviewing technique will be utilized to enable the patients to freely articulate their views. Moule Goodman (2008) highlight that using focus groups to acquire this type of data have the benefit of being less time consuming and participants may contribute more within a group situation. In addition Focus Groups are of benefit when dealing with sensitive information, however they can lead to group think where the more vocal members of the group exert more influence over what is said (Speziale Carpenter 2007). The groups will therefore require an expert facilitator to ensure that all participants have the opportunity to take part. The sessions will be audio-taped to provide a more comprehensive account of the patients individual views, as well as a collective description (Bryman Bell, 2003). This avoids writing field notes and allows the researcher to observe the groups non-verbal communication, as well as concentrate on the subject matter. Data Analysis The researcher will code the data to find patterns and extract and formulate themes that emerge from the transcript. This is a form of thematic analysis described by Holloway Wheeler (2002). Speziale Carpenter (2007) purport that to gain knowledge of the data an in-depth structured analysis is necessary. Ethical Issues Ethical issues such as harm to participants, lack of informed consent, privacy and deception should be considered when carrying out a study (Bryman Bell, 2003). The benefits of utilising themes will be that the researcher can analyse the data to eliminate bias, to ensure that it is factual, open and honest. To further eliminate bias two researchers will analyse the data, negotiate the narrative and generate themes which emerge. Furthermore, this will enhance the validity and reliability of the data. To reduce the possibility of disclosure of data the information will be kept in a locked cabinet. To ensure confidentiality is respected as much as possible, participants should be reminded not to disclose information from the group in other settings (Holloway Wheeler, 2002). Adequate information will be given to participants about the study and they should be informed that they can withdraw from the study at any time if they wish (Newll Burnard, 2006). All participants will require si gning an informed consent form in order to participate. An information leaflet will be given to each participant highlighting the purpose of the study. Creswell (1998) suggests that this protects against deception of the purpose and nature of the study. The researcher will seek approval prior to commencement of the study through the Research Ethics committee to ensure that a strict ethical code of conduct is adhered to. This is important when patients are included within a study (Newell Burnard, 2006). Conclusion In conclusion, the topic of boredom was successfully explored within this the literature and valuable learning of the causes and consequences of boredom have been gained. I have learned from carrying out this independent study and by reviewing the literature that nurses have a vital role to play in alleviating boredom within acute settings and the benefits of building on research that has already been done. I now have a better understanding of those clients who have voiced that they are bored within the ward and the many different reasons for this. In addition I have learned how to think critically about a topic, and it has raised my awareness of the underlying principles of research and the benefits and limitations of different approaches. Furthermore, I am able to understand how to utilise various methods of research to study a phenomena, and the differences between quantitative and qualitative data. The knowledge I have acquired from critiquing literature and formulating a Researc h Proposal has extended my knowledge base about the topic chosen by improving my knowledge of research, will enable me to improve nursing practice and patient outcomes. By working in collaboration with my lecturer I have been able to build my confidence in carrying out this independent study due to the support and encouragement I have received during consultations. My time-management and organisational skills have improved by carrying out this research and I have become more structured in undertaking academic work. Although I have had much support, I have learned to work more independently which has enabled me to gain more confidence in carrying out further research in the future as a mental health nurse and educator.