Monday, May 25, 2020

Jerusalem Crickets, Family Stenopelmatidae

Seeing a Jerusalem cricket for the first time can be an unsettling experience, even to those who arent prone to entomophobia. They look somewhat like giant, muscular ants with humanoid heads and dark, beady eyes. Although Jerusalem crickets (family Stenopelmatidae) are indeed quite large, theyre generally harmless. We know relatively little about their life history, and many species remain unnamed and undescribed. What Jerusalem Crickets Look Like Did you ever play the board game Cootie as a child? Imagine turning over a rock, and finding a Cootie come to life, staring up at you with a menacing expression! Thats how people often discover their first Jerusalem cricket, so its no surprise that these insects have earned many nicknames, none of them particularly endearing. In the 19th century, people used the expression Jerusalem! as an expletive, and thats believed to be the origin of the common name. People also believed (incorrectly) that these odd insects with human faces were highly venomous and potentially lethal, so they were given nicknames rife with superstition and fear: skull insects, bone neck beetles, old bald-headed man, face of a child, and child of the Earth (Nià ±o de la Tierra in Spanish-speaking cultures). In California, theyre most often called potato bugs, for their habit of nibbling on potato plants. In entomology circles, theyre also called sand crickets or stone crickets. Jerusalem crickets range in length from a respectable 2 cm to an impressive 7.5 cm (about 3 inches) and can weigh as much as 13 g. Most of these flightless crickets are brown or tan in color but have a striped abdomen with alternating bands of black and light brown. Theyre quite plump, with robust abdomens and large, round heads. Jerusalem crickets lack venom glands, but they do have powerful jaws and can inflict a painful bite if mishandled. Some species in Central America and Mexico can jump to flee from danger. When they reach sexual maturity (adulthood), males can be differentiated by females by the presence of a pair of black hooks at the tip of the abdomen, between the cerci. On an adult female, youll find the ovipositor, which is darker on the underside and located below the cerci. How Jerusalem Crickets Are Classified Kingdom – AnimaliaPhylum – ArthropodaClass – InsectaOrder – OrthopteraFamily - Stenopelmatidae What Jerusalem Crickets Eat Jerusalem crickets feed on organic matter in the soil, both living and dead. Some may scavenge, while others are thought to hunt other arthropods. Jerusalem crickets also practice cannibalism on occasion, particularly when confined together in captivity. Females will often eat their male partners after consummating the relationship (much like the sexual cannibalism of female praying mantids, which is better known). The Life Cycle of  Jerusalem Crickets   Like all of the Orthoptera, Jerusalem crickets undergo incomplete or simple metamorphosis. The mated female oviposits eggs a few inches deep in the soil. Young nymphs usually appear in the fall, less often in the spring. After molting, the nymph eats the cast skin to recycle its precious minerals. Jerusalem crickets require perhaps a dozen molts, and almost two full years to reach adulthood. In some species or climates, they may need up to three years to complete the life cycle. Special Behaviors of  Jerusalem Crickets   Jerusalem crickets will wave their spiny hind legs in the air to repel any perceived threats. Their concern is not without merit, because most predators cant resist such a fat, easy-to-catch insect. They are an important source of nutrition for bats, skunks, foxes, coyotes, and other animals. Should a predator manage to yank its leg loose, the Jerusalem cricket nymph can regenerate the missing limb over successive molts. During courtship, both male and female Jerusalem crickets drum their abdomens to call receptive mates. The sound travels through the soil and can be heard via special auditory organs on the crickets legs. Where Jerusalem Crickets  Live In the U.S., Jerusalem crickets inhabit western states, especially those along the Pacific Coast. Members of the family Stenopelmatidae are also well established in Mexico and Central America and are sometimes found as far north as British Columbia. They seem to prefer habitats with damp, sandy soils, but can be found from coastal dunes to cloud forests. Some species are restricted to such limited dune systems that they may warrant special protection, lest their habitat be adversely impacted by human activities. Sources: Jerusalem Crickets (Orthoptera, Stenopelmatidae), by David B. Weissman, Amy G. Vandergast, and Norihimo Ueshima. From Encyclopedia of Entomology, edited by John L. Capinera.Borror and DeLongs Introduction to the Study of Insects, 7th edition, by Charles A. Triplehorn and Norman F. Johnson.BACKYARD MONSTERS? NOPE, JERUSALEM CRICKETS!, by Arthur V. Evans, Whats Bugging You?. Accessed March 4, 2013.Family Stenopelmatidae - Jerusalem Crickets, Bugguide.net. Accessed March 4, 2013.Jerusalem Crickets, California Academy of Sciences. Accessed March 4, 2013.Jerusalem Cricket, San Diego Museum of Natural History. Accessed March 4, 2013.

Thursday, May 14, 2020

Organizational Culture Is Within The Control Of Management

Introduction Interest in the area of corporate culture is said to have originated in the 1970s as a response to the success of Japanese management and the perceived failure of traditional organizational analysis (Hofstede, Neuijen, Ohayv Sanders, 1990; Ouchi, 1985; Martin Frost, 1999). Since then, research has flourished, with particular emphasis placed on the link between culture and corporate performance (Kilmann, Saxton Serpa, 1985). Observations of the most well-known, best run companies, like IBM and Google, seem to suggest that having a unique, cohesive culture can propel a company above the competition (Kilmann et al., 1985). Following from this, it makes sense that figuring out how to control culture to achieve competitive advantage has received a lot of attention from scholars and management alike (Anthony, 1994). In this essay, we will look to explore the extent to which organizational culture is within the control of management. To do this, we will begin by defining culture and shedding light on the debate that culture can be seen in one of two ways – as something that organizations have versus something organizations are (Nord, 1985; Schneider, Ehrhart, Macey, 2012). This contradiction defines the conversation on whether or not managers can control culture. On one hand, if culture is something an organization has, then we can think of it as a variable that one can control, at least to some extent (Meek, 1992; Baker, 1990). In contrast, those who argueShow MoreRelatedThe Role and Responsibility of Company Leadership in Shaping Organizational Culture1712 Words   |  7 PagesAccording to (Organic Workspaces, n. d) an organization’s culture refers to the observable, powerful forces in any organization, usually constituted by the employees’ shared values, beliefs, symbols , and behaviors. The organizational culture ideally influences its decisions and actions (Tharp, n. d). (Watkins, 2013) also defines organizational culture as a consistent and observable pattern of behavior in organizations. An organization’s culture channelizes individual decisions and actions at a subconsciousRead MoreOrganizational Culture And Its Functions863 Words   |  4 PagesINTRODUCTION Organizational culture involves systems of beliefs and values that guide the behavior of individuals within the organization and how they shape behavior (Kummerow, 2013). Organizational structures, on the other hand, dictate the assignment, coordination and control of roles and responsibilities to achieve organizational goals (Pathak 2011). For a company to perform effectively it needs to grow, organizational development is one element of growth that focuses on practice an research focusedRead MoreToyota: a Glimpse of Leadership, Organizational Leadership, and Organizational Structure836 Words   |  4 PagesToyota: A Glimpse of Leadership, Organizational Behavior, and Organizational Structure Courtney Berry Organizational behavior is the study of application of individuals’ behaviors within structured groups within an organization (Robbins Judge, 2007). The field of study identifies behaviors within specific groups and individuals in organizations and how the structures of organizations play a role in behaviors (Robbins Judge, 2007). In the past several months, the leading company in the carRead MoreCorporate Culture Essay1176 Words   |  5 PagesThe culture within an organization can make or break how productive and how responsive the business operates. Organizational culture is the set of shared, taken-for-granted implicit assumptions that a group holds and that determines how it perceives, thins about, and reacts to its various environments, (Kinicki, A. and Kreitner, R., 2009).With that being said it becomes important to set values that you want everyone to work by. This will help when new employees are added to the team and will alsoRead MoreThe Characteristics Of Or ganizational Culture1392 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction Organizational culture is very important because it is all about the beliefs, philosophy, principles and morals that every individuals will share within an organization. Furthermore, organizational culture brings unity, loyalty, direction, competition and identity in an organizational and making it an influential element in the accomplishment of the organization. Therefore, it has a powerful influence on the individuals because it sways how employees should act, dress and execute theirRead MoreEssay Management vs. Leadership1138 Words   |  5 PagesManagement vs. Leadership The comparison and differences of traits between leadership and management techniques and styles is like comparing apples and oranges. Leadership should be an asset of management but unfortunately not all managers have leadership qualities A manager is a director, an overseer, someone who dictates employees. A leader is focused on organizing and inspiring people to be entrepreneurs. The role and responsibilities of both leaders and managers in creating and maintainingRead MoreManagement vs. Leadership1184 Words   |  5 PagesManagement vs. Leadership The comparison and differences of traits between leadership and management techniques and styles is like comparing apples and oranges. Leadership should be an asset of management but unfortunately not all managers have leadership qualities A manager is a director, an overseer, someone who dictates employees. A leader is focused on organizing and inspiring people to be entrepreneurs. The role and responsibilities of both leaders and managers in creating and maintainingRead MoreBusiness Failure of Worldcom in the Light of Organizational Behavior Theories1313 Words   |  5 Pagesthe Light of Organizational Behavior Theories Abstract Business failures occur usually due to lack of organizational leadership and unethical practices prevalent within an organization. Managers and leaders tend to be a lighthouse for any organization and if they adopt unethical ways, then the entire organization suffer from extreme loss and disgrace. WorldComs bankruptcy scandal is a big example of business failure which was linked to leadership, management style and organizational behavior prevalentRead MoreThe Crisis Management Of Philippines Essay894 Words   |  4 PagesLocal Studies A local study conducted by Magdalena L. Mendoza (2014) about the crisis management of Philippines. The author stated that there was an absence of solid foundation, inability to distill foreign values, and the â€Å"disconnects† between national culture and local articulation have resulted in the â€Å"adulteration† of Philippine management culture. This culture gap might have been the responsible for the country’s slower pace of development. The adulteration being referred to is the starkRead More Organizational Behavior Essay973 Words   |  4 Pages Organizational Behavior: A Case of Effective Management nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; â€Å"Organizational structure is the formal system of task and reporting relationships that controls, coordinates, and motivates employees so that they cooperate and work together to achieve the organization’s goals†. (George et al, 2002). The importance of structure can’t be stressed enough. Having an organizational structure ensures that each member of the organization has the correct goals of their particular

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Cell Phones Positive And Negative Impacts On Society

There has been a lot of controversy over use cell phones along with the positive and negative impacts that it has reflected on society. Today, cell phones are used for numerous amounts of things that could play a role into a person’s everyday life. Cell phones could also be overpowering when not being used for certain things. Therefore, it is truly up to the individual on how they interact with their cell phone or smart phone. Cell phones sometimes come in handy even in unexpected situations. The lock screen on majority of smart phones has an emergency call option located on the screen for a quicker way instead of unlocking to dialing â€Å"911†. For example, if a person is in an emergency situation or if there is an emergency that has occurred around them, they could easily pull their phone out and press the emergency button within seconds. This method is a lot more effective to use without having to go through a hassle of putting in the lock code to unlock the phone. When a person is not in need of emergency assistance the emergency call option is normally useless. It could also be pressed by accidently if a person is not paying attention to what they’re doing. Each and every day a cell phone user is putting their lives in risk while most of them don’t even realize it. Cell phones are not only affecting people’s health but its putting their life in danger also. People tend to zone out everything around them while operating or looking on their smart phone. Even out on theShow MoreRelated Impact of Technology on Family Life Essay901 Words   |  4 PagesImpact of Technology on Family Life I think that technology has had both positively and negatively impacted the family life in our society. But I think the positive effects out way the negative ones. In this term paper I will focus on how cell phones, internet, and home security systems. These are only a few of the technology that has affected family life. I will first talk about the positive effects then I will explain the negative effects. Communication has had a bigRead MoreThe Negative Impact Of Cell Phones On Society1074 Words   |  5 PagesToday phones are an important part of society. Everybody seems to have a phone, people can generally observe somebody messaging, on the internet or just making a quick call. Many detect these to be greatly helpful assets for everyday life; however, the vast majority do not stop to consider the negative impacts that mobile phones could have on someone well being and living. In the last 15 years, nothing has impacted society like cell phones. Cell phones were once was an item of luxury has now becomeRead MoreImpact of the Light Bulb and Cell Phone on Society1353 Words   |  6 Pageshours, to bulbs that can now last over ten thousand hours. From a simple cellular phone only capable of making phone calls, to today’s smartphones that have effectively changed the way we interact with one another. Although there will always be opponents of technology, there is no denying that is has positively impacted modern society, and the way we live, work, and communicate. Thomas Alva Edison In today’s society, when a light bulb goes out, we think nothing of it. It is easy to drive to theRead MoreGrowing Technology1448 Words   |  6 Pagesâ€Å"Reach Out and Annoy Someone,† he illustrates his frustration with the new technology better known as a cell phone. He focuses on the negative impact cell phones have on people’s lives and how addicting it is. Cell phones have advanced so much to the point where it is giving a new life to society itself. Technology can leave both a positive and negative impact on the American families and society in general. To begin, current technology can increase a family’s communication. Almost everyoneRead MoreEffects Of Technology On Society s Society1246 Words   |  5 Pages Effects of Technology on Society Many years ago, historians believe the future would be an amazing technologically advanced place filled with robots and time traveling. But today no one seems to be shocked by all of the advancements (Negative Effects of Technology). The computers are controlling minds, and humans are acting more as robots than citizens. Over the last few decades, there has been a dramatic improvement in the development and use of technology. Workplaces have goneRead MoreTechnology And Social Change : Technology935 Words   |  4 Pagesliving. The way society and the advancement of technology it is almost impossible not to want to even keep up at the rate things progress. To further discuss this topic technology is the invention of tools and techniques. Technological change is the invention of a technology, the continuous process of improving technology throughout society. Society is the grouping of people through social relations. Social change is the progress or alteration of social order. Te chnology shapes society and socialRead MoreCell Phone Use A Social Addiction939 Words   |  4 PagesToday’s society is a generation that is being raised on conveniences, and with this generation, cell phone use has exploded. Millions of people are obsessed with their cell phones and literally will not leave their house without it. People center everything they do around their cell phone. People are checking their text messages and social media day and night. They face time, tweet, Pinterest, Instagram, and Snapchat. Teens on their smartphones. Photo Credit Highwaystarz-Photography/iStock/GettyRead MoreCell Phones in the Classroom: Keep Them Banned, or Incorporate Them?1413 Words   |  6 PagesCell phones are quickly becoming a child and teenager’s new best friend. In fact, they even seem to be replacing human contact, and are now how both children and teenagers communicate with each other. Cell phone sales have sky rocketed at an alarming rate, and many of the consumers are under the age of 18, meaning they are still in elementary and high school. Society has influenced students to feel that they need to own a cell phone to be â€Å"cool†, thus making the issue of cell phones in the classroomRead MoreCell Phones Vs. Society1251 Words   |  6 PagesCell Phones Vs. Society: Have you ever seen a car accident caused by texting and driving? Have you ever had a conversation with someone where they pulled out their phone and completely disconnected? If so, you have felt a few of the many negative effects cell phones have on society. Today, technology is constantly evolving, taking new forms, updating, and finding its way into more and more of users lives. Most people are comfortable with this, especially the youth of today, as they have been aroundRead MoreWhy Cellphones Have A Negative Impact On Society?882 Words   |  4 Pagesa more Negative Impact on Society than Positive There has been a lot of controversy over use cell phones along with the positive and negative impacts that it has reflected on society. Today, cell phones are used for numerous amounts of things that could play a role into a person’s everyday life. Cell phones could also be overpowering when not being used for certain things. Therefore, it is truly up to the individual on how they interact with their cell phone or smart phone. Cell phones sometimes

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Understanding Inclusive Learning free essay sample

Understanding Inclusive Learning and Teaching in Lifelong Learning Assessment Task 1 By Robert A J Gue Submission Date 3 May 2012 I have been asked by the Scout Association to give guidance on how to incorporate inclusive learning an teaching in to their training scheme to meet the needs of the leaders who come from diverse backgrounds. The Scout Association is part of a worldwide educational youth movement. The values, which underpin and inspire its work are embodied in the Scout Promise and Law and in the Purpose of the Association. Within this framework, the Association is committed to equality of opportunity for all members. To carry out its work the Association seeks to appoint effective and appropriate Leaders, and to involve other volunteers in supporting roles, all of whom are required to accept fully the responsibilities of their commitment. The Scout Association equal Opportunities Policy; equal opportunities for all; no person volunteering their services should receive less favourable treatment on the basis of, nor suffer disadvantage by reason of: †¢ age; †¢ class; †¢ ethnic origin, nationality (or statelessness) or race; †¢ gender; marital or sexual status; †¢ mental or physical ability; †¢ political or religious belief. We will write a custom essay sample on Understanding Inclusive Learning or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Source: Scout Association key policies. In todays society, we live in a multi cultural environment. This effects the local communities and this impacts on education and training. Organisations now have multi ethnic work forces, covering a wide range religious beliefs, nationalities and races. Cultures and attitudes have changed over the last 50 years and in todays society, you have mixed gender organisations , more openness sexual status changes in employment laws and disability laws which allows people with mental or physical abilities to work. The scout association is one of those organisations which has members from mixed religions, race, ethnic origins, mental and physical abilities. Therefore they have to adapt inclusive learning environment. Inclusive teaching means recognising, accommodating and meeting the learning needs of all your leaders under training. It means acknowledging that your leaders have a range of individual learning needs and are members of diverse communities: a leader with a disabling medical condition may also have English as an additional language and be a single parent. Inclusive teaching avoids pigeonholing leaders under training into specific groups with predictable and fixed approaches to learning.   The benefits of having inclusive teaching are; †¢ It takes a coherent approach which is proactive. †¢ Inclusive teaching has a strategy for delivering equal opportunities and diversity policies. †¢ Involves the whole organisation / movement. †¢ The training will match provisions to the student needs. †¢ It will incorporate regular reflection, review and refinement of strategies and methods that actively involve disabled leaders. Experience in scouting situations has demonstrated that adjustments made for disabled leaders/ scouts can often benefit all leaders and members from the scout sections. Inclusive teaching is good teaching. For example, when reviewing how to describe a diagram to a blind scout , it might become apparent that there is a better way to present the information for all scouts. In making your teaching inclusive you reassess the material you use in your teaching and the way in which it is delivered and assessed. The scout training programme should place leaders in the best possible learning environment, whatever those needs may be.