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Annotated Bibliography Cullen Strady

Annotated Bibliography

Cullen Strady

Florida State University

ENC 2135: Research, Genre, and Context

Andrew Zolot

June 28, 2022

Annotated Bibliography

Kimbu, A. N., de Jong, A., Adam, I., Ribeiro, M. A., Afenyo-Agbe, E., Adeola, O., & Figueroa-Domecq, C. (2021). Recontextualising gender in entrepreneurial leadership. Annals of Tourism Research, 88, 103176, 1-12. Doi: 10.1016/j.annals.2021.103176.

This peer-reviewed journal article critically evaluates a framework for assessing gender roles in modeling entrepreneurial leadership and performance in tourism within a non-western context. The authors employed a post-structural feminist lens, which challenges narratives of normative entrepreneurial leadership activity and practice. Kimbu et al. (2021) leveraged this lens in their qualitative analyses of interview data from Ghana- and Nigeria-based tourism entrepreneurs. With this, they generated proof for the gendered makeup of leadership performance in entrepreneurship, together with how the negotiation of gender aspects occurs constantly and fluidly. This source is trustworthy because it has been peer-reviewed for credibility. Additionally, it was written by authors whose intuitional affiliation with universities in the UK, Ghana, and Nigeria is confirmed. Further, these researchers created this article authoritatively by integrating reputable resources to corroborate their arguments and evidence base, using proper citation conventions, and following professional principles that govern academic research papers. The publication relates to other sources in the entrepreneurship field by explicating gender aspects involved in entrepreneurial leadership. It would be helpful for my Investigative Field Essay as an argument source, providing ideas to articulate when substantiating my points.

Kourtesopoulou, A., & Chatzigianni, E. E. (2021). Gender equality and women’s entrepreneurial leadership in tourism: A systematic review. Gender and Tourism, 11-36. Emerald Publishing Limited. Doi: 10.1108/978-1-80117-322-320211002.

This article is a chapter excerpt that covers a systematic review exploring gender equality within the tourism entrepreneurial leadership context. By addressing four clearly delineated questions, Kourtesopoulou and Chatzigianni (2021) affirmed that gender inequalities in leadership roles persist in tourism, with women being highly underrepresented in senior leadership positions. Despite some women running their own tourism establishments, gender equality and women’s representation in entrepreneurial leadership within the tourism context remains a controversial matter. The authors established that academic research on the same discourse area is limited. Kourtesopoulou and Chatzigianni (2021) noted that in some cases, some tourism sectors, such as homestay accommodation, offer better employment opportunities for women. This source is credible because it is a chapter of a broad entrepreneurship publication printed and distributed by a renowned publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited. Besides, the authors are reputable management scholars and leaders. This source relates with others in the discipline because it contributes to the discourse about the impact of gender on tourism-related leadership activities. I will use it as a background resource to offer a context for my topic.

Megheirkouni, M., Thirlwall, A., & Mejheirkouni, A. (2020). Entrepreneurial leadership in Middle East sport businesses: The impact of gender differences in cultural values. Gender in Management: An International Journal, 35(2), 167-188. Doi: 10.1108/GM-01-2019-0006.

In this peer-reviewed journal article, the researchers explore gender differences in cultural values and entrepreneurial leadership toward comprehending the impact of gender in sports-related business enterprises. Megheirkouni et al. (2020) utilized the survey method targeting four Middle East countries (Lebanon, Qatar, Syria, and the UAE) due to their similarities in culture, language, history, and institutional systems but diverse economic characteristics. Their findings established that national culture does not broadly influence gender differences in entrepreneurship. However, the outcomes affirmed that gender differences exist when considering entrepreneurial leadership across the four countries due to stereotyping of women. This article is well-written, adopts a scholarly tone and language, and reflects the authors’ adherence to the conventions of academic writing. The resource is also credible because, besides being peer-reviewed, its authors are affiliated with reputable universities in the United Kingdom and Australia and applied their evidence articulation reliably. The article relates to other resources in entrepreneurship-related discourses by highlighting the effect of gender on entrepreneurial leadership. This explains why I see the resource as an important source of evidence for my Investigative Field Essay.

Pinela, N., Guevara, R., & Armijos, M. (2022). Entrepreneurial leadership, work engagement, and innovative work behavior: The moderating role of gender. International Journal of Economics & Business Administration (IJEBA), 10(2), 19-40.

In this publication, the authors explore how entrepreneurial leadership affects work engagement and innovative work behavior and how this relationship is mediated. Pinela et al. (2022) further examined how gender mediates or moderates this relationship through a structural equation model as their research design, targeting Ecuadorian entrepreneurs. These scholars discovered that while entrepreneurial leadership impacts innovative work behavior positively, gender moderation is verified. Specifically, entrepreneurial leadership has a stronger impact on women’s innovative work behavior than men’s. The source is credible because it is a peer-reviewed journal entry, it is authoritatively compliant with the tenets of academic writing, and adopts satisfactory evidence articulation for claim substantiation. The source relates to others in this discourse area in that it subscribes to the role of gender in swaying entrepreneurial leadership. I would utilize this source as an evidence resource from which I would derive crucial proof to back claims in my Investigative Field Essay.

The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women. (November 2021). Gender stereotypes and their impact on women entrepreneurs. Survey Report Exploring the Experiences of Women Entrepreneurs in Low and Middle Income Countries. The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women.

This survey-based organizational report itemizes analyses of online survey data from just over 200 women in low- and medium-income countries concerning gender stereotypes and their impacts on women’s entrepreneurial engagement and leadership. The author, The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women (2021), established statistically that gender stereotype expressions and experiences are diverse and widespread. The report also affirmed that if these stereotypes start early, they shape women’s engagements and journeys in entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial leadership, having a robust, lasting impact on their leadership aspirations, behavior, and confidence. This resource also generated insights into how gender stereotypes can be addressed to boost women’s opportunities and rights in entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial leadership. So, the source relates to others in the field by contributing to the discourse of the interplay between gender roles and entrepreneurial leadership. This source is credible because it is an agency report written based on strong statistical evidence. I would use this report as a background source to establish facts for my Investigative Field Essay.

Tlaiss, H. A., & Kauser, S. (2019). Entrepreneurial leadership, patriarchy, gender, and identity in the Arab world: Lebanon in focus. Journal of Small Business Management, 57(2), 517-537. Doi: 10.1111/jsbm.12397.

This journal article delves into determining women’s gender status in entrepreneurial leadership and establishing their entrepreneurial identities using a sample of Lebanese women. Tlaiss and Kauser (2019) adopted insights from the poststructuralist feminist theory in contributing to the discourse about gendered entrepreneurial leadership. The main point of their article is that while patriarchy, gender, identity, socio-cultural values, and agency are counteractive, entrepreneurial agencies are responsible for creating entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial leadership for women while helping them navigate structural inequalities. The credibility of this article can be visualized from two aspects. Firstly, the evidence level integrated to corroborate claims is excellent and this evidence is incorporated expertly. Second, Tlaiss and Kauser are high-profile academicians in business departments in their respective university affiliations. This publication relates to other sources in the field of entrepreneurship in that it explores the position of gender in entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial leadership. I would utilize this resource as an argument source, containing proof to support my points and claims in the Investigative Field Essay.

Animal Representation- Dogs

(Name)

(Instructors’ name)

(Course)

(Date)

Animal Representation- Dogs

Animals, especially domestic animals, have been considered as part of human life throughout history. Sequentially, human beings incorporate animals in their lives and represent them in various ways as a way of creating awareness of certain animal species. This representation occurs in all aspects of life and can include the media, and culture among other things. Specifically, human beings have exploited art and literature for the representation of animals they value as a way of commemorating these animals in the lives of humans. Accordingly, this representation impacts people’s perceptions of these animals thus increasing their importance to human beings.

This paper compares and contrasts three perspectives of dogs as represented in film, literature, and psychiatry. More specifically, the paper examines how the dog is presented as a teacher and father figure, as a helper, as well as, as a human in disguise. The paper provides an evaluation of the rationale behind these representations, as well as, the practical consequences of these representations.  

The Dog as a Teacher and Father Figure:

“A Boy and His Dog”

The Novel, A Boy and His Dog, tells the story of Vic and Blood, two survivors of a war. Vic, the central human character in the film is in is the company of his dog Blood and they work together for their survival (Ellison and Corben 1-128). Together, the two characters search for food, clothes, and ammunition that is to be used for their survival. In the novel, the dog blood is represented as having telepathic abilities, which in turn, assist the two in their communication with each other. To understand the representation of the dog in the novel, one must also consider the human character Vic as his character assists in the representation of the dog. Accordingly, Vic is an orphan who understands neither the importance of ethics, nor the need for morality, and for that reason, he lives to satisfy his immediate needs (Lee 450). Portrayed as a telepathic dog, blood steps in to assist Vic in living a proper life. For that reason, the dog is portrayed as being a teacher and father figure. Blood educates Vic on and his sole purpose in life is identified as being the protection of Vic so as to keep him away from any possible harm or danger.

Additionally, blood is highly intelligent, thus qualifying him for the representation s a teacher and father figure (Sanders 121). To build on his representation as a father figure, Vic is highly rebellious, a character that is common to children. In a way, Blood is represented as having superior characteristics to his human friend. He is telepathic and intelligent, and the only thing he lacks is the ability to find food for himself. The representation of the Dog in this case is that of a guide and a teacher. The dog is presented as a creature that human beings can rely on, not only for companionship, but also as instructors and educators.

The Dog as a Helper:

Animal Assisted Therapy

Before going into the representation of the dog in animal assisted therapy, one must first understand the concept of animal assisted therapy. Also referred to as AAT, animal assisted therapy is a type of therapy that involves the use of animals for therapeutic treatment (Serpell 3). Animals are believed to have the ability to reduce stress and improve mental health in patients suffering from various diseases. Specifically, the dog has been one of the top choices of animals for the provision of therapeutic treatment in patients. The chief objective of AAT is the development and improvement of the patient’s psychological and social functioning for the betterment of their lives and health (Sarkson 15). Animals, especially dogs, have been identified as being useful for instructive and motivational efficiency for patients.

Dogs have been used for various therapeutic treatments such as treatment for schizophrenia, autism, as well as, other psychological disorders. Additionally, they have been used to provide motivation for patients under stress and decrease their depressive tendencies for better health. According to Becker, the temperament of the dog is important for therapy as it helps improve the patients emotional and psychological states thus increasing the possibility of healing (Becker 27). In this representation, dogs are brought out as animals that motivate people into living better lives. They are considered a tool for better living, and for that reason, are considered as the best animal companions human beings can have. In addition to this, research studies explain that dogs have a positive emotional effect on human beings, and contact with these animals reduce negative emotions in human beings. Recent studies on the issue illustrate that dog owners are more likely to live longer and happier lives, as opposed to, people who do not own dogs or any other pets for that matter. This representation of the dog suggests that the dog is a helper and an aide to human beings. Sequentially, the dog is seen as the only animal species that can provide unlimited assistance to human beings, hence allowing them to live better lives and heal from diseases and disorders.

The Dog as a Human in Disguise:

Goofy

Goofy is a recognized dog cartoon character at Walt Disney production, whose first performance was as Mickey Mouse’s dog in the cartoon, Mickey Mouse (disney.wikia.com 1). A closer examination of the character reveals that he has anthropomorphic characteristics meaning that embodies a variety of human characteristics. His human characteristics are revealed in both his physical characteristics, as well as, his intelligence, which suggests that the character is more of a human being than he is a dog. Goofy’s mental and physical characteristics intertwine, thus giving him his anthropomorphic capacities (Beinman and Johnston 4). At the outset, Goofy is discreetly intelligent which may not be as evident because as a cartoon character, he is thought out to be a goof. He smart and reasons like a human being. His character as a dog is overwhelmed by his intellectual capacity as human in disguise, and he uses this human ability to communicate to both his friends and the audience (Miller 15).

Physically, Goofy’s representation as a human in disguise is revealed by a number of factors such as the fact that he walks on two feet and wears clothes and shoes, something that is, characteristically, human. As most analysts would argue, his physical appearance is also one of a human in disguise. For example, his head is considered as a caricature of a person. His posture, as well, also reveals a sense of being human, and for that reason, he is the perfect example of the dog as a human in disguise. The representation of the dog as a human in disguise is the most complex and influential representation of this animal. This is because such representation gives the dog a character that is beyond being human. Evidently, Goofy bears human characteristics which make it easy for his friends, as well as, his audience to accept him as a character (disney.wikia.com 1). This representation gives the audience the feel that they are dealing with a character that is similar in behavior as they are, thus making the comprehension of Goofy as a character much simpler. His anthropomorphic nature also allows the audience to understand human nature as presented by a dog, this in turn, builds on the significance of dogs in human life. Because cartoons are mostly created to be watched by children, the human character in Goofy is also used for educative purposes (disney.wikia.com 1). By imitating the character of goofy, the audience receive an in-depth understanding of goofy as a human character as opposed to his character as a dog. The representation of the dog as a human in disguise is an excellent representation of Dogs in human life. Dogs are seen to possess superior characteristics, thus enhancing their importance to human beings.

Analysis

The representation of the dog in these three examples reveals a lot about human perception regarding dogs. Common knowledge suggests that just like other domesticated animals, dogs are mere pets that provide companionship to their owners. However, an analysis of the representation of dogs as presented above reveals the role of dogs as being beyond the provision of companionship. Dogs are not easily depicted as animals that add value to the lives of humans. For example, in the case of the representation of the dog as a teacher and father figure, it is evident that dogs can step in when parents and other instructors have failed. This, in turn, illustrates the importance of dogs to human beings and the contribution that these animals can make to the lives of those who own them. The representation of the dog as a helper in therapeutic programs builds on the importance of dogs to human beings. With this representation, dogs are brought out as having healing and motivational abilities, things that are important to human living. Dogs can assist human beings in easing their afflictions and for that reason, are a good source of motivation and uplifting. Lastly, the representation of the dog as a human in disguise implies that dogs exist beyond their animal characteristics. This, in turn, implies that having a dog is equivalent to having a human companion. This is because dogs will provide humans with the same things that other human beings can, thus their significance in human life.

The immediate consequence of the above representation of dogs is shaping of people’s perception of dogs in the human life. Sequentially, this will lead to the improvement of human-dog relationships in society. More human beings will opt for dog companionship, which will encourage the adoption of more dogs in homes. Additionally, another consequence of such representation will involve paying tribute to this animal species. Tribute will be in the form of the creation of more fictional dogs in film and literature as a way of spreading the message regarding the importance of dogs to human beings. These will aid in educating the future generations on the impact that dogs have had on human life and why these animal species should be conserved and preserved.

Work Cited

Becker, Marty. The Healing Power of Pets: Harnessing the Amazing Ability of Pets to Make and

Keep People Happy and Healthy. New York: Hyperion, 2002. Print.

Beiman, Nancy and Johnston, Lynn. Animated Performance: Bringing Imaginary Animal,

Human and Fantasy Characters to Life. USA: AVA Publishing, 2010. Print.

Ellison Harlan, and Corben Richard. Vic and Blood: The Continuing Adventure of a Boy and His

Dog. USA: IBooks, Inc., 2003. Print.

“Goofy”. The Disney Wiki. disney.wikia.com, n.d. Web. 9 November, 2011.

<<http://disney.wikia.com/wiki/Goofy>>

Lee, Thomas. Book Review: Vic and Blood: The Chronicles of a Boy and His Dog. American

Literature, 64.2 (2000): 449-455.

Miller, Frederic P. Goofy. USA: VDM Publishing House Ltd., 2010. Print.

Sakson, Sharon. Paws & Effect. New York: Alyson Books, 2007. Print.

Sanders, Paul. Animals in Literature: From Stereotype to Positive Representation. Journal of

American Literature, 37.2 (2001): 115-120.

Serpell, James. Animal Companions and Human Well-Being: An Historical Exploration of the

Value of Human-Animal Relationships. Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy: Theoretical Foundations and Guidelines for Practice: 3.1 (2000): 3-17.

Animal Representation- Dogs. compares and contrasts three perspectives of dogs as represented in film, literature, and psychi

(Name)

(Instructors’ name)

(Course)

(Date)

Animal Representation- Dogs. compares and contrasts three perspectives of dogs as represented in film, literature, and psychiatry

Animals, especially domestic animals, have been considered as part of human life throughout history. Sequentially, human beings incorporate animals in their lives and represent them in various ways as a way of creating awareness of certain animal species. This representation occurs in all aspects of life and can include the media, and culture among other things. Specifically, human beings have exploited art and literature for the representation of animals they value as a way of commemorating these animals in the lives of humans. Accordingly, this representation impacts people’s perceptions of these animals thus increasing their importance to human beings.

This paper compares and contrasts three perspectives of dogs as represented in film, literature, and psychiatry. More specifically, the paper examines how the dog is presented as a teacher and father figure, as a helper, as well as, as a human in disguise. The paper provides an evaluation of the rationale behind these representations, as well as, the practical consequences of these representations.  

The Dog as a Teacher and Father Figure:

“A Boy and His Dog”

The Novel, A Boy and His Dog, tells the story of Vic and Blood, two survivors of a war. Vic, the central human character in the film is in is the company of his dog Blood and they work together for their survival (Ellison and Corben 1-128). Together, the two characters search for food, clothes, and ammunition that is to be used for their survival. In the novel, the dog blood is represented as having telepathic abilities, which in turn, assist the two in their communication with each other. To understand the representation of the dog in the novel, one must also consider the human character Vic as his character assists in the representation of the dog. Accordingly, Vic is an orphan who understands neither the importance of ethics, nor the need for morality, and for that reason, he lives to satisfy his immediate needs (Lee 450). Portrayed as a telepathic dog, blood steps in to assist Vic in living a proper life. For that reason, the dog is portrayed as being a teacher and father figure. Blood educates Vic on and his sole purpose in life is identified as being the protection of Vic so as to keep him away from any possible harm or danger.

Additionally, blood is highly intelligent, thus qualifying him for the representation s a teacher and father figure (Sanders 121). To build on his representation as a father figure, Vic is highly rebellious, a character that is common to children. In a way, Blood is represented as having superior characteristics to his human friend. He is telepathic and intelligent, and the only thing he lacks is the ability to find food for himself. The representation of the Dog in this case is that of a guide and a teacher. The dog is presented as a creature that human beings can rely on, not only for companionship, but also as instructors and educators.

The Dog as a Helper:

Animal Assisted Therapy

Before going into the representation of the dog in animal assisted therapy, one must first understand the concept of animal assisted therapy. Also referred to as AAT, animal assisted therapy is a type of therapy that involves the use of animals for therapeutic treatment (Serpell 3). Animals are believed to have the ability to reduce stress and improve mental health in patients suffering from various diseases. Specifically, the dog has been one of the top choices of animals for the provision of therapeutic treatment in patients. The chief objective of AAT is the development and improvement of the patient’s psychological and social functioning for the betterment of their lives and health (Sarkson 15). Animals, especially dogs, have been identified as being useful for instructive and motivational efficiency for patients.

Dogs have been used for various therapeutic treatments such as treatment for schizophrenia, autism, as well as, other psychological disorders. Additionally, they have been used to provide motivation for patients under stress and decrease their depressive tendencies for better health. According to Becker, the temperament of the dog is important for therapy as it helps improve the patients emotional and psychological states thus increasing the possibility of healing (Becker 27). In this representation, dogs are brought out as animals that motivate people into living better lives. They are considered a tool for better living, and for that reason, are considered as the best animal companions human beings can have. In addition to this, research studies explain that dogs have a positive emotional effect on human beings, and contact with these animals reduce negative emotions in human beings. Recent studies on the issue illustrate that dog owners are more likely to live longer and happier lives, as opposed to, people who do not own dogs or any other pets for that matter. This representation of the dog suggests that the dog is a helper and an aide to human beings. Sequentially, the dog is seen as the only animal species that can provide unlimited assistance to human beings, hence allowing them to live better lives and heal from diseases and disorders.

The Dog as a Human in Disguise:

Goofy

Goofy is a recognized dog cartoon character at Walt Disney production, whose first performance was as Mickey Mouse’s dog in the cartoon, Mickey Mouse (disney.wikia.com 1). A closer examination of the character reveals that he has anthropomorphic characteristics meaning that embodies a variety of human characteristics. His human characteristics are revealed in both his physical characteristics, as well as, his intelligence, which suggests that the character is more of a human being than he is a dog. Goofy’s mental and physical characteristics intertwine, thus giving him his anthropomorphic capacities (Beinman and Johnston 4). At the outset, Goofy is discreetly intelligent which may not be as evident because as a cartoon character, he is thought out to be a goof. He smart and reasons like a human being. His character as a dog is overwhelmed by his intellectual capacity as human in disguise, and he uses this human ability to communicate to both his friends and the audience (Miller 15).

Physically, Goofy’s representation as a human in disguise is revealed by a number of factors such as the fact that he walks on two feet and wears clothes and shoes, something that is, characteristically, human. As most analysts would argue, his physical appearance is also one of a human in disguise. For example, his head is considered as a caricature of a person. His posture, as well, also reveals a sense of being human, and for that reason, he is the perfect example of the dog as a human in disguise. The representation of the dog as a human in disguise is the most complex and influential representation of this animal. This is because such representation gives the dog a character that is beyond being human. Evidently, Goofy bears human characteristics which make it easy for his friends, as well as, his audience to accept him as a character (disney.wikia.com 1). This representation gives the audience the feel that they are dealing with a character that is similar in behavior as they are, thus making the comprehension of Goofy as a character much simpler. His anthropomorphic nature also allows the audience to understand human nature as presented by a dog, this in turn, builds on the significance of dogs in human life. Because cartoons are mostly created to be watched by children, the human character in Goofy is also used for educative purposes (disney.wikia.com 1). By imitating the character of goofy, the audience receive an in-depth understanding of goofy as a human character as opposed to his character as a dog. The representation of the dog as a human in disguise is an excellent representation of Dogs in human life. Dogs are seen to possess superior characteristics, thus enhancing their importance to human beings.

Analysis

The representation of the dog in these three examples reveals a lot about human perception regarding dogs. Common knowledge suggests that just like other domesticated animals, dogs are mere pets that provide companionship to their owners. However, an analysis of the representation of dogs as presented above reveals the role of dogs as being beyond the provision of companionship. Dogs are not easily depicted as animals that add value to the lives of humans. For example, in the case of the representation of the dog as a teacher and father figure, it is evident that dogs can step in when parents and other instructors have failed. This, in turn, illustrates the importance of dogs to human beings and the contribution that these animals can make to the lives of those who own them. The representation of the dog as a helper in therapeutic programs builds on the importance of dogs to human beings. With this representation, dogs are brought out as having healing and motivational abilities, things that are important to human living. Dogs can assist human beings in easing their afflictions and for that reason, are a good source of motivation and uplifting. Lastly, the representation of the dog as a human in disguise implies that dogs exist beyond their animal characteristics. This, in turn, implies that having a dog is equivalent to having a human companion. This is because dogs will provide humans with the same things that other human beings can, thus their significance in human life.

The immediate consequence of the above representation of dogs is shaping of people’s perception of dogs in the human life. Sequentially, this will lead to the improvement of human-dog relationships in society. More human beings will opt for dog companionship, which will encourage the adoption of more dogs in homes. Additionally, another consequence of such representation will involve paying tribute to this animal species. Tribute will be in the form of the creation of more fictional dogs in film and literature as a way of spreading the message regarding the importance of dogs to human beings. These will aid in educating the future generations on the impact that dogs have had on human life and why these animal species should be conserved and preserved.

Work Cited

Becker, Marty. The Healing Power of Pets: Harnessing the Amazing Ability of Pets to Make and

Keep People Happy and Healthy. New York: Hyperion, 2002. Print.

Beiman, Nancy and Johnston, Lynn. Animated Performance: Bringing Imaginary Animal,

Human and Fantasy Characters to Life. USA: AVA Publishing, 2010. Print.

Ellison Harlan, and Corben Richard. Vic and Blood: The Continuing Adventure of a Boy and His

Dog. USA: IBooks, Inc., 2003. Print.

“Goofy”. The Disney Wiki. disney.wikia.com, n.d. Web. 9 November, 2011.

<<http://disney.wikia.com/wiki/Goofy>>

Lee, Thomas. Book Review: Vic and Blood: The Chronicles of a Boy and His Dog. American

Literature, 64.2 (2000): 449-455.

Miller, Frederic P. Goofy. USA: VDM Publishing House Ltd., 2010. Print.

Sakson, Sharon. Paws & Effect. New York: Alyson Books, 2007. Print.

Sanders, Paul. Animals in Literature: From Stereotype to Positive Representation. Journal of

American Literature, 37.2 (2001): 115-120.

Serpell, James. Animal Companions and Human Well-Being: An Historical Exploration of the

Value of Human-Animal Relationships. Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy: Theoretical Foundations and Guidelines for Practice: 3.1 (2000): 3-17.

Andrea Y.A. Reid

Andrea Y.A. Reid

144-12 224th Street 2nd Floor

Springfield Gardens, New York 11413

347-623-7249 (Cell)

Work Experience

May 2010-October 2021 Payroll Manager-The Capital Markets Co LLC

Responsibilities: Mult1-State Payroll Processing for

approximately US 2000 employees and 500 Canadian employees. Worked with the local HR divisions to process New Hires, Terminations etc.

Payroll was processed semi-monthly and ensured that after each payroll reports were generated and distributed to our benefit carrier. Reconciled and uploaded to Vanguard the semi-monthly elections.

Processed annual salary increases and semi-annual bonus payments. Processed semi-annual partner incentive payments. Handled the annual 401K audit, to ensure we were in compliance. Reconciled and generated the monthly salary report for the end of month close process.

July 2008-April 2010 Payroll Consultant-Accountemps-Robert Half

Responsibilities: Verification of year-to-date balances prior to the go-live date of 9/1/08. Created the payroll reconciliations templates, payroll batch control sheets. Worked with the benefits departments in setting up procedures for the workflow to the payroll department utilizing Workday product. Worked entirely on processing the payroll for approximately 400 employees and processed timesheets for non-exempt employees. 401K elections changes from Wachovia, banking updates, tax changes. Processed annual salary increases and annual bonus payments.

Quarterly Wage & Tax Reconciliation, & W2 reconciliations.

Aug 1995-May 2008 Payroll Manager-Lion Resources USA, New York

Responsibilities: Managing a staff of 17 payroll Administrators. Multi-State Payrolls for 35 FEIN’s for approximately 12,000 employees in North America. Responsible for new state registration for state and Sui Id numbers. Handled all tax related issues. Creating W2c’s and filing all necessary paperwork with ADP and ensuring that all necessary tax jurisdictions are updated accordingly. Setting up all new company codes due to mergers. Ensuring that semi-monthly ledger is loaded, and all monthly labor and distribution reports are distributed to each division. Handled all PSHR Exports to ADP of all data keyed for each payroll processing. Receiving and loading files from Fidelity for 401K % deferrals and loans on a semi-monthly basic. Loading hours for hourly and non-exempt employee from PRISM Time Entry on a semi-monthly basis. Creating csv files to upload mass increases or mass bonus payments for loading to ADP. Created templates and processes to enhance the processing of the payrolls.

January 1995-

August 1995 Payroll Administrator – Execu-Search Staffing

(Temp Position), New York, NY

Responsibilities: Processed payroll for Union Payroll

for the building maintenance staff for various unions.

Manually recording of sick time, vacation time,

personal time etc. Keying of all hours submitted for

each building maintenance and union division.

1992- 1993 Payroll Assistant/Tax Coordinator -JAMKO Service Corp, New York, NY

Responsibilities: Prepared Multi-state tax and federal

Returns for approximately 800 employees

Responsible for federal tax deposits and payments. Manual time keeping for full-time and part-time employees. Calculated taxes for manual checks using various tax rates. Implemented schedules to keep track of 401K Deductions for all employees and assisted in preparation of payment to carrier. Assisted in providing health benefits information.

1987- 1991Full-Charge Bookkeeper- Berenson Berenson Adler & Co, New York, NY

Responsibilities: Computed EDP payroll for 55-60 employees. Recorded out-of pocket travel expenses. Responsible for monthly overtime calculations, in-putting time sheets and expense reports to produce monthly reports. Oversaw Time & Billing System to record time charges and expenses. Accounts Payable using a One-Write check system for vendors and Accounts Receivable. Responsible for keeping track of the company’s cash flow, by transferring funds from Fidelity Fund to Operating Account. Audited and complied all schedules for company’s 401K Plan. Implemented deductions from EE’s and ER’s contribution and making payments to carrier.

Education:S.U.N.Y. at Stony Brook, B.A. Economics, York College Accounting Classes. Currently working on my Master’s in HRM from Touro Worldwide University.

Computer Skills:ADP Payroll System PCPW 5.1, ADP Pay Force, People Soft HR 8.9, PRISM Financial, PRISM Time & Entry, ReportSmith, AS400, MS Word, MS Excel, Ceridian Payroll System.

Analyzing two texts, King Oedipus by Sophocles and Macbeth by Shakespeare

Name

Instructor

Course

Date

Greek Mythology

Greek mythology has spurned on for centuries. The tales of heroes, gods, war, and love make a good reading for lovers of literature. It is interesting to note that most Greek literature follows a repeated pattern. A Greek myth cannot be complete without the above-mentioned themes and motifs. These themes and motifs inform us about the culture of the Greek. By analyzing two texts, ‘King Oedipus’ by Sophocles and ‘Macbeth’ by Shakespeare, this essay is going to look at the motif of Prophecy in Greek myths and how it informs my knowledge of Greek culture.

Prophecy forms a huge part of Macbeth’s life and future. It is the prophecy of the witches that drives the plot of the play to a very complicated and unfathomable stage. From this, we learn about the centrality of prophecies in the Greek mythology. According to the Greek mythology, supernatural beings delivered prophecies. These prophecies emanated from different gods. It is clear from the mythology that human beings could do nothing to change the fate of prophecies. These aspects of the prophecies are seen to dominate Macbeth’s life from the word go.

The play Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s masterpieces. The play highlights the life and events of Macbeth. This man was brave and had fought to victory. His victory in the war led to his promotion and honor. Macbeth’s heroic acts please the gods, and they reward him with a greater price. Although his family was not in the line of attaining power, he was favored, and his lineage was chosen for the throne. This information is delivered by the three witches to Macbeth on his return journey to his kingdom after conquering and saving the king’s son.

However, as the Greek mythology clearly stipulates, a simple mistake can cause a great ship to sink (David 4). The way Lady Macbeth receives the news of his husbands causes her sleepless nights. She begins to forge a plan that would later see Macbeth ascend to power way before his time. The presence of Lady Macbeth is seen as an obstacle for Macbeth’s success. This aspect presents the reality of the Greek mythology where women were thought to be weak vessels.

Macbeth’s prophecy also opens the reader to the Greeks culture and beliefs. Among the cultural aspects of the Greeks that have been brought out in this play are power and leadership. In the mythology, leaders were special and honored. The handling of kings and their affairs was also a matter of importance and utter secrecy. The kingship was supposed to be honored and respected too. This nature of the kingship is seen in the way King Duncan is received at Macbeth’s estate. There was an array foods and decorum was observed on the eve of the king’s visit.

The prophecy in this play was delivered just like all the other Greek’s prophecies. The witches were instrumental in letting Macbeth know his future (David 12). This was after his performance in the war was extemporary. In his return, the witches tell him of the possible promotion to the Thane of Cowdar. This information reaches Lady Macbeth, who starts drawing up a strategy that they would later follow and ascent to power.

Macbeth is a strong and brave warrior. This continues for a long time until when the woman of his life turns things around. Lady Macbeth seems to carry the weight of the prophecy and delivers it right at the doorstep of his husband. Prophecies from the gods castigated against greed and misuse of power. In this play, Lady Macbeth appears as a greedy with an insatiable appetite for power. Critics of the play remark that she longed for the queen’s throne (David 43). This longing and lust shrouded her thoughts and thus landed Macbeth in the murky waters, which was not the wish of the gods in the beginning.

King Oedipus’ life centers on a prophecy that the gods had given at his birth. King Oedipus was born to King Laius and queen Jacosta of Thebes. Upon his birth, the gods prophesied that Oedipus would kill his father and marry his father. King Laius decided to kill his son to avert the prophecy. He orders his soldiers to kill Oedipus. He and his wife bask in the knowledge that they are safe from the prophecy.

Oedipus survives the death that his father had planned for him. The soldiers pinned his ankles together and left him to die. Oedipus, who grew up to become King, did not know of the prophecy given at birth. However, his life took turns that ensured he followed his destiny. Although he does not know it, his life moves steadily in the direction that the prophecy had predicted (Austin 34). He has a permanent scar on his foot as a constant symbol of the prophecy. At the end of the tragic play, King Oedipus unknowingly, slays his biological father and takes his biological mother as his wife. He fulfills the prophecy that his father had tried to avert.

This tragedy by Sophocles reflects the role of prophesies and gods in the Greek society. As with the case with many literary pieces, the playwright observed the society of the time and drew inspiration from the culture of the people. The playwright gives the impression that prophecies were god given, and not even kings and noble men could change the words of the prophets (Austin 54). King Oedipus had all the power and influence at his disposal, but this did not erase the prophecy from the gods.

The use of prophecies also reflects the power of religion in the Greek culture. The Greek society imbedded itself in beliefs about gods and supernatural beings. All the sectors of life revolved around the religious calendar. The planting, harvesting even the athletic seasons were all dependent on the religious calendar (Austin 28). Philosophers cite that the religion was rampant at the time because science had not yet taken root in the Greek society. Science had not yet grown to the levels where people could look up to science for answers. Therefore, people looked to religion to answer questions that they had no answers.

‘King Oedipus’ and ‘Macbeth’ both have prophecy as a recurring motif. This shows the importance that the Greeks accorded to gods and prophecies. The motif also shows that religion controlled the Greek culture. Most people depended on gods, prophecies, priests and even witches to learn about the will of the gods. The Greek also used religion as a way of programming their lives. If the gods gave a prophecy on a person’s destiny then they had no choice but to live their lives accordingly.

Works Cited

Austin, Malibbard. The Greek Culture: Lessons from ‘King Oedipus’ . New York: NightOwl, 2011.

David, Elloway. Macbeth by William Shakespear. New York: MacMillan, 2005.

Analyzing the Evidence Argument Essay

Analyzing the Evidence: Argument Essay

Read the following articles:

HYPERLINK “http://www.bakeryandsnacks.com/Processing-Packaging/Half-of-US-food-goes-to-waste” http://www.bakeryandsnacks.com/Processing-Packaging/Half-of-US-food-goes-to-waste

HYPERLINK “http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/opinion/forum/2010-06-16-column16_ST1_N.htm” http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/opinion/forum/2010-06-16-column16_ST1_N.htm

Then, write a 1,000 – 1,500 word essay that makes a claim about which of the two assigned articles is more persuasive, based on your analysis and evaluation of the evidence and reasoning.

The basic form of your thesis will be very simple and straightforward:

Article X is more persuasive than Article Y.

However, it should also give some indication of the reasons (without going into detail). For example:

Although Article Y has more evidence, its evidence is less representative and its assumptions are not valid, making Article X the more persuasive essay.

Although this paper will support a thesis, the basic structure is that of a compare and contrast essay. It will compare and contrast the evidence and reasoning in each of the two articles, and discuss which is more persuasive.

There are different ways you can organize it, but the paper will always have these elements, whatever order you put them in:

A brief introduction and summary of both articles.

An analysis of the evidence in both articles. This is where the paper describes the evidence and reasoning provided (how much is there, what kind of evidence is it, what points is it supporting, etc.). Also, describe some of the key assumptions made by the authors.

An evaluation of the evidence and reasoning in both articles. This is where the paper states which article’s evidence and reasoning is more abundant, relevant and representative, and why. State which article’s assumptions are more true, valid or reasonable, and why.

At least two of your own assumptions, identified as such. (Part of the task is to demonstrate that you understand the difference between a supported claim, an assumption and evidence.) The assumptions should be clearly identified—for example, “I assume that …”—and underlined.

Your paper should support its thesis with examples drawn from the two articles. These examples should be sufficient (there will be enough of them to support each claim), relevant (they should really illustrate the point they are intended to support) and representative (they should be typical or common examples of whatever set they represent).

All paragraphs should be organized around a single point, supported with illustrations (evidence, examples) and explaining how the illustrations support the point, and how the point supports the thesis.

The paper as a whole can be organized in different ways. For example, it might discuss one article in its entirety first (summary, evidence, reasoning), then discuss the second article, and then compare the two. Or, it might discuss evidence first, comparing and contrasting the two articles, and then compare and contrast the articles’ reasoning.

However you choose to approach it, the essay must meet these requirements:

The paper should introduce and briefly summarize each article.

The thesis should be expressed as a complete statement early in the paper

The thesis should be understandable, coherent and arguable.

The paper should analyze the evidence in each article.

The paper should evaluate the evidence in each article.

The paper should analyze the reasoning in each article,

The paper should evaluate the reasoning in each article,

The paper should include at least two of your own assumptions, identified as such, on which your argument rests. (Part of the task is to demonstrate that you understand the difference between a supported claim, an assumption and evidence.) Your assumptions should be clearly identified—for example, “I assume that …”—and underlined.

All parts of the essay should help to support the thesis.

The paper should proceed in a logical fashion through a series of steps to prove the thesis.

The thesis should be supported with evidence that is sufficient, relevant and representative.

The paper should explain how or why the evidence supports the thesis.

Grading

An “A” paper will perform most of these tasks superbly, without flaw.

A “B” paper will exhibit minor flaws in most areas—for example, a somewhat vague or obvious thesis, evidence that is somewhat insufficient, imperfect explanation of how the evidence supports the conclusion; unlikely or unconvincing counter-argument; less relevant assumptions.

A “C” paper) will exhibit noticeable flaws in most areas—for example, a confused or unfocused thesis; evidence that is not sufficient, relevant or representative; difficulty showing how the evidence supports the thesis; under-developed counter-argument or rebuttal; assumptions mis-identified or poorly explained.

A “D” paper will exhibit significant flaws in most areas—for example, a thesis split between two different ideas; seriously insufficient, irrelevant or unrepresentative evidence; reasoning that largely fails to explain how the evidence leads to the conclusion; 1-sentence or missing counter-argument; failure to identify assumptions.

An “F” paper will be one that simply does not respond to the assignment.

Format

Your paper should follow proper MLA document format with reference to font size, style, pagination, placement of headers, etc.

Analyzing and Argument

Name

Mid-Term

AJ 499:01

Fall 2019

Analyzing and Argument

The Author’s Argument

The author is arguing that Otto T. Goat’s argument that blacks are correlated to the high crime in the United States is racist because crime is instead reliant on various confounding variables such as socio-economic status.

How the Author Constructs His Argument

The author uses an implicit argument. He weaves together facts, stories, logic, statistics, and experiences without using a clear thesis. He endeavors to sell his argument to the reader by using evidence of different kinds.

Evaluation of the Author’s Argument

The author’s argument is mostly fair and balanced, with little aspects of emotion and the use of loaded language. The author does not exhibit bias on the basis of interest because it is not evident that he is black. However, it is obvious that he does not like racists and to a point, gets emotional although he tries to downplay this by actually mentioning he is not going to be moved. A little bias is also evident in his use of loaded language, where he refers to Otto as Hitler. This argument is more one-sided than two-sided, with little contradictory information included. The author gives himself enough space and avoids distractions. The counter-argument presented in the form of Otto’s replies, and such is so minimal that the reader does not get the time to relate or make any importance of Otto’s claims. The author uses a considerable chunk of the information in favor of his stand on the issue. He does little to highlight the criticism or any information that favors the point of view taken by the opposition. However, the author does not do this because he is unable to refute these claims since he does with a lot of energy. Maybe he does this to maintain clarity and consciousness, which sells his credibility to the reader. The author takes it as his obligation to represent the idea that associating crimes with race is a misplaced notion that is nothing short of racist. His positive bias does not allow him to risk educating the reader about the information that supports the opposite view that has not already been considered.

The author uses a very reliable and relevant premise. He then goes on to explain these premises profoundly and thoroughly. The argument does not present contradictory points. The author moves step by step, maintaining the same course for the argument. The evidence explains why alternative views are subordinate to what the author supports. The premises the author uses are fulfilling and do not require further justification, and they do not beg any questions.

Additional Materials Used and how each is related to the Author’s Argument

The author does not ignore the burden of proof. In various instances, however, he makes assertions but the most part of the argument, especially where evidence is relevant, he offers. He uses evidence to allow for professional judgment and understands its usefulness in strengthening his claim and providing support for his point to generate a conclusion. One example is meta-analysis done by one Professor Miron Zukerman, whose relevance to the topic is not clear. The author, by this point, does not clearly connect the evidence with the argument, and if he does, he has already lost readers because they can honestly not discern what he is looking for with citing this reference. One research by Ulmer et al. supports the author’s claims by indicating that there are other factors stronger than race that influence the possibility of acting violently. Another by wiki shows that as the author had mentioned earlier, socio-economic factors, notably poverty, is the reason blacks have more crime statistics.

He also uses the conclusion of a study from 1996 and two from 2003 that say the difference in privileges is the reason for different rates of crime between white and black people. The author, however, uses various statistics, which can be translated as evidence throughout the paper but does appropriately cite them to give them professional value. By just providing statistics and information without connecting them to a credible source, to a certain level, renders them valueless. Although using the kind of information the author uses makes the premises more than assertions, ignoring proof of origin and providing a logical relationship between an argument and conclusion, the author neglects his duty to support his assertions.

Objective(S) Best Related To This Article

Evaluating the purpose of arguments

The Administration of Justice

After completing this takedown exam, the role of racial profiling and discrimination in the delivery of justice has become more clear. Because of the mindset of people like Otto who believe black people have the disposition to commit a crime, they are profiled during an investigation, mistreated during apprehension and in custody, or harsher sentences being imposed on this population. Because people believe that black people are violent, police officers have to use brutal force to apprehend a black man despite how he acts during an arrest. Also, in the face of a jury, one that especially has a group of white people as jurors, the black man is never offered the benefit of the doubt, and the law that one is innocent until proven guilty is considerably undermined. When a black man is at the center of a criminal investigation or is a person of interest, the discriminatory response from white people most is that they must have committed the crime. “Guilty until proven innocent.”

Black people have been subject to unwarranted surveillance, abuse, discriminatory sweeps, and searches. The reason why most African Americans are arrested with marijuana as compared to white people who use the drug by a bigger proportion is the fact that police are more willing to apprehend a black man, search his pockets and go through his car. If white people faced the same level of scrutiny, then most would go to jail for possession of marijuana as compared to the current statistic. Also, it is easier for a police officer to believe that a white person has weed as a prescription than he would with a black man. It will be easier for them to arrest the man take time to reason with them the same way an officer would with a white man.

Analyze a real world issue

Analyze a real world issue

Name

Professor

Institution

Course

Date

Real world issue

Analyze a Real World Issue

There are several pertinent issues affecting the world today in May spheres of human life. The issues currently experienced in the world from an economic perspective may include environmental degradation, global warming, trade liberalization, recession, technological development, unemployment, austerity measures, and globalization amongst many other issues.

Technological and science development has come with many challenges that require humans to be on a problem solving mode always. Henry Latiz has interpreted business trends for people in America for the last decades and has travelled extensively in the world to have on spot studies of world economic conditions and business tides across the world. Latiz book analyses most economic fallacies that prevent are so prevalent, that matters touching on practical life issues, and how the economic fallacies are consistently wrong.

While technology has been the main, enabling factor uneconomic growth and development, it is also unavoidable based on the advantages and disadvantages. Technology has contributed to job loss, relationships and other issues, however, the advantages of technology outweigh, the disadvantages making people to praise technology rather than blame it. Advances in technology did not begin material objects bit as ideas. For example, the thought process has contributed to the development of machineries and other tools that make technology a part of human life. The basic s of technology is strong of mathematical equations and data links. These may have no real meanings to the average person, but is pertinent to note that they were the basis of technology that is nowadays making quantum contribution to both economic and human development (Schiff, &, Schiff, 2010).

In fact, from the beginning of civilization, technology has made traveling, transportation, production, and communication much easier. The factors above have lead to the development of macro and microeconomics of various countries key amongst them is the world superpowers and complicated world economies. However, technology has not failed to draw many controversies based on the enabling power it gives to its users. For exams, the crimes waves in various countries have majorly been associated with technology. The use of the internet has increased thereby increasing crimes related to technology; for example, cyber crimes have increased. Social media has also contributed to the development of commercial institution and entities but has also led to the creation of social engineering. It is also necessary to note that the technologies of today may not last. While the main area of interest of technology is economic development. It has highly contributed to the development of industrial development. For example, key world economies are developed on technology; without technology, the agrarian revolution would have remained primitive, the level of reduction would have been negligible considering the current population explosion (Ludwig von, 2010).

The global market is becoming a knowledge based economy where individual and organizations must possess certain skills in order to survive. The technological development is becoming exceedingly prominent and is the driving force of the world economy. Information technology in no particular has changed the way people work. In classical economic, worker was the productive force of industries, but now computer do virtually everything. Trade has become easier through the innovations in e commerce, where data and information can be shared with a large audience, which is faster and convenient.

As much as technology is developing in the world, and changing perceptions of business, there is still the issue of the information gap, where the developed countries are quite ahead, and poor countries are lagging behind. Technology accelerates the pace of development in science, economics, business, and research Technology has its negative effects. These negative effects may include world issues such as cyber crime, cyber terrorism, and other technology related crimes.

As much as technology is developing in the world, and changing perceptions of business, there is still the issue of the information gap, where the developed countries are quite ahead, and poor countries are lagging behind. Technology accelerates the pace of development in science, economics, business, and research Technology has its negative effects. These negative effects may include world issues such as cyber crime, cyber terrorism, and other technology related crimes. Some of these technology savvy criminals are not easy to detect. Sometimes the different they are favored by different legal systems, as their crimes spans the whole globe. Technology also has some adverse socioeconomic influences, such as certain jobs that were performed by humans, have now been replaced by machines (Hazlitt, 1946).

Many strides have been made in the field of education where learners do not have to go to conventional schools. The idea of e-learning and distance education have significantly reduced cost and brought a lot of convenience in the learning processes. Learning can be done through computer aided learning, where learners do not have to have a human tutor. Technology enhances communication, with the development in the telecommunications sector.Technology is accelerating the development in almost all the sector of the economy including health, community service, and conflict resolution. Economics seems to fuel more difficulties in these worlds issues, by providing fallacies which causes inconsistencies, ambiguities, and confusion. Mathematical equations are exceptionally clear in their steps, but some doctrines such as the Keynes, some modern theories have been developed that have come to enhance ambiguities in these models. Today the economy is not so much concerned with controls over such commodities such as coal, since new forms of energy have been developed.

The concerns of environmental conservation have brought about new ideas such a green chemistry. Technological changed has entirely altered warfare. Some economic doctrines have become outdated and cannot be used to solve the current world problems. The main lesson in learnt is that economics is haunted by more fallacies, which is not by accident. Sciences such as mathematics and physics were exceedingly difficult, but now with advances in computing, they have significantly become easier depending on the economic interest of the group in question. Economic conditions affect the state of policy rulings. The fate of those groups that are hurt with the advancements in technology, cannot be altered as the balanced benefits to the whole globe is enjoyed by comparatively few people who have certain economic advantages. The classical economists only considered the short term effects, ignoring the long term effects of technological advancement. Most often, the poor economists present their views in the public better than how the smartest ones present their truths. The worst thing is that these fallacies go unrecognized, unless practical example s is used to illustrate them.

The current knowledge based economy has issues such as intellectual property rights; this issue has its advantages and disadvantages depending on the economic level of the group concerned. Today money is exchanged through an electronic medium; the classical economists like John Stuart Mill did not realize that today forms of exchanges will not only involve money. They had this monetary veil to the underlying realities of today’s technological world (Gans, et al, 2012).

Technology has made noble subjects such as mathematics to be misused in economics. They denounce this fact by excesses in the weaknesses of liberal economics, and theoretical economics. Mathematical models that have been developed, such as structural and historical evolution of societies, prevention of crises, long term thinking, and psychological phenomenon concentrate on normative marginal analysis and equilibrium models. These mathematical computer simulation modeling is confusing classical economic theories, as the world economy is going much into debts, and decreases in GDP of most poor countries.

Conclusion

Some problems cannot be solved by advancements in technology. People who are unemployed do not appreciate the development in technology. Technology does not remove sadness or increase happiness in people, but their emotional and psychological status. Technological development has its perils and its advantages depending in which group someone or country belongs. The political and social factors are highly affected by advancements in technology.

References

Henry Hazlitt (1946). Economics in One Lesson: The Shortest and Surest Way to Understand Basic Economics. Three Rivers Press.

Gans. J, King. S, Stonecash R. and N. Mankiw, (2012). Principles of Economics (Fifth Edition), Gengage Learning, 2012.

Ludwig von Mises, (2010). The Theory of Money and Credit. NY: Create Space.

Schiff, D, &, J. Schiff, (2010). How an Economy Grows and Why It Crashes. John Wiley and Sons inc. Hoboken. New Jersey

The Best Computer for a College Student (2)

Name

Professor

Course

Date

The Best Computer for a College Student

A student requires a computer that can do numerous tasks and be able to support a wide range of software considering the requirements of certain courses and, of course, the standard office packages. There is also the need to consider the video capabilities of these computers for the sake of HD video lectures. The price is also a determinant because students would like to minimize school spending as much as possible, considering the increasing cost of learning. This paper compares two computers that can be found at Walmart.

The Dell XPS 13 is the most refined and revitalized computer among the various available at Walmart. It is a high-performance machine that is powered by an 8th-generation Intel Core i5 central processing unit. There is also an Intel Core i7 version of the same generation, which means even better performance. The Intel UHD graphics installed in the computer translates to a wonderful display on the 13.3-inch Full HD display. A buyer has a choice of a Random Access Memory ranging from 4 gigabytes to 16 gigabytes, all depending on the amount one is willing to spend. And speaking of money, the Dell XPS 13 is quite expensive, starting from $1,088 (Walmart). The value of this amount is that this machine will see a student through college and probably beyond university, the only problem being the rapid change in technology.

It is important to look at a computer with a lower price in order to compare. In this case, the Chromebook 15 is a high-performance machine which makes it ridiculously cheap. It is not fancy with all the high-end specifications like the Dell XPS 13, but the Chrome operating system it uses makes its running quite smooth. It is very fast and responsive, giving the student an enjoyable experience for only $277.94 (Walmart). The 15.6-inch display makes it bigger than the Dell XPS 13 with good resolution and uses the Intel HD graphics. It has a 4GB ram and a very modest SSD with only space for 32GB. The speakers are not so good, but with its price, it means one can save some cash for external ones or an iPod.

I would recommend the Chromebook 15 because I understand most students are on a budget and with the specifications on this computer, it is such a bargain. The Dell XPS 13 is definitely the better machine in all aspects. Still, for the majority of the students who are not learning to program or do not need a computer for high-end activities, the Chromebook 15 is perfect.

Works Cited

Walmart. “Dell XPS 13 9370 Laptop, 13.3″, Intel® Core? I5-8250U, Intel® UHD Graphics 620, 128GB SSD, 8GB RAM, XPS9370-5156SLV-PUS.” Walmart.com, 2020, www.walmart.com/ip/Dell-XPS-13-9370-Laptop-13-3-Intel-Core-i5-8250U-Intel-UHD-Graphics-620-128GB-SSD-8GB-RAM-XPS9370-5156SLV-PUS/316130649. Accessed 19 Jan. 2020.

—. “Acer Chromebook 15 CB315-1HT-C9UA, Celeron N3350, 15.6″ Full HD Touch, 4GB LPDDR4, 32GB Storage, Google Chrome.” Walmart.com, 30 Aug. 2019, www.walmart.com/ip/Acer-Chromebook-15-CB315-1HT-C9UA-Celeron-N3350-15-6-Full-HD-Touch-4GB-LPDDR4-32GB-Storage-Google-Chrome/703812878. Accessed 20 Jan. 2020.