Evaluation and the use of concept mapping

Evaluation and the use of concept mapping A concept is a thought, notion, or an abstract idea developed from a situation or particular instance experienced by the learner. Concept mapping consists of diagrams that represent an organized visualization of a concept and its associations or explanations (Novak Gowin, 1984). The use of concept mapping as an educational tool is well established through many branches of learning, including nursing (Schanze Grà ¼b-Niehaus, 2008; MacNeil, 2007; Trochim, 2009). Knowledge derived from the nursing process flows remarkably well into the overall design of a concept map. Although similar to other types of knowledge mapping, concept mapping provides a unique structure to gather major concepts together with direct linkages that can be easily visualized and readily examined. Properly prepared concept mapping will allow the learner to venture into all the learning domains, including cognitive, affective, and psychomotor; as well as allow the educator to move from a teacher-centered learning environment to one that is learner-centered. Concept mapping is designed to promote meaningful learning by the student, and allow for an effective formative or summative evaluation method by the educator. As the map is designed, the learner can incorporate new knowledge and reject inaccurate concepts and ideas. The map can also refine knowledge with examples or events, and allow for learning rather than route memorization. For the educator, the concept map can demonstrate the depth of the learners knowledge, and visually depict what the educator must emphasize to complete the learning process. The educator can also rapidly develop further learning opportunities through critical thinking exercises employing proposed changes to existing concept maps. Concept Mapping Theory Concept mapping was developed in 1972 as part of an effort at Cornell University to study the ability of young children to obtain basic scientific concepts. The design was the result of research into the cognitive psychology of learning and the constructivist epistemology. Based on Ausubels theory of learning, concept mapping attempts to emphasize the difference between rote learning and meaningful learning (Novak Caà ±as, 2006). Rote learning occurs when new information is added to the learners prior knowledge framework in a random and verbatim fashion. Thus, there is little permanent structure and the new information is rapidly forgotten. In meaningful learning, the new information is linked to the learners prior knowledge framework in a conscious and purposeful manner, thus producing a stable structure and substantial change in the way the learner experiences learning, in other words a conceptual change (National Institute for Science Educations College Level One Team, Universit y of Wisconsin, n.d.). This relationship is shown in Figure 1. Further studies and collaboration on concept mapping use and design, including work at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) in Florida, led to integration of concept mapping with software tools and enabled rapid application of the concept mapping framework to numerous disciplines. Concept Mapping Design In concept mapping, graphical representations are arranged in two predominant manners. First, in the hierarchical fashion, the main topic or question is displayed at the top of the diagram, with inclusive and general concepts near the top and specific, less general concepts arranged in a progressively downward pattern (see Figure 2). The other most common concept map design is in a circular fashion, known as the spider method, with the core topic or idea in the center immediately surrounded by inclusive and general concepts, becoming less specific and more general the further from the core (see Figure 3). Other less common concept mapping methods include the flow path method, where concepts are linked together in a progressively linear fashion to represent a final concept, and the systems method, where input and output concepts are related to the central concept in a production-line style of visualization. Still other methods of concept mapping may be developed to reflect the learners or the educators vision of representation. Typically, concepts are enclosed in boxes, circles, or other geometric shapes with the relationships identified by connecting lines. There are descriptors on the connecting lines that specify the nature of the relationships. Concepts may also be cross-linked to show relationships between domains of knowledge or concepts located in different areas of the map (Caà ±as, 2003). Examples, events, or possible solutions can also be included, although these may not be boxed or circled, and the connecting lines can be dashed or dotted to represent an unsubstantiated relationship. Concept Mapping Construction Many methods can be used to construct a concept map. In general, the process will begin as follows: identify a question related to a process or problem; identify the key concepts of the process or problem; rank these concepts in order by identifying the most descriptive and broadest concept then narrowing the descriptions until the most specific concept is listed last; connect the concepts by links, using notations to represent the relationship between the concepts and enable meaning to the linkage; provide examples, including social, personal, and professional examples to clarify the concept or the relationship between concepts; and then continue to link, add examples, and promote the relationships. Some constructors may find it useful to perform this design using post-it notes or index cards, and arranging their ideas on a table or white board to allow for ease of concept ranking, as well the ability to provide easy changes of relationships and rapid visualization of data. The novi ce and expert alike may also use various shapes and colors to designate concepts and subconcepts to make the map clearer. Concept Mapping Software Although concept mapping may be performed with pen, paper, and other non-electronic methods, there are a number of software programs that can be used to provide a variety of concept maps with ranges of detail. In addition to using traditional word-processing programs such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, or Corel WordPerfect or Corel Draw to construct concept maps, specific concept mapping software has been developed. The IHMC, a coalition of Florida universities, has developed Cmap Tools, a robust concept map developer that is free for use (IHMC, 2009). This software also includes a search feature that allows the user to search a wide variety of public Cmap databases for sample concept maps. Other software programs that are specific to concept map construction includes Axon Idea Processor, 3D Topicscape, Inspiration, MindGenious, MindMapper, MindView, Semantica, SmartDraw, Spinscape, and Tinderbox. Several of these software packages are available in multiple programming formats, in addition to several languages, and are free for download. Concept Mapping Example As an example to demonstrate concept-mapping construction, a learner is assigned to research the disease process sepsis, and make a presentation to the class. The learner studies several peer reviewed journal articles (DellaCroce, 2009; Nelson, LeMaster, Plast, Zahner, 2009; Steen, 2009) to obtain the latest information on the disease process, and decides to develop a concept map to explain the pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnostic tests, and treatments for sepsis. The learner develops a table to highlight the ideas that will be outlined on the concept map (see Table 1). Finally, using the CmapTools Knowledge Modeling Kit, Version 5.03, the learner prepares the concept map (see Figure 4). Preparation for Developing a Concept Map Steps Responses 1. Identify a question related to a process or problem What is sepsis? How is it diagnosed? What are the signs and symptoms? How is it treated? 2. Identify the key concepts of the process or problem Invading Microorganism, Sepsis, Inflammatory Response, Organ Failure, Systemic Inflammatory Response, Septic Shock, Treatments, Risk Factors, Infection, Death 3. Rank these concepts in order by identifying the most descriptive and broadest concept, then narrowing the descriptions until the most specific concept is listed last Rank 1) Invading Microorganism 2) Infection 3) Inflammatory Response 4) Systemic Inflammatory Response 5) Sepsis 6) Septic Shock, Severe Sepsis 7) Organ Failure 8) Treatment, Risk Factors, Diagnostic Tests 9) Death 4. Connect the concepts by links, using notations to represent the relationship between the concepts and enable meaning to the linkage Links are Pathophysiology, Leads To, Plus, Can Lead To, Organ Failure 5. Provide examples, including social, personal, and professional examples to clarify the concept or the relationship between concepts Vital Signs, Signs of Organ Failure, Criteria for Determining Sepsis Table 1: Preparation for Developing a Concept Map Concept Mapping Advantages Concept maps provide several advantages over other methods of instruction and evaluation. Concept maps can provide the learners access to a â€Å"big picture† view of the topic of interest, allowing the student to advance to conceptual understanding rather than simple memorization or rote learning. This in turn can provide the student the bases for critical thinking. Concept maps are also easy to construct. Concept maps can also be used as both an instructional strategy for the educator or a learning activity for the learner. As a learning activity, the student can acquire the desired knowledge, performance, and behaviors specified by the curriculum (Caputi Blach, 2008). In situations such as developing continuing education opportunities for existing nursing staff, the use of concept mapping can aid in learning new content through visualization, as many staff prefer visual or kinesthetic learning (Nursing Times, 2009). In cases where students need a platform to reduce anxiety generated prior to testing due to a lack of surety on whether the critical aspects of a clinical lesson were studied, the use of concepts maps can help students organize data, determine complex relationships between patient data and disease processes, and provide the student with an overall picture of the care provided to their patient (Hsu, 2004). Concept Mapping Disadvantages Although concept mapping has many advantages, some disadvantages exist. The wide variety of possible concept map designs can lead to additional evaluation time by the educator as students use different construction techniques. Grading of the differing concept maps may also lead to difficulties unless the educator uses strict grading criteria, such as a detailed assignment rubric. The use of concept mapping may also require a paradigm shift by learners used to only the memorization method of learning. This can sometimes cause difficulty as the learner transitions to the new method of learning. Concept Mapping Use in Learning Domains The cognitive domain includes knowledge and skill development. As cognitive learning occurs, the learner is able to recall facts, patterns, and concepts that will result in the development of intellect. Concept mapping is primarily based on the cognitive domain, as the learner combines concepts into a framework that can develop critical conceptions and critical thinking. The affective domain includes learning that is based on our interaction with our environment through feelings, values, motivations, and attitudes. Concept mapping draws into the affective domain through the construction of the framework, and the use of the environment to provide definition to the concept, and the use of values, attitudes, and feelings to link the concepts together to promote understanding. The psychomotor domain includes learning in the physical domain, such as movement, coordination, and development of motor skills. Psychomotor learning is measured through speed, precision, and techniques in execution. Concept mapping lends well to learning in the psychomotor domain, as the learner physically constructs the concept map using a variety of tools and software. Concept Mapping in Nursing Education Concept mapping is used at several levels in nursing education. By using concept mapping as a learning process in nursing undergraduate education, the educator can develop and refine critical thinking skills in the learner through generating ideas, promoting nonlinear relationships between patient data and complex disease processes, and forcing the learner to visualize the application of nursing theory to nursing practice (Abel Freeze, 2006; Phelps, Wallen, Cusack, Castro, Muehlbauer, et al., 2009). One of the most common uses of concept mapping in nursing is the use of concept mapping to demonstrate the nursing process in care planning. Each component of the nursing process (assessment, diagnosis, planning, intervention, and evaluation) can be presented around a disease process; or patient problems can be identified and relationships established between the problems to develop a holistic perspective of patient care (Taylor Wros, 2007). See Figure 5. Concept mapping can also be used effectively in formative, as well as summative assessment. In the formative assessment, the educator can provide a baseline concept map with the major concept listed and several basic relationships identified prior to lecture. The student can use the concept map during the lecture to identify further concepts and relationships, and build upon the baseline concept map to develop their knowledge base. Once the lecture is completed, the educator can use the learners maps to evaluate the effectiveness of their lecture, as well as the effectiveness of the learners attention, by examining the completed concept maps and comparing these maps to the lectures objectives (MacNeil, 2007). The baseline concept map can also be developed by the learner prior to class, such as in a homework assignment, and then completed during lecture as well. Figure 5: Sample care plan concept map (Ackley Ladwig, 2006). In a summative assessment, the educator can require a summative concept map at the end of the course to evaluate overall course objectives, as well as provide the learner with a valuable tool for future reference. Concept Mapping Function in a Learner Centered Environment Concept mapping has been used in both undergraduate and graduate nursing as an analytical tool to organize existing knowledge, synthesize new knowledge, and prioritize information in a logical, visual sequence. Concept mapping develops nonlinear cognitive function that can promote critical thinking and clinical decision making in nurses (Wilgis McConnell, 2008). This makes concept mapping an ideal strategy to switch the classroom from a teacher-centered to a learner-centered environment the learner can develop, adapt, and draw their learning directly from the concept map. Concept maps can be used by learners individually, or in small groups, to simplify complex processes and engage students in the learning process (Harrelson, 2006). As study guides, the concept maps can replace traditional question and answer study handouts with a visual map that can promote meaningful learning opposed to rote memorization (Caputi Blach, 2008). Summary Concept maps represent a collaborative learning strategy developed to take advantage of the difference between rote learning and meaningful learning. Concept maps can be used in all aspects of both undergraduate and graduate nursing, and can be used to facilitate education in all learning domains. As learners begin to analyze clinical data, the learner can begin to develop their critical thinking skills and begin to plan comprehensive care for their patients. As learners begin to study disease processes, the learners can appreciate the effects of interventions directly on patient outcomes. Educators can use concept mapping as a teaching, as well as evaluation strategy. References Abel, W., Freeze, M. (2006, September). Evaluation of concept mapping in an associate degree nursing program. Journal of Nursing Education, 45(9), 356-364. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Ackley, B. J. Ladwig, G.B. (2006). Nursing Diagnosis Handbook, (7th ed.). Missouri: Mosby Elsevier. All, A., Huycke, L. (2007, May). Serial concept maps: tools for concept analysis. Journal of Nursing Education, 46(5), 217-224. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. All, A., Huycke, L., Fisher, M. (2003, November). Instructional tools for nursing education: concept maps. Nursing Education Perspectives, 24(6), 311-317. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Caà ±as, A. J. (2003). A summary of literature pertaining to the use of concept mapping techniques and technologies for education and performance support. The Institute for Human and Machine Cognition. Retrieved September 19, 2009 from www.ihmc.us. Caputi, L. Blach, D. (2008). Teaching nursing using concept maps: A how to book. Glen Ellyn, Illinois: College of DuPage Press. Chiou, C. (2008, November). The effect of concept mapping on students learning achievements and interests. Innovations in Education Teaching International, 45(4), 375-387. Retrieved September 19, 2009, doi:10.1080/14703290802377240 Clayton, L. (2006, July). An effective, active teaching-learning method. Nursing Education Perspectives, 27(4), 197-203. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Conceià §Ãƒ £o, S., Taylor, L. (2007, September). Using a constructivist approach with online concept maps: relationship between theory and nursing education. Nursing Education Perspectives, 28(5), 268-275. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. DellaCroce, H. (2009). Surviving sepsis: the role of the nurse. RN, 72(7), 16-21. Retrieved October 14, 2009 from http://search.ebscohost.com Farrand, P., Hussain, F., Hennessy, E. (2002, May). The efficacy of the `mind map study technique. Medical Education, 36(5), 426-431. Retrieved September 11, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Harpaz, I., Balik, C., Ehrenfeld, M. (2004, April). Concept mapping: an educational strategy for advancing nursing education. Nursing Forum, 39(2), 27. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Harrelson, G. (2006). At education. Concept mapping. Athletic Therapy Today, 11(1), 25-27. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Heinrich, K. (2001, April). Mind-mapping: a successful technique for organizing a literature review. Nurse Author Editor (10542353), 11(2), 4. Retrieved September 11, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Hicks-Moore, S., Pastirik, P. (2006). Evaluating critical thinking in clinical concept maps: a pilot study. International Journal of Nursing Education Scholarship, 3(1). Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Hsu, L. (2004, December). Developing concept maps from problem-based learning scenario discussions. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 48(5), 510-518. Retrieved September 18, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. IHMC. (2009). Download IHMC Cmap tools. Retrieved October 14, 2009 from cmap.ihmc.us/download. Irvine, L. (1995, June). Can concept mapping be used to promote meaningful learning in nurse education?. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 21(6), 1175-1179. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database Jenkins, A. (2005, October 26). Mind mapping. Nursing Standard, 20(7), 85-85. Retrieved September 11, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Kinchin, I., Hay, D. (2005, July 15). Using concept maps to optimize the composition of collaborative student groups: a pilot study. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 51(2), 182-187. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Kostovich, C., Poradzisz, M., Wood, K., OBrien, K. (2007, May). Learning style preference and student aptitude for concept maps. Journal of Nursing Education, 46(5), 225-231. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Larue, C. (2008). Group learning strategies for nursing students: reflections on the tutor role. International Journal of Nursing Education Scholarship, 5(1), 1-17. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Lim, K., Lee, H., Grabowski, B. (2009, July). Does concept-mapping strategy work for everyone? The levels of generativity and learners self-regulated learning skills. British Journal of Educational Technology, 40(4), 606-618. Retrieved September 19, 2009, doi:10.1111/j.1467-8535.2008.00872.x MacNeil, M. (2007, May). Educational innovations. Concept mapping as a means of course evaluation. Journal of Nursing Education, 46(5), 232-234. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Mueller, A., Johnston, M., Bligh, D. (2002, 2002 Jan-Mar). Viewpoint. Joining mind mapping and care planning to enhance student critical thinking and achieve holistic nursing care. Nursing Diagnosis, 13(1), 24-27. Retrieved September 11, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. National Institute for Science Educations College Level One Team, University of Wisconsin. (n.d.) Classroom assessment techniques: Concept Mapping. Retrieved October 10, 2009 from http://www.flaguide.org/cat/conmap/conmap5.php. Nelson, D., LeMaster, T., Plost, G., Zahner, M. (2009). Recognizing sepsis in the adult patient. American Journal of Nursing, 109(3), 40-46. Retrieved October 14, 2009 from http://search.ebscohost.com Novak, J. D. Gowin, D. B. (1984). Learning how to learn. New York: Cambridge University Press. Novak, J. (2002, July). Meaningful Learning: The Essential Factor for Conceptual Change in Limited or Inappropriate Propositional Hierarchies Leading to Empowerment of Learners. Science Education, 86(4), 548. Retrieved September 19, 2009, from Education Research Complete database. Novak, J.D. Caà ±as, A. J. (2006). The origins of the concept mapping tool and the continuing evolution of the tool. The Institute for Human and Machine Cognition. Retrieved September 19, 2009 from www.ihmc.us. Nursing Times. (2009). Nurses learning styles: promoting better integration of theory into practice. Nursing Times, 105(2), 24-27. Retrieved October 14, 2009 from http://search.ebscohost.com Phelps, S., Wallen, G., Cusack, G., Castro, K., Muehlbauer, P., Shelburne, N., et al. (2009). Staff development story: concept mapping: a staff development strategy for enhancing oncology critical thinking. Journal for Nurses in Staff Development, 25(1), 42-47. Retrieved October 23, 2009 from http://oboler.isu.edu:3227. Schanze, S. Grà ¼b-Niehaus, T. (2008). Concept mapping: Connecting educators. Proceedings of the Third International Conference on Concept Mapping. Retrieved September 19, 2009 from cmc.ihmc.us/cmc2008papers/cmc2008-p303.pdf. St. Cyr, S., All, A. (2009, March). Concept mapping: a road to critical thinking. Journal for Nurses in Staff Development, 25(2), 70-76. Retrieved September 18, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Steen, C. (2009). Developments in the management of patients with sepsis. Nursing Standard, 23(48), 48-56. Retrieved October 14, 2009 from http://search.ebscohost.com Taylor, J., Wros, P. (2007, May). Concept mapping: a nursing model for care planning. Journal of Nursing Education, 46(5), 211-216. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Trochim, W.M.K. (2009). Concept mapping: soft science or hard art?. Retrieved September 19, 2009 from http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/research/epp2/epp2.htm. Vacek, J. (2009). Using a conceptual approach with concept mapping to promote critical thinking. Journal of Nursing Education, 48(1), 45-48. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. West, D., Park, J., Pomeroy, J., Sandoval, J. (2002, September). Concept mapping assessment in medical education: a comparison of two scoring systems. Medical Education, 36(9), 820-826. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database. Wilgis, M., McConnell, J. (2008, March). Concept mapping: an educational strategy to improve graduate nurses critical thinking skills during a hospital orientation program. Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing, 39(3), 119-126. Retrieved August 30, 2009, from CINAHL with Full Text database.

Code Of Professional Ethics By American Institute Of Certified Public E

Code of Professional Ethics by American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Introduction "A code of professional ethics is a voluntary assumption of self discipline above and beyond the requirements of the law. The Code of Ethical Conduct serves the highly practical purpose to notify the public that the profession will protect the public interest" (Carey, Doherty: p 3). When people need a doctor, a lawyer or a certified public accountant, they seek someone whom they can trust to do a good job, not for himself but for them. People assume that the hired professional is qualified since they cannot appraise him. They must take it on faith that he is competent. That is why professionals are distinguished from businesses and why there is a need for ethical regulations. The Code of Professional Ethics The Code of Professional Ethics for public accountants was developed by the American Institute of Public Accountant and includes four different categories. The first, Concepts of Professional Ethics, establishes major requirements for CPAs in different areas of their day-to-day professional activities. The main parts of the Code are: Independence, Integrity and Objectivity in the practice of public accounting, Competence and technical standards, Responsibilities to clients, Responsibilities to colleagues and Other responsibilities and Practices. Independence has always been the fundamental concept to the accounting profession. In fact it is the most essential to the practice of all professions. The financial reports produced by CPAs would be of little value to the public unless CPAs maintain their independence. Independence has always been associated with integrity and objectivity. Since faults on financial statements may be the result of either a honest mistake or a lack of integrity it is imperative to associate the notion of independence with the objectivity and integrity. As part of the requirements by the Code of ethics, CPA should avoid any relationships that may result in the CPA's becoming dependent on the particular client. Such relationships include financial interests and client management. It is very important that the opinion of the CPA reflects the results of operating decisions taken by the client and not any underlying ideas which may be the case if a CPA takes part in the decision making process of the company. Another important ... ... of particular cases given under Ethics Rulings. In addition to the standards described above, state CPA institutions and other government establish their own ethical standards. Conclusion Professional ethics is concerned with human behaviour and human relations. As human society becomes more complicated, so do the codes of professional conduct. The purpose of the rules is to attract and increase public confidence and discourage behaviour inconsistent with the image of profession. Public confidence may even be more important to the public accountant than to any other professional because CPAs are concerned not only about their clients but also about those who rely on their reports. The code of ethical conduct provides members of the profession with the rules that were worked out on the historical basis to attract the confidence of the public. Therefore, the rules of ethics are the foundation of public confidence. Works Cited John L. Carey and William O. Doherty. Ethical Standards of the Accounting Profession. New York: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, 1966 American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Code of Professional Ethics. New York: AICPA, 1977

Cyber Security Research Paper Essay

1. Preface This security profile of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is based on two documents of public record. The first is the published VA Handbook 6500 (VAH 6500) which defined policy and procedures for systems within the purview of the VA (Department of Veterans Affairs, 2007). The second document is the Federal Information Security Management Act Assessment for FY 20011 commissioned by the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) and performed by Ernst & Young in accordance with Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) guidelines (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012, p. i). 2. Identification of Controls This security profile presents one control function from three primary policy and procedure controls. These controls are â€Å"System/New Technology Development Life Cycle† from Management Controls, â€Å"Security Training, Education, and Awareness† from Operational Controls, and â€Å"Remote Access† from Technical Controls. These controls are selected based on the lack of resolution based on information provided fiscal year 2006, 2010 (VA Office of Inspector General, 2011) and 2011 (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012) FISMA audits. 3. Management Controls The protection of systems via risk mitigation techniques are referred to as management controls. Management controls are designed to minimize risk associated with development process and systems implementation. 4.1. VAH6500 Section 6.a.(7) System/New Technology Development Life Cycle VAH6500 requires that any new technology undergo a systems development life cycle (SDLC) specific to the VA. The cycle consists of Initiation, Development / Acquisition, Implementation, Operation / Maintenance and Disposal. Systems must be able to encrypt/decrypt data. Systems not capable of this must receive a waiver from the OIG. 4.2. Implementation Assessment The SDLC program provided does not provide the necessary information for an effective program. No supporting material or references to NIST SP 800-64 Rev2 Security Considerations in the System Development Life Cycle or VAH 6500.5 Incorporating Security and Privacy into the System Development Life Cycle is made. 4.3. Implementation Impact The OIG 2011 FISAM Assessment indicates that â€Å"FISMA Section 3544 requires establishing policies and procedures to ensure information security is addressed throughout the life cycle of each agency information system† (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012, p. 9). Based on the lack of consistency in use of SDLC and change control, major security risks may go unnoticed. 4. Operational Controls Operational controls focus on techniques and procedures put in place by Information Technology staff or systems managers. The purpose is to increase security and provide deterrence via system controls. 5.4. VAH6500 Section 6.b.(11) Security Training, Education, and Awareness VAH6500 provides a concise policy which states any individuals that access sensitive information or systems must complete annual security training. Key persons with â€Å"significant† roles must attend additional training. All training is monitored for completeness. Policy indicates before employees can use systems security training must be completed. 5.5. Implementation Assessment Policy indicates that fourteen key pieces of information must be covered before an individual is allowed to begin work. This training must also be refreshed annually. The tracking of this information is the responsibility of the local ISO (Department of Veterans Affairs, 2007, p. 57). 5.6. Implementation Impact The distributed manner of training management is not conducive to consistent security training. The OIG 2011 FISAM Assessment findings indicate a centrally managed training database be used to ensure personnel receive the proper training needed for their job function (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012, p. 15). 5. Technical Controls The technical control area focuses on minimizing and/or preventing access to a system(s) by unauthorized individuals via technical measures. The measures are designed to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of a system(s) (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012, p. 54). 6.7. VAH6500 Section 6.c.(3) Remote Access Control VAH6500 relies on nineteen policy requirements to enforce technical control. VA policy states that no sensitive information may be transmitted via internet or intranet without proper security mechanisms that meet NIST FIPS 140-2 criteria (Department of Veterans Affairs, 2007, p. 61). Each department within the Agency is responsible for monitoring remote access and privilege functions. Access can be revoked by a supervisor or superior at any time. The remaining requirements cover contractor access, PKI certificate distribution and termination of accounts. System protection is the responsibility of the ISO for each area of access. 6.8. Implementation Assessment VAH6500 does not utilize NIST SP 800-46 Guide to Enterprise Telework and Remote Access Security. The OIG 2011 FISAM Assessment also indicates some remote access systems do not provide Network Access Control (NAC) to block systems that do not meet predefined security requirements (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012, p. 6). 6.9. Implementation Impact The diversity of ISO management practices coupled with a lack of specific procedures for management, auditing and access creates opportunity for security breaches. 6. Summary The three controls outlined in this document show the disparity between written policy, procedure, and implementation. In order for the VA to be successful in meeting the standards of future FISMA assessments, a fundamental change in operations within the VA is required. 7. Comments The multifaceted nature of operations within the VA requires guidelines that meet the needs of multiple departments within the Agency. All three controls discussed in this document have very broad definitions to accommodate the extensive variety of services the VA provides. This flexibility coupled with a drop in training acceptance, legacy systems (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012, p. 7) and the lack of an â€Å"implemented components of its agency-wide information security risk management program† (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012, p. 3) will continue to limit future progress. These delay factors provide an understanding of why twelve recommendations from prior FISAM assessments remain open. Of the twelve recommendations listed in the VA FISMA FY 2011 report, only three have been closed, while three other recommendations have been superseded by new recommendations (VA Office of Inspector General, 2012, p. 19). The recent announcement of the Continuous, Readiness in Information Security Program (CRISP) seems to indicate a fundamental shift in the way the VA views security issues (United States Department of Veterans Affairs). In order for this program to be successful, this message must be understood and acted upon by all persons under the VA umbrella. 8.References Department of Veterans Affairs. (2007). VA Handbook 6500. Washington, DC: US Government Printing Office. Retrieved February 20, 2013, from http://www.va.gov/vapubs/viewPublication.asp?Pub_ID=56 Department of Veterans Affairs. (2010). Strategic Plan FY 2010-2014. Washington, DC: US Government Printing Office. Retrieved February 20, 2013, from http://www.va.gov/op3/Docs/StrategicPlanning/VA_2010_2014_Strategic_Plan.pdf National Institute of Standards and Technology. (2010). Guide for Assessing the Security Controls in Federal Information System (NIST 800-53a). Washington, D.C.: US Government Printing Office. http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-53-Rev3/sp800-53-rev3-final_updated-errata_05-01-2010.pdf United States Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). CRISP. Retrieved February 21, 2013, from United States Department of Veterans Affairs: http://www.saltlakecity.va.gov/features/CRISP.asp VA Office of Inspector General. (2011). Department of Veterans Affairs Federal Informati on Security Management Act Assessment for FY 2010 (10-01916-165). Washington, D.C.: US Government Publishing Office. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/oig/52/reports/2011/VAOIG-10-01916-165.pdf VA Office of Inspector General. (2012). Department of Veterans Affairs Federal Information Security Management Act Assessment for FY 2011 (11-00320-138). Washington, D.C.: US Government Printing Office. Retrieved February 20, 2013,from http://www.va.gov/oig/pubs/VAOIG-11-00320-138.pdf

sex slavery in Thailand essays

sex slavery in Thailand essays The desire to be wealthy in the glittering growth of the Thai economy not only lures Many girls into prostitution, but also keeps them there. Although it has not been legal to sell children and women in Thailand since 1905, it is now common for impoverished families in the north to indenture their daughters into sex slavery in "closed" brothels, from which they are not allowed to leave. It is estimated that 20 per cent of prostitutes were deceived and forced into the profession. When parents failed to repay debts they were asked to sign a promissory note allowing one daughter to be taken to work in Bangkok. The nature of the work was generally specified as housework or factory work, but as soon as the daughter arrived in Bangkok she was forced to receive clients. Slavery, which has been defined as the permanent, violent domination of natally alienated and generally dishonored persons by Orlando Patterson, a Sociologist at Harvard University has aptly been able to openly recognize that such a tradition exists must be a positive albeit painful, first step. The young girl will thrive upon this degrading form of earning her livelihood, for the rest of her life. This profession robs an individual of her honor, self With the rise of capitalism and the popularity of the consumer products Industry The trend towards child prostitution is increasing and has spread to many rural Communities, many peasant families, particularly in the North of Thailand, the selling of daughters into prostitution has become a strategy for economic survival and access to consumer goods. Prostituion in the Asia Pacific is also increasing due to the rural- urban migration, high unemployment and underemployment among young people and the growth of the tourist Industry. Another major factor is the prevalence of the ideology ...

Hypermiling (Saving Lots of Fuel) in a Hybrid

Hypermiling (Saving Lots of Fuel) in a Hybrid Hypermiling is an endless pursuitthe quest for improved fuel economy, ratcheted up a couple of notches to near fanaticism. Those who practice it are called hypermilers, a dedicated group of guys and gals who routinely push the limits of maximum fuel efficiency. It got its name from the likes of Wayne Gerdes, one of the original devotees of hypermiling, and often proclaimed the inventor of the term. Hypermiling more or less got its start with hybrids, but its not limited to them. Here, well focus on hypermiling with a hybrid vehicle. Some of the techniques can only be done with a hybrid, or, at least they make it much easier and saferthough some hardcore hypermilers perform ALL of these techniques in regular cars. We dont recommend that, but really, a lot of it is just plain common sense that can be applied to just about any vehicle and/or driver. So what are these techniques and tools that are employed so passionately by their devotees? Read on for an explanation of these FE (thats hypermileresque for Fuel Economy) tricks. Pulse and Glide (PG) This is the heart of effective hypermiling for full hybrid vehicles. Though it takes some getting used to, and its really only appropriate for light suburban and town traffic, large FE gains can be had using it. Our first successful PG was in a Nissan Altima Hybrid. This car is equipped with Toyotas Hybrid Synergy Drive (Nissan licensed it from Toyota), but our car was lacking an energy flow monitor, so we had to rely on the EV mode display and the Kilowatt (kW) meter to execute the task properly. To initiate a PG, accelerate to about 40 MPH with the engine running (the pulse part), then ease off the pedal until the hybrid system goes into EV (electric vehicle) mode and the kW meter shows zero (or if equipped with the energy flow monitor, no arrows are showing energy flow). This is the glide part. The engine is off, the electric motor is disengaged and the vehicle is literally coasting for free. When the car slows to about twenty-five or thirty MPH (depending on traffic conditions, of course) repeat the pulse part, then the glide and so on. If properly applied, this trick uses the engine only to accelerate, and it never has the chance to idle along, wasting fuel while providing no return. Forced Auto Stop (FAS) Forced Auto Stop is similar to PG without the objective of re-accelerating. In a hybrid, it is usually a matter of lifting the accelerator below a speed of approximately 40 MPH and letting the engine shut-off. This allows the car to coast to a slower speed, or come to a complete stop without the engine running. However, many conditions can affect FAS (adequate battery state of charge, hybrid system temperature, engagement of AC compressor, cabin heat, etc.) and are not always so simple. Depending upon the hardware and software controls of the hybrid system, there are ways to fool the system into FAS. Unfortunately, they are many and varied, and beyond the scope of this article. Draft Assisted Forced Auto Stop (D-FAS) This technique involves riding in the wake of a large trailer truck at highway speeds (in FAS). Its not safe, DONT DO IT. We only mention it here because it is part of some hypermilers arsenal of tricks. Driving Without Brakes (DWB) More hypermilers tongue-in-cheek terminology. We like to think of this as driving with minimal brakes, but it must be done with a good dose of common senseits really not a good idea to take a 25 MPH curve at 50 trying to save gas. The main idea here is to not use the brakes to scrub off speed that has been achieved with energy (gasoline) spent. Anticipation is the keyword. Look far down the road to anticipate traffic stoppages, sharp curves, and signal changes and begin to decelerate or coast beforehand. The benefit is three-fold: Not only does DWB increase brake life, it reduces the number of times the vehicle must be started from a dead-stop (overcoming the inertia of a stationary vehicle consumes an enormous amount of energy), and, with a hybrid, the coasting action (regenerative braking) helps charge the battery. Ridge Riding This is the practice of driving very close to the outside edge of the road in order to keep the vehicles tires out of the slight depressions (ruts) worn into the road surface by the constant pounding of daily traffic. For most purposes, this technique is really only effective on wet roadways. Staying out of the ruts, which are filled with a thin layer of water, reduces drag on the tires and increases efficiency. An additional benefit is improved safety by preventing the tires from hydroplaning (riding on top of the water) and loss of vehicle control. Face out Potential Parking This is just plain common sense with a little bit of exercise, to boot. Search out open spaces in parking lots to eliminate the wasteful movement of backing out of a slot. Go one better by locating a spot that is on a bit of a slope, and then use gravity to help get the vehicle moving from a standstill. Sound silly? Multiply those effects over hundreds of park jobs in a year; it really does add up. Fuel Consumption Display (FCD) This is the gauge on the instrument panel of hybrids and many non-hybrids as well. Dedicated hypermilers call this the game gauge, and in many ways, thats just what it is. This device continuously calculates a vehicles average fuel consumption expressed in MPG (or, in metric mode, kilometers/liter) and displays it to the driver who can then make a fantastic game of making the average FE go ever upwards. Instant Fuel Consumption Display (IFCD) The instant fuel consumption display is very similar to the FCD, except that it displays fuel usage, just as the name impliesinstantlyas it is used. The display changes moment by moment in response to sundry dynamic physical conditions: throttle off, light acceleration, heavy load, hard acceleration, coasting and cruising. This gauge, more than any other on a vehicle, hammers home the relationship between fuel economy and driving habits. Keeping the instant fuel consumption display relatively constant and even, with a high reading, will probably net more consistent (and easily attainable) FE than any trick or gadget outlined in this entire article.

Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 92

Assignment Example Friedan wrote about the way American women who were housewives felt. They felt that they never defined themselves as to whom they were. The women felt that they had no career to identify themselves with; they needed to adjust their role as housewives. Cleaver argued that the White woman-Blackman sickness/problem needed to be brought to the open, dealt with and resolved (Cleaver 27). He concluded that, black men who had been brought up in America could experience the problem of not preferring their fellow black women, but instead prefer white women. He says that in the end, the black may feel as if he betrayed his race, and end up hating the white women. According to Friedan, the nameless problem was that of women housewives not defining whom they were, instead they engaged themselves in housewife business all the time. This problem made them seek medical intervention, only to find that the cure was adjusting their role as housewives (Friedan

Analysis of Video The Birth of Modern Dance Essay

Analysis of Video The Birth of Modern Dance - Essay Example The Birth of Modern Dance†, we come to understand that the choreography of modern dance drew inspiration from themes of everyday life because it was influenced by human activity on a day – to – day basis. In fact, I understood it to be a sort of reflection of society as a whole. However, Modern dance did not remain static during any given period but it evolved and changed shape as changes took place in society, but nevertheless, its roots remained steeped in rebellion or breaking away from anything traditional. â€Å"The Birth of Modern Dance† shed light on how the art of dancing broke its traditional shackles and emerged with a whole new meaning that reflected the Modern dance of today. New thoughts and ideas that evolve as society changes are seen reflected in the Modern dance of today. I also learned that Modern dance is a reflection and expression of oneself and all that they stand for in addition to drawing inspiration from other various dance forms. Modern dance comprises of the freedom of spirit and an exploration.