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Mystery State #12
What's better than learning about US geography? Having fun while your doing it! After reviewing each of the five given clues, learners attempt to name the mystery state. A great way to reinforce geography skills and deductive reasoning at the same time.
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Developer: h.a.n.d.
Publisher: Square Enix
Say what you will about Square Enix, but it’s impossible to deny that they’ve got a knack for publishing offbeat experiences that few other major publishers would touch. Their latest oddity, the lengthily named The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story, is an ambitious interactive detective story framed almost entirely through full-motion video (or FMV) – a style of presentation that really thrived in the 90’s but is only now experiencing a small resurgence in popularity. Despite its niche presentation, the game delivers an intimate and intelligent mystery that is well worth seeing through to the end, if players can endure its slow pacing and only moderately interesting characters.
The story of The Centennial Case follows the exploits of Haruka Kagami, a plucky mystery writer with a famous series of detective novels under her belt working in modern-day Japan. During a book signing, she’s approached by a molecular scientist named Eiji Shijima, whose family has spent a long time researching how to stop cells from aging. A once-in-a-century ceremony to appoint a new head of household will be happening soon, he tells Haruka, but he believes the ceremony also has connections to a local legend: a mysterious Fruit of Youth called the Tokijiku that grants agelessness to whoever eats it. That’s enough on its own to get the writer’s attention, but on top of all that, a skeleton was recently discovered on the property that Eiji believes could be connected to a long string of murders that has plagued his family for decades. Sensing a mystery to be solved, Haruka accompanies him to his family’s estate at the base of Mount Fuji to observe the ceremony and try and connect the disparate pieces.
Of course, being an FMV game, the entire narrative is delivered by way of real, human actors on real-world sets. It’s here where you’ll watch Haruka interact with the residents of the Shijima household, search for clues and (inevitably for this genre of game), witness the occasional murder over the course of six substantial chapters. These are mostly passive experiences, and although you’ll occasionally be prompted to make a dialogue choice for Haruka, these are largely inconsequential as there is exactly one way to reach the ending of The Centennial Case. It’s after these segments, though, that the “game” part of The Centennial Case begins.
Once Haruka has collected enough clues, the player will be whisked away into the Cognitive Reasoning Space, which is basically a representation of her brain. Here, you’ll be responsible for physically connecting the correct clues with various mysteries to form different hypotheses about what could have happened. You do this by sifting through dozen of “clue tiles” and placing them on a hexagonal grid next to “mystery tiles” – each time you do, you’ll unlock a new theory that could be a crucial part of solving the mystery. It’s important to be thorough here, because when the time comes to point a finger at a suspect in whatever mystery the current chapter is centered on, you’ll rely on the conclusions you formed in the Cognitive Reasoning Space to back up your arguments.
On one hand, this is all fairly straightforward – clue tiles are arranged in the chronological order in which they first appeared in the story, and you can even rewatch the FMV scenes that accompany them to try and make it easier to figure out where each clue tile might fit. Also, each of the clue tiles has a pattern on one side of it that matches with one of the edges of a mystery tile, so this can also make it easier to identify where the clue tiles and mystery tiles could connect. The downside to this system, though, is that there’s very little puzzle-solving in the Cognitive Reasoning Space and a lot of trial and error. Each clue tile has exactly one place on the board where it can go, and with so many of the clue tiles having similar names or descriptions, it can occasionally feel tedious and repetitive to place them all. You’re not likely to really ever get stuck, just bored – although there is a hint system here if you’re feeling impatient and want the game to help you place some tiles.
Once you’re done working with clues in the Cognitive Reasoning Space, the game will return you to whatever scene you were in before, and it will be up to you to not only identify the suspect, but support your accusation with cold, hard evidence. The Centennial Case does a great job making these sections feel important – make an incorrect accusation or an illogical claim even once, and a game-over scene will play that basically depicts the other characters in the game essentially calling you a dumbass and telling you why you’re wrong. From there, the game will boot you back to the Cognitive Reasoning Space so that you can review the hypotheses you formed earlier before trying again. I really found myself having to think hard to figure out what the solution to each mystery was, even though I felt like I had been paying attention – but every time I made a mistake, it was always because I had overlooked an important detail. It made it feel even more empowering when I did eventually nail a tricky interrogation sequence on my first try.
I will say, though, that towards the end of the game, there’s a pretty major new gameplay element introduced completely out of left field that I really did not enjoy. I’m not really supposed to talk about it in detail, but basically what happens is that the game takes a break from the “analyze clues and interrogate suspects” mechanic to a “solve an obtuse, large-scale puzzle for an hour and a half” type of deal. It fits within the context of the narrative, so it’s not necessarily an unreasonable addition to the game, but I found it far more frustrating than fun. It totally slammed the brakes on a story that, up that point, had just been getting better and better as it went on. I got through it to get to the ending of the game, and am glad I did, but it really sucked me out of the experience.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this gameplay loop as it was presented in The Centennial Case and didn’t find myself tiring of it even over the course of the game’s roughly 10-hour runtime. At first, I had a hard time getting interested in what was going on – the game introduces you to new characters very quickly and is so focused on setting up the facts of the overarching mystery that it allows itself basically no time to establish unique identities for its characters. This is a problem in any narrative-heavy game, but fortunately, The Centennial Case somewhat makes up for it by introducing a clever narrative gimmick early on. Early in the game, Haruka learns that the Shijima family has been plagued by a mysterious murder almost every ten years or so for almost a century, and so to help her figure out exactly what is going on in the modern day, she digs through some old books to try and uncover what has happened in the past as well. When this happens, the game jumps its narrative back in time for a chapter or so, and all the actors playing characters in the “present day” scenes suddenly take on new roles, playing younger versions of the modern-day characters, or sometimes different characters altogether. This is explained in game as Haruka project the personalities of people she knows in her life into her brain’s reimagining of what happened in the past, so that she can try and solve the mystery as she reads these historical records of the past.
It is remarkably creative presentation, and to me it made The Centennial Case feel more akin to a stage play than a television show or movie. Suddenly, the slightly hokey writing and exaggerated acting began making more sense. The Centennial Case isn’t trying to be the next Agatha Christie story; it’s trying to be a murder mystery dinner theatre production, with a handful of actors changing costumes backstage between acts. Once I realized that, everything began clicking into place, and the tonal whiplash between the darkest moments of the game’s story and low-key comedy that plays out shortly after became so much easier to appreciate. Furthermore, the masterful way in which all The Centennial Case’s mysteries began to come together was like turning on a light switch in a dark room for me. This is a very smart, well-crafted narrative, but it keeps its cards close to its chest for a good while. Part of me wants to liken it to a Japanese take on something like the movie Knives Out, although I don’t think it succeeds at exactly that level.
Despite its faults, The Centennial Case feels poised more than any other recent FMV game to be the one to bring more people into the genre. It certainly accomplished that with me, someone who has never really enjoyed this type of game before. Is it niche? Absolutely. Will this be a game that develops a cult following over time thanks to its unique ideas? I’d put money on it. Should you give it a try? If you’re curious about the ways in which film and gaming can intersect, I can’t think of a better place to start.
The Verdict
The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story is a creative take on the traditional detective story that does a good job melding its live-action presentation with moderately satisfying gameplay; although sifting through clues loses its luster over time, presenting your theories and evidence is rewarding and challenging, and the mystery at the crux of the story just gets better and better as the game progresses. This is bolstered by some clever means of framing the game’s narrative that really helps set this game apart tonally from everything else out there. Come in with patience and an open mind, and The Centennial Case might just surprise you.
The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story copy provided by the publisher for the purposes of this review. | https://nintendoeverything.com/review-the-centennial-case-a-shijima-story/ |
Mystery is the secret spice of all compelling books. It is the unexpected and yet perfectly fitting element; when it appears its rightness is palpable, and yet often just beyond the reach of easy explanation. Why does it feel so right? We can’t quite put our fingers on it.
Another reason mystery is less talked about, I think, is because many people meet this fascinating, fleeting sense of a meaning almost grasped, a music almost heard, and conclude it is a failure in themselves and in others to fully comprehend a book. This is not so.
Conceptual layers, conceptual depth, is what creates nuanced and interesting books. The elusive intellectual feeling of mystery comes from our minds’ effort to compare multiple conceptual frameworks, like looking through layers of tracing paper to see the one image those layers create. It’s intellectual exercise, and it’s fun. And it means you’re doing it right.
Mystery is what draws us back to a book again and again; it is what makes any work of art more than the sum of its parts.Chronicle Books
What Is A Mystery Story?
Some long fiction has mystery and revelation as a subordinate element, but very often they stand alone as a novel’s main motion.
Mystery fiction involves stories in which characters try to discover a vital piece of information which is kept hidden until the climax. The standard novel stocked in the mystery section of bookstores is a whodunit. A few other types of mystery novels are Cozy Mysteries (where a group of people who are very unlikely to be mixed up in a crime become involved – these are usually not gory) or Hard-Boiled Mysteries (where the detective/private eye is very tough and unsentimental).
Mysteries often include crime, but not necessarily (for example the grandchildren spending the summer on an island will attempt to find out the source of the jewels hidden in the attic). If they are about a crime, they don’t have to have a detective, because some crimes are solved by clever veterinarians or clever quilt-shop owners.
Even when there is no mysterious past, our interest in the story is maintained by the question, “What’s going to happen next?” If we can predict what that will be — if there is no mystery — the story is boring.
By definition, a mystery requires that we be aware that some powerful knowledge exists that we do not possess. Mysteries, therefore, deal not with things that are totally hidden, but with things that are obscure.
What we often call “Mystery Stories” are, in fact, usually “Question Stories,” and once we have an answer to the question, the “mystery” disappears.
A true mystery, no matter how much we analyse it, remains a mystery. Great films, like all great works of art, are often like that — the more we learn about them, the more we realise that the mystery of their power remains.Howard Suber
That’s what great fiction does, I think: A writer uses narrative to ask a question more clearly than it has ever been asked before. When a question is asked perfectly, it doesn’t need a tidy answer. To discover the precise shape of what the mystery is: That can be enough.John Rechy
HOW TO PLOT A MYSTERY
Here’s one way:
I start by writing a brief, extremely dull short story. No one will ever see one of these if I can conceivably prevent it; it’s usually only about three pages, but I refine it for weeks, as carefully as Rudy Giuliani mixing his old fashioned before he Skypes in to Hannity, because, like Rudy, I’m focused on doing a crime. Specifically, that small story contains a full, straightforward account of the case my detective must solve, told in simple English. It enumerates who committed the crime and why, how they covered it up, and all the stuff of mystery novels: clues, red herrings, false leads, bloody knives, mysterious scars, anonymous notes, midnight rendezvous — in short, all the details I know I’ll have to omit from the real book I write, the actual mystery novel.Charles Finch, mystery writer
Subgenres of Mystery
Some people divide mysteries into those that deal with the past and those that deal with the future. In the most obvious kind of mystery stories — detective films and thrillers — the mystery about the past concerns “Who done it?” and the mystery about the future concerns “Who’s going to be done in?”
WHODUNIT
A whodunit (whodunnit) is a type of mystery best described as a ‘mind-riddle’. The reader is encouraged to put pieces together themselves.
WHYDUNIT
A whydunit (whydunnit) is a type of mystery where the audience knows who did it from the outset. Emphasis has now shifted onto how the situation got this bad. In this type of mystery we’ll generally be introduced to the criminal at the outset.
WHOWASDUNIN
The word whodunnit has created a few spin-offs on variants. The ‘whowasdunin’ holds back the identity of the victim, so that the challenge becomes to discover not only who might have done it but who, as it were, deserved to be killed. A recent example is Mark Lawson’s The Deaths (2013), half satire and social commentary, half mystery.May We Borrow Your Language? How English has stolen, snaffled, purloined, pilfered, appropriated and looted words from all four corners of the world by Philip Gooden
The “whowasdunin” was most famously associated with Patricia McGerr, author of Pick Your Victim, but [Anthony] Berkeley beat her to it [in Murder In The Basement] by nearly a decade and a half.Martin Edwards
In the ‘howsitdun’ the puzzle lies as much in the method by which death is brought about as in who did it. Lee Child’s The Visitor (2000) is a good example of this baffling genre.May We Borrow Your Language? How English has stolen, snaffled, purloined, pilfered, appropriated and looted words from all four corners of the world by Philip Gooden
In the ‘howcatchem’, or inverted detective story, the identity of the murderer or potential murderer is revealed at the beginning while the interest and suspense lies in seeing whether and how he or she will be caught. The long-running US TV series Columbo generally stuck to this formula, with the murder shown early on and then the deceptively shambolic detective Colombo (Peter Falk) closing in on the perpetrator already known to viewers. The classic written text is Malice Aforethought by Francis Iles (a psuedonym for Anthony Berkeley), which caused a stir when it came out in 1931 and has never been out of print since. It opens: ‘It was not until several weeks after he had decided to murder his wife that Dr Bickleigh took any active steps in the matter.’May We Borrow Your Language? How English has stolen, snaffled, purloined, pilfered, appropriated and looted words from all four corners of the world by Philip Gooden
LOCKED DOOR MYSTERY
A ‘locked door’ mystery refers to a story in which the answer to the question is ‘this person’, and that person won’t come out of nowhere — they’ll exist in the cast. You eliminate them one by one until you find the person who did it. Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death is an example of this kind of mystery.
DETECTIVE FICTION
Detective fiction has become synonymous with mystery, but of course detective fiction requires a detective, even if it’s a nosy middle aged woman such as Agatha Raisin.
GUMSHOE MYSTERY
The Gumshoe System (stylised as The GUMSHOE System) is a role-playing game system created in 2007 by Robin Laws, designed for running investigative scenarios. The premise is that investigative games are not about finding clues, they are about interpreting the clues that are found. The Gumshoe System is used in various games published by Pelgrane Press.Wikipedia
Players might roleplay as freelance troubleshooters, teenage detectives, secret agents. Popular fantasy might be adapted as a Gumshoe System adaptation. e.g. Lordfinder by Gareth Hanrahan. Others use the material from H.P. Lovecraft’s world.
ROMAN POLICIER A.K.A. POLAR
The French genre concerning narratives that deal with crime and the punishment of criminals.
Across the English-speaking world, Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes is considered the proto-and-archetype for crime fiction. In France, it is Émile Gaboriau’s Monsieur Lecoq. The ultimate policeman/detective being Georges Simenon’s Inspector Maigret.
French audiences tend to prefer their crime more ‘gritty’.
Raison d’être of Mystery Stories
There are said to be two main reasons for reading — intellectual engagement or emotional engagement. Mysteries of the Agatha Christie type offer us intellectual engagement as we are encouraged to work out a puzzle.
There’s something in mystery for everyone, or rather there’s a bit of mystery in everything, since plot is basically another word for ‘surprise’. That said, mystery is not like SF, in which readers are either SF readers or they are most definitely not.
A murder mystery, which is always solved at the end, provides a sense of justice sorely lacking in the real world.
Two Approaches To Writing Mysteries For Children
When a book of unexplainable occurrences brings Petra Andalee and Calder Pillay together, strange things start to happen: seemingly unrelated events connect, an eccentric old woman seeks their company, and an invaluable Vermeer painting disappears. Before they know it, the two find themselves at the center of an international art scandal, where no one — neighbors, parents, teachers — is spared from suspicion.
Now let’s talk about how you set up a mystery novel for kids. There are two ways to go about it. I call the two options The Agatha Christie and The Chasing Vermeer.
The Agatha Christie model is the hardest to pull off. You give your readers all the facts, lay them out plain and clear, and let them solve the mystery alongside you. When done well this engages the reader and makes them complicit in the solution. Instant audience identification! Brilliant!
Then you have The Chasing Vermeer method. Now the book Chasing Vermeer was very popular with kids, so you can’t knock it on that account. It was, however, a book where the mystery and solution was based entirely on coincidences. That’s a frustrating way to set up a novel.From a review of York by Betsy Bird
If writing a Chasing Vermeer type mystery, best to add some Agatha Christie elements and make the coincidences as disguised as possible. Betsy Bird, children’s librarian points out that the Chasing Vermeer series is very popular with children, which suggests young readers don’t mind coincidences so much, being more in line with adult readers of cosy mysteries in that regard. (Children’s mysteries are basically cosy mysteries.)
General rule of thumb: If the contrivance hurts the protagonist, it’s usually okay. Contrivances that help the protagonist usually feel forced or overly convenient.Janice Hardy
A lot of children’s mysteries have something in common with a scavenger hunt, where children go looking for something (a lost dog, the answer to a secret, an absent parent).
Ciphers, puzzles, treasure, secret codes… these are all commonly found in children’s mystery stories.
The ‘Fair Mystery’ Approach To Storytelling
I like smart movies about smart people, and enjoy it when most of the facts are on the table and we can contemplate them together.Roger Ebert
A hidden book. A found cipher. A game begins . . . .
Twelve-year-old Emily is on the move again. Her family is relocating to San Francisco, home of her literary idol: Garrison Griswold, creator of the online sensation Book Scavenger, a game where books are hidden all over the country and clues to find them are revealed through puzzles. But Emily soon learns that Griswold has been attacked and is in a coma, and no one knows anything about the epic new game he had been poised to launch. Then Emily and her new friend James discover an odd book, which they come to believe is from Griswold and leads to a valuable prize. But there are others on the hunt for this book, and Emily and James must race to solve the puzzles Griswold left behind before Griswold’s attackers make them their next target.
Common Features Of Murder Mysteries
A crime is committed—almost always a murder—and the action of the story is the solution of that crime: determining who did it and why, and obtaining some form of justice. The best mystery stories often explore man’s unique capacity for deceit—especially self-deceit—and demonstrate a humble respect for the limits of human understanding. This is usually considered the most cerebral (and least violent) of the suspense genres.
Thematic emphasis: How can we come to know the truth? (By definition, a mystery is simply something that defies our usual understanding of the world.)
Twists are really common in lots of mysteries. A twist is another word for a reversal, which is a type of reveal. They’re hard to do well because the reader isn’t meant to guess early on. But when they do find out, everything should click into place for them.
Basic plot elements of the murder mystery:
- The baffling crime
- The singularly motivated investigator
- The hidden killer
- The cover-up (often more important than the crime itself, as the cover-up is what conceals the killer)
- Discovery and elimination of suspects (in which creating false suspects is often part of the killer’s plan)
- Evaluation of clues (sifting the true from the untrue)
- Identification and apprehension of the killer.
Things murder mysteries must have:
- Someone is killed early in the telling, perhaps on the very first page
- An investigator will be called in to solve the crime.
- Stock characters: the hero, the villain etc.
- False clues in the plot (“red herrings”)
- An eventual confrontation between investigator and murderer
- An ending that either results in justice, injustice or a pyrrhic victory. In other words, the murderer is discovered and pays for the crime, the murderer gets away, or the investigator gets the killer, but loses someone or something in the process.
The Hero
Whether a cop, a private eye, a reporter or an amateur sleuth, the hero must possess a strong will to see justice served, often embodied in a code (for example, Harry Bosch’s “Everyone matters or no one matters” in the popular Michael Connelly series). He also often possesses not just a great mind but great empathy—a fascination not with crime, per se, but with human nature.
The Villain
The crime may be a hapless accident or an elaborately staged ritual; it’s the cover-up that unifies all villains in the act of deceit. The attempt to escape justice, therefore, often best personifies the killer’s malevolence. The mystery villain is often a great deceiver, or trickster. In story as in real life, the winner is the person who controls the narrative. She succeeds because she knows how to get others to believe that what’s false is true.
Setting
Although mysteries can take place anywhere, they often thematically work well in tranquil settings—with the crime peeling back the mask of civility to reveal the more troubling reality beneath the surface.
Reveals
Given its emphasis on determining the true from the untrue, the mystery genre has more reveals than any other—the more shocking and unexpected, the better.David Corbett
A week of summer camp is going to be long, thinks the hero of this story …
But now he learns that the Valley of the Secret where he is sent hides the Very Secret Secret of the Master of the Secret. Finally, something interesting!
Who is this mysterious Master and what is his secret? The countdown is on, the investigation can begin!
This is a game book in which you are the hero. Full of wacky humor, this mystery will keep the reader in suspense until the final surprise.
Writing Techniques
Clues/Red Herrings
To be fair to the reader, it’s probably best to have a few subtle clues scattered throughout the story. Clues can be verbal—something that contradicts a suspect’s alibi or that points to a possible motive for murder. Clues can be physical—a suitcase in the back room. Clues can even result from insights our sleuth gets into the suspects’ characters. That’s one reason why our investigation isn’t just about the crime—it’s about the people who might be involved.
It’s very tricky to use our sleight of hand with mystery readers. They’re extremely savvy readers who usually read a lot of mysteries each month. They’ll frequently believe any extraneous detail must be a clue (which is why we need to be careful about wrapping up anything that seems like a loose end or a Chekhov’s gun at the end of the book).
The best ways to slip clues under the radar: lay them near the beginning of the story and then introduce things that seem more interesting (the victim’s body, perhaps), and then continue laying them out throughout the book but being very careful to distract from them (maybe with an argument between two suspects, etc.). It also helps to have an especially well-thought-out red herring near the end of the story to lead the sleuth and reader in an entirely different direction.
The puzzle has to be fair. Modern mystery readers won’t be happy if the killer is someone who was introduced at the very end of our story, etc. The modern mystery reader expects to be able to solve the mystery alongside the sleuth—it’s an almost interactive experience, or it needs to be.
Challenges For The Mystery Writer
Technology
Anthony Horowitz — wrote Alex Rider (a young adult mysteries), Magpie Murders, Midsomer Murders and makes gleeful use of Agatha Christie’s techniques. Here’s what he has to say about technology:
[Anthony Horowitz] placed the Conway novel in the 1950s, he said, because he likes murder mysteries that are “forensic free,” without surveillance cameras and DNA. “I want sprinklings of clues and red herrings,” he said. “And having no mobile phones is wonderfully helpful; it slows the pace down, and you have more time for atmosphere and character.“
If writers want to write a mobile phone free story for adolescents and teens today they have to either contrive it, or set the story in the past.
Reversals and Reveals
The mystery writer needs to master this technique.
Examples of Culturally Significant Mysteries
- Rebecca — an example of a gothic mystery
- The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo — Scandi crime mystery which lead to what is now a huge boom in Scandinavian crime/mystery.
- Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. There’s usually a central question in her books. (Suspense is the official mystery blend to describe these books.) This is the mystery which started a successful wave of psychological thrillers with complex female leads, mostly with dark covers. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is another example.
- Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter is another example of how ‘Girl’ in the title these days indicates a murder mystery, probably with tantalising reveals and definitely female characters (solving the mystery as well as falling victim to it).
- Tana French is another author who writes bestselling mysteries.
- Little Face by Sophie Hannah. A weird, creepy central mystery.
- Into the Water by Paula Hawkins immerses readers in a town where a river has mysteriously claimed the lives of two women.
- The Passenger by Lisa Lutz
- What She Knew by Gilly Macmillan
- Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty is an Australian novel with a romantic subplot, contrasting a domestic violence subplot. This story manages to be both light and dark at the same time. Later made into an American limited TV series. Narrative is punctuated by excerpts from interviews with a journalist, commenting on and encouraging the intense drama between the women and their husbands during the school year.. We don’t know who the interlocutor is until the end of the story — another minor reveal. (I thought it was probably a police officer.) Note that when we find out who got killed, the reader/viewer is rewarded with a sense of just desserts, because this is the least sympathetic character of the cast.Other big reveals show us how the characters are more linked together than we anticipated, but is foreshadowed with the information that everyone knows everyone in this small town.
- Dragon Teeth by Michael Crichton
- Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
- The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
- Notice how many of these examples I’ve picked are by and about women. In an historic turnaround, men are apparently pretending to be women in order to sell crime fiction.
- 50 Essential Mystery Novels From Flavorwire.
Mysteries Aimed At Children
- Lord Of The Flies — Though you may not think of this book when you think of the mystery genre, the most central part of this story is the developing answer to the question, “What is the beast?” This example shows that almost all children’s literature (in particular) contains mystery elements.
- Ginger Pye — An easy Agatha Christie mystery story for children in which their pet dog is stolen by a boy in their class. Young readers are supposed to work this out before the characters do, making use of dramatic irony. (The mystery is for beginners, rather than the text.)
- Harry Potter — J.K. Rowling’s wizard series is basically of the mystery genre. For adults Rowling writes hard-boiled detective novels with plenty of plotting to show that she’s a master of mystery.
- Encyclopedia Brown series for children — Donald J. Sobol wrote ‘two minute mysteries’. In two or three pages you have to solve them. To find the answer you flip the book upside down. They all hinge on reasoning things out.
- T.O.A.S.T. Mysteries by James Ponti — for kids itching for a hilarious mystery to solve. Florian Bates is a bit bored at Alice Deal Middle School. Math class just can’t compare to helping the FBI solve the mystery of an art theft or uncovering a spy ring in DC. But in the second book of the series his dull life is soon interrupted when he gets a call from the FBI inviting him to investigate a series of seemingly-harmless pranks involving the daughter of the President of the United States. Florian and his best friend Margaret begin to investigate, just as the pranks evolve from innocent to dangerous.
- Pretty Little Liars has a mentor text of Desperate Housewives. Originally a YA novel series, later a TV series. Unlike Desperate Housewives, the big reveal (reversal) was withheld until the end of the series. Desperate Housewives mysteries were neatly tied up at the end of each season, and the writers must have been confident viewers would happily return for a new mystery.
- Riverdale is a Netflix series based on retrograde tropes, inspired by the Archie comics but with a more diverse cast. The other thing the writers of the TV series did was incorporate a murder mystery at its heart. Though aimed at teens my nine year old daughter loved it.
- Wolf Hollow is the perfect example of a middle grade mystery.
- Scooby-Doo is a horror comedy franchise but the characters also solve crime. The crimes appear to be supernatural, but the reveal is always the same: There’s a scientific explanation for everything, and humans are the real enemy, not supernatural bogeymen. A Pup Named Scooby Doo is the name of a 1990s Scooby Doo series for even younger kids. This was a detective show for children, and featured a character named Red Herring. (He has red hair.) The writers create this story to appeal to an age group who will be delighted that they solve a mystery before the characters do. However, smart and observant young Velma calls “jinkies!” whenever a meaningful clue appears on screen. All of the clues appear on screen, even though the viewer doesn’t know how they fit yet. At the end of each episode, young viewers get a rundown of all the clues collected by the gang. The show ‘rewinds’, and characters examine the clues in context. The audience has one more chance to work out the mystery. | https://www.slaphappylarry.com/writing-mystery-tips/ |
Cute, funny and starring a sassy talking cat, Gibbous – A Cthulhu Adventure launches you immediately into all the mystery and intrigue. The plot centres around a classically Lovecraftian cult bent on raising Eldritch horrors from the depth of the ocean. To do so, they need the fabled Necronomicon, a dark and ancient tome with magical powers.
You explore the conspiracy from the perspective of an unlikely team of three: Don R. Ketype, a private investigator afflicted with the Haunter’s Mark; Buzz Kerwan, a librarian who stumbles across the Necronomicon; and Kitteh, Buzz’s cat, who is accidentally cursed with human speech. As a player, you play as each of the three in different chapters of the story. The lends the gameplay a bit of variety and lets you explore more of the story and the world by switching perspectives.
Gibbous – A Cthulhu Adventure is a point-and-click story that works really nicely on the Switch. For the most part, it is clear which elements of the background you can interact with, without them being so obvious you lose any immersion in the setting. Having the option of using the analog stick or the touchscreen is a nice feature that feels like it should be a given in point-and-click games but isn’t always there.
The entire game is voice acted really well, with distinct character voices that suit their design and develop the sense of each unique personality. This is particularly impressive given that there are over sixty characters, including all the secondary and background parts.
The visuals are equally well crafted, with wonderfully detailed backgrounds depicting various parts of the world. Each is imbued with its own clear identity, while the overarching themes of ancient horror and cosmic comedy are woven seamlessly in.
The gameplay is simple. You interact with objects in each setting, collecting and combining items you might need and talking to the background characters. When you play as Buzz, you can discuss each thing with Kitteh, and she usually has some hilariously dry remark for you. When you play as Don, the Haunter’s Mark allows you to peer into that thing or person’s past in search of more clues.
As with many point-and-click stories, if you click on every option, you could guess your way through most of the game. But the story is constructed in such a way that you feel genuinely engaged with the mystery, with clear but not obvious clues that tease their eventual reveals effectively.
Gibbous – A Cthulhu Adventure strikes a great balance between horror and humour, blended with a lovely film noir vibe. The animation is lovely to watch, and the point-and-click mechanics are very well suited to the Switch controls. It is well constructed and, if you like a side of laughs with your rampaging Elder Gods, you’ll certainly find it here.
Review: Gibbous – A Cthulhu Adventure (Nintendo Switch)
Great
Gibbous – A Cthulhu Adventure injects a dry sense of humour into classic Lovecraftian horror and absorbs you into the mystery through a beautifully animated point-and-click story. | https://purenintendo.com/review-gibbous-a-cthulhu-adventure-nintendo-switch/ |
The Mystery of Edwin Drood
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The Mystery of Edwin Drood, unfinished novel by Charles Dickens, published posthumously in 1870. Only 6 of the 12 projected parts had been completed by the time of Dickens’s death.
Although Dickens had included touches of the gothic and horrific in his earlier works, Edwin Drood was his only true mystery story. He left few clues as to how he intended to end the work, and the solution itself remains a mystery.
Edwin Drood is the ward of Jack Jasper, the choirmaster of Cloisterham and an outwardly respectable opium addict. Jasper secretly loves Drood’s fiancée, Rosa Bud. Drood and Rosa no longer love each other and break their engagement. Drood disappears soon thereafter. Neville Landless, also in love with Rosa, is arrested for Drood’s murder but is released when no body is found. Jasper confesses his love to Rosa and threatens to incriminate Neville unless she returns his love. Datchery, a stranger, arrives, shadowing and vexing Jasper—and there the manuscript ends. | https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Mystery-of-Edwin-Drood |
The Gadgadsbogen Puzzle is a plot for Gadgadsbogen in 2003, that Neopets released on March 5, 2003 (but already referred to on March 4). It ran till March 20, 2003. The plot was a logic puzzle à la Usurper!, in which users were asked to match attendees to the Gadgadsbogen Party with various items and skills. With the Guildmasters' Dinner Logic Puzzle cancelled, it is currently the last plot of its kind.
Contents
Plot summary
Every year in March, Mystery Island celebrates Gadgadsbogen. The islanders celebrate with a great, big tiki-style party. In 2003, there were six people called upon to make speeches at the party.
The Guests
|Kyishi||Kyishi the Aisha was the Limbo Champion back home in Meridell. She was at the finals, defending her championship, when Darigan attacked. The competition was ruined, and her crown lost in the hasty escape.|
|Tiki Tack Man||Well, we know he isn't a Neopet. Whatever he is, Tiki Tack Man makes sure that every visitor to Mystery Island leaves with enough tacky merchandise to sink whatever ship they sail away on. Did we mention he also runs the Tombola?|
|Rufus||This year, Rufus has been crowned Grand Bogen, a position *always* held by Kougras. Although Rufus may tell you he is personally in charge of organising the entire festival, in reality the Grand Bogen is the one in charge of cleaning up the island afterwards!|
|Vik||Vik is inventor of a thousand different ways to combine tropical fruits, however he uses his own skill to do so, and doesn't have to rely on any silly magical cooking pots like *somebody* he could mention.|
|Harry, Explorer Extraordinaire||Harry has been hacking his way through the dense undergrowth of Mystery Island for days (with his faithful Poogle companion of course), in search of civilisation. The last thing he expected was to accidentally barge his way into a massive Tiki Party!|
|Jhuidah||Jhuidah runs the local Cooking Pot, a magical artifact that can combine two items together to make something special. There is a rumour going around that Gadgadsbogen and Jhuidah's cooking pot are somehow connected, but, nah, it's just a rumour...|
Plot participation
The object of the user's inquiries was to be to determine what colour grass skirt each guest wore; how low they could limbo; and what fruit they ate. On March 6, The Neopets Team announced that they made the puzzle harder by also asking what cocktail each guest drank.
There were six options for each area of inquiry:
|The Fruits
||The Grass Skirts
|
|The Cocktails
||The Limbo Competition
|
Users were to determine how the fruits, the grass skirts, the cocktails and the results of the limbo competition linked to each of the guests based on their descriptions and the clues that were released over the course of the plot. Guesses could originally be turned in with the release of the fifth clue, but The Neopets Team changed it to happen on the eighth clue (March 14) instead, because they ended up making more clues than expected.
The Clues
Clues were released over several days, from March 5 to March 14.
- Tiki Tack man made sure that he wore a red grass skirt (to match his shirt of course!).
- The party guest that won the limbo competition was so excited she accidentally spilled her Myncibean Punch all over the floor afterwards!
- At the limbo competition, the competitor who ate the Froozle beat the person who came in a place behind them by a whopping 8cm!
- The Blobbule eater found the taste of their Bubbling Kraku Thickshake subtly enhanced the flavour of their fruit.
- Kyishi refused to eat the Ellecha or Twirly fruit. "They're too fattening," she said. "And that's the last thing I need when limbo dancing!"
- There was no way Vik was going to win the limbo. His belly alone was 70cm high!
- The party guest who ate the Lemwart had a matching yellow skirt.
- When the winner of the limbo danced at the party afterwards, she almost lost her pink skirt.
- The party guest with the blue skirt was seen making a sour face when they bit into their carnapepper. I guess it didn't go down well!
- The winner of the limbo contest did not eat an Ellecha.
- Harry ate the Froozle, but did not wear the blue skirt.
- The person who wore the Green skirt came in last place in the limbo contest, one position behind the Greengage Breeze drinker.
- The wearer of the red skirt drank the Pink Peachpa Cooler!
- The Grand Bogen wore a Green skirt.
- The Ellecha eater limboed 60cm.
Solution
|Guest||Fruit||Skirt Colour||Cocktail||Limbo Result|
|Kyishi||Lemwart||Yellow||Purple Juppie Slurpbowl||68cm|
|Tiki Tack Man||Ellecha||Red||Pink Peachpa Cooler||60cm|
|Rufus||Blobbule||Green||Bubbling Kraku Thickshake||96cm|
|Vik||Carnapepper||Blue||Greengage Breeze||89cm|
|Harry||Froozle||Purple||Blue Cocofizz||52cm|
|Jhuidah||Twirly Fruit||Pink||Myncibean Punch||50cm|
Prizes
Rewarded on march 20, 2003, the prize originally was 30,000,000 NP and several Battledome items, including fruit weapons, divided amongst the first 100 correct answers. This was changed to the first 2000 people, although it's unknown whether that meant those 2000 users all got both their share of the prize money and items or whether the new 1900 winners only got one of the two.
Trivia
- There was a reference to Usurper! in Gadgadsbogen Puzzle. On the The Party page, there was, like Usurper!, a list of the characters, items and habits that had to be linked to each other and at the bottom of the page stood: - THE MURDER - : There was no murder! Nobody got poisoned, or even slightly ill... it was just a great party!
- On March 8, The Neopets Team warned that some users were trying to give false clues by pretending to have found some of the "hidden clues" that were said to come. | http://www.pinkpt.com/neodex/index.php?title=Gadgadsbogen_Puzzle |
You are one of 6 people who have been invited to attend a country house weekend in England in August, 1924. The guest do not know their host, Lord Farthing. They do not know each other. So why were they invited? As the plot unfolds, they gradually find out.
The characters include a vicar, a nun, a businessman, a countess, and a music hall star. Attending on them is a smarmy, creepy butler called Jarvis. All, of course, have dark secrets to hide. But who is the murderer? How is the King of Ruritania involved? And how many characters survive till the end?
As the mystery unravels, guests try to discover what everyone has been up to. Information about their own character and clues about the others are given to them, and new plot developments occur while the mystery progresses.
As proceedings draw to a close, people get the chance to make their accusations, then the correct solution is revealed and the murderer is unmasked.
"Murder at Farthingay Manor" is a murder mystery for 6 people, each of whom is a character in the plot. The game is both memorable and enjoyable for all kinds of people. This game is recommended for both adults and teens.
Paper money and all the other essential paper props. | http://www.mysterygamecentral.com/games/MurderAtFarthingayManor.html |
As the fascinating mystery novel by Agatha Christie, Murder on the Orient Express, develops, the internationally renowned Belgian detective Hercule Poirot discovers that during the night, Ratchett has been murdered. Through the rest of the novel, Poirot unravels the mystery that surrounds Ratchett’s murder.
Murder on the Orient Express is perhaps the prototypical example of what the contemporary world thinks of as “mystery.” Something at the beginning is unknown. As the plot develops, more and more clues are revealed. At times, they lead a person astray of the actual conclusion to the riddle. Then, at last, the solution to the puzzle is given, and it resolves the various facts that had been revealed throughout the novel. At that point, the mystery is “solved,” and any confusion is resolved. More cleaver authors and inquisitive readers of this genre love stories that are ever more creative and tricky to solve.
Mystery as we mean it in speaking of the sacred liturgy is much different. Let us begin with the Mass as an example.
In the Mass, we know in broad lines what happens. The sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross is made present to us; we participate in the Last Supper (cf. 1. Cor. 11:26); Jesus feeds us with His own Body and Blood; we are present at the altar of God, surrounded by the “cloud of witnesses” of the angels and saints (Heb. 12:1). As we become more aware of the riches and depth what takes place at Mass, we enter more deeply into these things. Perhaps a new detail comes alive to us, but most of us learn the basic meaning of Mass when we are in grade school. Nevertheless, there is no end to how deeply we can enter into Christ’s gift of self in the Mass.
One can contrast the modern notion of mystery with the way mystery works in the sacraments. In a mystery story, the reality is unknown in the beginning; in the mysteries of the Church, it is known fairly early in our formation in the faith. In a mystery story, one final bit of information resolves everything; in the mysteries of the Church, nothing every finally resolves our search. Above all, a mystery in the modern sense seeks to “be solved,” where a mystery of the Church invites one to enter into it, plunging ever more deeply into the fountains of grace.
A priest is ordained primarily to celebrate the mysteries of the Church. He is, more than anyone else, a “man of mysteries.” The priest, then, if His ministry is not to grow cold and empty, must continually seek to peer beyond the outer appearances of the celebration of the rites of the Church and into the inner content, which is always Christ. In Baptism, one sees water being poured over a person. In reality, the person dies in the water and rises to new life, the stain of sin is washed away, the person is incorporated into the life of the Church, and springs of living water begin to flow in the inner depths of the person. At Mass, beyond the noble elegant rites, all of the inner content I explained above takes place. All of the sacred rites must be seen in this way.
Often in the life of a priest, because of the demands made on personal time, the drying up of emotional and spiritual reserves, and the various pastoral and administrative duties he is given, the priest can be taken away from the mystery. Perhaps for some, the mystery itself becomes overwhelming, and he feels as if God’s presence is more than he can bear. In any case, it is only at the living font that flows underneath the surface and can only be seen by the eyes of faith that sacred mysteries have their true meaning. It is also only at that living font that the priest discovers his true identity in Christ – the man. | https://www.foundationforpriests.org/rp-p-schneider2 |
How Do The Presence Of TV Mysteries Change Our Expectations Of Mystery Stories?
Difficulty of Project
Medium. The write-up of this project could be published in a journal of Narratology or Narrative Study.
Cost
$10-$100 for copies (depending on number of participants)
Safety Issues
None
Material Availability
Materials can be found at your local Xeroxing store and your library. For further background information, please contact Sharon Cooper ([email protected])
Approximate Time Required to Complete the Project
About an hour (if submitting for publication, allow for about a month for the approval to test on human subjects)
Objective
- To determine how many people are familiar with the formula of mystery stories from TV and how many from reading books/stories.
- To understand how TV mysteries change expectations of mystery stories.
Materials and Equipment / Ingredients
- A rarely read mystery story (such as the Mysterious Case of Mrs. Dickinson)
- Pens/pencils
- Questionnaires
- Approval to experiment on human subjects
Introduction
A thesis by Sharon Cooper, published at Brandeis University, required participants to read a mystery story. The thesis found that although many participants claimed they were not familiar with reading mystery stories or mystery novels, these same participants still gave highly specific answers about what they expected to occur in the mystery genre. Why was this the case? Is it because these participants have been watching mysteries on TV, instead of reading mystery stories?
Research Questions
- Do readers have different expectations of mystery stories based on whether they have read mystery stories or watched them on TV?
- How did participants become aware of the conventions of the mystery genre?
Terms, Concepts and Questions to Start Background Research
- What are the different kinds of mystery stories?
- How do readers predict what will happen in a mystery story?
- How do mysteries on television compare to mystery stories that one would read on paper?
- What are the genre conventions that people generally associate with mystery stories?
Experimental Procedure
- Find a mystery story that few people have ever read (such as The Mysterious Case of Mrs. Dickinson)
- Apply for approval for experimentation with human subjects.
- Create a questionnaire about general demographics. Include questions about primary methods of watching/reading mysteries.
- Other questions you might want to consider: Age, gender/Sex, whether participant is an avid reader, whether they have read the story before, what genre of literature or film they most enjoy
- Create questionnaires which the reader can answer either within the story or after they have read the story. a. These questions will be your way of understanding how your subjects understand the mystery genre. b. Possible questions to ask: What do you think will happen next? Why? Who do you believe is guilty? What clues have you identified? Were you surprised by the ending? Etc.
- Make sure you have a way to link the questionnaires together (such as an ID number or a name).
- Analyze the results a. For quantitative data: Tally up the answers to the different questions (using Excel or by hand), Tally up the answers to different questions as categorized by different demographic categories. Does any one demographic category drastically change the results? b. For categorical data: Read through the answers given. How are readers reading this story? Does their analysis match any of the theorists you have read? c. What is the answer to your question? What does the data show? d. Examine demographic data for potential biases (for example, note whether most participants were of a certain age or gender).
Bibliography
Cooper, Sharon. Undergraduate Thesis: The Mysterious Case of Reader Anticipation: An Empirical Study on How Readers Predict Plot. Brandeis University, 2009. Waltham, MA: 2009.
Todorov, Tsvetan. “The Typology of Detective Fiction.” The Narrative Reader, ed. Martin McQuillan. Routledge Taylor and Francis Group. New York: 2000. Pp 120-127.
Carter, Nick. “The Mysterious Case of Mrs. Dickinson.” Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine. May, 1942: 3-16. Print.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety. | https://www.education.com/science-fair/article/detective-fiction/ |
Avicenna Crowe's mother, Joanne, is an astrologer with uncanny predictive powers and a history of being stalked. Now she is missing. The police are called, but they're not asking the right questions. Like why Joanne lied about her past, and what she saw in her stars that made her so afraid. But Avicenna has inherited her mother's gift. Finding an unlikely ally in the brooding Simon Thorn, she begins to piece together the mystery. And when she uncovers a link between Joanne's disappearance and a cold-case murder, Avicenna is led deep into the city's dark and seedy underbelly, unaware how far she is placing her own life in danger. Pulse-racing and terrifyingly real, The Astrologer's Daughter is a stunning, original novel. It will test your belief in destiny and the endurance of love.
For the longest time it has always been Avicenna and her mother, Joanne. But when Joanne goes missing, Avicenna is lost. She may be eighteen but she doesn’t know what to do without her mum. Joanne is an astrologer and it seems her gift is connected with her disappearance. Her predictions are eerily precise and Avicenna is certain they hold the key to her mother’s whereabouts. If Avicenna is to find her mother and solve the mystery, she will have to use the gift she has always shunned.
The Astrologer’s Daughter is a novel which will stay with me for a long time. Rebecca Lim has one of the most beautiful writing styles I’ve read and I loved following Avicenna as she tried to solve the mystery of her mother. You don’t need to believe or even know a thing about astrology or that which you can not see to be enthralled by The Astrologer’s Daughter. The descriptions of the characters as seen though Avicenna’s eyes are incredible. They are full of Avicenna’s trademark snark and yet perfectly paint a vivid picture of those who she is talking about.
The characters within this book are well-rounded. They are brilliantly flawed with each character having their own baggage and this made them incredibly realistic. Avicenna is somewhat of an outsider with her past shown on her face. She’s not always the most comfortable character to be around but she’s real. Her anguish over her mother is palpable as is her fear of prediction. Avicenna has seen her mother work and knows just how dangerous knowing can be and yet she is willing to face that if it means she can help her mum. I loved their relationship. It’s a unique one considering Joanne is off-screen for most of this novel but she is still a force which is felt in much of what Avicenna does. I also loved that Avicenna was half-Asian. Her racial ancestry is part of who she is and also effected how she saw herself and how others saw her.
The mystery in this book was well crafted and I thought the flow of information was fantastic. As a reader you never quite know what is going to happen (or has happened) but I never felt lost. I was always there with Avicenna as she discovered clues to her past or became aware of what was happening in the present. The fortune-telling aspect of this book was fascinating. Avicenna isn’t what I normally think of when I think of astrology but her predictions don’t feel out of character. She’s methodical and her relationship with her craft is a complicated one.
The Astrologer’s Daughter has been one of my favourite reads of 2014. Beautifully written with a main character who is both snarky and sarcastic but also scared. The mystery was incorporated flawlessly into a coming of age story which I could not put down. If you only read one Australian young adult novel this year – I could not recommend any book higher than The Astrologer’s Daughter. Mystery, romance and a hint of the unknown. What could be better?
Thanks to Text Publishing for the review copy. | http://www.fictionalthoughts.com/2014/08/astrologers-daughter-rebecca-lim/ |
Who is our mystery staff person today? Are you ready to read the clues and guess?
- As a child, she loved to eat corn on the cob.
- As as adult, she loes the color blue and the sound of ocean waves crashing onto the shore.
- If she could learn a new skill, it would be landscape painting.
- And…if she wrote her autobiography, it would be: RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT!
Who is this mystery person? I hope you guessed Mrs. Ripley, our wonderful secretary and most friendly person in the entire world!
Visit all of our school blogs to learn about staff members. You will be given clues to each person. See if these clues help you to identify each staff member. You can visit these blogs by clicking on classrooms to the left.
If you don’t see the post on the main page, type the words “mystery teacher” into the search tab. | https://georgetown.edublogs.org/2011/09/29/ripleys-believe-it-or-not/ |
Find all the words listed below hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally. The leftover letters will reveal the mystery a nswer.
WHEEL WORDS
Create as many words of four letters or more using the given letters only once, but always including the middle letter. Don’t use proper nouns or plurals. Try find the nine-letter word that uses all the letters.
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so every column, every row and every 3×3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9. Good luck!
PUZZLES
Whether you like wondering about words or focussing on figures, we have got a conundrum to get that grey matter working. So sharpen your pencil, and get solving!
ELEVENSES CROSSWORDS
Across and down indicate the direction an answer will be written into the crossword grid. The clue number corresponds to a starting square on the crossword grid. The answers to clues are written from left to right or top to bottom from the starting square. If you can’t answer the first clue, scan the other clues until you find something you might know, then work from there.
CODE CRACKER
This one’s a bit of a toughie, so keep at it. Each number represents a different letter of the alphabet; work out which number stands for which letter to fill in the crossword. We’ve given you three letters, all words are from a dictionary and we have not used proper nouns. The puzzle does not necessarily use all letters of the alphabet. When you have cracked the code, fill in the answer.
JUMBLE SQUARE
Got your thinking cap on? Good! Rearrange the letters in each row to form a word. Write your answers into the blank grid. Once you have got all the words, the first letterfrom each word, when read down, will spell out the mystery keyword. | http://www.latestfashiontips.com/word-search-theme-home/ |
Mystery Skype explained here) but you are not sure that your elementary students are prepared for the geography questions involved?
I found a great online game by PBS called Where's Buster that will have students using maps and evaluating the information provided to determine Buster's location. In each example, the students are provided 3 facts/clues that narrow down Buster's location within the given area. The facts provide clues such as which state the correct state might border, if it borders an ocean, river, lake, or other landform, and sometimes if it does not border another state. Play the game on your Smartboard for whole class fun or have students practice on individual devices.
You can link to this site and others to teach about the United States on my website: | http://www.karenogen.com/2014/01/practicing-for-mystery-skype.html |
Come join the Hunt on Saturday, October 24th and see if you can be the first to solve the Mystery in the Midlands.
There will be 5 individual riddles. The solution to each riddle will lead participants to a treasure key. Once a team claims a treasure key, they will qualify for to hunt for the treasure chest that afternoon.
The cash prize will be based on the number of teams that play. Clues will be given periodically to help teams progress towards finding the keys. All keys will be within a 15 mile radius of the State House. | https://www.experiencecolumbiasc.com/event/halloween-treasure-hunt/62956/ |
Why is my aeonium drooping?
Aeoniums tend to drop or shed old leaves more so than other succulent plants. These leaves often appear wilted, dried up and sometimes droopy. If the leaves don’t fall off on their own, they will appear droopy, some dried up and brown, on the bottom of the plant.
Why are the leaves on my succulent drooping?
Droopy leaves on succulent specimens mean the soil has been dry as a bone for quite some time. These plants can tolerate long periods of drought, but they do need moisture to thrive. When succulent leaves are drooping, it is time to act. Succulents store moisture in their thick leaves or pads.
How often should I water my aeonium tree?
Aeonium Care
- Aeoniums have shallow root systems since they store their water in their leaves and stems. Unlike other succulents, which prefer dry soil, Aeoniums prefer soil that is moist but not wet.
- Keep an eye out for pests on Aeoniums.
- In the winter, water whenever the top inch of soil has dried out.
Do Aeoniums like full sun?
Aeoniums can be grown outdoors in zones 9 to 11 and, although they will tolerate partial shade, need at least six hours of full sun a day to develop their leaf colors. Indoors in pots Aeoniums need bright sunlight and moisture and do best in shallow containers.
How do you fix droopy leaves?
To fix the drooping, allow the medium to dry out overnight (completely) and use a thin stick (i.e., a skewer) to gently poke holes around the surface of the medium to help aerate—taking care not to damage any roots below.
What do I do if my succulent is wilting?
Make sure your succulent receives direct sunlight for half of the day, with partial shade during the heat of the day. If you notice your succulent is wilting due to lack of sunlight, slowly increase the amount of sunlight the plant receives. A sudden increase of light acts as a shock and can kill your succulent.
Should I pull dead leaves off succulents?
Succulent Growth And though most succulents can seal off damaged parts, it is always good to quickly remove broken, diseased, or dead leaves, stems and flower stalks. Because new growth typically sprouts near the end of cut ends, simply prune stems to where you want new growth to emerge.
Can you propagate Aeonium from Leaf?
Aeoniums, on the other hand, only work with cuttings, which means you can’t propagate them with just a leaf. For a start, click here to take a look at these seven succulents that I’ve found super easy to propagate. To take a leaf for propagation, just gently twist the leaf off the stem.
How can you tell Aeonium?
These succulent plants are identified by their thick, fleshy leaves growing as rosettes. Some Aeonium species have compact leaves that look like rose flowers. Other types of Aeonium have wide, spreading oval to oblong leaves that have the shape of a large saucer.
How do you water aeonium?
Aeoniums store water in their leaves and stems and need very little watering. In spring and autumn, water the plant thoroughly, then allow the compost to dry out before watering again – this mimics downpours in their natural habitats. Water more sparingly in summer and winter.
What conditions do Aeoniums like?
How to grow geraniums. Grow geraniums in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Cut back in late summer and take cuttings to insure against winter losses. Most geraniums need protection in winter – move pots indoors in autumn to ensure they grow back the following year.
Will droopy leaves recover?
Both cold and heat cause leaves to droop. Water plants more frequently if temperatures in your area are extremely hot; a plant with drooping leaves from heat will recover within hours. If droopy leaves or flowers result from frost damage, the plant needs to recover on its own. | https://riunitedformarriage.org/why-is-my-aeonium-drooping/ |
Succulents are plants that have adapted to low rain-fall climates, usually deserts or semi-deserts, developing the ability to store water in specialised organs, whether these be stems, branches, leaves or roots. This enables them to survive for long periods with very little moisture and in some cases with none at all. The word “succulent” is derived from the latin “succus” (juice) since the stored water often gives these plants a swollen and fleshy appearance; this condition is also known as succulence. A distinction is often made between two main groups: cactuses and non-cactus succulents, the first including all plants of the cactaceae family, the latter all the other families.
Anyway, most of the plants belonging to the Cactaceae family have a fleshy stem that carries out photosynthesis while their leaves have turned into spines in order to reduce water loss through evaporation. The stems are mainly globular or columnar and their characteristic green colour reveals the presence of chlorophyll.
CACTI are typical of the Americas and their distribution area stretches from Canada to Patagonia, the highest concentration occurring in steppes, prairies and semi-deserts, but they can occupy many different habitats, from the great heights of the Andes, to the wet tropical forests in the case of the epiphytes.(see Epiphytic cacti). Click here to find more about the habitats. | http://www.cactusedintorni.com/en/Succulents/index.html |
Last Updated on March 26, 2022 by Sam
The leaves of succulents are falling off in the early evening hours. What is happening?
The “why are my succulent leaves turning yellow and falling off” is a problem that has been present for a while. There are many reasons why this could happen. The most common reason is over-watering.
How do you save a dying indoor succulent?
A: You should water it every day and make sure that the soil is moist. If you notice that the leaves are turning brown, then you should cut off the top of the plant to help with air circulation and prevent mold from growing.
Why are my plants leaves turning brown and falling off?
A: This is a common problem with plants. Its called plant stress and it can be caused by many different things, such as over-watering, too much light, lack of nutrients, or even just the wrong type of soil.
What is a succulent arrangement?
A: Succulents are plants that store water in their leaves and stems, which they can use to survive for long periods of time without any rainfall. They are often used as decorations because of their unique shapes and colors.
Why is my succulent dying?
A: Succulents are sensitive to changes in light and temperature. They need a lot of water, but they can survive without it for long periods of time. If you see your succulent is not thriving, try moving it to a different location with more light or less direct sunlight.
Succulents are known for their interesting leaves that retain color and fall off when they need to be replaced. The “succulent leaves falling off replant” is a process that can help keep your succulent healthy, as well as give you the opportunity to grow new ones.
Watch This Video: | https://succulentshelp.com/why-are-my-succulents-leaves-falling-off/ |
Definition of succulentCategorized under "General"
Definition as written by Sugar_fl:
A plant having thick, fleshy, water-storing leaves or stems
Definition as written by Kelli:
Virtually all cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti. The cacti are a distinct plant family (the Cactaceae) while succulent plants are found in many families
Definition as written by Floridian:
Fleshy and/or juicy
Definition as written by Magpye:
(Botany) (1) Having thick, fleshy, water-storing leaves or stems.
(2) A tropical or desert plant with thick and fleshy stem or leaves designed to retain water and minimize evaporation. Succulent plants are usually found in regions of little rainfall and generally have long roots to absorb a maximum amount of water. Some of the commonest succulents are the cactus , which are leafless or have short, prickly leaves, storing a lot of sap in the stem; and the agave and aloe, which collect water in the stem.
Definition as written by palmbob:
Any plant having specialized leaves, stems or roots that have evolved to store excess water. This is a somewhat vague definition, and certainly not what a succulent grower/collector would only include in his/her list of succulents. Many xerophytic plants are included in this group, such as arid-loving bromeliads, Yuccas and cycads, very few which would qualify as true succulents as few have any ability to store water. Many non-botanists tend to include all succulents under the name cactus, but most succulents are not true cacti... however, as mentioned above, all cacti are true succulents. Nor are all succulents xerophytic... some are very tropical and moisture loving. | https://davesgarden.com/guides/terms/go/889/ |
With such diversity among succulent plants, one common bond they share is they are all adapted to drought. Their thick stems and leaves store water, which helps sustain them during dry periods. But these same thick stems and leaves are also susceptible to diseases and disorders that discolor them with brown spots.
Although succulent plant leaves are thick, fleshy and water-filled, this does not mean you need to water them more than other plants. The reverse is true. Succulents perform best when their soil dries between waterings. If they remain in wet or waterlogged soils, succulents suffer from edema, which causes brown, corky spots on the leaves. Sometimes the spots form on the undersides of leaves, making it more difficult to notice this disorder. The brown spots are particularly noticeable on the white areas of variegated succulents, such as tricolor jade plant (Crassula ovata "Tricolor"), which grows as a perennial in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10a through 11.
Succulents are sensitive to too much fertilizer, and typically need infrequent or dilute fertilizer applications. For example, kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana), which grows in USDA zones 10 through 12, needs only one light fertilizer application each year. If you give your succulent plants too much fertilizer, the salts that are contained in fertilizers accumulate in the soil and can burn the roots. As the salty soil solution moves upward in succulents, it may also burn the leaves and cause brown spots.
Succulents are susceptible to a host of fungal leaf-spot diseases. Although "Autumn Joy" sedum (Sedum x “Autumn Joy”), which grows in USDA zones 5 through 9, is generally a tough succulent, it may still succumb to these diseases. These pathogenic fungi require water to reproduce sexually and to spread, so these diseases proliferate in moist areas and foggy climates. As a fungus takes hold of a plant, it may form brown spots on leaves that may eventually join to form large lesions. Once the disease is present, there's no cure.
Preventing brown spots on succulent leaves is often as simple as choosing an appropriate planting or potting medium and watering the plants properly. A porous, well-draining medium is best, such as one that is formulated for succulents and cactuses. If you blend your own medium, use 60 percent peat moss to 40 percent perlite or equal parts potting mix and coarse sand. If you grow succulents in containers, use only pots that have drainage holes so water can drain away. Water plants thoroughly until the excess water runs out of the drainage holes, which helps flush excess salts.
Lee, Victoria. "Brown Spots on Succulents." Home Guides | SF Gate, http://homeguides.sfgate.com/brown-spots-succulents-84480.html. 14 December 2018.
Why Do My Kalanchoe Flapjack Leaves Have Brown Spots? | https://homeguides.sfgate.com/brown-spots-succulents-84480.html |
The most common reason for brown leaves on succulents is sunburn or sun damage. If you’ve recently moved your plant to a bright location, or if you’ve recently had a heatwave or intense heat and you notice your plants have brown spots on their leaves, these spots are equivalent to sunburn.
Beside above, what succulent has fuzzy leaves?
Similarly, how do you take care of fuzzy Kalanchoe?
Put this succulent in a bright location year-round. If you move it outdoors for the warm months, move it gradually into full sun to avoid scorching its leaves. Water: Water thoroughly, allowing the top 1 in (2.5 cm) to dry out between waterings. Take care not to get the fuzzy leaves wet because they can rot.
What do Overwatered succulents look like?
Here’s what to look for to know that your succulent is overwatered: Soft, mushy, translucent leaves–An overwatered plant will have soft, mushy leaves that may also appear shriveled. … Leaves turn black–If the overwatering continues, the leaves will start to rot and you will see them turn black.
Should succulents be in direct sunlight?
Succulents love direct sun, but if yours is sitting in the same exact spot day after day, it’s likely that only one side is getting enough light. … Succulents will lean towards the sun, so rotating them will help them stand up straight. (Leaning may also be a sign that they need to be in a sunnier spot.)
How do you keep Fuzzy succulents?
Dig the succulent out of the soil and remove excess soil stuck to the roots, cut off any brown/black roots as these are rotten already. Leave the plant on a mesh or any kind of strainer till the roots have air dried from anywhere two to three days. When the roots are dry completely, plant them back in the pot.
How do you take care of a Doris Taylor?
Woolly Rose Plant Care
As always, slowly acclimate to a full sun situation. Sources indicate the plant can maintain in shade. Keep Doris Taylor in afternoon shade in the hottest days of summer. More water is needed during the growing season; however, waterings should still be infrequent.
Why do plants evolve fuzzy coating?
Many plants have fuzzy, or pubescent, parts as a mechanism to support survival. Small hairs can be found on stems, leaves, flowers and even seeds of certain plant varieties, giving them a fuzzy appearance. These hairs can help reduce the amount of water lost from stems and leaves making the plant more drought tolerant.
How often should I water my fuzzy succulent?
As a rule of thumb, figure on watering your succulents at least once every two weeks. While that rule is rather pliable, subject to factors we’ll run down in a bit, we can’t stress enough that it’s better to underwater succulents than to overwater them.
Are Fuzzy succulents poisonous?
Luckily, most succulents are considered non-toxic and are harmless to pets when ingested. Others contain skin irritants that can cause minor skin irritations, and some can cause mild symptoms when ingested.
Should you mist succulents?
Full grown succulents don’t actually like to be misted. They thrive in arid climates, so when you mist them, you are changing the humidity around the plant. This can lead to rot as well. Use misting for propagation babes to lightly provide water to their delicate little roots. | https://succulentsaddiction.com/why-does-my-succulent-have-brown-edges-64cca3c7/ |
This site tells you about cacti and other succulents.
Well – all cacti are succulents – but not all succulents are cacti.
All plants need water to grow. Succulents are any plants which are adapted to store water. This means that they often live in very dry places or places where there is only rainfall at long intervals.
Cacti are stem succulents, that is they have fleshy stems where they store water. Other succulents might have fleshy leaves or sometimes large swollen roots.
For help and advice on growing cacti you might like to join the BCSS forum. There are plenty of people on the forum who can answer all your questions.
There are over 2,000 different types of cacti.
Cacti can live for hundreds of years.
The tallest cactus can grow to 20m.
The smallest is only 12-16mm across.
Cactus flowers can be red, orange, yellow, white, pink or magenta but never blue.
The succulent agave can have a flower spike which is 12m tall.
Aloe vera is a succulent plant which is used in many cosmetic products.
Some succulents hide themselves by looking like the stones around them.
Some succulents are known as window plants. In the wild they grow flat to the ground, and have windows in the tops of their leaves to let the light in. (See left). | http://society.bcss.org.uk/coolcacti/cool-cacti-home.html |
Portulacaria afra is an interesting-looking succulent that has plump, fleshy, and glossy leaves and grows as a small bush. It is called Elephant Bush because, in the wild, Portulacaria afra is the favorite food of elephants.
Another name for the plant is Rainbow Bush because of the many small flowers that it produces which range in color from pale pink to purple.
The succulent has thick, brownish-colored stems that have small tender green leaves which give Elephant Bush the appearance of a small jade plant. Portulacaria afra can grow to a height of 12-feet or 3.6m tall.
Portulacaria afra comes from the Portulacaceae family and is native to the eastern part of South Africa and the Limpopo province from the Eastern cape going northward.
General Information
Also known as: Elephant Bush, Rainbow Bush, Dwarf Jade Plant.
Plant Family: Portulacaceae
Origin: Native to the eastern part of South Africa and the Limpopo province from the Eastern cape going northward.
Height: 12-feet or 3.6m tall
Exposure: Partial sunlight up to 6 hours
Water Needs: Frequent watering schedule during the summer months; very little to no watering in the winter or cold season.
Soil Type: Potting soil, cactus soil or sandy soil
Soil pH: Mildly Acidic (5.6 to 6.5 pH)
Tolerance: Drought; cannot tolerate frost
How to Grow and Care for Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria afra can be grown outdoors or indoors. As an outdoor succulent, Portulacaria afra is a perfect addition to a miniature garden or rock garden.
Elephant Bush is not a cold-hardy succulent. If the temperature in your region drops below 30° F or 1.7° C, it would be best if the succulent is planted in a pot that can be brought indoors.
You can also use Portulacaria afra as a hanging plant and allow its long stems to extend downward. It will be a wonderful ornament for your patio.
1. Sunlight
Portulacaria afra responds well to partial or full sunlight. If grown outdoors, plant Portulacaria afra in a location that gets 6 hours of sunlight.
If Elephant Bush is grown indoors, place the pot in an area in a room with a warm temperature. Position the plant near a window that gets indirect sunlight.
2. Watering
Portulacaria afra is a succulent that is highly resistant to drought. You don’t have to give it plenty of water to thrive. Elephant Bush can adapt to both dry and hot conditions.
As a rule, Portulacaria afra will require more water during the summer months. Like other succulents, give the plant water only when the soil is free of moisture.
In the winter months, reduce Elephant Bush’s watering schedule because the soil stays moist much longer.
To keep your Portulacaria afra succulent healthy, feed the soil with fertilizer that has been diluted with water to reduce its strength by 50%. Fertilizer should only be given during the early spring or late winter.
3. Pot and Soil
Plant Portulacaria afra in a pot that has excellent draining properties. The succulent cannot stay in moist soil for a long period. Otherwise, its roots may rot and infect the entire plant.
Use a rock or a stake to keep Elephant Bush stable and upright because its thick stems and succulent leaves add more weight to its top. The stake can keep the plant upright and stable until such time that it becomes well-rooted in the soil.
The best soil to use would be well-draining potting soil, cactus soil or sandy soil which are all well-draining and allow proper air circulation around Portulacaria afra’s roots.
It is recommended to repot Portulacaria afra every 2 years to ensure that the succulent is getting sufficient nutrients from the soil.
How to Propagate Portulacaria Afra
Keeping Portulacaria afra indoors has another benefit: it is reported that Elephant Bush can absorb dangerous carbon monoxide particles in the air. The succulent is sometimes described as a “carbon sponge”.
If you want to keep the air inside your house, outside your patio and garden clean, grow more Portulacaria afra.
The good news is, it is easy to propagate the Portulacaria afra by using the stem cuttings method.
Step 1: Cut a stem using a sterilized and sharpened knife or garden shears.
Step 2: Place the stem under a shaded area and let it dry. The process of naturally drying the stem will help it develop calluses that are necessary for propagation. It will take several days for the stem to have calluses.
Step 3: Once the calluses have developed on the stem, place it in a pot of well-draining soil.
Step 4: Keep the plant out of direct sunlight while it is setting its roots. This process will take 4 to 6 weeks.
Step 5: Give the plant water whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Portulacaria Afra Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Portulacaria afra does not appear in the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal (ASPCA) website’s list of toxic plants which means it could be safe for your cats or dogs.
The list is not all-inclusive and only includes plants that are frequently asked about. If your pet experiences gastrointestinal distress or vomiting when it comes in contact with Elephant Bush, please consult with a veterinarian right away.
An interesting piece of information about Portulacaria afra is that it is an ingredient in South African cuisine. Elephant Bush is often added as a flavoring for stews and soups and as part of a salad.
Why is my Portulacaria Afra Dying?
There are 3 possible causes of death for your Elephant Bush: Overwatering, underwatering, and pest infestation.
1. Overwatering
If the leaves of the Portulacaria afra are turning yellow, its roots could be starting to rot due to overwatering. Another symptom of overwatering is the succulent’s leaves falling.
Cut out any part of the plant that shows deterioration or infection. If left unattended, the infected area could spread and contaminate the entire plant.
2. Underwatering
The leaves of Portulacaria afra can dry up and shrivel and eventually, fall off if it does not receive enough water.
Perform frequent checks on the dryness of the soil. Check if the top layer of the soil is dry to the touch before giving the plant water.
3. Pest Infestation
Portulacaria afra attracts mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. Brush off the mealybugs from the leaves by wiping them with a cotton ball dipped in denatured alcohol.
A mild insecticide may get rid of the spider mites and whiteflies. If Elephant Bush is located in a garden with other succulents, transfer the pot to another location to prevent the pests from transferring to the rest of your plants.
The brownish-red stems of Portulacaria afra produce clusters of small flowers that vary in color from pink to purple to white. Elephant Bush usually blooms during the summer months. | https://www.aboutsucculents.com/portulacaria-afra/ |
Last Updated on December 8, 2022 by Stephanie
The reason succulents die is due to over-watering as well as slow drainage soils. They are adapted to dry conditions and need that the soil dry out between irrigation. When soil is damp, succulents suffer from root rot, which causes leaves to turn either black, brown or yellow with the appearance of dying.
While overwatering is the most frequent cause of dying succulent, there are a few other reasons why your succulent could be dying:
The majority of succulent plants die back when they live under conditions significantly different from the conditions of their natural habitat.
In order to revive dying succulents, it is essential to recreate the conditions of low rainfall, partial or full sun, and grittier well draining soils in order to keep the succulent alive.
Continue reading to learn how you can help save your dying succulent…
Table of Contents
Succulent turning yellow, brown or black (Over watered)
- Symptoms. Stems and leaves that are succulent turn to black, brown, yellow or even translucent, with a soft, mushy texture as well as an appearance of drooping.
- Causes. The excessive watering of succulents, soils that drain too slow or hold excessive water, pots with no drainage holes in their base, saucers or pots with trays that block the water from draining properly, which could all lead to root stem and stem rot. Sunburn can cause succulents to become brown.
Succulents are drought-resistant plants which have been specifically designed to thrive in hot and dry, desert-like environments that have well-drained soils that receive frequent rain.
For succulents to thrive and to avoid the leaves becoming black, brown or yellow, it is essential to replicate the conditions in the succulents native habitat by placing them in a spongy and well-draining potting soil and generally watering them when your soil have been dried completely.
The excessive watering of succulents or putting the succulent in regular pots that hold water for too long could result in excessive moisture around the roots for desert plant to tolerate.
A lot of moisture in the root of your plant due to excessive watering can cause it to turn black, brown, yellow or translucent, with soft, tender leaves, which is a sign of stress in the water and could possibly indicate root decay.
The majority of succulents require that the soil dry out entirely around the roots prior to replenishing the water, which is similar to the typical watering cycle of their natural environment, with little or no rain, then dry spells.
It is also essential that succulents are planted in containers that have drainage holes at their bases so that excess water can be released to ensure that the soil around the roots isnt saturated and lead to root decay.
Trays, saucers and other containers can also stop the water from draining effectively and result in the soil at the bottom of the succulents pot to get sloppy and cause the leaves of succulents to change color from brown, yellow or black, and then die back from root decay.
How to Revive Dying Succulents Turning Yellow, Brown or Black
- Reduce the amount of watering. If youre giving your succulent a bath more than every week, this is the reason why the leaves are turning brown or black, which is an indication of stress caused by excessive watering. Succulents should be watered only after they are in a soil that have been completely dried out. It usually takes 14 days, but it can differ depending on the weather, the size of the pot, and depending on how well the soil drains.
- Refill the potting soil. Even if youre in the process of waiting for your succulents soil to dry out before watering it again the succulent could change color from brown, yellow and black, if your soil retains water for a long period of time as a sponge, rather than draining rapidly and holding as much water as it does in the native succulent environment. If your succulent was planted in a standard potting soil, take it out to replace with specially designed succulent and cacti soil (available at garden centers and on Amazon) that mimics the, coarse porous, well-draining soil characteristics of succulents native habitat and significantly decreases the chance for root rot.
- Make sure to plant succulents in pots that have drainage holes at the base. They can be planted in a wide range of pots so long as theyve got holes in their base that allows excess water to drain away and stop water from over the roots, which can cause root rot. Clay or terracotta pots are the best choice as they possess an elongated structure that lets the soil in the pot to dry, and this is in line with succulents preference for dry soil conditions. Pots for succulents that are proportional to their size because larger pots have a greater capacity for soil, and consequently larger capacity to hold water, which slows down the rate of drying out the soil and increases the chance of the succulent becoming black, brown, or yellow.
To determine if the potting soil is dried around the roots of your succulent, you can feel the soil in the bottom of the pot via drain holes. If the soil is damp, you should delay watering the succulent by a couple of days. If the soil is dry, this is the ideal moment to water your succulent.
The act of watering your succulent after the soil is dry effectively replicates the natural conditions of frequent rainfall, and drought for which succulents have been specifically to adapt.
Make sure there arent any roots or soil that has become compacted that are blocking any drainage holes at the base of your pot If you are use trays or saucers underneath the pot, then you should take them off regularly, allowing the water to flow easily and the soil is able to dry between watering sessions.
After you have identified the root cause of the reason your succulent has begun to turn brown or yellow with soft, mushy texture (adjusted the frequency of watering and changed your soil) and followed the correct irrigation practices, then your succulent will begin to recover , even if the leaves appear brown or yellow provided you allow the soil to dry out.
The speed at which your succulent recovers is contingent on how long it has been under stress, however, it will show signs of revival in the next few weeks.
If the succulent seems to recover following the drying of soil, with less yellow/brown color and a more firm texture on the leaf, then you should re-water it after three weeks or so to make sure you dont go between extremes of excessively watering to sub-watering your succulent , which could cause the plant to wither and then die back.
Certain leaves on your succulent could become limp or even fall off, depending on the type (this is typical with jade succulents).
If there is a significant amount of brown or yellow leaves that are discolored, and not looking like theyre recuperating, then trim the leaves that are discolored back to the bottom of the plant using the help of a sterilized pair of pruners to lessen the stress on the succulentand prevent any spread of rot that aids in promoting recovery.
Save your succulents from Severe Root Rot…
If the brown, yellow or black discoloration on the stems or leaves of your succulent is getting worse, even after watering your succulent properly, and then replacing your soil using a well drainage, grittier pot mix The root rot could be the reason for your dying succulent.
If the succulent is suffering from root rot, its impossible to salvage the whole plant, but you can still harvest the cuttings of healthy tissue to propagate.
The majority of succulents can reproduce by dividing leaves or an unhealthy portion of the stem because this is one of the methods for reproduction in the natural environment of succulents.
Check out this YouTube tutorial to learn how you can easily propagate succulents using leaves and cuttings to create many additional plants for free:
Succulents Turning Brown Due to Sun Burn
While over-watering is the main reason for succulents to turn brown, sunburn can also cause the leaves to turn with a light brown or yellowish depending on the degree of sunburn.
Different succulents have different needs for light, with some aloe succulents flourishing in full sunlight, whereas other succulents require bright indirect light and can easily burn in direct sunlight (such such as snake plant).
But all succulents are susceptible to sunburn if relocated from a shady place to an area with full sun , as succulents require time to adjust to various lighting intensities.
It is therefore essential to determine the requirements for light of the particular variety of succulent If you decide to relocate the succulent to a more sunny location, slowly over two weeks, and expose the succulent to sun more often every day.
Through gradual exposure to increased sunlight, your succulent will have time to adjust to the higher brightness without burning.
Solution…
If your succulent was burned in the sun and has turned to into a scorched brown, then you should relocate it to an area with bright indirect lighting for the moment.
Sunburned areas that are severely sun damaged succulents are often not able to recover in appearance, but this doesnt necessarily mean that the plant is dying, as the are unlikely to get worse in its condition so long as it is moved out of the sun.
Succulents may have sun-burned leaves, but it is recommended to get rid of the leaves affected to avoid aesthetic issues.
Remove any burned section of leaves using a sterilized pair of pruners , preferably below the yellow or brown areas. Ideally, cut the leaves back to the base to the base. This encourages the development of new leaves to replace them.
If your succulent is extremely sunburned, the best method to bring it back to life is to search for cuttings and leaves that are on the shaded side of the plant that can be propagated and grow further plants by propagation in better light levels to satisfy the specific succulents needs for sunlight.
Dying Succulent Losing Leaves
- Symptoms. Succulents drop leaves by themselves or after small bumps. Leaves may fall off, despite having a healthy green color, or the leaves can turn a bit transparent, brown, or yellow.
- Causes. The dropping of leaves that are suculent are a sign of excessive irrigation, soils that hold excessive moisture, or dishes and saucers that prevent water from being able to escape out of the pot.
For certain succulents, particularly jade-related species like ( Crassula ovata), as well as Gollum Jade the loss of leaves can be an indication of the plant being stressed due to the fact that the soil around the roots is not moist enough.
Overly frequent watering, moisture retention soils, and pots with no good drainage could result in a succulent losing its leaves.
Succulents thrive in a sandy well-draining soils that dont retain much moisture around their roots in their natural habitat and have evolved to withstand drought.
So succulents are not tolerant of humid conditions and are prone to excessive watering.
A succulent that has lost leaves will let you know that you should reduce the frequency of watering to avoid more serious issues like root rot, which is the most frequent reason for dying succulents.
Most succulents can be saved if you alter the conditions of their growth to mimic the cycle of watering in their natural environment.
(Read my article on on how frequently to water your succulents for tips on how to water your succulents at various seasons and under different conditions).
How to Resurrect an Succulent that has lost Leaves
- Reduce the frequency with which you are watering your succulent. If youre watering your succulents more than once per week, this could be the reason why its dropping leaves. Make sure to water your succulents with an adequate soak, and allow your soil to completely dry out before watering it again. Typically, watering them at least every 2 weeks would be the best. Check the soil at the bottom of the pot by the drainage hole at the base. If it feels damp, it is best to delay watering. If the soil been dry for a while, it is the ideal moment to water.
- The succulent you plant is draining soil that is spongy and grit. The typical potting soil holds too much moisture for succulents that are drought-resistant to endure. Replace the soil using a special succulent and Cacti soil (available at garden centers and on Amazon) that is designed to mimic the succulents preferred soil type that has excellent drainage and a lightly air-aerated structure.
- Clean out trays and saucers regularly to ensure that excess water is able to be drained away from the roots of the succulents. They are not able to tolerate water-logged soil since it creates the conditions that cause root rot, which causes succulents to shed their leaves (or the leaves change color from yellow to or brown, or even black) and the succulent then dies.
Give your succulent two weeks for the soil to dry, and make sure that the plants soil is completely dry (by touching the soil with your finger through the drainage hole at the base to ensure that the soils dryness) prior to watering again.
After you have altered the conditions by using more porous succulents and cacti soil, and you are watering the succulent with the appropriate frequency, the succulent will cease losing leaves and begin to grow back.
But, if the succulent was left in soil that is saturated for a long period of time, it is more susceptible to root rot, and the plant will likely be unable to reproduce.
Succulent Leaves Shriveling, Wilting or Wrinkled
- Symptoms. Leaves look wrinkled, thin or shriveled, usually with droopy appearance.
- Causes. Stress from drought due to not watering the plant regularly enough, watering the plant too thinly or the soil creates water vapor on the surface, only to penetrate and reach the roots or the high temperatures indoors caused by artificial heat.
The majority of the time, the reason why a succulent dies is due to excessive watering since succulents are sensitive to excessive moisture around their roots and are more able to withstand drought.
However , succulents may still experience drought stress if theyre not regularly watered or if they are watered in a way that is too light or are located in a hot climate (whether outdoors or indoors) that causes the loss of water from the leaves and also evaporation from the soil.
Another reason why succulents may be experiencing drought stress is that the potting soil is baked hard, causing water to flow across the surface of the soil, without properly infiltrating and reaching the roots , which results in the leaves to shrink and appear thinner or shrink according to the type of succulent.
The stress of drought can cause succulent leaves to shrink wrinkle, wrinkle, wilt, and drop (depending upon the species)but leaves may be noticeably thinner, or even curled inwards, which is typical in aloe plants (read the article to learn more about aloe plants that have leaves that curl inwards).
This is due to succulents sucking away water from soil and later store it in their fleshy, thick leaves roots, tubers and roots.
When properly hydrated, the succulent leaves are solid and full of. When there is drought, the succulent will then use the water kept in the leaves to help to withstand drought in areas that have a low frequency of rainfall.
If the succulent draws on the water reserves contained in leaves, they will eventually become less slender and the surface may be wrinkled. The leaves may also lose their shape as the water also provides structural support for the succulent.
While succulents dont need to be watered as frequently as other plants, they require a good soak every time you water.
If you water your succulent too light, just the upper inch the soil is moist, and the water doesnt reach the root at the point where it is needed, and can cause of stress due to drought, resulting in a succulent that has shriveled.
Succulents need to be watered every two weeks after their potting soil is dried up around the roots to prevent root rot. However, it is important to ensure that the succulent is hydrated enough to keep the leaves firm and plump, not shrinking.
(Read my posts on watering jade, aloe vera, plants, and snake plants to learn all the best methods of irrigation for succulents).
Fortunately , its not difficult to revive dying succulents with wrinkled leaves because of under watering since they are capable of coping with drought stress more effectively than over-watering…
How to revive Succulents using leaves that are wrinkled and shriveling
- Put the plant in a pot of water for about 10 minutes or at least. While succulents dont need to be watered as frequently like other types of plants, they do best when their soil has received a thorough soak and then let it dry before replenishing the water. The placing of the drought-stricken succulent in a water basin lets the moisture needed to get into the root and also ensures that the soil is equally damp. This is particularly important when the surface of your potters mix is hard and suffocates water from the surface instead of allowing it to get to the roots. Remove the succulent from the water within 10 mins, and let the water be drained from drain holes.
- Give your soil a good soak. The succulents must be watered with an ample amount of water in order that any excess water drips off the bottom of the plant. This will ensure that the soil remains evenly moist, so that the roots of the succulents can absorb the water they need to replenish the water reserves within the leaves, allowing them to get back to their original appearance after a shriveled.
- Increase the frequency of watering succulents (if required). While succulents can withstand dry conditions, they require regular irrigation to avoid the leaves becoming wrinkled or falling. It is recommended to give succulents a bath every two weeks, with a deep soak to ensure that the leaves keep their plump, healthy appearance. But you must wait until the soil has begun to dry out before you water again in order to prevent root decay.
- To determine when your succulent requires watering, you can feel your fingers through the hole for drainage at the bottom of your pot. You can feel the soil with your fingers every two days after watering to gauge the time it takes it to completely dry out. If the soil is dry around the base of your pot that is the ideal moment to water. The method for watering succulents mimics the drought cycle, which is followed by the cycle of rainfall that soil moisture, which succulents have used to in their natural habitat.
- Refill the soil with potting mix if water is leaking across the top. The soil in potting that is peat tends to bake hard after drying out, and causes water to flow across the top. Succulents require an open, porous soil structure that permits water to penetrate even after it is dry and encourages drainage that is good to avoid root decay. Refill your potting soil with specially-formulated succulent and Cacti soil (available at garden centers or on Amazon) that is designed to mimic the well-draining soil characteristics of succulents native habitat.
- Make sure your succulent isnt close to any indoor sources of heat. A lot of heat in the evenings due to fires, forced air or radiators can cause the succulent to dry out quickly, causing the leaves to shrink. They thrive at temperatures of 55-80 degrees F (13degC-27degC) so long as they arent directly in the direction of the heating source.
Typically, with two or three cycles of watering (allowing for the soil time to dry out before re-watering) the succulent will be showing signs of recovery, with more lush leaves, less the appearance of drooping, and less of a look that is shriveled.
Succulent Growing Taller with leaves dying at the bottom
- Symptoms. The leaves of succulents at the bottom of the plant becoming brown, crisp and with an appearance that is dying. The succulent can also get taller and look leggy, with its drooping leaves.
- Causes. Insufficient sunshine causes succulents become in a sluggish manner and lose their lower leaves. Lower leaves of succulents also die and grow new leaves.
The leaves of succulents die at the bottom due to is not enough sun. When the plant is shaded, it will redirect energy to the younger leaves that are taller to seek more light. The leaves at the bottom become dry and crisp with the appearance of dying.
Sometimes, individual leaves may become large and weak when they grow in the direction of the strongest sunlight that can cause them to drop due to their own weight (this is typical of aloe vera plants that are in excessive shade).
Different types of succulents have different requirements for sun exposure, with aloe plants requiring more sun because they can withstand full sun. There are also succulents like string of pearls require intense indirect light or can burn, so it is crucial to know the amount of light your particular succulent requires.
If succulents are in the right light conditions, they remain small and maintain a more compact shape since they dont require a taller growth and are looking to get more sunlight.
If your succulent doesnt appear to be in a state of lethargy or drooping, and leaves are dying at the base of the plant, it is part of the natural cycle of growth or development for succulents. The dying leaves on the base of your plant are usually completely normal and are not a sign it is dying in general.
How to Resurrect Succulents using leaves dying at the bottom
- For reviving tall succulents that have lower leaves that are dying, make sure that the plant is the right place with adequate sunlight. Succulents require either direct light that is bright (such as pearls or string and snakes) or 4 to 6 hours of sunlight (such jade and aloe plants) to stay compact and avoid leggy growth.
- Introduce your plant to gradually more sunlight because a sudden change between shade and full sun could cause succulents to get burned. Transfer the succulents to a brighter or sunnier spot for a half-hour or more each day for several weeks, to allow the succulent to adjust to the higher levels of sunlight.
- If the plants growth has fallen over it can be difficult to restore the succulent back to its original shape and shape. In this case, cutting off stems or leaves to propagate or propagating offshoots, and even to create new plants is typically the only option to preserve the appearance of the succulent (all succulents can be propagated easily).
- The dying or dry leaves that are at the base of the succulent will not cause harm to the plant, but they should be removed in order to keep the succulent looking healthy. Carefully twist dead, brown leaves using your hands or with a pair of tweezers. If the leaves arent easily removed, put them in place for about a month and then try again instead of trying to remove them.
Succulent Dying due to cold
- Symptoms. Succulents may turn brown or black, depending on the soft, mushy texture on the leaves. However, symptoms may vary based upon the extent of the damage caused by cold.
- Causes. Most succulents are native to hot climates and typically suffer in temperatures lower then 50degF (10degC) and can die in frost, although some succulent plants can tolerate a light frost but this is rare.
Most succulent varieties are not cold hardy and die if they are exposed to temperatures lower then 50degF (10degC) for a long periods of time.
The majority of succulents grow easily at ambient temperatures, with a temperature range of 55degF to 80degF (13degC-27degC) which is thought to be the ideal aloe vera temperature range.
When succulents are exposed to frigid temperatures, or even frost, the stems and leaves can become mushy with a the appearance of black or brown.
The damage is usually more common on younger leaves of succulents.
How to Revive Cold Damaged Succulents
Find your succulent in an area in your garden or home that is always between 55degF and 80degF (13degC-27degC) and make sure that the leaves are directly in contact with windows since they could be significantly cooler than the rest of your house and reduce the amount of irrigation for the moment.
When the succulent is placed in a more stable and stable environment, the damage from cold should not necessarily be any more severe.
When the plants leaves seem like they are mushy, wait for a few days, or even weeks, and the mushy damaged area of the succulent will dry up and develop a callus.
When the mushy portion of the leaf is dried Cut the leaf back down to the damaged area as parts that are damaged by cold succulent are not able to recover, however the plant in its entirety is able to recover.
It is recommended to begin watering the succulent after you notice that the callus of the leaf cut has healed to avoid any other problems that could arise since cold damage may increase the likelihood for root rot.
It takes a lot of patience however, the succulent will eventually develop new leaves and begin to get back to normal after the cold-related damage.
Key Takeaways:
- The reason why a succulent dies is usually due to root rot caused by overwatering or slow drainage soils. Succulents are drought-resistant plants that need the soil to dry out between irrigation. The brown, yellow or black soft leaves suggest that they are dying due to the soil is not dry enough.
- The leaves of succulents change color due to excessive watering or sunburn. The presence of mushy, brown-colored succulents indicate that there is too much water around the root. The brown leaves of succulents with an appearance that is scorched could be due to sunburn caused by a sudden rise in the intensity of the suns rays.
- The leaves of succulents turn yellow as a result excessive moisture in the roots, caused by frequent watering, moist soils or pots with no drain holes at the bottom. The soil must dry between the watering. Leaves that appear soft and yellow could indicate root rot due to over-watering.
- Succulents can grow large and ungainly if theyre in a shade that is too intense. The majority of succulents require indirect, bright light or full sun. Therefore, the leaves of succulents grow taller in the direction of the strongest light. The leaves of tall succulents are usually less sturdy and may fall over under the weight of their own and die at their base.
- The reason that the leaves of succulents to shrink is because of stress caused by drought due to excessive watering or overwatering light. The succulents store water in their leaves to aid in way to survive. If your succulent is not water, it draws upon the water reserves stored in the leaves, which results in the appearance of shriveling.
- For reviving dying succulents, recreate the conditions of their natural habitat using well-draining, grit soil, that has the appropriate amount of sunlight for your succulent, and water once the soil has dried out. Cut off healthy portions of the succulent to propagate to help save the succulent. | https://botanyfactory.com/how-to-revive-a-dying-succulent-plant/ |
- 1.2 How long can succulents go without water?
- 1.3 Interesting facts about succulent’s water-absorbing ability
- 1.4 How much water does a succulent need – how to know?
- 1.5 Underwatering signs in succulents
- 1.6 Overwatered succulent’s signs
- 1.7 How to water a succulent indoor, outdoor and in the ground
- 1.8 1. How often should you water succulents indoor
- 1.9 How often to water succulents
- 1.10 2. Watering a succulent – outdoors
- 1.11 3. Watering a succulent – In the ground
- 1.12 PRO guidelines for watering a succulent
- 1.13 Final verdict
- 1.14 Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Watering a succulent
Succulents are truly a wonderful creation by God. They are a popular choice of indoor (Especially) and outdoor plants because of their vibrant colors, fascinating appearance, and great versatility. They are so easy to grow and care, and they require a very low effort when compared to other plants.
Since this blog post is all about watering a succulent, I will discuss all sorts of tips and techniques of how much water does a succulent need.
Succulents store the extra water in their leaves, roots, and stems for the later use. They are drought tolerant because they grow in the desert. Succulents can easily survive without water for a long time.
What people don’t understand about watering requirements of succulents
Most plant lovers think succulents have the same watering needs as other common plants do, but common plants need water regularly and succulents don’t.
People follow the same watering schedule for succulents as they do for their other plants. Plants die because of this and people don’t understand it.
Succulents are “desert plants”, they don’t need much water, and they can survive without it for a long time.
How long can succulents go without water?
Different succulents have different watering needs, and it also depends on the temperature, climate, soil, humidity, whether they placed indoor or outdoor? If outdoor, are the succulents planted in the ground or pots?
As a general guide, they can survive without water for months because they are drought tolerant.
For 3-4 weeks, you wouldn’t even notice any significant change in their appearance if you are placing your succulent under the scorching sunlight.
The exact answer to this question is impossible without knowing the above factors, but I will tell you this, that succulents can survive without water for some time.
Though succulents have less watering needs compared to other plants, it doesn’t mean you should ignore their drink.
Interesting facts about succulent’s water-absorbing ability
- We already know that succulents can survive without water due to their drought-tolerant ability, the reason is that they have evolved under stress and pressure given by drought.
- Unique cells in leaves, stems, and roots store water, and in arid conditions, these cells gradually release that water in moisture form which is used by the entire plant.
- This ability enables this plant to survive in the extreme drought.
- Imagine these “tiny cells” as water bottles or balloons.
- Succulents take water from the ground and fill up those tiny “water bottles”.
- The “tiny cells” retain this water until it is needed.
Wasn’t that interesting.1.Necessary tools for watering a succulent
You need to be prepared right from the beginning. If you don’t, then it will be hard to water your plant in the right way.
Following three tools will make it easy for you:
- A pot with a bottom drainage hole
- Well-draining soil
- Succulent tool kits.
This information is especially for the newbies. Succulents is not like your ordinary plants; they need a pot with a drainage hole at the bottom to reject the excess water.
Succulents are vulnerable to root rot so don’t forget a hole at the bottom.
Well-draining soil:
Watering a succulent is a delicate process, so a good potting mixture is necessary. If your potting soil is absorbing the water too much, then it can seriously affect your plants.
Most overwatered succulents become fussy because of the clumsiness, and if the soil is too wet, the roots will eventually die.
Succulents need a potting mixture that will provide fast drainage for water. Most garden plants have well-drained soil, but succulents need “fast” draining soil to avoid rot/
The large aggregates will allow the oxygen to reach the roots. There are hundreds of online markets where you can buy succulents and cacti potting mixtures, or you can make your own.
You can use a 2:1 ratio of potting soil with the coarse sand mixture, and a handful of perlites to allow the water to drain faster.
Though it not necessary like the above two, it very handy. A small tool kit will save your gardening time.
A squeeze bottle, small brush to rub off the dust from leaves, a small shovel, spoon, and other little gardening tools like that will help you a lot.
You may not know the significance of these little things yet, but trust me, these things are lifesavers.
How much water does a succulent need – how to know?
There are a total of 2 techniques to determine such a thing. It is not necessary to remember the following two techniques, just note any one of them for your convenience.
1. Checking the wetness of the soil by applying 2-inch finger rule:
- 2-inch finger rule is simple to understand. Insert your two fingers “2-inch” deep into the soil near the base of the plant.
- Then, check if the soil is moist or not. If it is totally dry, your plants need water, and if it is partially moist, avoid watering.
- Overwatered succulent is more dangerous then underwatering for the health and growth of the plant.
- So, you need to be on the point before watering your plant.
Is there any schedule to determine if a succulent needs water or not?
There are no schedules or timings to determine when you need to water your crassula (succulents).
Roots absorb water at different rates depending on its maturity and season.
Different succulent families have different absorption rates like crassula family is different than echeveria in terms of water needs, and absorption rates.
It largely depends on you to closely check your plant’s appearance and behavior to determine whether it needs water or not.
2. Examine the leaves of your succulent to determine whether it needs water or not
A great way to determine when to water and when not to is by checking and examining the leaves of your succulent.
The following techniques will help you in doing so.
Underwatering signs in succulents
I have already mentioned above that succulents store water in their leaves in the form of moisture with the help of “balloon-like small cells”.
The basic function of these water-absorbing cells is to provide moisture to the entire plant in case of drought, but you can’t sit tight by knowing these cells will help the plant despite following signs displayed by the leaves:Wrinkled and shriveled leaves
These signs indicate that your plant is severally underwatered. Even those water-absorbing cells are there to help, but wrinkled and shriveled leaves mean water-absorbing cells are exhausted. This is a clear sign of underwatering.
Overwatered succulent’s signs
- Excessive water causes tiny water balloons (cell) to overfill and explode.
- This explosion of cells results in a deep cell damage in the structure of the leaves and rotting it (and roots).
- You will know it by the appearance of the leaves. The first sign will be discoloration of the leaves as they begin to become yellowish form green or translucent.
- Pick one leaf form the top, and it will feel squishy and soft rather than feeling firm.
- Along with other signs, some leaves will drop off due to the weight of excessive water absorbed in them. The leaves just can’t handle the overweight.
You cannot give water to your plant in this condition. It will be difficult, but it necessary to save your plant from wet conditions.
Solutions for under watering
- The biggest sign of an under-watered succulent is the wrinkled appearance of the leaves.
- Insert your fingers in 2-inch deep in the soil, and the soil will feel dry as hell.
- Give it a good drink. Water at the base of the roots. Put a dish underneath, and wait for 5 minutes after you are done.
- Let the succulent absorb as much water as it can.
- Spray some water on the leaves as well.
- After 5 minutes, remove the extra water from the dish. Keep your plant indoor.
- You don’t need to wait for 5 minutes if you are living in a humid area. Keep that in mind.
- Water 3-4 times a month in the summer.
- Keep tracking the appearance of leaves. They should look normal at this point.
Not all succulents show the same signs
Succulents like other plants tell us about their condition like shrunken, shriveled, and wrinkled leaves is a water deficiency. Soft, squishy, mushy leaves, and discoloration is an indication of damage caused by overwatering. But some succulents regularly shut down their older leaves as they grow.
This phenomenon is common among succulents like echeveria. Echeveria plants sloughed off the lower leaves turned brown due to aging.
You will notice these leaves won’t be shriveled up; they will thin out to a very dry feel, won’t lose its color rather turns into a brown leaf.
Such leaves don’t store water anymore. You can leave these leaves on the plant to be dropped off naturally or you can remove them by yourself.
Solutions for overwatered succulents
- Firstly, don’t panic. This is the important part. People do panic knowing they have overwatered their succulent.
- They use different methods, tips, and tricks to revive their succulents and in doing so, they kill their plants.
- Immediately move it to a sunny spot for few hours only. If it is night time, 8-10 hours of grow light would be ideal.
- Move it under any light source if you don’t have a grow light setup, leave it here until morning.
- Place it under the morning rising sun. It is highly beneficial for your plant. Keep it there until 10: am.
- After that, keep in near a south-facing window where it can receive indirect sunlight for 4-6 hours. At night, use grows light for a couple of hours.
- If you only use grow light, mix it with indirect sunny hours so that excess water can evaporate from the roots, soil, and leaves.
- Even with the grow light, keep morning sunny hours in the schedule.
- Keep this practice for about a week. Meanwhile, check the appearance of the leaves. They shouldn’t be soft and mushy in touch at that point.
- Check the soil for the wetness too. If the soil is wet even if the leaves are normal (not soft & mushy), keep the schedule of sunny hours, and grow light going.
- Once the leaves feel normal in touch, and the soil isn’t wet anymore, you can back to your normal schedule of lighting, but don’t water your plant yet.
- Err on the side of too dry for now.
How to water a succulent indoor, outdoor and in the ground
People may think that it doesn’t matter whether a succulent is in the ground, pot, indoor, or outdoor. Watering should be the same for all, but I am afraid they are wrong.
Watering a succulent is slightly different for all of them.
There are many differences between each. In this section, I will explain the proper watering techniques required to grow a healthy succulent indoor, outdoor, and in the ground.
Lest we have a look at each:
- Indoor watering
- Outdoor watering
- Ground watering
1. How often should you water succulents indoor
If you are eager to grow your succulent indoor in a pot, or in a container, then you must know there is a difference in temperature, and wear & tear of the overall climate compared to outdoor.
So, watering a succulent indoor could be easy, or tricky depending on your knowledge of the plants.
There should a check and balance on how much and when to water indoor succulents.
The correct way to water your succulent is soak and dry method
- First, fast-draining soil is required. I have already mentioned that part above.
- The best way to water your succulent is by using soak and dry method in which: We completely soak the soil and let it dry out fully before another “watering a succulent session”.
- When your succulent is soaked, it will absorb the water as much as it can. Then you must wait it dry out completely –to the bottom or at least 2-inches from the top of the soil.
- Even if it is dry, let it be for a couple of more days because succulents can withstand drought as mentioned above in the “overwatering & underwatering” portion.
- Use a hose, faucet, or squeeze bottle to pour water. Avoid spray at all costs.
- A light spray doesn’t promote good growth and besides, the spray will shoot water on the leaves, and water on the leaves promotes fungus and decay.
- Soak and dry method is applied by almost all the succulent maniacs, spraying or splashing water on the top of your plant will get you nowhere to trust me.
How often to water succulents
- Different succulents have different watering needs, it largely depends on the type of succulent you have.
- For example, a red stem crassula “rubricaulis” needs water once in every week in the growing or propeller plant (Crassula Falcata) needs water 2-3 times a month in the growing season.
So how should you know?
Don’t worry if you can’t “Id” your plant. The general guidelines are already explained in this article.
General watering needs of all succulents are pretty much the same, there is only a gap of a couple of days among each.For indoor
- Give a good drink to your plant once every 5-7 days in the growing season.
- Gradually reduce its watering needs by one to two days in the next couple of months till the dormant season.
- By doing that, your plant will adapt to the cold conditions of the winter because we don’t water our plants regularly in the dormant season (winter).
- Sunlight is not that intense in winter, and succulents are prone to root rot, so we prefer less watering. Besides, succulents can live without water for a long time.
If you are living in a hot and dry climate, you can regularly water your succulent once or even twice a week due to the additional temperature and dryness, but if your area is humid, you might want to cut back some water,
In humid conditions, there is already moisture available in the atmosphere, and your succulent can absorb it. Any additional water will promote the root rot. You plant will show signs of it.
In such conditions, pour water once in every 14 days or maybe less, better dry than wet.
If you are not sure that succulent can go a week or more without water, just try it! I am sure you will not be disappointed.Let’s water your succulent
- Get a drainage disk, or dish to place it underneath the pot. You can get a dish of any size. I’ll explain its usage.
- Place your pot(s) on the dish.
- Get a kettle or squeeze bottle and water at the base of the plant.
- Don’t pour water on the leaves because adding or splashing water on the leaves support fungus or decay.
- Keep pouring water until the water starts to drain out from the pot into the dish/dish underneath.
- Check if the water has started to come out of the pot or not. If the water is draining from the pot while watering, stop pouring.
- Apply this method for all pots placed on the dish underneath them.
2. Watering a succulent – outdoors
The method of watering a succulent for indoor, and outdoor is the same. Pour the water at the base of the plant, and then let the soil soak the water, then let it dry out completely.
The differences between indoor and outdoor are the temperature, humidity, and wear and tear of the outside conditions.
Sun rays are more extreme outside, and the blow of wind will dry out the moisture in the leaves and stema, so outdoor succulents need more water than indoor ones.Let’s water your outdoor succulent
- Watering 2 times a week is normal if your plant is sitting on a sunny spot for most of the day. Whether direct sun or indirect sun, the temperature will be greater than indoors, so watering 2 times a week seems normal.
- The airflow is stronger outside than inside, and if that airflow is warm (in the summer), the water in your pots will evaporate faster along with the stored water in water cells, and in the leaves of succulents.
- So, it’s more than likely you will water your plant a little more in terms of quantity and frequency.
- On the other hand, if you are living in a cooler, and more humid area, you will need to water your plants lesser than the indoor ones. Outdoor plants will face more humidity and cold.
Let your plants sit in the dish for 10 minutes after watering
We learned the basal roots of the plants soak more drained water collected in the dish or plate underneath the plants. We call it capillary action.
For indoor plants, we let the pots sit in that water for 4-5 minutes, but for the outdoor ones, leave them for 10 minutes to soak as much water as they can.
3. Watering a succulent – In the ground
Watering a succulent that is in the ground isn’t tricky. Ground-based succulents can also grow well. They too may need to be watered weekly depending on the temperature and overall conditions outside.
Old and established succulents need less care because, they have a stronger root system, and they can withstand drought way better than the new succulents.
A common problem with the ground-based succulents is the standing water after a watering session, o rain. Succulents are so much prone to root rot and this can be a disaster.
It is recommended to replace the existing soil with a potting mixture that drains well.
Mound the soil or raise the bed of the areas where you plant succulents. A 1-2-foot mound of potting mixture/organic compost mixed with perlite will help ensure good drainage.
That drained water can be absorbed by the soil underneath our organic potting mixture, but it won’t hurt the succulent because we have already raised the bed.
PRO guidelines for watering a succulent
- You need to follow the same watering schedule as you do for your outdoor succulents. Use the same soak and dry method.
- Ground-based succulent’s roots spread deeper in the ground, so it is better to increase the quantity of water to reach those deep roots.
- We know that a 2-inch finger rule is applied for the succulents that grow in the pots to check the dryness or wetness of the soil, but for the ground ones.
- You need to place your fingers about, 6-inches deep in the soil to check for the wetness or dryness.
- Early morning watering is the best time to water ground-based succulents.
- This allows the water to reach the roots and hydrated the entire plant to face the after-noon heatwave. It will also prevent sunburns.
- Again, better dry than wet, don’t go overboard.
Final verdict
Watering a succulent could be tricky for some, and easy for others. Succulents are survivors. Their toughness enables them to survive even in the desert. But, that doesn’t mean we should play “Man vs Wild” with our succulents.
Though they are drought-tolerant, proper watering sessions will ensure idealistic growth.
Our article is based on several types of research, and experience of gardeners. If you follow the basic steps of watering a succulent indoor, outdoor, and in the ground, I believe you can groom a healthy plant in any climate.
Be on alert if you have an overwatered succulent, or underwatered succulent in your home. They are the ones that die quickly.
Proper watering is the most important in succulent’s growth, and every succulent maniac knows that. | https://crassulacare.com/watering-a-succulent/ |
Cyanotis kewensis [Sy-an-NOH-tiss][Kew-EN-sis] is a trailing plant most often referred to as Teddy Bear Vine.
It is known for its chocolate brown fuzzy leaves (hence its common name, Teddy Bear Vine).
The plant is in the Commelinaceae family and is synonymous with the following:
- Cyanotis beddomei
- Belosynapsis kewensis
- Cyanotis kewoides
- Erythrotis beddome
- Tonningia kewensis
Cyanotis kewensis is a creeping plant with soft brownish hairs on the stems and fleshy, olive-green leaves.
While green on the top, the smooth-edged leaves are red on the bottom. They can be as long as 2″ inches and as wide as 1″ inch.
Native to southern India, Cyanotis kewensis prefers zones 10a to 11b (warmer climates).
The plant is happiest outside with the proper temperatures and lighting, but it can also be an indoor plant.
Since it is a creeping plant, it thrives in a hanging planter or as a groundcover.
In addition, it received the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
Some of the common names of Cyanotis are:
- Teddy Bear Vine
- Teddchysar Plant
Quick Facts On Cyanotis Kewensis
- Family: Commelinaceae
- Light: Bright direct sun, Dappled sun, Part-sun
- Temperature: 60° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit; Cold hardy in zones 10a-11b
- Water: Moderate; allow to dry in between waterings
- Fertilizer: Use a fertilizer twice a month during the growing season
- Propagation: Stems, offsets, leaf cuttings
- Common Problems: Spider mites, aphids
Cyanotis Kewensis Care
What Does the Teddy Bear Vine Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The Teddy Bear Vine is a creeping succulent with brown furry stems, giving it its teddy bear name.
While the stems are brown, the leaves are thick and green on the top and red on the undersides.
It’s a modestly sized creeping plant with a maximum height of roughly 8″ inches and a width of 2′ feet.
The plant looks best in a hanging basket or flat surface where its long stems can lie.
When Does Teddy Bear Vine Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
Depending on the variety, the plant blooms in the summer or winter/spring with tiny blue-purple flowers.
While the plant does produce flowers, it’s not the most defining feature as the flowers are almost insignificant.
If planted indoors, there’s a possibility that your plant may not bloom at all. But that doesn’t take away from the striking brown stems and dual-colored leaves.
The flowers are not fragrant.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The Teddy Bear Vine loves the full sun, dappled sun, or partial sun.
However, if your average summer temperature is above 70° degrees Fahrenheit, the plant will be happier indoors near a window.
The plant is cold and hardy to roughly 45° degrees Fahrenheit. So, if you live in a cooler climate, you can either bring the plant indoors when the season changes or keep it as a full-time houseplant.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Teddy Bear Vine?
The Teddy Bear Vine enjoys water but does not like soggy soil. To ensure you’re not overwatering, let the soil dry between waterings.
Water more in the spring and summer, but slow down during the winter.
To increase humidity for the plant, you can either spray its leaves with a fine mist of water or put the container on a tray of pebbles with water.
If you use the pebble-water method, ensure you don’t let the water in the tray touch the bottom of the pot.
For this purpose, the water is only meant to provide humidity, not to water the roots.
The plant thrives best with bi-monthly feedings with liquid fertilizer. However, it’s unnecessary to keep feeding the plant when fall ends.
What Is The Best Soil For Cyanotis Plant, And When Should You Transplant?
The Teddy Bear Vine is happiest with potting soil meant for succulents. Although the plant is not required to thrive, succulent potting soil helps the soil drain properly.
If you plan to plant multiple Teddy Bear Vines, you can make your succulent potting soil by adding perlite, vermiculite, or pumice to regular potting soil.
The plant fares best if you repot it once a year.
It’s not because the plant will have outgrown its current container (since it stays relatively compact), but because the Teddy Bear Vine loves fresh soil.
Therefore, you can reuse the same pot with new soil. When repotting, be gentle with the roots as they can be fragile.
Does Cyanotis Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
The plant isn’t very high maintenance at all, but there are a couple of things you can do to keep it healthy.
It’s best to remove old stems with no leaves growing on them. Then, you can use these stems for propagation.
The Teddy Bear Vine doesn’t need much other than getting enough sunlight and water.
However, if you want the plant to have shorter stems, you can trim them at any time.
How To Propagate Cyanotis Plant?
Besides its unique leaves and low maintenance, one of the best things about the Teddchysar Plant is its ease of propagation.
If you prune the plant in the spring, you can use the pruned shoots to propagate.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Use a knife or scissors to cut a few healthy 3″ shoots from the plant.
- Prepare a small pot with amended potting soil.
- Place the small shoots in tiny pots.
- Ensure that the soil is moist.
- Place the pot in a shady area of your home to encourage rooting.
- Once it’s rooted, you’ve got a baby plant! Congrats!
Another propagation method, although not as easy, is water. You can place the shoots in water mixed with a couple of charcoal pieces.
Keep these in mind:
- Before placing foil on the top of the pot, you’ll need to make small holes for the shoots to come through.
- Then, place a piece of foil over the small pot.
- Keep the pot in a warm area until roots form.
- Then you can transfer the plant into a new pot with soil.
Cyanotis Beddomei Pests And Diseases
The fantastic thing about Cyanotis Beddomei is that it’s generally pest and disease-free.
And the pests that do occasionally make your Cyanotis plant home are easily treatable.
Aphids and spider mites are your biggest concerns with this plant.
Thankfully, a trip to your local nursery or hardware store for neem oil can quickly solve the problem.
Suggested Use For Cyanotis Kewensis
The Cyanotis Kewensis plant is mainly used as an indoor hanging plant so that you can control light and temperature.
However, it can also be a centerpiece at a large dining table or entry table with cascading stems.
The Tonningia Kewensis is popular in rock or container gardens if kept outdoors.
In addition, the plant is more likely to bloom if kept outside rather than indoors.
However you choose to use the Tonningia Kewensis, you’re sure to enjoy it. | https://bestplants.com/cyanotis-kewensis-care/ |
It is well known that in a moderately humid climate one corn plant consumes 200-250 liters of water during the growing season, and an adult cabbage plant requires 10 liters of water per day. It is good when that amount of water is available to the plant. And if it is not enough? And in general, have you thought about how plants fight drought?
Ephemera (cereals, poppies, crucifers) avoid drought, as if overtaking it - they develop very rapidly. In 5-6 weeks from the beginning of the wet season, they have time to bloom and give seeds. The soil dries up, drought sets in, and the seeds calmly await their time.
Ephemeral geophytes (tulips, sand sedge, etc., some authors call them ephemeroids), in addition to seeds, still have underground storage organs, protected from water loss by special covers.
Xerophytes are more cunning. Some of them (sclerophytes) develop a powerful root system up to several meters deep and reach moisture-containing layers or groundwater (when the Suez Canal was dug, the root of a camel thorn was found at a depth of 33 m!). Others, in various ways, sharply reduce the intensity of metabolism: the stems and leaves of many wormwoods are covered with hairs, which quickly die off and are filled with air (weak heat exchange and low heating of the leaves); some plants have shiny leaves and stems that reflect sunlight, or turn the leaves edge-to-edge towards the light; saxaul has no leaves at all (and does not give shade!), but its branches are green and photosynthesize.
Still others (poikiloxerophytes) dry out in the absence of moisture, but after wetting, they quickly restore the ability to vegetate (mosses, lichens). However, the most interesting is another group of xerophytes - succulents. In favorable periods of life, they accumulate water in themselves, and during a drought they use it extremely economically.
In some literary sources, xerophytes are divided into other groups, somewhere else they divide xerophytes and succulents, but all this has little effect on the logic of our narrative. The main thing is that xerophytes (from the Greek xeros - dry and fiton - plant) are plants of dry habitats and successfully cope with drought. Some of them can lose up to 60% of their water without death.
Let's dwell a little more on succulents. They do not in any way relate to botanical classification, and therefore you will not find them either in various Systems of the Plant Kingdom, or among taxonomic ranks and taxa. Just like many other "informal" associations, for example: trees, herbs, ephemera, ornamental crops, medicinal plants, etc. Figuratively speaking, succulentism is a way of life for xerophytic plants.
Succulents (from the Latin succulentus - juicy, fleshy) are a group of perennial xerophytic plants that are capable of accumulating water in a highly developed specialized tissue - an aquiferous parenchyma (up to 2-3 tons) and having a number of morphological and physiological adaptations for its economical use in a dry period. Such devices include the presence of a powerful cuticle (protective film), a special arrangement of leaves, often the absence of leaves, a special type of photosynthesis, the presence of thorns or thorns, a special shape of the stem, etc.
According to some estimates, arid (dry) zones occupy up to 35% of the earth's surface and encircle the entire planet. Therefore, succulents are widespread in America, and in Africa, and in Eurasia, and in Australia. Different authors count from 15 to 20 thousand species of succulents belonging to no less than 80 families! Note that not always all representatives of a family (and sometimes even a genus) growing in the same ecological conditions belong to the same type of xerophytes.
So, out of 331 genera of Euphorbiaceae (family Euphorbiaceae), only seven genera are recognized as succulent (although this is also a lot - from one and a half to two thousand species). In addition to them, the main "suppliers" of succulents are the families of cactus, mesembriantemic, fatty, orchid, bromeliad, asclepian and many others.
The whole "beauty" of the parenchyma (a special tissue for assimilation or release of moisture) is that water in one form or another makes up 95% of the contents of this tissue - these are real storage tanks! Water-storing tissue in plants can be located in the leaves, stem, and underground organs. Accordingly, leaf (aloe, agave, mezemba, haworthia), stem (cacti, adenium, stapelia) and root (milkweed, brachistelms) succulents are distinguished. It is important to note here that many species simultaneously have succulent leaves and a stem or a stem and a "root", etc. Therefore, the above division is very, very arbitrary …
"How does all this relate to our real life?" - you ask. It is very important.
First, the dry (especially in winter) air of our premises suits the inhabitants of deserts and semi-deserts - they do not need to be sprayed or any humidifiers should be placed nearby.
Secondly, you can easily leave your wards for a week or a month (and in winter - for months!) And leave with peace of mind even on a business trip, even on vacation, or even to a summer cottage. And for this you do not have to turn to a friend or a kind neighbor who will periodically take care of your plants - they will simply have a small dry period, to the presence of which in their life they are perfectly adapted.
Thirdly, photosynthesis in succulents proceeds in such a way that they release massive amounts of oxygen in the dark (when you are at home), and, unlike other plants, they emit very little carbon dioxide into the room per day.
Fourthly, rare watering will save your time 3 times, which is so expensive in our fast-paced age. Why three? Calculate for yourself: first of all, watering time is reduced by reducing the number of waterings. As one of the consequences, succulents grow more slowly, you need less time to form and prune (for those species that generally require it). And finally, due to a more rare transplant, since the "time of operation" of the soil mixture in the planting tank is lengthened. After all, it is no secret that the suitability of the substrate is often determined primarily by the quality of the water used for irrigation, as well as the correspondence of its quantity to the volume of the pot. As a result, some cacti and lithops (like the "best" succulents) with proper agricultural technology can feel quite normal and bloom profusely without transplanting for 5-7 years!
And yet … If you think that succulents do not like frequent watering, then this is a simple misconception. They love water, they love it! And during the growing season, in the presence of more or less optimal conditions for development (light, temperature, fresh air), you can water most succulent plants almost as often as other representatives of indoor flora. But succulents have learned well how to make do with the available amount of water (even if it is very little), for which they have worked out all their tricks. That is why drought is not a problem for them. | https://mygardenspaces.com/6601034-grow-succulents-care-cultivation-reproduction-kinds-photo-and-mdash |
Have your ZZ plant leaves suddenly started drooping or yellowing with soft brown tips in the growing season? Beware; it could be a severe plant-root problem.
Read on to find out how your ZZ plant reacts to different root problems with their solutions.
Table of Contents Show
- ZZ Plant Roots [Healthy vs. Sick]
- Symptoms of Unhealthy ZZ Plant Roots
- How to Repot ZZ Plant
- From Editorial Team
ZZ Plant Roots [Healthy vs. Sick]
ZZ or Zamioculcas zamiifolia is a tropical perennial plant native to Africa and grows about 2-4 feet tall in its lifetime.
However, it may take years to attain that height because the ZZ roots will grow relatively slowly.
Being a succulent plant, it boasts a bulbous root that resembles potato rhizomes and is known to store water to keep the top-plant hydrated.
Therefore, you should regularly move it to a large pot every 1-2 years to encourage sizeable and healthy root growth.
Here is how you can tell whether your ZZ plants are healthy or sick.
|Healthy ZZ Roots||Sick ZZ Roots|
|Appearance||Bulbous, fleshy, and thick||Slimy and mushy|
|Color||White and crisp tips||Gray, black, or brown|
|Smell||Smells like the soil||Foul or musty odor resembling slightly sulphurous|
|Growth||Grows as big as the pot size with thin, long feeder roots||New growth stops,turns mushy overtime, and loses volume|
Remember, overwatering, fungal growth, and root-bound are significant problems for ZZ plants, leading to sick or decayed root growth.
Symptoms of Unhealthy ZZ Plant Roots
Generally, ZZ plant stems look tall and sturdy with uniform, glossy deep-green leaves at each interval.
Therefore, you could tell your plant is under duress when the leaves start changing color, stems turn droopy, or the plant stops growing altogether.
Here are some significant symptoms indicating the root is suffering.
1. Yellowing Foliage
Yellowing foliage is one of the earliest signs of root problems in any plant.
ZZ plant is no different when it exhibits yellowing foliage, usually starting from the outer bottom leaves and slowly taking over the top fold.
Yellowing leaves on ZZ plants are commonly due to overwatering, which drowns the roots and prevents oxygen supply.
Over time, the roots turn soggy, leading to fungal growth that spreads throughout the stem and leaves, inviting a color change.
Sometimes excessive or low light may also invite leaf yellowing, but the color remains faded as opposed to deep yellowing of bottom leaves.
2. Brown Tips
Although rare, severe root problems will exhibit browning leaf tips in ZZ plants.
Generally, browned tips will follow after the yellowing of leaves and are often accompanied by mushy and wrinkled leaves or drooping stems.
Remember, browning tips is not commonly seen in ZZ plant, often indicating overwatering and root rot problem.
Once the root stops getting oxygen and nutrients from the soil, the leaves will fail to store water.
Therefore, the water abundance will transition to water deficiency in the plant, resulting in browning tips.
You should quickly fix this issue before the new growth falters and turn delicate or mushy, even killing the plant.
3. Stunted Growth
Stunted or stalled growth is another sign of a root problem in the ZZ plant.
The root stress, root-bound condition, and root decay may lead to stalled growth of new development, including leaves and stems.
ZZ plants that are severely root-bound will struggle to grow new shoots and foliage due to the absence of a growing medium.
Similarly, root stress due to excess fertilization and root decay will fail to supply oxygen, water, and nutrients essential for top growth.
You would witness small new leaves that fail to flourish and top-stem failing to extend.
4. Drooping and Wrinkled Stems
Be wary of drooping, soft, or wrinkled stems that indicate root stress problems from severe overwatering.
Remember, these succulents hold water in their roots; hence, overwatering them will unnecessarily drown their roots.
The wet condition is more likely to invite harmful pathogens that infest the root system, which affects the shoot’s structure.
Along with changing foliage color, you would witness the stems falling under their weight due to lack of water in the branches.
Similarly, the dried stalks will get wrinkled or turn soft, after which there is no going back.
Temperature stress due to high temperature may also lead to droopy stems, which is more prevalent in the sun-exposed plant.
5. Leaf Curling
ZZ plant curls its leaves to minimize the risk of transpiration, commonly from high temperature and low humidity prevalent in summer or during direct lighting.
Over or under-watering your ZZ plant may also invite curling sometimes. Although rare, under-watering the succulent will encourage it to use up the reserve.
Once the water source dries up, the leaves will begin transpiring, and the plant will curl its leaves to prevent losing water.
Similarly, ZZ plants suffering from root rot due to overwatering will prevent moisture from reaching the leaves, leading to transpiration and curled leaves.
6. Foul Smell
When your ZZ plant begins emitting a foul smell, you can be sure that the root rot problem is severe.
The prolonged root rot condition is caused by the increasing number of anaerobic bacteria that eats up the roots and deprives the plant of oxygen.
It will lead to the decomposing root system. Gently slide out the plant and brush the roots to check the status.
You would notice the roots emitting a foul odor that smells like a swamp, rotten meat, or slightly sulphuric and looks dark and mushy.
You would also witness stunted growth, faded leaves, and severely drooping stems.
How to Repot ZZ Plant
Remember, you can save your plant from severe damage by treating it during the early progression of root rot.
Once the root rot has prolonged, you can only salvage the plant by removing the infected parts.
Start with inspecting the root rot condition and salvaging the remaining healthy rhizomes at the earliest.
Step 1: Collect the Necessary Materials
- Collect necessary tools and materials like the succulent mix, organic compost, pruning shear, isopropyl alcohol, gloves, fungicide, hydrogen peroxide, and container.
- Rub the pruning shear and gloves with isopropyl alcohol to disinfect them.
Step 2: Prune and Remove the Infected Root
- Tilt your pot and grab the plant by the base to pull it out gently.
- Remove the excess dirt from the root using gloves. You can also wash it off with water.
- Identify the infected parts that look mushy, dark, and smelly.
- Using the pruning shear, gently cut off the infected parts, including feeder roots.
- However, beware of cutting through the mother root system, which may permanently stress the plant.
- Similarly, you can trim off excessively yellowed or brown leaves to redirect energy toward the new growth.
Step 3: Sanitize the Plant Root
- Apply fungicide to the root to kill off any remaining bacteria.
- Take the fungicidal powder and dab it on the recently cut root, or dip the entire root system in a solution of one tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide mixed in one liter of water.
Step 4: Repot the Plant
- ZZ plant prefers well-draining or succulent potting mix containing organic potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, and horticultural charcoal.
- Next, fill the new pot with the potting soil up to half and insert the plant root first.
- Now fill the vacant pot space, leaving one inch of space on the top.
- Gently dab the soil to hold the plant in its place.
- Leave the plant as it is for a few days before watering, as it allows the roots to settle in the new medium.
- Resume the watering but do it sparingly to let the roots recover fully.
- Keep the plant in indirect sunlight and fertilize only after a month or two when the roots become sturdy.
Learn how often to water your ZZ plant at different times of the year.
From Editorial Team
Taking precautions will always help you avoid ZZ plant root problems.
Maintain the soil pH slightly acidic ranging from 6 to 7, and provide it with a balanced 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer monthly during spring and summer.
Water every 2-3 weeks, provide ample indirect sunlight, use pots with multiple drainage holes, and repot the plant every two years to keep roots healthy. | https://plantscraze.com/zz-plant-roots/ |
Cactii being forest dwelling species thrive without water as they retain moisture in their tissues. You might be wondering what Succulents are? Succulent means juicy. The leaves and stems of the leaves of these plants store nutrients that help them to grow and thrive on their own. Both of these plants are ideal for beginners as they need relatively less amount of care and look great. If you wish to grow these in your home, then browse through our diverse range and pick the best Cacti and Succulents online. Place the plants in the sunny pots of your home and put them in the right sized pots. | https://www.ugaoo.com/live-plants/cactii-succulents.html?dir=asc%E2%88%A8der%3Dprice&mode=list&outdoor=154&type_of_plants=162 |
They are shooting skywards now. Rabbits have picked up on the presence of some newly planted ones in the forest garden and begun excavating their tasty roots. The two year old specimen (protected from the lusty young lapines) smells incredible just from touching the succulent stems and swelling leaf bracts. Time to harvest!
Angelica archangelica is a member of the parsley family. It has a wild cousin in the ancient flower-rich meadows that surround us, but the garden variety, used for medicinal and culinary purposes for centuries, is bigger (can grow up to 2 metres) and rather more spectacular. In high summer the older plants may flower (but only if they feel like it!) and put out huge spherical umbels of yellowy green florets, producing seed which sprouts quickly in surrounding soil, ensuring the continuation of the colony.
The energy in these plants is palpable. I remember doing tai chi in the garden one summer, and being totally unable to concentrate in the face of the etheric 'chorus' floating sunward from a great clump of these blooms. The Sami people made musical instruments with an amazing clarinet sound from the fluted stems: standing next to these joyful plants was like being up close and personal with a whole heavenly orchestra. In the end I stopped trying to do tai chi and just let the experience wash over me.
I was thinking about this yesterday when I cut some big branching stems from the two year old angelica plant (the optimum age for culinary use), and the captivating scent rose up instantly and enveloped me. In the kitchen I separated the leaves, put some in with the rhubarb to simmer gently, and prepared the stems for candying. The bigger leaves went into a plastic bag in the fridge to try making dolmades without the benefit of a grapevine. The leaves in the rhubarb were there to sweeten and reduce the need for sugar. I had thought to remove them after cooking, but left them in the serving bowls because they looked so green and pretty against the pink rhubarb. As it turned out, they too were delicious and sweet, so we ate them as part of the dessert.
Along the way with the candying I discovered something nice: on day one I had some bits of syrupy angelica which were too small to process for later use. They were nice and soft and tasty. So I whizzed them up with some double cream, and a little castor sugar. Result was wow factor thick syllabub-like stuff. This made a great addition to fresh fruit salad, but would also have been a sensational fresh cream filling for a sponge cake.
For a savoury dining experience, try blanching the bigger leaves to use for dolmades (as a substitute for vine leaves, which don't suit Welsh mountains), with a filling of minced meat, cooked cooled long grain rice, and finely chopped celery, onions, tomatoes and fresh oregano. Pack the parcels into an ovenproof dish, with garlic cloves tucked in between, and a little water added. Cover the dish with foil and cook in a moderate oven - around 180 degrees Celsius - for about 45 minutes. Then leave the dolmades to cool in their juice.
Another approach (I discovered this when mounting a rescue operation) is to use the same mixture as for dolmades but without the rice. If, like me, on the first dolmades run, you blanched the angelica leaves for too long (oops! Note to self: leave in the boiled water, off the heat, for a scant 5 minutes next time....), all is not lost. Use the wilted leaves to line an oiled baking tin or dish. Load in the meat and vegetable mixture but without the rice, with seasoning added. Cover the top with more wilted angelica leaves. Season and sprinkle with a little oil. Cover tightly with foil and bake as for dolmades. The result is a moist meaty, loaf in succulent and tender angelica-flavoured greenery. This combo reminds me of the fresh contrast you get using Florence fennel, or the delightful counterpoint of nettles on the outside of Yarg cheese. The loaf is good hot, still warm after your afternoon in the garden (I try to cook before lunchtime so I can come in broken and winded from an afternoon's gardening and collapse rapidly with a meal I don't have to do much to), or cold next day with salad. The day I made this I also had a large pot of Greek Briam on the go and it went really well with that. (Briam is like ratatouille but crucially without the tomatoes: it is cooked gently in olive oil with the lid on, and includes chunks of waxy new potato, peppers, courgettes, garlic, onion, lots of oregano, and aubergine if you have some, but also excellent without. It freezes well so you can make huge batches when courgettes come into glut or when you have a lot of veg to use up fast.
Our exploitation of angelica can also extend to the roots and seeds. Roots can be boiled or roasted, and, if dried and ground, can be used as a baking ingredient. Angelica essential oil is extracted from the seeds, and these can also be dried and used for a medicinal and refreshing tisane. You could make a herbal tincture by steeping the seeds in alcohol (see any good herbal for how to do this). Angelica is credited with medicinal properties for respiratory problems and aids digestion. A soothing syrup made by simmering seeds in sugar and water could be a good thing to have on hand for winter coughs and sore throats, or you could use the sugar directly on the crushed green seeds straight after harvesting to leech out the curative properties. Layer green seeds and sugar in a glass jar and leave overnight. Strain and bottle the resulting liquid, and store in the fridge. (This method is also used with freshly sliced onions, and the result, surprisingly, is extremely palatable and effective for chesty coughs).
Going back to stems, these make nice roasties if chopped and mixed with onions in a little olive oil – this goes particularly well with pork or fish. Using a vegetable peeler to remove the ribs before roasting would be useful, as you might with celery. The leaves also make good wrappers for fish being poached in the oven, imparting their delicate flavour to the dish. You can even dry the leaves and put them in your pipe and smoke them – but you didn't hear that from me! Country people used to smoke wild lettuce and coltsfoot for their beneficial actions on respiratory complaints as well as for their soothing effects on the mind and nerves. As angelica helps respiration, this could be a hot tip for the herbally-minded smoker! | http://permaculture-wales.org.uk/index.php/guest-writers/633-angels-in-the-garden |
How Do You Take Care Of A Marnier’s Kalanchoe?
How Do You Take Care Of A Marnier’s Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe Marnieriana has a robust, upright to spreading growth habit which eventually makes it a dense plant.
It is a grey-leaved subshrub succulent with a tall vertical stem that can grow to be 12 to 18 inches (45 cm) long and 2 to 3 feet broad.
It has flat, thin, blue-green or grey-toned spherical leaves that are oriented oppositely facing the tips of the branches.
When exposed to direct sunshine throughout the winter, the margins of Kalanchoe Marnieriana turn burgundy crimson. This is a summer-dormant succulent plant with rose-pink to crimson flowers that rise above its pink leaves in the winter.
Kalanchoe Marnieriana is native to Madagascar’s rocky regions. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family’s Kalanchoe genus.
Light requirements
Marnier’s Kalanchoe prefers light to medium shade. They require a lot of light to avoid stem etiolation.
It is usually best to keep these succulents in the sun early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is not too harsh.
Water requirements
Kalanchoe Marnieriana, like other succulents, does not require a lot of water to survive.
Its water requirements are determined by the weather, humidity, and whether it is cultivated indoors or outdoors.
Kalanchoe Marnieriana is drought tolerant and thrives in hot, dry areas.
It should be watered once every 7 days throughout the summer. When watering the plant, be sure to saturate the soil until it is moist, and then water it again after the soil appears dry.
Temperatures requirements
It develops significantly better when exposed to hot temperatures. The species prefers temperatures ranging from 20oC to 29oC. It cannot handle temperatures below 0oC for lengthy periods of time.
Soil requirement
It necessitates a base that is somewhat rich in organic materials and has good drainage.
Waterlogging for an extended period of time will quickly ruin the radical system. Commercial substrates for crass and cacti can be utilized with an additional aggregate of coarse sand without issue.
Pruning
Remove any spent blossoms right away. Dead or dying flowers should be removed as soon as they occur.
Leaving dead blossoms on the plant is not only unsightly, but it also prevents the plant from producing new blooms.
How do you propagate Marnier’s Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe Marnieriana may be propagated by taking cuttings from its leaves and stems. This is a quick and exciting way since you will be able to enjoy witnessing your gorgeous plant grow in a short amount of time.
You may also cultivate the plant from Kalanchoe Marnieriana seeds, but it is a time-consuming operation.
Propagation Using Leaves
Select the Kalanchoe Marnieriana plant leaves or stems that are not infected by pests and diseases.
Using a sharp, sterilized knife or a pair of scissors, gently cut the leaves, cutting the entire portion of the leaf that is linked to the mother plant.
Allow two to three days for the plant to callous before placing it in the soil. Then, plant the leaf in well-draining soil and water it according to the succulent’s watering guidelines.
You should also set your cuttings in a location that receives partial sunshine, preferably near a window, and where the temperature is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They can become sunburned if exposed to direct sunlight.
Stem Propagation
The Kalanchoe Marnieriana plant may be effectively grown using a stem. You should cut a mature, healthy stem that is not blossoming and has leaves.
So, the optimum time to propagate using stems is in the summer and spring when the Marnieriana plant will not be blossoming but will be saving energy for blooming.
When trimming the stem, keep it a few inches long and avoid cutting where there is a node or a leaf. Allow the stem to dry for a few days before planting it to reduce the chance of deterioration.
When the Kalanchoe Marnieriana stem gets calloused, dip it in rooting hormone powder to induce root growth, or plant it in a well-draining soil mix.
You may also group many cuttings in a large container and repot them as they grow roots.
Between 15 and 20 days, your cuttings will begin to form roots, and the plants will be living on nutrients from the leaves. This is why you should grow a leafy Marnieriana cutting.
Propagation Using Plantlets
This is another method for cultivating your own Kalanchoe Marnieriana plant. Plantlets grow from the tips of the mother plant’s leaves.
Before putting them in a container, cut them off the leaves and let them callous for a few days.
You may now begin caring for your new Kalanchoe Marnieriana as you would any other Kalanchoe Marnieriana.
When propagating or pruning, it is critical to remove the plantlets from the mother plant since they consume the energy required for flower blooming.
They will compete with the main plant for nutrients. If the plantlets are not removed, the Marnieriana plant leaves may lose their beautiful forms.
How often do you water Marnier’s Kalanchoe?
Marnier’s Kalanchoe, like other succulents, requires regular irrigation.
It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal irrigation. Water more regularly in the summer and less frequently in the winter.
The ‘soak and dry technique’ should be used to water Marnier’s Kalanchoe. Water the soil well until it is damp, then let it to dry fully before watering again.
Overwatering should be avoided at all costs; leaving water lying in the soil will likely increase fungal development and root rot.
Watering frequency is determined by a variety of elements such as growth media, temperature, pot size, and so on.
It is normally advised that you water your plants once a week. However, if the temperature is too high or the potting media drains too quickly, you may need to water more frequently than once a week.
The amount of time between waterings is determined by how quickly the soil dries out.
Water should be applied directly to the potting media; if water is spilled on the leaves, it will rot.
How do you prune Marnier’s Kalanchoe?
Marnier’s Kalanchoe does not need to be groomed. However, you can groom your plants in some circumstances, such as when they are attacked by insect pests, to remove spent or dead flowers, or to remove dead foliage.
Remove any spent blossoms right away. Dead or dying flowers should be removed as soon as they occur.
Leaving dead blossoms on the plant is not only unsightly, but it also prevents the plant from producing new blooms.
After removing spent blossoms, trim flower stems. Trim the flower stalk back to the second or third leaf using regular pruning shears. This promotes branching, allowing your plant to grow larger and with more leaf coverage.
Remove any dead or damaged leaves or branches. Remove any yellow, brown, or rotting leaves or stems from the base, just above where the branch joins the stem.
The same process should be used to remove broken or damaged leaves and stems.
To avoid injuring your plant or spreading illness, make sure your pruning shears are sharp and clean.
Using rubbing alcohol or bleach mixed in water, disinfect your pruning shears. This aids in the prevention of infection transfer between plants.
Is Marnier’s Kalanchoe a succulent?
Kalanchoe Marnieriana (Marnier’s Kalanchoe) is an evergreen succulent subshrub with blue-green leaves that are flat and rounded.
The leaves are paddle-shaped and oppositely oriented, like clam shells.
If cultivated in bright light, they have beautiful red-wine tips throughout the colder winter months.
Is Marnier’s Kalanchoe poisonous cats and dogs?
Kalanchoe Marnieriana can be toxic to both animals and humans and should be kept away from pets and children.
Toxins in the leaves, roots, and flowers can all have a deleterious influence on the rhythm and pace of the heart.
It can also induce severe gastrointestinal issues. Under no circumstances should it be ingested.
If a kid or a pet takes a portion of the plant, contact poison control right away for assistance.
Is Marnier’s Kalanchoe easy to grow?
The leaves of Marnier’s Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe Marnierana) come in beautiful shades of blue-green or grey-tone.
Unlike other succulents, the leaves of this one are flat and thin, and instead of creating a rosette, they are oriented in opposing directions, resembling the pages of a book.
Everything you need to know about planting, nurturing, and caring for your plants is provided here.
For starters, propagation is the best approach to develop a Marnier’s Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe Marnierana) since it is both effective and simple.
Marnier’s Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe Marnierana) is a low-maintenance succulent that will thrive in your garden provided the correct circumstances are fulfilled.
Is Marnier’s Kalanchoe an indoor plant?
Marnier’s Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe Marnierana) is a fun houseplant. It’s so easy to care for and can be used as a small decorative plant anywhere in the room.
Because Marnier’s Kalanchoe is not cold hardy, it’s better to grow it in a container that can be moved indoors if you live in a zone that gets colder than 20° F (-6.7° C).
It grows well in moderate shade to full light and may also be cultivated indoors.
It’s also considered very suitable for terrariums. They can be planted in large containers of water or soil mixed with gravel or stones.
How big do Marnier’s Kalanchoe get?
The Kalanchoe Marnieriana succulent plant is a Mediterranean-growing evergreen succulent subshrub.
Kalanchoe Marnieriana H. Jacobsen is its scientific name, but it is also known as Marnier’s Kalanchoe, Kalanchoe Humbertii, and Bryophyllum Marnierianum, to mention a few more.
Despite its preference for a sunny position, this plant can also withstand light shade and may be cultivated inside or outdoors.
This plant is endemic to Madagascar’s northeastern area and belongs to the Crassulaceae family.
Marnier’s kalanchoe plants, with their blue and green colours, are undeniably one of the most eye-catching succulents on the market.
The blue-green leaves of Marnier’s Kalanchoe acquire pink leaf edges over the winter, making it an eye-catching plant.
The leaves are blue-green in hue and are flat, paddle-shaped, and rounded. They are organized in opposite orientations and resemble clamshells.
They normally reach a height of 18 inches (45 cm), with leaf clusters extending as far as 36 inches (91 cm) in circumference (90 cm).
If the eye-catching leaves and colourful leaf colours aren’t enough to entice you, consider planting it for the beautiful pinkish-red flowers that blossom in the spring.
Kalanchoe Marnieriana’s pink leaves and red blooms develop on the plant’s branch tips and dangle downwards as it matures.
The blooms have five petals that are either white or pinkish-red in colour and bloom in clusters from late spring through summer.
It begins with blossoms, which develop into green fruits, which then mature into long, rectangular, glossy black seeds as the plant expands.
Does Marnier Kalanchoe need to be repotted?
This succulent does not require repotting on a regular basis. Every Kalanchoe succulent should be repotted every two years as a general rule.
However, repotting is required when you purchase a new succulent from a store, when your plant has been pruned due to insect pest infestations, or if the potting mix has inadequate drainage ability.
When you buy succulents from a store, it is best to put them in new pots.
Succulents purchased from marketplaces are typically planted in low-quality, low-cost black pots. You should repot your plants in larger containers.
If your succulent is afflicted with insect pests, you must move it to new containers with clean growing media to eliminate the bugs.
When the potting material has inadequate drainage, repotting is also required. In this instance, repot your succulents in a more suitable and fertile potting material.
Remove the succulents from the prior potting material gently, being careful not to damage the plant roots.
Shake the succulent to get rid of any extra soil and debris that has clung to the roots.
Place the plant in new potting soil and refrain from watering it for the first several days to allow the roots to heal.
Once the succulent has established itself, it may be watered and lit on a regular basis.
What type of soil do Marnier Kalanchoe needs?
It necessitates a base that is somewhat rich in organic materials and has good drainage. Waterlogging for an extended period of time will quickly ruin the radical system.
Commercial substrates for crass and cacti can be utilized with an additional aggregate of coarse sand without issue.
Remember to disinfect the substrate previously to avoid the proliferation of microorganisms that may be present.
To grow successfully, Kalanchoe Marnieriana should be put in a well-draining potting mix.
To increase drainage, you can add clay, coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to the mix.
It is critical that the soil in which you plant it drains effectively; otherwise, waterlogging will occur, killing the plant.
Why is my Kalanchoe Marnieriana dying?
If the plant is kept in a pot with insufficient drainage, the roots will rot, and the plant will die. The leaves may become yellowish-green or completely brown if the Kalanchoe is storing too much water.
If it’s growing in outdoor soil and has not been planted in a well-drained area, it is also possible for the roots to rot.
This succulent can develop root rot if its soil remains damp for extended periods of time.
You should water your Kalanchoe Marnieriana only when the top of the soil is dry.
If the soil remains damp, the roots will rot before they can extend.
Do Kalanchoe Marnieriana needs to be fertilize?
The Kalanchoe Marnieriana plant does not require fertilizer because most potting mixes include all of the nutrients needed for the plant’s development.
However, if you want to boost your plant’s development and flowering, you can use a water-soluble fertilizer.
To prevent burning the plant with the chemicals in the fertilizer, use a half-strength fertilizer solution.
Apply the fertilizer to the Marnieriana plant occasionally, perhaps once a month, to avoid over-fertilizing. | https://studynature.net/how-do-you-take-care-of-a-marniers-kalanchoe/ |
Cacti are luscious plants that live in dry areas. They can survive long period shortage of water.
Cacti have many adaptations that let them live in dry areas; these adaptations let the plant collect water efficiently, store it for long periods of time, and minimizing water loss from evaporation.Cacti have a wide, hard-walled, succulent stem when it rains; water is stored in the stem. The stems are photosynthetic, green, and fleshy. The inside of the stem is either soft or empty depending on the cactus. A thick, waxy coating keeps the water inside the cactus from evaporating.
Most cacti have very long, fibrous roots, which subsume moisture from the soil. Some, like ball cacti, have shorter, denser roots that absorb dew water that falls off the cactus.Instead of leaves, most cacti have spines or scales which are altered leaves. These spines and scales do not lose water through evaporation unlike regular leaves, which lose a lot of water. The spines secure the cactus from animals that would like to eat the cactus to obtain food and/or water. Areoles are circular clusters of spines on a cactus. Flowers bud at an areole and new stems branch from an areole.
Cacti are flowering plants. The flowers produce seed-bearing fruit. Many cactus species are pollinated by bats. The delicate flowers usually bloom for a short period of time in the spring.Many cacti can also grow from broken-off parts of the plant, but the new plant will be genetically identical to the original plant.
Cacti are local to Americas North and South America. They are generally found in dry areas, but can be found in many habitats mild temperature, sub-tropical, and tropical, ranging from deserts to tropical rainforests to high in the Andes Mountains. | http://www.artiste.com.ph/cactus.html |
Succulent DIY Set
Product Details :
1. Cactus Potting Soil
2. Decorative Glass Container
3. Succulents Potted Plant
4. Miniature Garden Add On
5. Decorative stone chips
Tender Loving Care Advice for Succulents:
Succulents are plants with fleshy, thickened leaves and/or swollen stems that store water.
Light: Most succulents like at least 6 hours of sun per day, so try to place them close to window.
Water: Succulents are drought tolerant and thrive on limited water resources. Water the soil around the succulents but do allow the soil to dry out slightly before next watering. Two tablespoons at the side of the plants once a week is a good gauge. It is normal for the lowest leaves on the stem to eventually shrivel up and drop. If the topmost leaves are soft and drying, this could indicate overwatering, pest or diseases.
*Product photo shown is for reference only. Actual plant colour, type, size & arrangement may differ from photo. | https://shop.gardensbythebay.com.sg/collections/gardening-supplies-and-starter-kits/products/ggssk-succulent-diy-set |
Strawberries: These berries were just picked on Tuesday morning and should be eaten within a day or two. Keep them in the fridge to maintain freshness. Please return the baskets to your delivery site so they can be reused. Enjoy! Cherry Tomatoes: Enjoy this colorful mix of heirloom cherry tomatoes! These delicious candy-like treats are a welcome addition to any green salad, pasta salad, or as a quick snack. Do not store them in fridge; keep on them on the counter to maintain great flavor and texture.
Roma, Early Girl or Heirloom Tomatoes: These tomatoes are perfect for sauces, bruschetta or BLT sandwiches. Always store tomatoes on the counter, as putting them in the fridge will change their texture and flavor. Wash well before eating and enjoy!
Plums: Our orchard had a rough time this year with late season rain in the spring, but a few of the plum trees fruited, and we wanted to share them with you! To further ripen plums, if slightly firm, store in paper bag on the counter for a day or so. Store ripe fruit in fridge and wash before consuming. Enjoy!
Basil: It is a succulent, oh-so-aromatic herb that adds depth to many a dish! Keep your basil in a plastic bag in the fridge. If you can’t use it all this week, we suggest making pesto and freezing it for later.
Chard: These big, beautiful leaves are mighty tasty! Remove the leaves from the stems, but make sure to eat the stems too. The stems will need to be cooked a little longer than the leaves. Store in a plastic bag in the fridge and wash well before using.
Spinach: This tasty and nutritious green will probably be a bit dirty. To clean, first rinse quickly, then fill up a bowl with water. Put spinach in the water, swish, and let soak for 5 to 10 minutes. Lift leaves out of water, rinse and blot or spin dry. Store in plastic bag in fridge, but don’t wash it until you’re ready to cook!
Italian Flat-Leaf Parsley: Its beautifully clean, crisp flavor adds depth to many a dish! Store in a plastic bag in the fridge. If you can’t use it right away, try freezing it in a Ziploc bag for making veggie stock later in the year.
Zucchini: With a delicate flavor, these summer squash can be quickly sautéed or steamed with just a touch of oil and some fresh herbs. It also goes well shredded in a salad or baked into bread. Stores best in plastic bag in fridge and wash before eating.
Gypsy Peppers: These sweet and versatile peppers have an irresistible crunch are a great addition to salads. They are also perfect for stuffing or frying! Store in crisper in fridge and wash before eating.
Yellow Spring Onions: This is the “year of the onion” at Eatwell Farm, remember? Enjoy these young onions in a countless number of dishes. Be sure to use the green parts, too! Wash them well and remove bottom quarter-inch before consuming.
German Butterball Potatoes: These all-purpose potatoes have a golden skin and deep yellow flesh. It’s an heirloom variety known as a “butterless” potato because they are so tasty that they don’t require butter. They are great for steaming, mashing, baking, and frying. Store in fridge for best keeping and eat the skin for most nutrients! Wash before eating. | http://www.eatwell.com/welcome/2012/08/01/todays-box-august-1st |
“Autumn is a time of transformation and celebration, where nature dances in spectacular colors and the landscape fades into winter.” anon
In the woods or indoors, plant life can enhance our own lives–especially in the reign of Covid! Winter temperatures force me to focus on the tropical plants that now dominate my sleeping and work area of our light-filled house. With almost a hundred plants (only a few are large) I’m surrounded by a lush abundance of many shades of green. It’s my challenge to keep them happy through the long months and short days of winter. Abundant light is essential for both plants and myself. With three recycled windows each nine feet tall, both the plants and I can thrive.
“Gardens are a form of autobiography,” wrote Sydney Eddison in a 1993 Horticulture magazine. Eddison is a prolific garden writer who I wish had lived nearby so I could visit her and her garden.1 Certainly my recent post about the burro’s tail succulent I’ve lived with for the last five decades had numerous biographical elements. Gardens are appreciated by what they include and by what is excluded, as well as by what the gardener chooses to focus on developing.
“Half the interest of a garden is the constant exercise of the imagination,” is how the woman, Mrs. C.W. Earle, who wrote Pot-Pourri from a Surrey Garden in 1897 described the lure of gardening. When I looked at the overgrown burro’s tail last month, I could imagine ways to improve the looks and the health of the plant, and I saw a chance to propagate more plants from the original.
I also imagined how new plants could look in the variety of collected pots I have on hand. I felt the creative challenge. I looked forward to choosing a container and placing it in a spot to contrast or compliment other pots and plants in my intimate environment.
Growing New Plants
Here are some how-to photos and suggestions for any one trimming a burro’s tail succulent and for propagating new plants from the trimmings or fallen leaves. In the photo below, you see all the trimmings I took from the mother plant in late October. As a succulent plant, each dropped leaf and the stems I trimmed off had to cure, that is, each had to seal over before planting or exposed to water. Succulents are adapted to store water in the plump leaves in order to survive in their original dry habitats.
I cut the long stems and placed them all together on a piece of parchment paper in a sunny window to cure. I removed the leaves from the lower two inches of the stems to insert the stems in soil at planting. All the fallen leaves were arranged on the dry soil where they would live until sprouting new plants. The spiral arrangement came from an internet photo I admired. Here I’m working on the porcelain-top table near my bed that also serves as my cutting table for quilting. At other times this table holds the vintage Bernina sewing machine I use when machine quilting. Living in a small space requires versatility.
Ten days later without any water, it was time to plant the stems. I used a chopstick to make a hole in the dirt then inserted the stem and carefully patted the dirt around each. If needed, I added more dirt. Use soil that will drain easily. Over watering will kill succulents. Any leaves that fell were added to the pot–hopefully to sprout too. The added rocks and shells bring more texture and personality to the planting. I used the spray bottle to wet everything.
Watch for new sprouts on the leaves and water occasionally. Provide bright light.
I’ve discovered two vintage photos of burro’s tail growing in the original habitat of Mexico. Neither picture shows the lush growth of a protected growing spot provided by humans. The photos will give you an idea of the harsh, competitive growing conditions this succulent faces in the wild. source: http://www.plantgrower.org/uploads/6/5/5/4/65545169/sedum_morganianum.pdf
“The journey of discovery lies not in seeking new landscapes, but in seeing with new eyes.” Marcel Proust
Now in cultivation for over seventy years, burro’s tail succulents will thrive in many settings. I’ve collected favorite photos from the internet. I hope you will be inspired to grow and create your own grouping of favorite plants, pots and found objects.
The joy of discovery happens in a variety of ways. While researching online for this article, I was introduced to the down-to-earth gardener and writer Sydney Eddison. This article will offer a brief introduction: https://www2.ljworld.com/news/2010/jul/25/ease-still-enjoy-gardening-you-age/?print
1. “Gardens are a form of autobiography,” wrote Sydney Eddison, in Horticulture magazine, August/September 1993. Her Connecticut garden has been featured in magazines and on television. A former scene designer and drama teacher, Eddison lectures widely and continues to teach a course on color at the New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, New York. She has authored six books on gardening. | http://paulamariedaughter.com/?p=4968 |
Cactus plant has different shapes and sizes of cacti. Some cactus plants are short and round; others are tall and thin. Many cactus flowers are big and beautiful. Some bloom at night and are pollinated by moths and bats. Some cactus fruits are brightly colored and good to eat: many animals eat cactus fruits.
Care :
cacti are low maintenance, water-wise plants that store water in their leaves, stems or roots, creating a plump or succulent appearance. They are often found in hot, arid climates such as the desert and have adapted to tolerate long periods of drought. For best results, each plant has individual needs.
Height: can reach 66 inches in height
Sunlight: Bright but indirect sunlight
Soil: fast-draining soil
Water: water sparingly to moisten soil
Temperature: 65 to 90 °F
Benefits :
●
cactus can
decrease blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
●
Cactus juice
inhibits leukocyte migration, which acts as a catalyst in the development of
inflammatory diseases. | https://guloona.com/plant/cactus-plant1 |
Steps on How To Save an Overwatered Succulent:
Let the plant dry out completely for at least three days to a week. Set the plant somewhere bright and dry, but away from direct sunlight to avoid burning the plant and the roots. Once dry, replant in a suitable well draining potting mix and do not water immediately.
People also ask, how do you know if a succulent is overwatered?
Signs Your Succulent Has Been Overwatered
The first sign of overwatering to watch for is discoloration and change in the leaves’ form. You’ll notice the leaves becoming translucent, soft, and squishy, and unlike those that have been under-watered, they will be dropped by the plant rather than recovered.
Beside above, how do you fix over watered succulents?
Dying Roots
You can normally revive a succulent plant that is underwatered by offering it water over a period of one to two weeks. However, this will only happen if the roots of the plant are alive.
What does a dying succulent look like?
Your succulent’s leaves may be looking yellow or transparent and soggy. Your succulent is in the beginning stages of dying from overwatering. Brown or black leaves that look like they’re rotting indicate a more advanced case. So you have to start saving your dying succulents!
Can you save a rotting succulent?
Unfortunately, if the rot has spread to the whole plant, i.e., including the roots, stems, and leaves, beheading your succulent might save it. … Do not water it for a day or two; it is possible that these cuttings will grow back into healthy and happy succulent.
How do you fix over watered plants?
Wilted, overwatered plants are not always a lost cause.
- Move your plant to a shady area even if it is a full-sun plant. …
- Check your pot for proper drainage and, if possible, create additional air space around the roots. …
- Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not let it get too dry. …
- Treat with a fungicide.
Why is my succulent drooping?
Wilting succulents are an expression of extreme dehydration. Droopy leaves on succulent specimens mean the soil has been dry as a bone for quite some time. These plants can tolerate long periods of drought, but they do need moisture to thrive. When succulent leaves are drooping, it is time to act. | https://succulentsaddiction.com/how-do-you-save-an-overwatered-succulent-e1b7feb2/ |
As a scientific enterprise, psychology follows the methods of science, meaning that it uses data to generate testable hypotheses and constructs theories to explain the results of those tests. Research efforts are largely devoted to trying to describe people but also attempt to construct explanations. A theory is an explanatory framework, based on the observations. It suggests certain additional testable questions, known as hypotheses, which are tested by further research. Theories are always open to further refinement, but to become widely accepted in the first place, they must be based on replicable evidence. In the popular imagination, however, “theory” and “hypothesis” are often mixed up with each other, with theories dismissed as tentative guesses. One often hears evolution dismissed in this manner by religious fundamentalists, “It’s only a theory!”
Actually, it’s a whole range of theories, as there is much disagreement among biologists as to how exactly the processes involved in natural selection work. What they do not disagree on, however, is the question of whether it occurs. Mountains of data support it, and the general theoretical framework is the basis of all modern biology. Consider a problem in physics: gravity is only a theory, after all. There are actually some very different interpretations of how it operates, with Newtonian physics favoring the idea of a force that draws things towards objects as a function of their mass, while Einsteinian theory favors the idea that large objects actually warp space-time around them, causing objects to move towards them (note to any physicists who may be reading: Yes, I recognize that this is a very highly simplified explanation). Either way, however, loads of evidence suggests that if I drop an object, it will fall. We may have different theories about why it falls, but whether or not it will isn’t a question anymore.
Psychology is a young science—people have observed selective breeding and the gravity of falling objects for thousands of years, and reaction time to subliminally presented stimuli has been measured for only a few decades. The theories aren’t so well established, and they’re all still looking for supportive evidence.
Psychological scientists seek evidence in several ways, but the ideal method for determining cause-and-effect relationships is the experimental method. In an experiment, a variable (a variable is anything at all that can have more than one value and can be measured—favorites in psychology include gender, age, and intelligence, among many others) is manipulated by the experimenter, and changes in another variable are looked for as a result of the manipulation. For example, if the experimenter wants to see if the Mozart effect actually works, he or she might take a group of people and give them a math test. After the math test, the experimenter will have them listen to some Mozart, and then give them the math test again. If they improve in their performance on the math test, it might be tempting to give Mozart credit, but it isn’t a true experiment yet. How does the experimenter know that they wouldn’t have done better on the second test even without the Mozart? The only way to find out is to take a second group of people (the control group) and have them take both tests at the same times as the first group (the experimental group), but without having them listen to Mozart. If the two groups perform differently from each other, then it may be assumed that Mozart was the cause, because there was control over that variable. In any experiment, the condition that the experimenter controls and varies (in this case, whether or not the subjects listened to Mozart) is called the independent variable, and the variable that is used to determine whether that manipulation had an effect (in this case, the math test) is the dependent variable.
For this experiment to serve as a definitive test of the hypothesis that listening to Mozart will improve math skills, however, there are some other variables that must also be dealt with, as they might affect the outcome. What about musical taste, for example? Some students may be big Mozart fans, but others might hate all music other than country or Swedish death metal. Such variables that are not part of the experimental design but that may provide alternative explanations of the data, are called confounding variables. A quick, efficient way of dealing with such things is random assignment to the experimental condition. Assuming that various musical tastes are distributed somewhat randomly among the participants, randomly picking who goes into the experimental group and who goes into the control group is a good way to get those Swedish death metal fans evenly distributed among the two groups, thus ensuring that they don’t have a disproportionate impact on one group or the other.
Sometimes it isn’t possible or ethical to use random assignment to groups, even though the research question is an important one. Consider the question of the effects of cocaine exposure on prenatal development. The ideal way to investigate this question would be to conduct an experiment, in which half of a sample of pregnant women is randomly assigned to smoke crack during their pregnancy . . . the ethical and legal problems in this example are clear. Because people in the world already perform this type of behavior, it is still possible to study the effects, and even to use the same dependent variables, by simply recruiting a sample of women who are already using cocaine and comparing them to a carefully matched control group of women who aren’t. Since the independent variable (cocaine use) wasn’t manipulated by the experimenter, this isn’t a true experiment. This kind of design is a quasi-experiment. It doesn’t allow the same degree of causal inference as an experiment, because of the lack of manipulation, but it allows us to study problems that can’t be looked at experimentally.
Less rigorous than experimental or quasi-experimental research is correlational research, in which multiple variables are measured, without any experimental manipulation, and the degree of relationship between the variables is measured. Most survey research is of this type. From a questionnaire, one might find, for example, that men who drive large SUVs are more likely to own basketballs than men who drive compact gas/electric hybrids. Cause-and-effect conclusions can’t be drawn from this sort of data. How the two variables are related is impossible to discern from the data. This sort of research is very good for suggesting relationships between variables that may or not be causal, but which can then be examined more closely in experimental research. Before the experimental research (animal studies, mostly) that showed a causal link between smoking and lung cancer, the two were known to be correlated, but the causal inference could only be drawn after experiments were carried out (inspired by the correlational data).
Some of the questions that are of interest to psychologists involve very rare circumstances: the effects of having parents killed by terrorists on a child’s school adjustment, for example. In these cases, traditional group research, be it experimental, quasi-experimental, or correlational, isn’t appropriate. If there is only one person with the problem under study, or only a handful, it may be better to just observe that person in great depth to see what can be found out.
Such an in-depth examination of a single person is a case study, and while generalization of findings may be problematic (after all, one person can’t be representative of the whole population), such research is invaluable in discovering more about rare clinical syndromes.
References:
- Mook, D. G. Psychological Research: The Ideas behind the Methods. New York: W. W. Norton, 2001. | http://psychology.iresearchnet.com/popular-psychology/research-methods-in-psychology/ |
Copyright © 2015 Yen-Ting Liu et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Introduction. Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common complaints in the emergency department (ED). There are several research articles providing evidence for acupuncture for treating chronic LBP but few about treating acute LBP. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for the treatment of acute LBP in the ED. Materials and methods. A clinical pilot cohort study was conducted. 60 participants, recruited in the ED, were divided into experimental and control groups with 1 dropout during the study. Life-threatening conditions or severe neurological defects were excluded. The experimental group () received a series of fixed points of acupuncture. The control group () received sham acupuncture by pasting seed-patches near acupoints. Back pain was measured using the visual analog scale (VAS) at three time points: baseline and immediately after and 3 days after intervention as the primary outcome. The secondary outcomes were heart rate variability (HRV) and adverse events. Results. The VAS demonstrated a significant decrease ( value <0.001) for the experimental group after 15 minutes of acupuncture. The variation in HRV showed no significant difference in either group. No adverse event was reported. Conclusion. Acupuncture might provide immediate effect in reducing the pain of acute LBP safely.
Most adults have the experience of low back pain (LBP) in their lives [1, 2]. Low back pain is one of the most common complaints when patients visit the emergency department (ED) [3, 4]. Most cases of acute LBP are not related to any specific disease [5–7]. After checking the patients and excluding any life-threatening conditions or severe neurological deficits, sometimes the pain has still not been eased. Patients must be kept in the ED for further observation. The prolonged hospital stay due to poor pain control is a potential factor that can cause the overcrowding of the ED .
Pain has been regarded as the fifth vital sign (temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate) recently , and every patient has the right to receive adequate pain management. Pain relief is an important work in the ED and there are many medications for LBP with each medication having both benefits and side effects [10–13].
Acupuncture is one of the oldest and most popular complementary alternative medicines in the world and it has been widely utilized for pain, including low back pain, osteoarthritis, headache, and cancer [14–19]. We found that there are many studies assessing the effectiveness of acupuncture for chronic LBP but few for acute LBP [15, 20].
In light of the aforementioned observation, this study focused on evaluating the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in patients with acute LBP through outpatient care in the ED.
A clinical pilot cohort study was conducted. Patients were recruited from the emergency department (ED) of Changhua Christian Hospital (a medical center in Taiwan) with a target sample size of 60 subjects. Participants were divided into either the experimental group or control group based on their willingness to accept acupuncture treatment. All candidates received a standardized interview process. And the purpose, procedures, potential risks, and benefits of the study were explained thoroughly to the candidates. Participants had the right to withdraw from the study at any time without any consequence. All participants’ written consents were obtained. The trial was conducted from March to December, 2014. The clinical trial protocol was approved by the Institute Review Board (IRB) of Changhua Christian Hospital (CCH IRB number 140214).
Participants meeting all of the following criteria will be included:(1)age 20 to 90 years, either gender;(2)visit and stay in emergency department;(3)the chief complaint being acute low back pain;(4)diagnosis with International Classification of Diseases 9th revision (ICD-9) code 724.2 Lumbago.
Participants meeting one or more of the following criteria were excluded:(1)serious comorbid conditions (e.g., life-threatening condition or severe neurological defects);(2)patients who cannot communicate reliably with the investigator or who are not likely to obey the instructions of the trial;(3)pregnancy status.
This questionnaire (also known as Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire) was designed to measure a patient’s functional disability resulting from spinal pain .
Participants were divided into experimental and control groups based on their willingness to accept acupuncture treatment. The experimental group received a series of fixed points of acupuncture: Bilateral Hegu (LI4), Shousanli (LI10), Zusanli (ST36), Yanlingquan (GB34), and Taichong (LR3) . Needles were correctly inserted and manually stimulated until the “De Qi” sensation was elicited. The needles stayed in place for 15 minutes. The control group received sham acupuncture by pasting seed-patches next to the same location as correct acupoints of experimental group; see Figure 2 .
The primary outcome evaluation was the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. It is graded from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain) and has proven its usefulness and clinical validity for the evaluation of pain . Patients were evaluated at three timepoints in this study: before intervention (VAS-1), after intervention (VAS-2), 3 days after the intervention (VAS-3).
The secondary outcomes were heart rate variability (HRV) and adverse events. HRV was measured 2 times in this study: before the intervention and after the intervention. Many studies have shown a relation between HRV and pain [24, 25]. We tried to further identify the correlation between the intensity of pain and HRV [26, 27]. An additional secondary outcome was participants reporting any adverse events they experience, including discomfort, bruising at the sites of needle insertion, nausea, or feeling faint during or after treatment.
First, the experimental group and control group were analyzed for comparability according to the baseline characteristics, including gender, age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (systole and diastole), heart rate (HR), and ODI. Chi-square test and Mann-Whitney test were used to assess categorical variables. Second, in order to analyse the outcome of this study including VAS and HRV, we used Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test and Mann-Whitney test because of the sample size. All tests were conducted using SPSS (V.18.0).
The flowchart of this study is presented in Figure 1.
Figure 2: Acupoint locations (LI4, LI10, ST36, GB34, and LR3).
Participant Recruitment. All study participants, from the emergency department (ED), were evaluated by emergency medicine specialists to exclude serious comorbid conditions and severe neurological defects, such as infection, cauda equina syndrome, and aneurysm. Sixty participants (21–89 years old, 20 men and 40 women) were recruited into the study and divided into experimental group () and control group (). The VAS was conducted to evaluate the maintenance of the pain relieving effect by phone interview 3 days after treatment. There was 1 participant lost to follow-up in the experimental group at the 3 days after intervention timepoint.
Baseline Characteristics. Tables 1(a) and 1(b) show baseline participant characteristics, including gender, age, BMI, blood pressure, heart rate, and Oswestry Disability Index. The two groups were homogeneous while no significant difference was shown at baseline assessment.
Table 1: (a) Distribution of participants’ gender. (b) Baseline of participant characteristics.
VAS. Comparison of VAS-1 (before intervention) and VAS-2 (after intervention) indicated that there was significant difference in the experimental group () but not in control group (). Comparison of VAS-1 and VAS-3 (3 days after intervention) found significant differences in both experimental group () and control group () (see Table 2).
Table 2: Comparison between groups of VAS before, after, and 3 days after intervention.
In addition, comparison of VAS1-VAS2 (changes of VAS-1 and VAS-2) between two groups also showed a significant difference (). No significant difference was observed in VAS1-VAS3 (changes of VAS-1 and VAS-3) () and VAS2-VAS3 (changes of VAS-2 and VAS-3) () (see Table 3).
Table 3: Changes in VAS between control group and acupuncture group.
Furthermore, when we do the gamma regression model with GEE method on VAS, the results also indicate a significant change after treatment in the experimental group () but not in the control group. The VAS reduced significantly in all patients after 3 days () (see Table 5).
HRV. Table 4 shows the comparison of all parameters of HRV before and after intervention in experimental group and control group. No significant change was observed in HRV, HF%, LF%, LF/HF, VLF, LF RMSSD, and PNN50 in both groups in this study.
Table 4: Comparison of parameters of heart rate variability (HRV) before and after intervention in two groups.
Table 5: Results of gamma regression model with GEE method on VAS.
Adverse Events. No side effects were reported in this study. No patients reported bleeding, nausea, vomiting, feeling faint, or any other complication during or after intervention.
This study was designed to demonstrate that acupuncture can benefit patients with acute LBP. Instead of recruiting participants from acupuncture outpatients, we cooperated with emergency medicine specialists in order to make the first contact with patients with acute LBP. Clinically we found that most patients with acute LBP would not be able to maintain the face-down posture during the treatment time. Therefore, all the acupoints we chose in this study were at the limbs and based on traditional Chinese medical meridian system, so patients could keep a relatively comfortable lying down position.
In the results of this study, the significant difference between VAS-1 and VAS-2 in the experimental group might prove the efficacy of acupuncture while no statistical variation was shown in control group. Another significant variation was shown in the change of VAS-1 and VAS-2 (VAS1-VAS2) between two groups. It also indicated that acupuncture intervention might reduce the pain intensity. The other significant variation was between VAS-1 and VAS-3 in both groups. And it was considered as acute LBP could be mitigated through appropriate treatment without immediate recurrence .
HRV measures the balance of autonomic nervous system which reflects physiological, hormonal, and emotional balance within our body . Many studies have proved that there are statistical differences of HRV between healthy people and patients in pain [24, 30]. But the correlation between HRV and pain intensity has not been clearly demonstrated [24, 31]. In our study, no significant difference was shown in both experimental and control group after intervention. We assume that patients might feel much less pain after 15 minutes of acupuncture (mean to ) but have not yet fully recovered to pain-free state.
We used the adverse event record to assess the safety. No complication was reported showing that acupuncture could be a safe treatment in patients with acute LBP. However, our study has several limitations. One limitation concerned the different number of participants between two groups. Acupuncture is a common and popular medical service in the Chinese society. Patients are usually willing to accept it. It resulted in the fact that less participants were recruited into control group when our strategy was to divide participants into two groups based on their willingness to accept acupuncture.
Another limitation was that this study was not designed as randomized blind. Considering that acupuncture is well-known in the Chinese society, it is difficult to do blinded study about acupuncture. In order to minimize the bias from this, we used seed-patches as sham acupuncture. Seed-patches are often used in auricular acupuncture. Auricular acupuncture is another well-known Chinese medical service. We tried to convince participants in control group that they were also receiving another effective treatment by pasting the seed-patches near the correct acupoints [32, 33]. Still, biases introduced by this unblinded approach cannot be ruled out.
A larger sample size in future studies is indispensable to provide well-defined types of acute low back pain for our evidence-based practice.
We conclude that acupuncture could provide immediate effect in reducing pain of acute low back pain significantly. The results from this study provide clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture to treat acute low back pain in the emergency department. Nevertheless, further larger studies are needed to replicate the findings of this study.
Yen-Ting Liu collected the data, did the literature search, and drafted the paper. Yen-Ting Liu, Chih-Wen Chiu, Chin-Fu Chang, Tsung-Chieh Lee, Chia-Yun Chen, Shun-Chang Chang, Chia-Ying Lee, and Lun-Chien Lo participated in the conception and design of the study. Tsung-Chieh Lee, Chia-Yun Chen, Shun-Chang Chang, and Chia-Ying Lee conducted acupuncture treatment and seed-patches. Lun-Chien Lo did the critical revision of the paper and was the corresponding author.
This study was supported by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan (Program no. MOHW-103-CMC-2). The authors would like to thank all of the participants.
C. L. Pasero and M. McCaffery, Pain: Clinical Manual, Mosby Incorporated, 1999.
World Health Organization, WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2002–2005, 2002.
World Health Organization, WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region, WHO Western Pacific Region, 2008.
M. Sesay, G. Robin, P. Tauzin-Fin et al., “Responses of heart rate variability to acute pain after minor spinal surgery: optimal thresholds and correlation with the numeric rating scale,” Journal of Neurosurgical Anesthesiology. In press. | https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2015/179731/ |
Ever wonder why some injured workers return to work (RTW) after six months while others do so after a year or more? A cohort study that follows and observes a group of people who have something in common (namely, a workplace injury) could help answer this question.
A “cohort” is any group of people with a shared characteristic. For example, in a birth cohort, what’s common to all individuals is their birth year.
In a cohort study, the study participants are followed over time—from weeks to years, depending on the time frame. The goal is to understand the relationship between some attribute related to the cohort at the beginning of the study and the eventual outcome.
Identify the study subjects; i.e. the cohort population.
Select a sub-classification of the cohort—the unexposed control cohort—to be the comparison group.
Do the data analysis where the outcomes are assessed and compared.
Returning to our example, a cohort study could follow a group of injured workers who were off work (and filed musculoskeletal-related claims) and observe when these workers returned to work.
Researchers in such a study could determine what’s affecting the workers’ RTW. At six and 12 months post-injury, the workers could be interviewed about their readiness to RTW. They may be asked if they have returned to work and, if so, if they were able to meet their job demands. They might be asked about their organization’s policies and practices, and if accommodated work had been offered and accepted.
It may come to light that the workers who felt their companies were doing well in terms of policies and practices were more likely to be back at work at six months, for example, than those who didn’t. If this were the case, this cohort study could likely tell us that workplace policies play an important role in RTW. Researchers could use these results to develop a tool to identify readiness for RTW and guidelines surrounding successful RTW.
Strengths of a cohort study include the fact that multiple outcomes can be observed. Weaknesses are that they can be expensive and time-consuming because they can involve large populations and long periods of time.
In terms of levels of evidence for establishing relationships between exposure and outcome, cohort studies are considered second to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) because RCTs limit the possibility for biases by randomly assigning one group of participants to an intervention/treatment and another group to non-intervention/treatment or placebo. Cohort studies are observational—meaning the researcher observes what’s happening or naturally occurring, measures variables of interest and draws conclusions. RCTs, in contrast, are experimental—meaning the researcher manipulates one of the variables (assigns treatments, for example) and determines how this influences the outcome.
If cohort studies are second-best, then why use them? They may be the only way to explore certain questions. For example, it would be unethical to design an RCT deliberately exposing workers to a potentially harmful situation. | https://iwh.on.ca/what-researchers-mean-by/cohort-study |
I am assigned to do usability test from a new bookstore website in mobile and desktop. Because of the limited resources, I need to be careful in recruiting participants to get the best result.
So I need to be sure: - Do I need to use different set of user (ex. 5 user for website in desktop and 5 user for mobile) or i can use the same set of user (ex. 5 user test both platform) - What is the pros and cons of using the same set of user to test a different platform of a product?
With only 5 to 10 users overall, you will focus on qualitative analysis. The sample will be too small to do any kind of meaningful quantitative analysis.
To gather qualitative feedback, it is often useful to show 2 different options, and ask the testers to compare. You will get more in-depth and valuable feedback. This approach is even more valid here, as it's not 2 alternative designs for the same device, but for 2 different devices. You will be able to assess the consistency of the UI across platforms, and the transfer of familiarity from one to another. I would suggest to vary the order, start with mobile then desktop for the 1st group, and vice versa for the 2nd group (assuming that your users can start their journey with either device).
If you wanted to do a quantitative analysis with a larger sample, it would be preferable to have 2 separate groups, one for each device / option (and assign testers randomly to either group). If users test both devices, you will need to differentiate in the results tests on mobile seen first versus tests on mobile second, to see if the order had any impact.
I think you can consider the user to be different in a different test, even if he or she is physically the same person. Their role would be different (desktop user and mobile user). Especially if your resources are limited.
The Cons of using the same people for both platforms is that for the second time, they already have an insight of your application, they are not newcomers anymore. They may search similar thing, learned from the previous test.
Although, for me, this could be seen as an advantage, so you can see how a user might be led by one platform after switching to the other.
User testing questions that involve limited resources are always tricky! But just like doing user research, you need to have an end goal or outcome in mind so you can best plan and construct your testing plan to make the most of those limited resources.
If you are focusing on the difference between the desktop and mobile view of the website, there will be less variables to consider if you are using the same participant for both tests. But as someone pointed out it is possible to get a biased result if say you tested the desktop view on all users first and then mobile view second. So to control for that bias you can randomly assign half of the people to do the mobile view first and the rest to do the desktop view first.
If you are focusing on the general usability across the desktop and mobile view of the website, I don't think you necessarily need to all the participants to go through the desktop and mobile view. It may simply take too much time (if you have lots of features for them to test) or too difficult to schedule in long sessions for all users, or not all users may complete the desktop and mobile view in the same way. If there are problematic issues then it will only take a small number of participants to reveal them (in general).
If you are focusing on how seamless the experience is across desktop and mobile views of the website then it is pretty obvious that you need to get the same person to do both of the tests.
If you want to compare the usability between the desktop and mobile views of the website and you have large enough numbers then you don't really need to rely on the same person doing both tests. If you are only looking for critical usability issues (and not subtle differences in usability or user experience), it is possible to do the comparison with relatively small number of users as well.
Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged usability-testing usability-study or ask your own question.
What are the pros and cons of getting design recommendations from usability test participants?
Should I ask the user to complete the task as fast as she can in user test? | https://ux.stackexchange.com/questions/120890/do-you-need-different-set-of-user-to-test-different-platform-of-a-product/120891 |
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
- Observe collisions of extended bodies in two dimensions.
- Examine collisions at the point of percussion.
The information presented in this section supports the following AP® learning objectives and science practices:
- 3.F.3.1 The student is able to predict the behavior of rotational collision situations by the same processes that are used to analyze linear collision situations using an analogy between impulse and change of linear momentum and angular impulse and change of angular momentum. (S.P. 6.4, 7.2)
- 3.F.3.2 In an unfamiliar context or using representations beyond equations, the student is able to justify the selection of a mathematical routine to solve for the change in angular momentum of an object caused by torques exerted on the object. (S.P. 2.1)
- 3.F.3.3 The student is able to plan data collection and analysis strategies designed to test the relationship between torques exerted on an object and the change in angular momentum of that object. (S.P. 4.1, 4.2,, 5.1, 5.3)
- 4.D.2.1 The student is able to describe a model of a rotational system and use that model to analyze a situation in which angular momentum changes due to interaction with other objects or systems. (S.P. 1.2, 1.4)
- 4.D.2.2 The student is able to plan a data collection and analysis strategy to determine the change in angular momentum of a system and relate it to interactions with other objects and systems. (S.P. 2.2)
Bowling pins are sent flying and spinning when hit by a bowling ball—angular momentum as well as linear momentum and energy have been imparted to the pins. (See Figure 10.25). Many collisions involve angular momentum. Cars, for example, may spin and collide on ice or a wet surface. Baseball pitchers throw curves by putting spin on the baseball. A tennis player can put a lot of top spin on the tennis ball which causes it to dive down onto the court once it crosses the net. We now take a brief look at what happens when objects that can rotate collide.
Consider the relatively simple collision shown in Figure 10.26, in which a disk strikes and adheres to an initially motionless stick nailed at one end to a frictionless surface. After the collision, the two rotate about the nail. There is an unbalanced external force on the system at the nail. This force exerts no torque because its lever arm is zero. Angular momentum is therefore conserved in the collision. Kinetic energy is not conserved, because the collision is inelastic. It is possible that momentum is not conserved either because the force at the nail may have a component in the direction of the disk's initial velocity. Let us examine a case of rotation in a collision in Example 10.15.
Example 10.15
Rotation in a Collision
Suppose the disk in Figure 10.26 has a mass of 50.0 g and an initial velocity of 30.0 m/s when it strikes the stick that is 1.20 m long and 2.00 kg.
(a) What is the angular velocity of the two after the collision?
(b) What is the kinetic energy before and after the collision?
(c) What is the total linear momentum before and after the collision?
Strategy for (a)
We can answer the first question using conservation of angular momentum as noted. Because angular momentum is , we can solve for angular velocity.
Solution for (a)
Conservation of angular momentum states
where primed quantities stand for conditions after the collision and both momenta are calculated relative to the pivot point. The initial angular momentum of the system of stick-disk is that of the disk just before it strikes the stick. That is,
where is the moment of inertia of the disk and is its angular velocity around the pivot point. Now, (taking the disk to be approximately a point mass) and , so that
After the collision,
It is that we wish to find. Conservation of angular momentum gives
Rearranging the equation yields
where is the moment of inertia of the stick and disk stuck together, which is the sum of their individual moments of inertia about the nail. Figure 10.12 gives the formula for a rod rotating around one end to be . Thus,
Entering known values in this equation yields,
The value of is now entered into the expression for , which yields
Strategy for (b)
The kinetic energy before the collision is the incoming disk's translational kinetic energy, and after the collision, it is the rotational kinetic energy of the two stuck together.
Solution for (b)
First, we calculate the translational kinetic energy by entering given values for the mass and speed of the incoming disk.
After the collision, the rotational kinetic energy can be found because we now know the final angular velocity and the final moment of inertia. Thus, entering the values into the rotational kinetic energy equation gives
Strategy for (c)
The linear momentum before the collision is that of the disk. After the collision, it is the sum of the disk's momentum and that of the center of mass of the stick.
Solution of (c)
Before the collision, then, linear momentum is
After the collision, the disk and the stick's center of mass move in the same direction. The total linear momentum is that of the disk moving at a new velocity plus that of the stick's center of mass,
which moves at half this speed because . Thus,
Gathering similar terms in the equation yields,
so that
Substituting known values into the equation,
Discussion
First note that the kinetic energy is less after the collision, as predicted, because the collision is inelastic. More surprising is that the momentum after the collision is actually greater than before the collision. This result can be understood if you consider how the nail affects the stick and vice versa. Apparently, the stick pushes backward on the nail when first struck by the disk. The nail's reaction (consistent with Newton's third law) is to push forward on the stick, imparting momentum to it in the same direction in which the disk was initially moving, thereby increasing the momentum of the system.
Applying the Science Practices: Rotational Collisions
When the disk in Example 10.15 strikes the stick, it exerts a torque on the stick. It is this torque that changes the angular momentum of the stick. A greater torque would produce a greater increase in angular momentum. As you saw in Example 10.12, the relationship between net torque and angular momentum can be expressed as , where represents the change in angular momentum and represents the time interval that it took for the angular momentum to change. How can you test this? Design an experiment in which you apply different measurable torques to a simple system. The torque applied to the stick can be varied by changing the mass of the disk, the initial velocity of the disk, or the radius of the impact of the disk on the stick. How will you measure changes to angular momentum? Recall that angular momentum is defined as .
The above example has other implications. For example, what would happen if the disk hit very close to the nail? Obviously, a force would be exerted on the nail in the forward direction. So, when the stick is struck at the end farthest from the nail, a backward force is exerted on the nail, and when it is hit at the end nearest the nail, a forward force is exerted on the nail. Thus, striking it at a certain point in between produces no force on the nail. This intermediate point is known as the percussion point.
An analogous situation occurs in tennis as seen in Figure 10.27. If you hit a ball with the end of your racquet, the handle is pulled away from your hand. If you hit a ball much farther down, for example, on the shaft of the racquet, the handle is pushed into your palm. And if you hit the ball at the racquet's percussion point (what some people call the “sweet spot”), then little or no force is exerted on your hand, and there is less vibration, reducing chances of a tennis elbow. The same effect occurs for a baseball bat.
Check Your Understanding
Is rotational kinetic energy a vector? Justify your answer. | https://openstax.org/books/college-physics-ap-courses/pages/10-6-collisions-of-extended-bodies-in-two-dimensions |
Rigid Body Dynamics deals with the movement of rigid bodies that are interconnected, influenced by the external forces acting upon them. The chapter dynamics is one of the important chapters in physics for NEET. Around 8 marks are assigned for questions from this topic, and the related topic 'motion of the system of particles and rigid body' has questions worth 12 marks from it.
In the NEET 2020 syllabus, Rigid Body Dynamics constitute about 6.67% of the total weightage of the question paper.
After topics like matter, fluid mechanics, thermal expansion, etc. this topic constitutes the highest weightage in the exam.
The expected number of questions that may be asked in NEET 2020 from the topic rigid dynamics is around 2 to 3.
Candidates need a deep understanding of the topic to develop quick problem-solving skills. Read the article to get simple definitions of all the important topics with solved examples for better understanding.
Must Read:
The capacity of a system to resist the changes that are produces while a body undergoes rotational motion is known as the Moment of Inertia. Moment of Inertia is denoted by I.
The formulae to calculate the moment of inertia of a body is;
I=mr2
where m denotes the mass of the body or particle and r denotes the perpendicular distance from the axis from which the moment of inertia has to be calculated.
In case there are many particles for which the moment of Inertia has to be calculated;
I = miri2
Where m is the sum of the product of mass and r is the perpendicular distance to its axis.
For different objects, with the different axis of rotation about which the rotational motion occurs, the formula for calculating the moment of inertia varies.
A solid cylinder or disc rotating around its symmetry axis
I = ½ mr2
If it is rotating around its central diameter,
I = ¼ mr2 + 1/12 ml2
Where m is the mass of the particle, r is the radius and l is the length.
A hoop rotating around its symmetry axis
I = mr2
If it rotates about its diameter,
I = ½ mr2
A solid sphere
I = 2/5 mr2
A hollow sphere or a spherical shell
I = 2/3 mr2
A rod rotating about its centre
I = 1/12 ml2
If it rotates around an axis at its end
I = 1/3 ml2
Q: If three identical rods with mass m and length l forms an equilateral triangle, what will be the moment of inertia of the triangular frame about an axis running parallel to its one side and passing through the opposite vertex of the other two sides.
5/3 ml2
3/2 ml2
5/4 ml2
5/2 ml2
A: Option C 5/4 ml2
Solution: In a triangle ABC, where the axis PQ is parallel to AB and at C,
The rods AC and BC have the same moment of inertia as both of them are rotating around the axis PQ at their ends.
So,
IAC = IBC = 1/3 ml2 sin2 60o
ml2/3 sin2 60o = ml2/4
Moment of inertia of the rod AB about the axis PQ
IAB = m (l√3/ 2)2 = ¾ 3l
I = IAB + IAC + IBC = ¾ ml2 + ml2/4 + ml2/4 = 5/4 ml2
CheckBest Android Mobile Apps to Prepare for NEET
An imaginary distance between the centroid and a cross-section at which the moment of inertia to be calculated is defined as the radius of gyration. It is denoted by k when the radius of gyration comes into the equation.
I = mk2
Where I is the moment of inertia, m denotes the mass of the object and k is the radius of gyration.
Torque is defined as the measure of force which causes an object to undergo rotational motion around its axis. Torque is directly proportional to the angular acceleration in an object which is in rotational motion and the moment of inertia. It is denoted by τ
T = Iα
Where I is the moment of inertia and α is the rate of change of angular velocity ie; angular acceleration.
Q: A uniform disc of mass M and radius R with a cord wrapped around its perimeter is supported in frictionless bearings. If the cord is subjected to a constant downward pull T what will be the angular acceleration of the disc?
2T/MR
MR/2T
MR/T
T/MR
A: A) 2T/MR
Solution: Torque on the disc
T = TR : ( T = Iα ) ( I = ½ MR2)
α = T/R = TR/ ½ MR2
= 2TR/ MR2 = 2T/MR
A rotating body which resists the change in its state produces an angular momentum.
For a point object, which rotates around an axis,
L = r x p
Where L is the angular momentum, r is the radius or the distance between the rotating object and its axis and p is the linear momentum.
For an extended object, which rotates around its axis,
L = I x w
Where L is the angular momentum, I is the moment of inertia created by the rotational motion and w is the angular velocity.
Q: If a pully of mass 2kg and radius 0.1 m rotates at a constant angular velocity of 4 rad/sec, what will be the angular momentum?
A: For an object which rotates around its own axis,
L = T x w
Here, I = ½ mr2
I = ½ 2 x 0.12
= 0.02/2 = 0.01 kg m2
L = 0.01 x 4 = 0.04 kg m2 s-1
ReadHow to Utilise Lockdown Period for NEET Preparation
Torque can be defined as the twisting force for rotational motion of an object. So, torque is the change in angular momentum of a rotating object. The variables here are angular momentum and time.
T = dL/dt
Where T is torque L is the angular momentum and t is time.
Moment of Inertia; I = mr2
Torque; T = Iα
Angular Momentum; L = r x p ; L= I x w
Relation between Torque and Angular Momentum; T = dL/dt
Question: A stone is tied to a string and is rotating in a circle. If the string is cut, why does the stone travels away in a different path rather than continuing in its circular path of motion?
Because of the centripetal force
A centrifugal force exerted on the stone
Because of its inertia
A centripetal force acts on the stone
Answer: (C ) Because of its inertia
Question: When a cricket ball with M as its mass and R as its radius rotates on its axis, what will be the moment of inertia?
I = MR2
I = 2/5 MR2
I = ½ MR2
I = 2/3 MR2
Answer: A cricket ball is a hollow sphere. Hence. (D) I = 2/3 MR2
Question: A thin wire with length L and uniform mass density p forms a loop with its centre as O. What will be the moment of inertia of the loop about an axis XY as shown in the image.
3pL3/8π2
5pL3/8π2
pL3/16π2
pL3/8π2
Answer: (A) 3pL3/8π2
L=2πr, where r = L/ 2π
m = pL
Moment of inertia at axis XY
IXY = 3/2 mr2
= 3/2 pL (L/2π)2 = 3 pL3/8π2
Question: A uniform cylinder with L as length and R as radius about its perpendicular bisector has I as the moment of inertia. What is the ratio of L/R when the moment of inertia is minimum.
Answer: Length of the cylinder is L
The radius of the cylinder is R
I = mR2/4 + mL2/12
= m/4 ( R2 + L2/3 ) = m/4 (V/πl + L2/3 )
Differentiate I with respect to l
dI/dl = m/4 (-V/πl2 + 2l/3)
For maxima and minima, dI/dl = 0
So, m/4 (-V/πl2 + 2l/3) = 0
V/πl2 = 2L/3
R2/l = 2L/3
L2/R2 = 3/2
√(L2/R2) = √(3/2)
L/R = √(3/2)
Hence the ratio of L/R when the moment of inertia is at the minimum will be √3/2
Question: If a particle moves with constant angular velocity in a circular motion then during the motion its
Both energy and momentum is conserved
Momentum is conserved
None of the above is conserved
Energy is conserved
Answer: (d) Its energy is conserved.
While answering the questions from rigid body dynamics, always draw and name the diagrams that are said in the situation. It helps in better understanding of the described scenario, and in figuring out the apt equations.
Most of the questions will require two or more equations from different parts of the topic to reach the final answer. So, you must be well-versed with all the equations in the topic. Leaving out even one of them may lead to completely missing out a question even if you know all the other equations required to solve the question.
Solving questions with different difficulty levels will help you to understand the twisted ways a simple question can be asked. It also helps with quickening the pace of your problem-solving skills.
Make flashcards of formulas and important concepts for quick references. This way it will be easy to remember the topics you studied just by referring to the flashcards.
NCERT textbooks are a great resource when preparing for NEET that is available to everyone. Practice the exercise questions at the end of each chapter, to be thorough with your understanding of the topic.
There is hardly 1 month left to do a final revision for NEET, which is scheduled on September 13, 2020 as per the latest updates. Starting from scratch is nearly impossible within this time limit. But, most of you might have almost completed the topics.
The last month before examination should mostly be dedicated to solving question papers and re-visiting the portions which you feel difficult.
For those who wish to appear for the NEET in the coming years, don’t burden yourself with so many topics to cover in so little time, start early and take your time to familiarize yourself with the topics.
Here is a One-month Revision Plan for NEET 2020 Candidates
|Subjects for NEET||Number of Portions||Allotted Days||Strategy|
|Physics||19||11|
|Biology||09||08|
|Chemistry||31||11|
For the topic Rigid Body Dynamics, you can take 1 to 2 weeks of your whole preparation period. This topic is important, yet it is easier to grasp once you get the basic concepts right. During the one-month revision, a day or two will be well enough to brush up your memory on rigid body dynamics and its sub-sections. | https://collegedunia.com/news/e-457-neet-study-notes-for-rigid-body-dynamics |
What makes the Earth rotate?
In this article you will get to know that what makes an Earth rotate on its own axis.
Q. What makes the Earth rotate?
Ans. All celestial bodies in the universe were formed by the condensation of a rotating mass of gasses. The frictional and other forces in space are very small, hence due to the conservation of angular momentum (which states that in the absence of net external torque acting on a system about a given axis, the total angular momentum of the system about that axis remains constant), all celestial bodies along with Earth kept on moving about their axis as they started initially. | https://www.jagranjosh.com/articles/what-makes-the-earth-rotate-1430383223-1 |
Spin Angular Momentum – Bullet hitting bottom of a thin rod?
Angular momentum is the only parameter conserved. This is because there are no external torques acting on the system. Energy is not conserved because the collision is inelastic. Finally, linear momentum is not conserved because there is an external force acting on the rod’s center of mass that prevents the system from moving forward after the collision.
Now, for part d, I am not so sure what to do. Should I equate the angular momentum of the system before the bullet hits with the final angular momentum of the system, solve for angular velocity, and turn that into linear velocity? Though I have no idea how g would come into play..
Where will the stones meet? | http://physicsinventions.com/spin-angular-momentum-bullet-hitting-bottom-of-a-thin-rod/ |
Q: A particle undergoes uniform circular motion. About which point on the plane of the circle, will the angular momentum of the particle remain conserved ?
(a)Centre of circle
(b)On the circumference of the circle
(c)Inside the circle
(d)Outside the circle
Ans: (a)
Sol: In a uniform circular motion , the force acting on the particle is centripetal force , which is acting towards the centre.
Torque of this force about the centre is zero . hence angular momentum about the centre remain conserved. | https://www.quantumstudy.com/a-particle-undergoes-uniform-circular-motion-about-which-point-on-the-plane-of-the-circle/ |
The Northern Sydney Primary Health Network is operated by Sydney North Health Network (SNHN). The region covers almost 900km2, a total population of over 925 thousand people. SNHN Needs Assessment identified vulnerable groups with poorer health outcomes.
2. Short description of practice change implemented
The SNHN Strategic Plan identifies Community Activation as a strategic priority, to improve health literacy in our most vulnerable populations. Consultation with these groups clearly stated that the community wanted health information and wanted it delivered by “experts”. Workshops are delivered to community groups, by experts that speak their language, and understand each groups culture.
3. Aim and theory change
Current workshops aim to address specific objectives, these are measured after each workshop. Objectives include improving knowledge about the topic, benefits to changing behaviour, how to change that behaviour.
4. Target population and stakeholders
The target cohorts include CALD, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people living in social housing, people living with mental illness, youth and their parents, new arrivals including refugees, seniors and people that have left the armed forces.
Key stakeholders delivering the programs in partnership include: local councils, not-for -profit organisations, NGOs, social housing providers, and other community groups.
5. Timeline
The program commenced in 2017. Ongoing consultation with the most vulnerable populations, has helped to adapt and streamline the program to meet the changing needs of these communities. The program continues today, with increases year on year.
6. Highlights (innovation, impact and outcomes)
Improved health literacy in vulnerable populations, engagement from local communities, joint delivery with key stakeholders are highlights from this program
Outcomes of this work will be seen in the long term. Some of the community groups that have received workshops are keen to engage again over time, giving the SNHN the opportunity to follow -up for some medium-term impact.
7. Comments on sustainability
All of the workshops are run in partnership with local stakeholders, reducing costs, allowing a modest spend for broad delivery. Health Professionals are remunerated; however, venues, marketing, and resources are provided in kind.
8. Comments on transferability
The program would easily transfer to other metropolitan locations and could be adapted by the use of web-based communication for the rural and remote areas.
9. Conclusions (comprising key findings)
The vulnerable communities in the region have many issues that impact on their health. Consultation with these populations indicates they are both interested in their community’s health, and a willingness to improve health and wellbeing. Clear messaging, cultural relevance, and taking the information to the people, contribute to the success of the program.
10. Discussions
This program continues to evolve with new topics being developed to meet health needs of the community. Being responsive to the community and sharing the success with them has ensured ongoing engagement and consultation.
11. Lessons learned
Today’s program looks very different to the original idea. The input from the target communities informing the development. Flexibility in the delivery of the program is key, as is stakeholder’s engagement and commitment. | https://www.ijic.org/articles/abstract/10.5334/ijic.s4174/ |
Introduction to BC’s curriculum redesign
Today we live in a state of constant change. It is a technology-rich world, where communication is instant and information is immediately accessible. The way we interact with each other personally, socially, and at work has changed forever. Knowledge is growing at exponential rates in many domains, creating new information and possibilities. This is the world our students are entering.
British Columbia’s curriculum is being redesigned to respond to this demanding world our students are entering. To develop new models, the Ministry consulted with experts in the field. They suggested that to prepare students for the future, the curriculum must be learner-centred and flexible and maintain a focus on literacy and numeracy, while supporting deeper learning through concept-based and competency-driven approaches.
The redesign of curriculum maintains a focus on sound foundations of literacy and numeracy while supporting the development of citizens who are competent thinkers and communicators, and who are personally and socially competent in all areas of their lives. British Columbia’s redesigned curriculum honours the ways in which students think, learn, and grow, and prepares them for a successful lifetime of learning where ongoing change is constant.
Key features of redesigned curriculum
At the heart of British Columbia’s redesigned curriculum are the Core Competencies, essential learning and literacy and numeracy foundations. All three features contribute to deeper learning.
The Core Competencies
The Core Competencies are the intellectual, personal, and social skills that all students need to develop for success in life beyond school. BC has identified three Core Competencies – Communication, Thinking and Personal and Social Competency as essential for all learners.
Core Competencies underpin the curricular competencies in all areas of learning. They are directly related to the educated citizen and as such are what we value for all students in the system.
Information on the Core Competencies, including profiles and illustrations, are available at https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/competencies
The curriculum for each subject area includes the essential learning for students, which represent society’s aspirations for BC’s educated citizen. The redesigned curriculum develops around key content, concepts, skills and big ideas that foster the higher-order thinking demanded in today's world.
Literacy is the ability to understand, critically analyze, and create a variety of forms of communication, including oral, written, visual, digital, and multimedia, in order to accomplish one’s goals.
Numeracy is the ability to understand and apply mathematical concepts, processes, and skills to solve problems in a variety of contexts.
Literacy and numeracy are fundamental to all learning. While they are commonly associated with language learning and mathematics, literacy and numeracy are applied in all areas of learning.
Curriculum model
All areas of learning are based on a “Know-Do-Understand” model to support a concept-based competency-driven approach to learning.
Three elements, the Content (Know), Curricular Competencies (Do), and Big Ideas (Understand) all work together to support deeper learning.
British Columbia’s curriculum design enables a personalized, flexible and innovative approach at all levels of the education system.
All areas of learning have been redesigned using this model.
The Content learning standards — the “Know” of the Know-Do-Understand model of learning — detail the essential topics and knowledge at each grade level.
The Curricular Competencies are the skills, strategies, and processes that students develop over time. They reflect the “Do” in the Know-Do-Understand model of learning. While Curricular Competencies are more subject-specific, they are connected to the Core Competencies.
The Big Ideas consist of generalizations and principles and the key concepts important in an area of learning. They reflect the “Understand” component of the Know-Do-Understand model of learning.
The big ideas represent what students will understand at the completion of the curriculum for their grade. They are intended to endure beyond a single grade and contribute to future understanding.
Any of the elements may include elaborations. Elaborations are provided where necessary to clarify some words or statements and may include examples, key questions, definitions or be used to describe breadth and depth for content. Elaborations are presented as “mouse-over” links on the website.
British Columbia’s redesigned curriculum brings together two features that most educators agree are essential for 21st-century learning: a concept-based approach to learning and a focus on the development of competencies, to foster deeper, more transferable learning. These approaches complement each other because of their common focus on active engagement of students. Deeper learning is better achieved through “doing” than through passive listening or reading. Similarly, both concept-based learning and the development of competencies engage students in authentic tasks that connect learning to the real world.
Learning can take place anywhere, not just in classrooms. Many schools and teachers create learning environments that explore the use of time and space in creative ways. The integration of areas of learning and technology also have opened the door for teachers and schools to approach the use of time and space in creative ways – ways that adapt to the students’ needs and interests.
Although the learning standards are described within areas of learning, there is no requirement for teachers to organize classrooms, schools or instruction in this manner. In effect, the Ministry of Education defines the “what” to teach but not the “how” to organize the time, space or methods to teach it.
The focus on personalization and the flexible structure of the curriculum support the configuration of combined grade classrooms. Classes of students of more than one grade provide opportunities for teachers to develop a mindset that sees all the students as a group of learners with a range of needs and interests. Multi-grade programs should find a comfortable fit with the curriculum.
The curriculum for each area of learning is displayed in two ways—in HTML format on the website and in PDF or Word formats.
The curriculum website will continue to evolve in ways that support planning for learning. At this point, several features are available such as:
- A search engine to allow teachers to search for key words or select key elements from specific grades or areas of learning. See: https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/search
- The results of the search can be exported into a Word document for further manipulation
- PDF or word versions of the curriculum can be printed
- Some resources for planning are included now and will be further expanded in the future.
This flexibility supports teachers to combine the learning standards in various ways. Teachers are encouraged to create courses, modules, thematic units or learning experiences that go beyond learning area borders to focus on students’ needs and interests or local contexts. The curriculum design and the website features provide the flexibility to serve the unique needs of classrooms, students, and teachers. | https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/rethinking-curriculum |
The Department of Education wishes to acknowledge the thoughtful contribution of the following members of the Middle Level Visual Arts Curriculum Development and Advisory Committee in the development of the Visual Arts Education Curriculum: Grade Six document.
Adam Young, District 2 Chris Browne, District 18 Jane Trainor, District 2
Michael McEwing, District 14 Terra Mouland, District 2 Tone Meeg, District 18 Darren Wong, District 2
Susan Srivastava, Retired Rolene Betts, Department of Education
Pilot teachers who field tested the draft curriculum document and provided invaluable feedback include:
Tenie Boudreau, School District 2 Heidi Patullo Bundschuh, School District 8
Lindsay Hart, School District 16 Joyce Kuzyk, School District 17
Donna MacKay, School District 15 Jeff McGinn, School District 10
Roberte Melanson, School District 18 Alison Sollows-Astle, School District 14
Cathie Wilson, School District 6
New Brunswick Department of Education Educational Programs and Services
2012
INTRODUCTION
ii ART: GRADE SIX, FEBRUARY 2012
Skills the Visual Arts Nurture • Visual Arts nurtures self-expression. Students gain new methods of communication and literacies through which they can express their own ideas, learning, perceptions, and feelings. • Visual Arts connects students’ learnings with the world outside the classroom. Through the arts, students explore social issues and develop a civic awareness. • Visual Arts teaches students the skill of observation. Learning to be an artist means learning to “see”, going beyond expectations, presumptions, and stereotypes, and observing what is actually before them. • Visual Arts teaches students to envision. Through art, students make visual re- presentations of what is visible, what is perceived, and what is imagined. • Visual Arts teaches students to innovate through exploration. The Visual Arts allow students freedom to explore, to risk, to try again. Permission to make mistakes may lead to remarkable innovation. • Visual Arts teaches students to reflect and self-evaluate. • Visual Arts teaches students there is more than one solution to a problem. Students develop an appreciation for other points of view. • Visual Arts teaches students that even small differences can have large effects. • Visual Arts teaches students to collaborate. Through group projects, students learn to negotiate, to develop creative solutions and to participate as a team member. • Visual Arts teaches students the value of persistence. Through critical thinking and problem solving they learn to “work it out”.
INTRODUCTION
ART: GRADE SIX, FEBRUARY 2012 iii
Rationale (As expressed in Foundation for the Atlantic Canada Arts Education Curriculum) Education in the arts is fundamental to the aesthetic, physical, emotional, intellectual, and social growth of the individual. It provides students with unique ways of knowing, doing, living, and belonging in the global community. It also has a key role in the development of creativity and imagination. Through arts education, students come to understand the values and attitudes held by individuals and communities. Learning in the arts contributes to an empathetic worldview and an appreciation and understanding of the relationship among peoples and their environments. Education in the arts and learning in other subject areas through the arts develop the Atlantic Canada essential graduation learnings: aesthetic expression, citizenship, communication, personal development, problem solving, and technological competence.
Curriculum Organization Within the curricula there are various organizational strata. At the broadest level are six Essential Graduation Learnings (EGL’s). Essential Graduation Learnings are statements describing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes expected of all students who graduate from high school. They are not unique to one specific subject or discipline. Rather, Essential Graduation Learnings are relevant to all subject areas. They function as the overarching framework into which all curricula fits. One of the Essential Graduation Learnings, “Aesthetic Expression”, states, “Graduates will be able to respond with critical awareness to various forms of the arts and be able to express themselves through the arts.” This EGL is divided into General Curriculum Outcomes (GCO’s), which are common to Visual Art, Music, Drama, and Dance. The General Curriculum Outcomes are then grouped into three strands.
STRAND 1 STRAND 2 STRAND 3
CREATING AND PRESENTING
UNDERSTANDING AND CONNECTING CONTEXTS OF TIME, PLACE AND COMMUNITY
PERCEIVING, REFLECTING, AND RESPONDING
GCO1: Students will be expected to explore, challenge, develop, and express ideas, using the skills, language, techniques, and process of the arts.
GCO3: Students will be expected to examine the relationship among the arts, societies and environments.
GCO6: Students will be expected to apply critical thinking and problem-solving strategies to reflect on and respond to their own and others’ work.
GCO2: Students will be expected to create and/or present, independently and collaboratively, expressive products in the arts for a range of audiences and purposes.
GCO4: Students will be expected to demonstrate critical awareness of and value for the role of the arts in creating and reflecting culture.
GCO7: Students will be expected to analyze the relationship between artistic intent and the expressive work.
GCO5: Students will be expected to respect the contributions to the arts of individuals and cultural groups in local and global contexts, and value the arts as a record of human experience and expression.
INTRODUCTION
iv ART: GRADE SIX, FEBRUARY 2012
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) The New Brunswick Department of Education and Early Childhood Development stresses the need to design and implement projects and lessons that provide equal opportunities for all students according to their abilities, needs and interests. Teachers are aware of and make adaptations to accommodate the diverse range of learners in their classes. In order to adapt to the needs of all learners, teachers create opportunities that permit students to have their learning styles addressed. When making instructional decisions, teachers consider individual learning needs, preferences and strengths, as well as the abilities, experiences, interests, and values that learners bring to the classroom. Students should find their learning opportunities maximized in the visual arts classroom. While this curriculum guide presents specific outcomes for each unit, it is acknowledged that students progress at different rates. Teachers provide activities and strategies that accommodate student diversity, recognizing and celebrating students as they develop and achieve. Teachers articulate high expectations for all students and ensure that all students have equitable opportunities to experience success. Teachers adapt classroom organization and environment, teaching strategies, assessment practices, time, and resources to address students’ needs and build on their strengths. Program Characteristics The Visual Arts Education Curriculum: Grade Six program contributes to a multi- disciplinary, interrelated school curriculum. While being engaged in art education, students learn more than art content and skills. As with any creative endeavour, many thought processes, learning strategies, and ways of expression are refined and transferred to other aspects of life. Art education offers unique experiences from which a better understanding of the world can emerge. Students who are engaged in such a program have the opportunity to develop a comprehensive awareness, appreciation, and understanding of personal life experiences and events. The Visual Arts Education Curriculum: Grade Six curriculum guide provides students with a means to acquire a developmentally appropriate comprehensive art education through the three strands of General Curriculum Outcomes. The first strand is Creating/Making and Presenting. The second strand is Understanding and Connecting Contexts of Time, Place, and Community. The third strand is Perceiving, Reflecting, and Responding. Teachers must continually work at balancing the delivery of the art program. | https://dokumen.tips/documents/visual-arts-education-grades-6-curriculum-2018-08-30-the-visual-arts-education.html |
On Dec. 10, the Newton City Commission approved Military Park as the site for a proposed new public library. The park, which is the current location of the library, was the top choice of attendees at two community meetings held Oct. 30, and was also the recommended location of the architects leading the project. The site was considered ideal because of its convenience/ease of access, proximity to downtown and adequate space for parking.
The project will now move into phase 2, which is the development of design concepts for the new library, and phase 3, a public education and fundraising campaign. The Commission authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with the Newton Public Library Board for the library to be responsible for financing those two phases.
HBM Architects Recommendation
Read HBM’s full report, including “test fits” and pros and cons for Military Park and the other possible sites that were considered.
HBM Architects’ findings are a result of discussions with the City/Library Committee, input from the community and our own professional review and considerations. Our recommendation to the City Council and the Library Board is that the Military Park site is the best suitable site for the new Newton Public Library.
The Library’s connection with the community started with books and has expanded to be so much more. With the impact of technology and changing needs for how people interact and share, libraries are at an exciting crossroads. We know the library has gone from being book centric to people centric; from book storage centered to book use centered. Libraries are no longer places to only search and discover existing information but to generate information and create content in a variety of digital and physical forms. Libraries assist customers in pursuing and displaying their own ideas, concepts, and creative pursuits expressing themselves by creating films, animations, music, self-publishing, making 3-D objects, and provide hands-on learning for everything from cooking techniques and gardening to fitness and mindfulness. Libraries have continued to evolve and reinvent themselves to better serve, advance, and define their communities. Designing innovative and inspired spaces that can anticipate and adapt to changes in technology, community interests, service delivery methods, and needs will best position libraries for the future. A new Library situated near the Core Downtown area of Newton on a site with common civic importance will be of tremendous value to the citizens of Newton Kansas.
The Military Park site meets the 3 most important criteria (as ranked by community input) of convenience and ease of access, adequate parking and close to the downtown area. In fact, it meets all of the criteria established to the greatest degree with the exception of the criteria of being close to residential development.
However, the criteria of being close to residential development was deemed of very little importance in the selection by community input. In addition, we believe building a new library on the Military Park site will enhance an already important core element in the City and in our opinion will improve access, use, and the beauty of Military Park. In the prior design a larger building was planned – planning at this time suggested a smaller initial building footprint which will allow more green space to remain as part of the park. This site is also right at the core of all current residential homesites which will allow the greatest of access to current and arguably future community members. Our decision was also based on the fact that many of the other sites lacked cohesion with the selection criteria in various ways and would produce a building and site layout that would be less than ideal. | https://www.newtonplks.org/2019/12/military-park-chosen-as-site-for-proposed-new-library/ |
Our BA (Hons) Graphic Design degree reflects the demands of contemporary graphic design practice. The degree offers you the opportunity to explore graphic design through a range of digital and traditional media. Teaching is highly practical and aims to reflect current industry standards.
The evolution of a new, versatile designer who has a thorough understanding of traditional graphic design principles, as well as an ability to work creatively with digital technology is crucial to the future of the industry. We intend to match employer expectations by producing graduates capable of responding to and meeting modern industry demands.
This degree has established links with the regional and wider national design community and offers work related opportunities with local design studios, as well as the chance to work on live projects in collaboration with other creative organisations.
In your final year of study, you will have the opportunity to showcase your work in our annual Vortex exhibition, to friends, family and the local and regional arts community. You may also have the chance to collaborate with the University Centre St Helens Marketing Team, to produce the Vortex brand for 2020.
Course in-depth - Year 1
Modules
AR4901 Visual Communication (40 credits)
Visual communication is designed to introduce and develop methods of image making whilst exploring a variety of different graphic media and understand their value as methods of visual communication. The module will encourage an inventive and experimental response to the use of processes and materials at an introductory level. Practice based projects will introduce the fundamentals of visual language and establish the development of concepts through mind mapping.
Current design software will be introduced in this module, however students will be encouraged to initially work with traditional media and later utilise appropriate digital methods. Students will be encouraged to develop their own visual language through design projects. Workshops will introduce students to: photography, screen print, etching, lino print, letterpress, packaging, drawing, digital design and bookbinding.
AR4902 Ideas and Concepts (20 credits)
Ideas and concepts introduces students to a range of major artistic, cultural and ideological issues that have influenced and informed 20th and 21st century creative practice. Through a series of lectures, seminars, and exhibition visits, this module will develop awareness of key ideas and concepts and their impact upon contemporary design practice.
AR4903 Typography (40 credits)
Typography is about the art and skills of designing communication by means of the printed word. Traditional and current typographic practice will be explored and an understanding of theoretical study and practical activity developed. Through practical work students will produce design solutions to extend understanding of typography. They will address the relationships between visual structure, typographic hierarchy, communication and meaning. Changing fashions in letter form developments and typography will be explored encouraging students to consider typographic style when selecting and using type forms in practical design work.
AR4904 Live Project (20 credits)
Live project enables students to engage with a live design competition sourced from industry. A presentation by the client will introduce the project brief. Module tutors will facilitate the project through discussions, seminars and progress will be monitored in project critiques. Visits to appropriate organisations and exhibitions will motivate research activity. The module will conclude with a client presentation and a 1000-word reflective report. | https://www.sthelens.ac.uk/courses/graphic-design/715-university-centre-st-helens/3237-ba-hons-graphic-design-full-time-2020-entry |
The Kindergarten program at Rio Grande School offers a well-balanced curriculum that supports student engagement and social-emotional growth in a nurturing environment that celebrates the joy of learning.
Language Arts
The Language Arts program is based on sequential and consistent instruction and practice. Phonics is taught daily through two multi-sensory programs – Letterland and Orton-Gillingham methodology. The students use sand trays, vowel sticks, bumpy boards, white boards, and magnetic boards to practice encoding and decoding. In addition, arm tapping and finger tapping are used to practice non-phonetic words.
Handwriting is presented in connection with phonics instruction and reinforced daily with chalkboard, advancing to weekly practice in handwriting workbooks along with independent writing. The handwriting curriculum is called Handwriting Without Tears.
Educators conduct informal literacy assessments to check developing phonetic skills and comprehension in which students read with a teacher either one-on-one or in small groups. A formal assessment using the Basic Reading Inventory takes place three times during the school year.
Students in Kindergarten explore a variety of genres, both fiction and non-fiction, through independent reading with “just right books” and daily read-alouds, much of which ties into their integrated thematic studies. It is through these read-alouds that comprehension strategies and story mapping skills are modeled and practiced.
The end of year goal for this balanced literacy approach is to empower our Kindergarten students to view themselves as readers and writers who are able to listen, comprehend, and express their ideas clearly.
Mathematics
This curriculum reflects Kindergartners’ awareness that math happens everyday, anytime, and anywhere.. Curriculum areas are linked so that students have the opportunity to use math in a variety of settings -- daily morning meeting routines, thematic studies, science activities, and technology. Developmentally appropriate experiences are provided for Kindergartners to support their need for hands-on, concrete experiences and the manipulation of materials. The emphasis is on active participation in learning, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with children being challenged to consider multiple ways to solve problems. A spiral approach is taken that builds skills and concepts with increasing complexity. During the course of the school year, students explore a wide range of concepts -– numeration, money, fractions, patterns, sorting and classifying, making and interpreting graphs, measurement, addition and subtraction, estimation, geometry, and problem solving.
Most lessons are introduced to the whole class and continue to be practiced when the children participate in small group centers. These center activities are typically guided by a teacher, allowing informal assessment to take place frequently.
Integrated Thematic Units (Science and Social Studies)
The Kindergarten integrated thematic units reflect a common thread of “Ourselves and the World Around Us.” These units use social studies and science as the foundation for thematic learning and provide opportunities for students to further develop and apply concepts and skills in critical thinking, problem solving, reading, writing, oral expression, math, research and study skills, the arts, and technology.
For example, our Winter Theme is Holidays Around the World. Students get to create a suitcase and passport and travel use their imaginations as they travel to different countries to learn how other parts of the world celebrate the holidays. They not only learn about different cultures and traditions, but they also get to sample other foods and create projects to reflect their learning.
Thematic units with a social studies focus lay the foundation for inquiry-based explorations of different cultures, increased multicultural awareness, and an appreciation of people’s similarities and differences. Children move from exploring their own lives, families, and the Santa Fe community to learning about the lives of children around the world. Geography and mapping skills are also incorporated into these units.
Thematic units with a science focus extend students’ understanding of both the physical and social world and serve as a foundation from which to deepen their knowledge of the world around us. Through their five senses they observe, form hypotheses and connections, classify and predict. They study several life cycles throughout the year and look at the effects of weather and seasonal changes on people, plants, and animals. They discover how all life forms have basic needs and must adapt to their changing environment in order to survive. They learn about food, clothing, shelter, and health needs, as well as seasonal activities. They study the earth and how they can become “earth protectors.”
Each Kindergarten unit integrates and relates the core instructional areas of reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies to the underlying theme. Co-curricular educators in the areas of art, music, Spanish, drama, physical education, library, technology, and science collaborate with the classroom teachers to enhance and augment particular thematic units.
Social-Emotional Learning
Social-emotional skills are taught and practiced throughout the Kindergarten day utilizing daily direct instruction, role-playing, read-alouds, and class/individual discussion. These skills are essential for a smooth transition from the pre-K classroom to the more structured elementary academic environment. Educators focus heavily on the Six Pillars of Character--Trustworthiness, Caring, Fairness, Respect, Responsibility, and Citizenship. As a school, Rio Grande follows established Behavior Guidelines, practices and Responsive Classroom principles. Rio Grande School classroom educators believe that social intelligence must be present before academic intelligence can be achieved.
Service Learning
At Rio Grande School, each grade has its own service learning project. Kindergarteners visit a local retirement home several times during the year to share songs and cookies with the residents and to expose the students to a meaningful, real-life application of the concept of giving and sharing. After the visit, substantial time is taken for class reflection on the experience and how our actions can impact the lives of others, which sets the foundation and reinforces our school-wide focus on community responsibility.
Fourth graders work with their kindergarten buddies to choose a service learning project that connects to either an academic subject about which they are passionate or a social-emotional topic. For example, last year fourth graders and kindergarteners worked together to raise money and awareness for the Okapi, an endangered species native to The Congo - home to two of our teachers. | https://www.riograndeschool.org/apps/pages/riograndeschoolkindergarten |
The process involved in the study and production of visual arts is central to developing capable, inquiring and knowledgeable young people, and encourages students to locate their ideas within international contexts. The course encourages an active exploration of visual arts within the students’ own and other cultural contexts. The study of visual arts and the journey within it encourages respect for cultural and aesthetic differences and promotes creative thinking and problem solving.
Visual arts continually create new possibilities and can challenge traditional boundaries. This is evident both in the way we make art and in the way we understand what artists from around the world do. Theory and practice in visual arts are dynamic, ever changing and connect many areas of study and human experience through individual and collaborative production and interpretation.
New ways of expressing ideas help to make visual arts one of the most interesting and challenging areas of learning and experience. The processes of designing and making art require a high level of cognitive activity that is both intellectual and affective. Engagement in the arts promotes a sense of identity and makes a unique contribution to the lifelong learning of each student. Study of visual arts provides students with the opportunity to develop a critical and intensely personal view of themselves in relation to the world.
The Diploma Programme visual arts course enables students to engage in both practical exploration and artistic production, and in independent contextual, visual and critical investigation. The course is designed to enable students to study visual arts in higher education and also welcomes those students who seek life enrichment through visual arts.
Prior learning
The Diploma Programme visual arts course is designed to offer students the opportunity to build on prior experience while encouraging them to develop and use new skills, techniques and ideas. While it is possible to take the Diploma Programme visual arts course without previous experience, this is helpful, particularly at HL.
Difference between HL and SL
Because of the nature of the subject, quality work in visual arts can be produced by students at both HL and SL. The aims and assessment objectives are the same for visual arts students at both HL and SL. Through a variety of teaching approaches, all students are encouraged to develop their creative and critical abilities and to enhance their knowledge, appreciation and enjoyment of visual arts.
The course content for HL and SL may be the same. However, due to the different amount of time available for each, students at HL have the opportunity to develop ideas and skills, to produce a larger body of work and work of greater depth. In order to reflect this, the assessment criteria are differentiated according to option and level.
There need be no direct relationship between the number of works produced, the time spent on each, and the quality achieved: a high level of performance at either HL or SL can be achieved in both a large and small body of work.
Syllabus outline
Studio work
Students are introduced to art concepts and techniques through practical work in the studio. The development of studio techniques is essential to help students explore the potential for expression and to understand the relationship between theory and practice.
To support students’ abilities to express themselves in visual arts at both HL and SL the course includes opportunities for a structured approach to:
the exploration of media, including the use of material and equipment
the exploration and development of artistic qualities in visual arts
the study of relationships between form, meaning and content in visual arts
the study of a variety of social and cultural functions of visual arts
the appreciation and evaluation of their own work and that of others.
Students are encouraged to explore art, craft and design traditions from past, present and emerging cultural backgrounds, and local, national and international contexts.
At the end of the course, students should have produced studio work that communicates their understanding of conceptual content, their technical skill and their sense of critical awareness. They should also have developed an understanding of the artistic process from the generation of initial ideas through the various stages that lead to the completion of a final studio work.
Investigation workbooks
The purpose of the investigation workbooks is to encourage personal investigation into visual arts, which must be closely related to the studio work undertaken. The investigation workbooks should incorporate contextual, visual and critical investigation. They should function as working documents and support the student’s independent, informed investigation and studio practice. Investigation workbooks provide an opportunity for reflection and discovery and they play a key role in allowing ideas to take shape and grow. They should contain visual and written material that address contextual, visual and critical aspects of the investigation. They should also reflect the student’s interests and include wide-ranging first-hand investigations into issues and ideas related to visual arts.
Assessment
Student learning is continuously assessed through evaluation of the students’ ongoing studio work and their work with the investigation workbook and as well as through dialogue and discussions between students and teacher.
The final assessment from the IB consists of the following components:
The
internal assessment
component is assessed by subject teacher and moderated externally by the IBO at the end of the course. This component makes up 40% of the final grade and consists of
selected pages
of his or her investigation workbooks that have been produced during the course.
The
external assessment
component consists of an exhibition at the end of the course where students presents a selection of their works and an interview with a visiting examiner. | http://ibnesbru.org/subjects/visart/ |
It’s no secret that 2021 will bring new challenges for organisations of all sectors, sizes and locations. Repercussions of Covid-19 are apparent everywhere and circumstances continue to evolve at pace. The ability to adapt rapidly to change has never been more important.
As you take time to pause and reflect over the holiday period, you might find yourself reaching for a business book. It’s a great way to expand your horizons and challenge your thinking. A good read can equip you with fresh ideas and approaches, which may be exactly what you and your business needs to start the new year with confidence and purpose.
We’ve put together a list of our favourite, most informative and insightful business titles. If you read one book over the holidays, make sure it’s one of these. | https://devopstoday.net/devops-today-news/your-holiday-reading-sorted-book-recommendations-from-devopsgroup/ |
Creative subjects encourage and enable our pupils to be creative thinkers and independent enquirers. We support them to make a personal response to the world around them and explore possibilities of expression and interpretation. Without creativity, life would never evolve or develop. Creative subjects are necessary for any individual to develop a sense of self awareness, confidence, personal development and self-esteem.
Our pupils at St Matthias Academy are given the opportunity to develop all of these skills and more. Through experimentation and development of ideas using a wide range of media, from the traditional through to digital. We feel it is important that they have a strong sense of ownership of their work. We aim to encourage interest in as much art as possible; promoting the appreciation of art in many forms, and showing students that art is all around them.
In KS3 students two lessons per week. We begin Year 7 with foundation studies; working through all the skills needed to build upon art through their time at St Matthias Academy. This includes observational drawing, line, tone, texture, mark-making, perspective, colour theory- the basic building blocks and language of visual arts. We encourage pupils to self-review, reflect and refine their work. We look at a variety of artists, genres, cultures, techniques and materials aiming to give a wide range of experiences.
We use the AQA syllabus for GCSE Art. We creatively cover the 4 assessment objectives using a wide range of techniques – drawing, painting, print-making, textiles, 3D, photo manipulation. Pupils are supported to develop an individual, personal and meaningful response. Students are required to complete 2 project areas in their coursework (60%) and undertake an external assessment, where they answer a chosen (practical) question (40%). This is completed with the Exhibition of celebration. Results reflect the students’ hard work and commitment to their work. | https://www.stmatthias.learnmat.uk/page/?title=Art&pid=21 |
When I was a little girl, back in the eighties, my teachers at school would ask me to do research. I’d go home desperately hoping that the information I needed was in one of the few books I owned. Back in those days, TV existed, but I had access to only four channels…and they were all Spanish-speaking. I did watch movies because I had a VCR, but very few of these were in English. Yes, it was a long time ago, more than twenty years to be precise. But although it was a long time ago, my parents decided that I should study English. Why was that? Because English was already a Lingua Franca and of course, my parents knew English would open doors for me.
But let me keep talking about me as a little girl. I remember my English coursebooks. They were all about Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace and detached and semi-detached houses. It was all about the UK, however, some other coursebooks were all about the USA and its culture. Why was that?
Trying to find a possible explanation for this, I started doing some research. I discovered that in most institutions in my country where English was taught, every single document and teacher would make reference to communicative competence. And so, I searched for a definition for it: I came across a definition by Hymes in 1972 (Yes! Before I was born). Communicative Competence refers to ‘what a speaker needs in order to be communicatively competent in a speech community’. And so, I had an Aha! moment: books and course materials back in the eighties were getting me ready to be communicatively competent in those English-speaking countries! And so, it turned out, I was studying English in the hope I could travel to those places one day.
Well now, time to travel back to the present and reflect on the needs of our primary learners today. What speech community are they actually expected to be communicatively competent in? The answer might be overwhelming: that speech community is THE WORLD! In a remarkably short period of time, the world and its people, economies, and cultures have become inextricably connected, driven largely by the Internet, innovations in mobile computers and devices, and low-cost telecommunications technology. Have you stopped to think about this? This means that our learners will probably have more chances to interact in English with L2 users than with L1 users of English. It seems clear that communicative competence needs to be redefined in the light of this 21st century language learner.
And so, if our learners need to be communicatively competent in a speech community as broad as the world, the time has come to re-think what communicative competence implies to these new learners and what skills they need to thrive. In such a changing world, tangible skills such as language proficiency are obviously critical to success. But language skills are just part of the equation. To be productive global citizens, primary learners need other skills that are less tangible, including greater sensitivity to cultural differences, openness to new and different ideas, and the ability to adapt to change.
Communicative Competence has a linguistic component: this is getting our students to understand and use vocabulary, language conventions and structures. The challenge remains teaching these within a relevant and meaningful context, depending on our students´ age. But this is not enough. There is also a strategic component: this comprises teaching our students strategies and techniques to overcome language gaps, plan the effectiveness of communication, achieving conversational fluency and modifying discourse according to audience. This takes us to a third competence: the socio-linguistic one: this refers to making our students aware of formality, politeness and directness and their appropriateness or lack of it; it implies becoming aware of cultural references (quite necessary today). But developing communicative competence is not complete unless we also teach the discourse component: which is directly linked to how ideas are connected, that is to say, coherence and cohesion.
In the model I present here, we teach vocabulary, grammar structures and conventions within a context that is both relevant and meaningful to primary language learners. Students then need plenty of opportunities to apply those new words, structures and conventions in real-life situations that we bring to the classroom, showing them that what they are learning is not only useful in the classroom but also beyond its walls. We must, as language teachers, teach our learners planning strategies, giving them chances to organise what they want to communicate and how they want to communicate it. And, last but not least, we need to vary tasks and scenarios as well as audience, so that learners get plenty of opportunities to adjust their language to the different situations suggested by the teacher.
The considerations listed above summarise what we language teachers today need to focus our attention on in order to respond to the needs and demands of a language learner, who without a shade of doubt, lives in a world far different to that in which I lived as a primary learner. What do you do in your classroom to develop communicative competence? I’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below. | https://yltsig.iatefl.org/2018/03/01/developing-primary-learners-communicative-competence-in-english/ |
by Debbie Mytels, September 25, 2014
As the Earth’s cycle turns to autumn, many cultures – and our educational systems – consider it the beginning of a “new year.” So as the leaves turn brown and fall, it’s an important time to reflect on what’s been accomplished during the past and what can be done differently in the time to come. So a dozen enthusiastic members of the Transition Palo Alto/Silicon Valley Steering Committee — along with reps from Heart Beat Earth, Sunnyvale Cool, Move to Amend, the Fools Mission and the Palo Alto Unitarian Church Green Sanctuary Committee — organized an evening workshop on “Seasons of Change” on September 10 led by Menlo Park author and career counselor Carol McClelland, Ph.D.
Carol developed the workshop from ideas in her 1998 book, “Seasons of Change: Using Nature’s Wisdom to Grow Through Life’s Inevitable Ups and Downs.” This inspiring book analyzes the process of personal change. It start with the “autumn” feeling that “something needs to change,” then moves into the “early winter” of confusion and questioning, and then to the dark solstice of despair – and the search for “sparks of light.” Out of this darkness in “late winter” some new seeds of possible choices develop – and by spring they can burst into bloom with new energy for some new growth and initiatives. By summer the changes are thriving and you feel the full enjoyment of life. And then, perhaps, the process will continue to cycle again. For those of us who have gone through some deep personal changes, this pattern rings very true and we’ve learned to look towards the natural world for reassurance and wisdom — in both dark times and in abundance.
In her current work, Carol is now exploring how these “Seasons of Change” apply not only to individuals going through the cycles of their lives, but also how these seasons occur in the life of organizations, social movements, and society as a whole. The goal of the September 10 workshop was to introduce Transition activists to the Seasons of Change concepts, giving us all a common language – and a roadmap of sorts – for examining the effectiveness of the work we are doing and setting a course for the future.
When applying these concepts to organizational life, Carol also pointed out some of the pitfalls that can happen as an organization grows through the cycles. One obvious challenge is that a group fails to notice “the signs of fall” – and keeps doing the same things while declining in vitality and effectiveness. Another pitfall is failing to stop for reflection, allowing for a period of dark solistice resting, questioning, waiting . . . Still a third mistake is to jump too quickly to solutions, rushing into action without being prepared for its consequences or planning for follow through. Embedding the Seasons of Change metaphor into its organizational culture can help a group become more vital and to weather the storms of change both internal and external.
As our local Transition movement and its friends who attended the workshop continue to evolve, we will all be enriched by the deep Earth wisdom that Carol shared with us! | https://transitionpaloalto.org/2014/09/25/seasons-of-change/ |
Wolfe and the Sparrows is a cast bronze sculpture, by Branden Vickers (2019), inspired by an existing statue of General James Wolfe, sculpted by John Massey Rhind in 1898.
General Wolfe was a British army general who lead the British army to victory over the French during the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759.
Wolfe and the Sparrows may first appear to be a traditional monument, cast in bronze and raised on a pedestal.
But as you move closer, it is revealed to be different: a flock of sparrows explodes from the figure, distorting Wolfe’s head and shoulders.
This sculpture doesn’t celebrate a historical figure; it is transformative.
A deeper look at Wolfe and the Sparrows - Calgary public art
Image Gallery
Explore Wolfe and the Sparrows
Download a guide to help to spark conversation and reflection on moments from our past.
- The Education Guide works well with school programs. It is intended for teachers and elementary students.
- The Field Guide provokes interest across a range of disciplines. It contains content more suitable for mature audiences.
Wolfe and the Sparrows Fact Sheet
About the Artist
A project-specific public art selection panel selected artist Brandon Vickerd for the development and execution of this project. Brandon is a Hamilton-based artist and Professor of Sculpture at York University, where he also serves as Chair of the Department of Visual Arts and Art History. Purposely diverse, his studio work straddles the line between high and low culture, acting as a catalyst for critical thought and addressing the failed promise of a modernist future predicated on boundless scientific advancement. Whether through craftsmanship, the creation of spectacle, or humor, the goal of his work is to provoke the viewer into questioning the dominate myth of progress ingrained in Western world views.
He received his BFA from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design and his MFA from the University of Victoria.
Artist Statement
By transforming the look of the original statue with a flock of sparrows – a bird species native to England, Wolfe’s place of birth – Wolfe and the Sparrows offers a new perspective on the ways that traditional monuments reflect and celebrate moments from our history. This work challenges citizens to explore how our ideas of nationhood evolve as we expand our understanding of the past.
Cast in bronze and positioned on a traditional raised pedestal, Wolfe and the Sparrows uses the language and aesthetic of traditional statuary to actively challenge the authority of public monuments and destabilize the dominant cultural associations of bronze statuary.
Value to Calgarians
This work challenges our ideas of nationhood as we explore and evolve our understanding of the past.
Rhind’s original piece is transformed with sparrows, a bird species native to England, General Wolfe’s place of birth. This public art offers a new perspective on how traditional monuments reflect and celebrate moments from our history.
Engagement with Calgarians
The concept for Wolfe and the Sparrows comes from many conversations and engagement with Calgarians from communities near the artwork. This collaboration was essential in the development of the piece.
"The initial idea came out of conversations with the Inglewood community. This project was a unique opportunity because the selection committee chose me as the artist, not based on a proposed finished work, but based on my ability to work with the community to develop themes or concepts that they would like to see reflected in the artwork. A certain portion of the population wanted to see something that was historic in nature, something figurative in bronze that reflected the historical architectural quality of community. Another component of the Inglewood population really wanted to see something that was critical, challenging and funny. Yet another core theme that emerged from all the consultations was the desire to delve deeper than Calgary's recent past, exploring the relationship between settlers and Indigenous peoples, as well as exploring land rights issues and looking at how we view a sense of history in terms of community."
- Brandon Vickerd, artist
Where can I find it?Wolfe and the Sparrows is in Inglewood, near the south west corner of the 12th Street Bridge.
Design, Manufacture and Budget
- This funding is from the 12 Street Bridge's capital budget of $26 million.
More information on the Public Art Process and Policies can be found here. | https://www.calgary.ca/csps/recreation/public-art/12-street-bridge.html |
I do acknowledge the fact that many of the beliefs certainly are a product of naivety and general insufficient experience inside the politics of architecture. But what I lack in knowledge in buildings, I makeup with an outdoor perspective in the subject. We frequently ask what architecture methods to an builder, but all of us rarely check out ask what architecture way to the general public. Those. Perhaps even crucial than the thoughts of architects, of who do not even consist a quarter of the population, the people who we are building for should be provided an equal or a bigger platform to voice their opinion upon as well.
As amazing and innovative as Votre Corbusier’s morals were, there is certainly often a detachment between his understanding of the world, and the real world. His proposal to establish a standardized type to meet the needs of everyone claiming that “All mankind has the same affected person, the same features. All men have the same needs. ” (Le Corbusier, l. 136) can be described as blatant overlook to many in the inhabitants’ choices, traditions, nationalities and other specific needs. The idea of standardization not simply marginalizes most of its habitants, but just as Le Corbusier pointed out, like the vehicle, it embraces competition among different companies. As a result of this expansion of self-interest plus the aggressive competitive architecture, the community, similar to the account of Desconcierto, will become even more divided as ever before.
This is certainly exemplified in the development of the skyscrapers. It created a space that would serve as a playground for can be and designers to have the chance to carve the land with their name and advertise their very own clients. Since the interests of the community aren’t synonymous together with the interests of developers and corporations. The privileges of private owners to build high complexes often keep a burden to the community to manage the consequences that comes with it. The community no longer features control of the aesthetic thoughts of how their particular cities will look and as a result, the community has misplaced their metropolis to programmers and organization.
Instead of establishing a standard, I believe we have to aim more towards improving our current understanding of structures, or creating new concepts. A spark of imagination. A fire. While Vitruvius entertainingly described in The Origin from the Dwelling Property, primitive gentleman accidentally found out fire. They will preserved this and collected around this. Through duplication, they commence to develop terminology, and with language, the ability to distinguish themselves from nature in order to use it as a program and thus, change or generate different kinds of dwellings. Each person had a different take on what is essential for their homes, and using a diverse set of dwellings available to them, they began to observe and compare every single other’s technology with one another. Hence, they begin combining concepts and features, and superior each other peoples houses through comparison of properties in order to make a thing more sophisticated.
Perhaps it could be more beneficial for us to keep the discussion going. Just as the non-discriminative events and interactions of the old fashioned man, Are usually should open up the discussion more to the public. We need to openly take hold of different ideas that take on different conditions in order to boost our own. There is absolutely no architecture devoid of concept, strategy comes from terminology, and terminology change concepts again and again.
Unfortunately, you will discover forces in the past and present that prevent this type of conversation to continue. Power, in social and politics terms, is definitely the ability to impact and even to some extent, control the behaviour of a certain population group. Usually allowed to political frontrunners, rulers and royalty, there were multiple methods to convey their power. It could be proclaimed through annunciation of words, forceful physical confrontations or through written laws and regulations, but one of the influential and has a bigger chances to stand the test of time is the electrical power through visual imagery. Fine art itself has changed into a political instrument of power. Mass fun of a ruler’s portrait, statue, bust and even more are all mimetic representations of power, nevertheless the most considerable form of art to convey power is buildings. The ability of any ruler to carve mountain range, and contact form rivers as they see fit creates a sense of divine strength that only Gods can do. From this sort of thinking, a ruler can easily strike fear and appreciation from their persons by selling their politics power through architecture. Electrical power has been described through architecture throughout history. The changes, advancements and make use of technologies to build have been politically used to revolutionize power in lots of generations. It is not that kings, rulers and also other political leaders create magic or use some kind of keen power to reshape the property as they see suit, but it is through a enormous infrastructure or Architecture that means it is all possible.
Initially of this polemic, I said that buildings is in a consistent state of evolution. It should grow and adapt as time passes to meet the rapidly changing requirements of the dynamic environment and a growing population. Can be are meant to generate an environment not just for everyone in today’s, but particularly for future ages to provide all of them the opportunity to develop and become better.
This is not always authentic. Architecture is usually not always meant to be a solution for all our complications. It are not able to always present new frameworks and typologies for our living environment. Majority of time, architecture is employed to represent wealth and power. Architecture is not at all times meant to improve the quality of life of the rapidly growing inhabitants and developing world.
But most likely, it is what Architecture must be.
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The last big Guardian redesign was a huge success; did that add to the pressure when starting this process?
It would be fair to say given the quality of work by my esteemed predecessors, that in my mind at least, there was a little extra pressure on this redesign.
The initial pressure at the that blank-sheet-of-paper-moment quickly subsided once we began the thorough validation process of the organisation’s and readers’ needs and the subsequent synthesis of the ideas into a coherent strategy. The challenge of this redesign is very different from the previous ones. The Guardian has rapidly evolved as a news organisation over the past few years, we have new offices in New York and Sydney, we passed the 100million unique browsers mark, we have a pioneering open journalism ethos.
The overarching goal was to evolve a new design and brand language that is consistent, coherent and has fidelity of presentation and interaction across all our platforms, that can adapt not just to serve the readers’ changing needs but also the evolving global news organisation that The Guardian has become.
With readers there is always an element of resistance to change that adds a little pressure to the process, but we were clear from the outset that we would be developing and designing in the open so both readers and key voices within The Guardian were all part of the evolution of the new design. This not just alleviates some of the “shock of the new” but gives confidence that we were solving the right problems.
What were the core improvements you wanted to make to the app?
When I arrived here it was clear that we were giving users completely different experiences – in terms of fidelity to the core Guardian brand – across all platforms. We have our Editions app, we had the old smartphone app, we had an Android app that was slightly different, we had desktop website and we had a mobile site worked on by a third party which also had a different design – all of which were vague interpretations of the original Berliner newspaper design.
The first improvement was to evolve a new design and brand language presented a familiar and consistent experience but was also adaptable and responsive to the volatile needs across the whole digital landscape. But as the new mantra goes, design is not just how it looks, it’s how it works. So some of the key facets and functions of the new improvements are:
– A new responsive design built around the key proportion of the core image size we use across digital platforms. This substrate helps us enforce how we use space across headlines and pictures, which has always been a very key part of our brand identity.
– For the first time we have consistent use of Guardian Egyptian across all our products and platforms.
– We commissioned Territory Studio to design us a custom set of icons that had the character of and form of Guardian Egyptian. We felt it was a really important part of the detail of the design that even at the this small but high functioning level the fidelity of the brand was delivered.
– A new colour language highlights the significance of stories and guides readers to discover new writers and subjects. We have an overarching news colour palette, a features colour palette, one for multimedia and one for live content. This transfers to all the various touchpoints and platforms. In the past if you clicked on sports article everything would be green, but now for onward links we’re using the livery of that type of article, so you can quite quickly move to comment pieces for example.
– Greater personalisation means users can tailor the types of articles they want featured on their homepage, and create bespoke alerts to follow favourite journalists, stories and football teams, as well as having region-specific editorial curation.
– Flexible formatting allows editors to curate stories and clearer design and navigation helps readers to discover new stories and writers with greater ease. Also we are getting to the stage where we can art direct content allowing us to have bespoke presentation created within the tools.
– First impressions are always powerful, we were keen that the animations and transitions within this app were at a level consistent with the latest evolutions of native operating systems. One of may favourites is the animation of our new ‘g’ brand as the refresh animation. A small touch but one of the elements that core to our unique brand.
Mobile and tablet design seems to be changing all the time; how do you future proof designs with this in mind?
We are reaching the stage where presentation is evolving beyond skeuomorphic presentation of non digital content and as using mobile devices becomes second nature, we can develop designs that are inherently of the devices and how people use them.
This is not just a challenge of presentation but also acutely tied to content types and strategy. As an editorial organisation we know going forward that the form digital journalism will take is evolving. We felt it important to build a system that didn’t merely tag different types of content in simple lists as links to “article pages” (video/podcast/gallery etc) but gave enough space to properly present and signal the rich variety of content.
If I am honest there is a small proportion of the people using the new app who are convinced it should be just a list of articles. To me this would shackle our evolving content strategy; our competitors in terms of great presentation and usability are not just news apps. We have learnt from a whole range of other experiences in the space and tried to build an experience that doesn’t just sit comfortably alongside the best out there, but always gives us a platform to evolve the form of Guardian journalism in the future.
How much do you test changes like this with focus groups etc?
Even from early stages before we committed any code we built wireframes and flats – we have a great UX and testing lab here – and so from the very beginning we put our ideas in front of readers. We started with some very radical ideas but we knew we had to see if our thinking really tackled the right challenges.
We had three very different initial takes: one which was completely socially driven, where we took cues from how people were responding to content that was out there; one which was led by our open journalistic ethos and one which looked at that fact that there are multiple news sources out there, but people come to The Guardian for our particular take – so what if we dealt with stories as particular packages that lead people through the arc of comment and analysis of a story as well as the core new reporting?
We decided a quick browsable app combined with that authorial story arc and social cues is what people want. After that initial wireframing we went very quickly to rough prototypes and when we had a Beta version we opened up access to our most engaged users to let them play with it. We learned a huge amount that influenced the design and structure. Getting the balance right between beautiful presentation and story density was one of the key issues we did a lot of work on.
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Rob joined It’s Nice That as Online Editor in July 2011 before becoming Editor-in-Chief and working across all editorial projects including itsnicethat.com, Printed Pages, Here and Nicer Tuesdays. Rob left It’s Nice That in June 2015. | https://www.itsnicethat.com/articles/behind-the-scenes-guardian-app |
Since founding OnCell in 2006, we have worked hard to evolve and adapt our products to the changing technology and needs of our customers and their visitors. With multiple acquisitions over the last several years – including Authentic, My Tours & STQRY (2018), TourBuddy (2019), CultureSpots (2020) – we decided it was time to reflect on our history, our identity and what our brand represents.
Press Release: OnCell Acquires SaaS Company, CultureSpots
OnCell announced today it has acquired the software company, CultureSpots based in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, a respected competitor in the audio guide technology space for cultural institutions. | https://stqry.com/blog/news/ |
Words have the power to change and define how we feel about something. Politicians know this. So do media.
And so when leaders and communicators use certain words over and over to define concepts or ideas, those words become embedded in our vocabulary — sometimes without us even realizing it’s happening.
Becky Mearns and Emilie Cameron, a graduate student and an instructor, respectively, at Carleton University’s department of geography and environmental studies, have been thinking about this for a while, specifically when it comes to translating climate change concepts into Inuktitut.
After some research and discussion, the two discovered a few curious things.
A decade ago, policy papers, research, government documents and even Inuit organizations, focused on climate change as a human-caused phenomenon that was impacting northern peoples more than any other population and that needed to be mitigated through the global reduction of fossil fuel consumption, among other actions.
But recently, the language from government officials and academics has changed from slowing down climate change and protecting northern peoples’ “right to be cold” to how northern people can learn how to adapt to the changes.
In other words, climate change has come to be seen as inevitable and Northerners are being instructed to be resilient to cope with the coming wave of impacts.
Policy documents and strategies recently released by the Government of Nunavut and Inuit Circumpolar Council, for example, reflect this new world view, the women argue.
Mearns and Cameron were interested in this terminology shift, and how it impacted the Inuktitut words used for climate change.
Their discussions lead to a paper they co-authored with Janet Tamalik McGrath entitled “Translating Climate Change: Adaptation, Resilience, and Climate Politics in Nunavut.”
The article appears in the December 2014 issue of Annals of the Association of American Geographers, the themes of which were presented publicly at the December ArcticNet conference in Ottawa.
“Adaptation and resilience shift the burden of responding to climate change from those who cause it to those who are most affected,” their paper says.
Cameron and Mearns explained why they wrote the paper once their talk at the Ottawa conference was over.
“When people do research about climate change adaptation in the North, I think many elders who participate feel very proud of demonstrating their resilience and adaptability,” Cameron told Nunatsiaq News.
“So we’re not discounting people’s tremendous resilience and adaptive capacities but more so, we point to the fact that climate change is not entirely an environmental issue, it’s a political issue and it’s an issue of injustice and harm.
The Inuktitut term most often used for climate change has been silaup asijjiqpallianinga, which refers to ongoing continuous change in sila.
But there are problems with this term.
When sila is translated back into English, it means climate, weather or environment but sila is a broader “super-concept,” Cameron and Mearns argue, which can incorporate air, atmosphere, sky, intellect, wisdom, spirit, earth and universe.
And so to say that sila is changing is obvious to Inuit: sila has always been in a state of flux and Inuit have changed along with it.
“To observe and adapt to change is one of the most valued and respected skills among Inuit,” the two researchers’ paper says. “It reflects not only great knowledge, skill and character but also a kind of alignment with the world and a refinement of spirit.
“Adaptation, in such a context calls on Inuktitut values and traditions of observation, patience, and commitment to knowledge.”
And when climate change concepts include the idea of resilience — annagunnarninga — that, too, is a point of Inuit pride.
When someone is suffering, Inuit often use the word ajurnarmat, the paper explains, as both “a statement of fact and an expression of sympathy” because it means both that “things are difficult” and “it can’t be helped.”
But to put the onus on Inuit to adapt and be resilient in the face of human-induced climate change, and to use traditional words to rally support for that plan of action is not only unfair, the authors argue — it’s political.
“The call for Inuit to be resilient is issued in a context where that resilience is already strained by intergenerational trauma; inadequate housing, social and health services; compromised food security; and poverty.”
If, instead, climate change was translated into Inuktitut to mean the unethical treatment of sila, then concepts of Inuit justice, conflict resolution and reconciliation and could be invoked.
“Within Inuit frameworks, healing and justice are only possible insofar as those who have caused harm acknowledge and account for their actions and work to restore harmony,” the paper states.
“It is those who cause and benefit from ongoing harm to sila, and its impacts on Inuit lives and lands, who are required to restore balance and right relations.”
The authors conclude that just as Inuit had to learn about and adopt the concepts of “private property” and “sub-surface rights” in order to negotiate land claims, so too must they adopt the concept that sila is changing because of human behaviour — something that may have seemed preposterous to traditional Inuit. | https://nunatsiaq.com/stories/article/65674the_politics_of_climate_change_inuit_pride_language_and_human_rights/ |
Vilfredo Federico Pareto (born Wilfried Fritz Pareto ; born July 15, 1848 in Paris , † August 19, 1923 in Céligny , Canton of Geneva ) was an Italian engineer , economist and sociologist .
He is regarded as a representative of the Lausanne School of Economic Neoclassical and made a name for himself as the founder of welfare economics . The Pareto distribution , the Pareto diagram , the Pareto optimum and the Pareto principle ( 80:20 rule) are named after him. He turned to sociology and worked on the subjects of ideology criticism , political system change ( revolution , evolution ) and the elite cycle .
Life
Pareto was born in Paris in 1848 as Wilfried Fritz Pareto. His parents were Marquis Raffaele Pareto, a noble Italian emigrant who came from a Genoese merchant family and a colleague of Mazzini , and the French Marie Méténier. He received his name Wilfried Fritz in allusion to the German Revolution of 1848/49 . The Paretos family moved back to Northern Italy in 1858.
In 1870 Pareto completed his engineering studies at the Politecnico di Torino . He worked first for a railway company, then for an ironworks. In 1889 he married the Russian Alexandra Bakunin (1860–1940). In 1890 he began correspondence with Maffeo Pantaleoni , then director of the business school in Bari, and later professor at the universities of Rome, Naples and Genoa.
In 1893 he was appointed to the Chair of Economics at the University of Lausanne . There he took over from Léon Walras, who was strongly mathematically oriented . There he became a co-founder of welfare economics . In 1896 Pareto discovered that the distribution of income does not follow a normal distribution ; rather, he realized that it is usually skewed to the right . The Pareto distribution (1897) is named after him.
From 1898 Pareto turned to sociology. In 1900 or 1901 he moved to Céligny on Lake Geneva, where he separated from his first wife in 1903. In 1905 he had a daughter named Marguarita Antoinette Régis with Jeanne Régis (1879–1948). From 1906 he maintained a relationship with the child's mother, whom he married in 1923 after divorcing his first wife. He died in Céligny on August 19, 1923.
Sociological work
Vilfredo Pareto, a polemical but well-phrased analyst, is considered an eminent early non- Marxist sociologist. His scientific and technical methodology can be clearly seen in his works right through to the end. He published his work initially in French, later more and more frequently in Italian.
His main sociological work is the Trattato di sociologia generale , which explains the entire scope of Paretos' sociological theory in four volumes with a total of 2612 paragraphs:
- The first volume explains the author's scientific approach and sets out his theory of action.
- The second volume deals with the theory of residuals , which for Pareto represent the emotional basis of human behavior.
- The third volume develops the theory of derivatives , which are pseudo-logical explanations that people use to justify behavior based on the residuals.
- Finally, in the fourth volume, questions of the form of society , social equilibrium and the elite are dealt with on a macro-sociological level . In particular , Pareto made the theory of the circulation of the elites known.
Action theory
Pareto's critique of ideological phenomena has received much attention . He differentiates between six residuals ( inductively determinable psychological motivational complexes) of an action, which can no longer be split up, and derivatives (pseudo-logical explanations of an action).
Elites
The theory of the elites forms the core of his sociology: By “ elite ” he initially understands a ( value-neutral ) functional concept of “the best” in a category of action - these could be politicians or scholars, athletes or courtesans. “Elite” therefore by no means only refers to those in power. Occasionally he used the term " aristocracy " as a synonym . Pareto understands history generally and without exception as the cemetery of the aristocracies : He describes the change of elites and thus the conditions of an evolutionary or revolutionary change of political rule with great precision. He developed the scheme of the eternal cycle of the elites, which is still used today - new, productive ranks of leadership displace the old, worn ones. In Pareto, even in revolutions, an “elite” is always replaced by a “reserve elite”, but never by a mass ; regardless of this, a new elite likes to appeal to the masses or claim to belong. According to Pareto, a sentence like The people rules is a typical derivation (pseudo-logical explanation).
According to Pareto, it is a fact that people are physically, morally and intellectually different. He divides society into two layers:
- the upper class or elite (the best lawyers, politicians, doctors, musicians, writers, engineers, the richest, etc.)
- According to the criterion of rule, the elite is divided into:
- ruling (have a direct or indirect stake in government)
- non-ruling (e.g. the best chess players)
- Depending on whether individuals have earned membership, the elite is further divided into:
- only nominally associated (merely inherited, cheated, etc. affiliation)
- related to merit , ie related to the required properties
- According to the criterion of rule, the elite is divided into:
- the lower class
Reception of the sociological work
Pareto's concept of “derivation” was taken up in psychology under the term “ rationalization ”.
The French sociologist and philosopher Raymond Boudon understands Pareto's view of non-logical action as an indication that sociology should go beyond the economists' narrow concept of purposeful rationality.
Pareto is often seen as leaning towards Italian fascism . This is related to an appreciation of Pareto by the Italian economist and staunch fascist Luigi Amoroso in the Giornale degli economisti , who called Pareto a fascist. Therefore, Pareto is still considered to be an important forerunner of Fascismo . However, this view is controversial; so sat z. B. Max Weber with a Caesarian form of democracy , but with a strong parliament, apart. Benito Mussolini himself saw Pareto as an excellent teacher.
Marxists, to whose ideology-critical approaches many Paretian parallels can be established, displeased his cynical and skeptical features towards them too: Pareto was a " Marx for citizens".
In his work Modern Machiavellism , the political scientist and historian Erwin Faul wrote about Pareto in 1961: [D] essen sociological writings seem like a culmination of modern political disillusionment . During the German student movement in 1967, the political scientist Johannes Agnoli saw a recommendation from Pareto to Mussolini to secure rule as an explanation for the transformation of democracy that, in his opinion, was emerging in many countries in the West . B. through democratically illegitimate discourse and decision-making institutions:
“In 1922 Pareto had given Mussolini the advice to stabilize power in order to keep the parliament alive in a modified form: masses who lean towards democratic feelings can best be neutralized by an organ that gives them the illusion of participating in the state Conveys power. It is not the complete abolition of parliament that makes the New State strong, but the transfer of decision-making powers from parliament to the narrower circle of "elites" that do not meet in public. "
The political philosopher Hannah Arendt stated in her book Macht und Demokratie (Power and Violence) , published in 1970, that only a few authors of rank, like Pareto, had glorified violence for its own sake, harbored a deep hatred of society and broke its moral code. One can learn a lot from Pareto about the motives that led people in the twentieth century to adopt theories of violence.
In 2002, the sociologist Gert Albert saw Pareto's theory of action as a “ hermeneutic positivism ” through the combination of an externalistic and an internalistic component .
In Germany, the economist and sociologist Gottfried Eisermann and the sociologist Maurizio Bach are recognized Pareto experts.
Fonts
- 1896–1897 Cours d'économie politique, two volumes
- 1902 Les systèmes socialistes
- 1906 Manuale di economia politica
- 1911 Le mythe vertuiste et la littérature immorale - on literary censorship
- (German) The virtue myth and immoral literature , translated and introduced by Gottfried Eisermann , Luchterhand , Neuwied and Berlin 1968
- 1916 Trattato di sociologia generale - the main sociological work
- (German) General Sociology , translated by Carl Brinkmann , Mohr Siebeck Verlag , Tübingen 1955, new edition FinanzBuch Verlag , Munich 2005, ISBN 3-89879-144-0 (excerpts)
- (German) Vilfredo Pareto's System of General Sociology , edited and translated by Gottfried Eisermann, Ferdinand Enke Verlag, Stuttgart 1962 (excerpts)
- 1920 Fatti e teorie
- 1921 Trasformazione della democrazia
- 1976 Selected writings , ed. a. by Carlo Mongardini, translated from the Italian by Cristina Busolini and from the French by Ilse Hohenlüchter, Verlag für Sozialwissenschaften , Frankfurt am Main / Berlin / Vienna 1976, ISBN 3-548-03216-8 .
literature
- Fabienne Abetel-Béguelin: Vilfredo Pareto. In: Historical Lexicon of Switzerland . May 29, 2009 , accessed March 16, 2020 .
- Gert Albert: Hermeneutic Positivism and Dialectical Essentialism Vilfredo Paretos. VS - Verlag für Sozialwissenschaften, Wiesbaden 2005, ISBN 3-531-14473-1 .
- Maurizio Bach : Beyond rational action. On the sociology of Vilfredo Paretos . VS - Verlag für Sozialwissenschaften, Wiesbaden 2004, ISBN 3-531-14220-8 .
- Gerold Blümle : Pareto's Law. In: Economics Studies. 8th year, issue 1, January 1979, ISSN 0340-1650 , p. 17.
- Franz Borkenau : Pareto . Wiley, London 1936.
- Gottfried Eisermann : Max Weber and Vilfredo Pareto. Dialogue and confrontation. JCB Mohr (Paul Siebeck), Tübingen 1989, ISBN 3-16-545457-4 .
- Gottfried Eisermann: Vilfredo Pareto. A classic in sociology. Mohr Siebeck Verlag, Tübingen 1987, ISBN 3-16-545207-5 .
- Horst Claus Recktenwald (Hrsg.): Life pictures of great economists. Introduction to the history of political economy. Kiepenheuer & Witsch, Cologne et al. 1965.
- Günter Zauels: Pareto's theory of social heterogeneity and circulation of the elites. (= Bonn contributions to sociology. 5). Ferdinand Enke Verlag, Stuttgart 1968.
See also
- Edgeworth box for Pareto-Optima
- Pareto optimization
- Pareto principle
- Pareto optimum
- Pareto distribution
- Pareto chart
Web links
- Literature by and about Vilfredo Pareto in the catalog of the German National Library
- The Mind and Society ( Trattato di sociologia generale)
Individual evidence
- ↑ Vilfredo Pareto biography
- ↑ Ideas THE FIGHT FOR THE BEST . In: Der Spiegel . tape June 24 , 1995 ( spiegel.de [accessed April 11, 2016]).
- ↑ Vilfredo Pareto: General Sociology. , translated by Carl Brinkmann. Mohr, Tübingen 1955, §2025.
- ↑ Vilfredo Pareto: General Sociology. translated by Carl Brinkmann. Mohr, Tübingen 1955, §2031-2043
- ^ Raymond Boudon: La logique du social. Introduction à l'analyse sociologique. Hachette Littérature, Paris 1979, p. 34.
- ↑ Erwin Faul: The modern Machiavellian (= political research. Volume 1). Foreword by Dolf Sternberger. Kiepenheuer & Witsch, Cologne et al. 1961, p. 259.
- ^ Johannes Agnoli : Theses on the transformation of democracy - ad usum of the RC. 1967.
- ↑ Hannah Arendt: Power and violence (original edition: On Violence. New York 1970), Piper TB, Munich / Zurich 2003, ISBN 3-492-20001-X , p. 66.
- ↑ Hannah Arendt: Power and violence (original edition: On Violence. New York 1970), Piper TB, Munich / Zurich 2003, ISBN 3-492-20001-X , pp. 71, 72f.
- ^ Privatdozent Gert Albert Max Weber Institute for Sociology . University of Heidelberg, accessed on August 4, 2016.
- ↑ Gert Albert: Paretos hermeneutic positivism. An analysis of his theory of action. In: Cologne journal for sociology and social psychology . Vol. 54, 2002, pp. 625-644. | https://de.zxc.wiki/wiki/Vilfredo_Pareto |
It takes a nation to protect the nation
The Power Elite is a book written by the sociologist, C. Wright Mills, in 1956. In it Mills calls attention to the interwoven interests of the leaders of the military, corporate, and political elements of society and suggests that the ordinary citizen is a relatively powerless subject of manipulation by those entities. The structural basis of The Power Elite is that, following World War II, the United States was the leading country in military and economic terms. According to Mills, the Power Elite are those that occupy the dominant positions, in the dominant institutions (military, economic and political) of a dominant country, and their decisions (or lack of decisions) have enormous consequences, not only for the U.S. population but, "the underlying populations of the world." Mills outlines the historical structural trends that led to the ascension of the power elite as involving a concentration of economic power and the cultural apparatus in the hands of a few, the emergence of a permanent war economy in the U.S. during and after WW2, the emergence of a bureaucratically standardized and conditioned (controlled) mass society and a political vacuum that was filled by economic and military elites. Due to the interchangeability of top positions within these three institutions, the members of the power elite develop class consciousness and a community of interests guided by a militarized culture, or what Mills described as the military metaphysic.
The book is something of a counterpart of Mills' 1951 work, White Collar: The American Middle Classes, which examines the then-growing role of middle managers in American society. A main inspiration for the book was Franz Leopold Neumann's bookBehemoth: The Structure and Practice of National Socialism in 1942, a study of how Nazism came into a position of power in a democratic state like Germany. Behemoth had a major impact on Mills and he claimed that Behemoth had given him the "tools to grasp and analyse the entire total structure and as a warning of what could happen in a modern capitalist democracy".
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Sociologist Christopher B. Doob maintains that C. Wright Mills' The Power Elite is limited in terms of elitist activity in society. "Mills provided little detail about the contemporary elites' activities. For instance, he never mentioned either the Council on Foreign Relations or the Committee on Economic Development, two elite-dominated, policy-making organizations that were already prominent players in his time. In addition, through no fault of his own, Mills described an era when it was still possible to analyze the power elite by focusing only on the United States. The subsequent expansion of globalization has made his theory appearanachronistic." However, Doob does appraise Mills' work in The Power Elite, stating Mills was a "pioneer, propelling his power-elite theory into a pluralism-dominated academic world, where his novel ideas, according to G. William Domhoff, "caused a firestorm in academic and political circles, leading to innumerable reviews in scholarly journals and the popular press, most of them negative." Over time, however, The Power Elite has become a classic, recognized as "the first full-scale study of the structure and distribution of power in the United States," using the complete set of theoretical and research tools then available. Both Domhoff's andThomas Dye's theories have built upon Mill's conclusions, providing more detail about such issues as the make-up of the ruling group and the process by which policies are established and implemented. Their more contemporary works simply recent information about this powerful group's role in society."
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Why Central Banks could mint their own currency ; https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/central-banks-cryptocurrency...
IOU Money - the greatest scam never told ; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwmWNffEEmc&feature=em-uploademail
Zuckerberg had to testify to Congress. But was exempted from taking an oath.
The Congressmen will mostly (if not all) have shares in Facebook.
Moreover, they get donations from Facebook.
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/04/09/facebooks-mark-z...
If there was anything like an honest investigation ONLY those politicians who had no shares in FB and who had take no donations could question him AND he'd have to be under oath.
What a farce. So-called democracy.
Conflict of Interest ; https://www.globalresearch.ca/disgusting-conflict-of-interest-there...
Balkanising Syria - the Rothschild genie in the NATO lamp ; https://republicstandard.com/balkanizing-syria-the-genie-in-the-nat...
Corporate parallel states and white culture ; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYj8CyD2OkA&feature=em-uploademail
So the avant-garde of the alt-right have caught up with discussions started on 4F over 5 years ago.
Antony said:
I've listened to many interviews with Nomi Prins. I bought one of her books last week.
Antony said:
Cure for debt based monetary system ? ; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j02zh6uHWkk&feature=em-uploademail
Nomi Prins - The Central banking Heist That Put The World At Risk ; https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2018-06-16/nomi-prins-central-bankin... | http://4freedoms.com/group/argumentation/forum/topics/analysis-of-the-power-elite-by-c-wright-mills?commentId=3766518%3AComment%3A195623&xg_source=activity&groupId=3766518%3AGroup%3A1677 |
The current foment provoked by recent political debates aside, the question on most voters’ minds may be: which candidate’s platform will best serve the economic interests of the 99% of Americans? Leading intellectual thinker, writer, philosopher and citizen advocate, Noam Chomsky, has already projected an answer in the film Requiem For The American Dream, a documentary about the collapse of American democratic ideals and the exponentially increasing divide between the hyper-rich and the rest of us. Though his answer is cryptic and incisive, understanding the lack of political legitimacy manifest in our country’s systems of governance which favor the 1% can be a painful but motivating eye opener.
In Requiem For The American Dream, produced and directed by Peter Hutchison, Kelly Nyks, and Jared P. Scott, Chomsky’s views are succinctly ordered and explained in interviews culled over four years. Filmmakers use archived video clips from the 1950s onward to illustrate and include the events spanning a period which Chomsky refers to as the country’s economic golden age, when the average worker made a decent wage which afforded him the opportunity to buy a home, purchase a car, and live a “dream” life of contentment with his family in a move toward upward class mobility.
In the preface of the film, Chomsky emphasizes that our current time reflects a devolution and downward spiral away from this golden age which featured high employment, no corporate bankruptcies, no investment bank failures, or taxpayer bailouts. College tuition was very low and higher education was even free for many of the nation’s students. Outsourcing was unthinkable because the society depended upon Americans purchasing the products fashioned by American manufacturers. Unions and collective bargaining agencies made tremendous strides to protect workers against egregious workplace dangers and employer abuses. Banks were places where folks kept savings; there was no financial chicanery and there was a rise in income and economic prosperity for a large portion of the population. Job permanence and loyalty to one’s employer were nearly a guarantee, as was the defined benefit pension plan. These golden years are what Americans long for and what the country’s twenty and thirty-somethings find impossible to imagine.
Chomsky, with dispassionate and cogent clarification, says that even in the Great Depression of the 1930s, for most of the population who were experiencing hardship, there was the hope that the economic situation would eventually improve. That hope is not seen today where there is unprecedented economic inequality and few legislative programs or initiatives including tax reform for the under classes. There has been talk, but in order to pass laws for such relief, the uber wealthy, who have bought the politicians’ campaigns and can do so legitimately through court decisions like Citizens United, would have to support such programs. The elites would have to share a bit more with the underclasses according to democratic principles. Chomsky points out that the upper class wealthy never like to share and they despise democratic principles. His commentary is revelatory, considering the current debates and the upcoming election of 2016.
Filmmakers have selected Chomsky’s most incisive ideas giving a list of 10 principles which enumerate the ways the rich have concentrated their wealth and power in the last decades. In featuring an explanation of each principle, filmmakers using graphs, charts, video clips, during the Chomsky interviews. This is the shocking transparency of what has happened since the 1970s as wealth has been exponentially increased and concentrated at the top. One of the direct impacts has resulted in a vicious cycle to increase the legislative power and control of the wealthy few and reduce democracy, eliminating the power the 99% have to impact public and national policy.
The documentarians briefly highlight that struggles between rich and poor are nothing new. Even Aristotle who believed democracy to be the finest form of government suggested the wealthy needed to mitigate the discontent of the masses who obviously had less wealth and power and would try to use democracy to improve their stature. To prevent this, elite Greeks used a way to sustain democracy and keep their power. They reduced economic inequality.
To shrink the divide between the rich and poor and sustain democratic ideas by reducing inequality, the Greeks established a welfare state. Today, the democracies in the Scandinavian countries work on a similar basis; the standard of living in the populace is so robust, waitresses don’t need to be “tipped” to make a living. Also, the corporate CEOs in these countries are not making 2000% more than their lowest employees. There is much less economic inequity between the “haves” and the “have-nots.”
Chomsky and filmmakers point out that the “democracy” of the US is managed another way: democracy is reduced. Elite attitudes, expressed by James Madison and other founding fathers established that governing power must be in the hands of the wealthy. Madison said, “To give the vote to those with property was to ‘protect the minority of the opulent against the majority'” of the numerous. Policy makers and politicians were educated white men of wealth. Women, slaves, Native Americans, ethnic people not property owners, couldn’t vote. To prevent the herd from unjustly curtailing the wealth and privilege of the rich, democracy was reduced: i.e. the original senate was appointed, not elected. The herd took orders from the wealthy few, via laws passed against them.
From such history, Chomsky elucidates that the poor and lower classes’ public opinions were mostly ignored. They never influenced policy, especially economic policy, unless they threatened to revolt, demonstrated or exercised their freedom of speech. And even then, unless the leadership was empathetic to their cause (i.e. FDR moved to support unions, create the GI Bill of Rights, Social Security, etc.), revolts were brutally quelled by law enforcement called in to “keep order.”
The notions which we retain today about the U.S. Constitution and our democracy functioning smoothly are naive. Governance is a continual struggle if one considers the views of the privileged who dislike a system of government that would put power in the hands of the majority populace. In Chomsky’s fascinating discussion of the 10 principles of “Concentration of Wealth and Power,” we clearly understand the players- the wealthy from both political parties: the conservatives (representing the wealthy) and the liberals (the wealthy allegedly supporting the ‘national interest’ which is a hypocritical way of appearing not to be like the conservative rich). And we can view the 20th century through this paradigm, by realizing that the wealthy of both parties with a few leadership exceptions (FDR, Johnson, even Nixon), promoted their agenda to reduce democracy and the democratic ideals of equality, especially economic equality.
Chomsky admits that he underestimated the rabid reaction of the rich after the uprising of the populaces’ drive toward democracy in the 1960s in which special interests protested, demonstrated, and worked to increase their freedoms (Civil Rights movement, women’s movement, unionization), and take power from Adam Smith’s “masters of mankind.” From the 1970s on, filmmakers show again and again with video clips, illustrations, graphs, and voice overs from Chomsky interviews, how presidents Ford, Carter, Regan, Bush 41, Clinton, Bush 43, Obama and their staffs predominately caved in to the concerted effort on the part of the American upper class elites and corporate interests to reduce our democratic freedoms especially our freedom/opportunity for economic class mobility.
During each of the presidencies, there was an increase in the economic divide between the 99% and 1%, an increase in the power of the wealthy to influence legislation by funding political campaigns, an increase in the tax burden on the lower classes while reducing the tax burden on the rich, the attack and destruction of unionization (unions close the inequitable income gaps), an increase in attempts to de-fund equalizing programs (social security, education, Pre-k, healthcare), an increase in media propaganda to drive frenetic consumption in the market place, an increase in debt burdens for college students, and much more. All of this creates a vicious cycle which shrinks democracy, economic equality, and freedom of choice, while allowing corporate interests and elites to fund politicians who legislate whatever they want.
Despite the depressing accuracy of this film, its truths are vital in an election year. It reveals the power of PR campaigns for political candidates: they want the majority of this country’s citizens to be floating on a mirage of illusions buoyed up by political candidates’ false promises of “change,” when the only change coming may be more of the same harmful cycle of elite money bringing elite laws that devastate the majority of Americans’ lives and well being. That is unless…unless we realize what is going on…unless… as Chomsky and the filmmakers gently encourage, we use our power of voice, to speak up, demonstrate, and exercise our freedom of speech rights. The 1960s was a time of massive protest in a solidarity movement that included divergent ethnic and social groups. Great democratic strides were made to empower and improve the lives of the many.
Adam Smith said, “All for ourselves and nothing for other people seems in every age of the world to have been the vile maxim of the masters of mankind.” Requiem For The American Dream reveals that elite governance with politicians in their pocket is a given. Protest and massive organization is the way to shape political and economic policy and increase democracy in the U.S. Public outcry like the force and effort of that demonstrated by Iceland’s “Pots and Pans” Revolution is the way to go. The “American Dream” may be over, but the “American Reality” of democracy is yet to come. | https://blogcritics.org/movie-review-requiem-for-the-american-dream-with-noam-chomsky/ |
American social worker and administrator, community worker, professor, and author, Floyd Hunter (born 1912) was an originator of the "power structure" or elite concept in contemporary sociology.
Floyd Hunter was born on February 26, 1912, in Richmond, Kentucky, son of Jesse Hunter, a farmer, and Dovie Benton. He attended Richmond public schools and received both his B.A. (1939) in social science and his M.A. (1941) in social service administration from the University of Chicago. He married Ester Araya Rojas on December 23, 1937, and the couple had four children.
Hunter's mother and father were divorced when he was four and he lived at different times with each parent; with his mother in Bloomington, Illinois, and with his father on a Richmond tobacco farm. Both parents had been descended from British Isle ancestors who had placed great value upon political liberty and independence. This political heritage, along with Hunter's life experiences and intellectual development, formed the bone and sinew out of which he would fashion his controversial theory of "elite" social power.
Hunter's early life experiences were molded by two main influences: both familial and social "marginality" and the effects of the Great Depression on the American economy and polity. His marginality stemmed first from the transitory, shifting role he played in two families. Because both families suffered economic losses, Hunter's social status was unstable, allowing him an "observer's" eye on community status and family systems.
Meanwhile, his experiences in the Depression strengthened an already wary eye toward business interests and the government. He was shocked at the "petty and shoddy" practices of businessmen (the "ownership establishment") as they exploited the "dispossessed" customers. Unemployed and often famished during school breaks, Hunter hitchhiked to Washington, D.C., where he broke bread with the the Bonus Marchers two days before they were routed by General MacArthur's armed troops. Disenchanted by the use of military force in this and in other potentially disruptive occurrences, such as bank closings, he began to question the "relationship between our representative government and the people it was supposed to 'represent."' Local political leaders who exploited New Deal policies for their own benefit, and thereby took a "root hog or die" attitude toward the poor, only alienated the young Hunter even further. "No milk of human kindness seemed to course through the political sieve," he felt. Economic and political injustice, then, formed a theme in Hunter's thought even before he had developed the intellectual tools necessary to craft an academic argument.
Hunter began his career as a social worker in Texas in the 1930s, moved to Chicago, and then to Indianapolis around 1940 as a social work administrator. From there he went to Atlanta in 1943 to head the southeastern regional office of the U.S.O. From 1946 to 1948 he headed the Atlanta Community Council, an experience which only provided real-life fodder for the growth of his power scheme. Following a political dispute with business leaders over the use of public property for a Henry Wallace campaign rally in the 1948 election (which had been allowed in the case of the Republican campaign), Hunter was fired from his position. With his wife and four children, he then moved to the University of North Carolina (U.N.C.), where he received his Ph.D. (1951) in sociology and anthropology. His doctoral dissertation, Community Power Structure (1953), became his most famous published work. A penetrating look at the power of business elites in Atlanta, it was followed up by his 1979 Community Power Succession.
These two works, more than any others, established Hunter as a leading progenitor of the power elite model of political sociology, a theme later picked up by C. Wright Mills and G. William Domhoff. In broad terms, Hunter and his intellectual descendants represented a crystallization of a 20th-century American paradigm which followed the earlier "conflict" model of economic domination established by Marx in 19th-century Europe. The main assumption of this model—that society was dominated by a relatively small group of social, economic, and political elites who make self-interested decisions in the absence of significant countervailing power—represented a challenge to the more consensually-oriented theory of structural functionalism that had held sway on American sociology for decades. Both of Hunter's studies on Atlanta held firmly to his basic theme.
Hunter was a professor at U.N.C. until 1960. Through the 1960s he headed two research firms, Social Science Research and Development Corporation and Decision Data, both based in the San Francisco area, where Hunter continued to reside in 1990. He was a Fulbright research professor at the University of Chile in 1964, and from the early through the late 1970s he was a visiting professor at several universities, including the University of California, the University of Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky University, and Harvard.
Meanwhile, Hunter wrote many books and articles, both fiction and nonfiction. Aside from the 1953 and 1979 works already mentioned, he published The Big Rich and the Little Rich (1965), Top Leadership, U.S.A. (1959), and Community Organization: Action and Inaction (1956). His unpublished efforts as of the 1990s included several works of fiction and a 1989 attempt to combine the natural and social sciences into a "social physics" or "social relativity." Even his unpublished fiction works, however, such as Chilean Rooms (1964), were often attempts to weave himself "autobiographically into materials of social observation."
His detached, critical viewpoint was finely honed in his other nonfiction work as well. The Big Rich and the Little Rich, which asked, "What is the community function of great personal wealth?" essentially argued the "dysfunctions" of both large and small wealth. Both groups, Hunter believed, "do nothing that others could not do as well and much less expensively." Top Leadership, U.S.A. continued his methodological use of the "reputational" model of power he had developed in Community Power Structures, whereby leading organizations and individuals were asked to weigh the relative influence of others on them. In Radical Democracy: One Man, One Vote; One Man, One Share, a 1972 unpublished manuscript, Hunter broadened his critical view of elitism in society to include communist as well as capitalist states and unabashedly called for "complete trust in the people." Another unpublished work, The Unrepresented (1965), applied the elite model to the particular American context of communities and government.
Hunter's influence on theoretical developments in sociology and other disciplines that utilize the concept of "power" was substantial. Likewise, his methodology, which consisted of the "reputational" approach, also had a profound influence on the debate over how scholars should conduct "power" studies.
Further Reading on Floyd Hunter
Hunter was cited in connection with the power elite theory and/ or the reputational method in almost any standard sociology text. His Community Power Structure is favorably reviewed by C. Wright Mills (whose 1956 The Power Elite had a profound influence on American sociology) in Social Forces (October 1953). Community Power Succession was reviewed, among many other places, in the American Journal of Sociology (July 1982). For versions of the power elite theory, see such works by G. William Domhoff as The Higher Circles: The Governing Class in America (1970), Who Rules America (1967), and Power Structure Research (1980). A work that utilized Hunter's work was Domhoff and Thomas, editors, Power Elites and Organizations (1987). The leading competitive model with elite theory was represented by the "pluralist" school. See Robert Dahl's Who Governs? (1962) and David Riesman, The Lonely Crowd (1953). For a critique of the reputational approach see Martin's The Sociology of Power (1977). Both critiques and extensions of the elite model may be found in Domhoff's and Ballard Hoyt's 1968 C. Wright Mills and the Power Elite.
The Special Collections Department of Emory University's Woodruff Library was the repository for Hunter's papers. These papers (47 boxes, 19.50 linear feet) consisted primarily of Hunter's notes, drafts, writings, and related materials from 1933 to 1989. Also included was a correspondence file and sets of autobiographical materials. The Hunter Papers were used extensively for this biographical sketch. | https://biography.yourdictionary.com/floyd-hunter |
Robert Michels (January 9, 1876 – May 3, 1936) was a German sociologist who wrote on the political behavior of intellectual elites. He was a student of Max Weber, and a spent time as a member of the German Socialist Party. As a result he was unable to work in Germany, and moved to Italy, where he became a revolutionary syndicalist. For a short time, he was also close to the Italian Fascists. Michels is best known for his book Political Parties, which contains a description of the "iron law of oligarchy." Michels based this concept on his research and personal experience with various social institutions. He found that, regardless of the vision and goals of the organization, and its quality of leadership initially, inevitably every organization developed an elite who took full control over all its affairs. Michels attributed the development of such oligarchies as due not to personal flaws in those who took positions of leadership, but rather due to the nature of the social structures themselves, which necessitated division of labor in order to be efficient and effective. Michels' suggestion to alleviate this problem was that organizations maintain a commitment to shared decision-making as well as open communication between the membership and the administration. However, a complete solution requires that those in leadership positions develop the heart and mind to live for the sake of others, adopting the attitude of a loving parent.
Contents
Biography
Robert Michels was born on January 9, 1876, in Cologne, Germany, into a wealthy bourgeois family. In keeping with the customs of the time, he spent terms at a number of universities: Munich, Leipzig, and Halle. He also spent part of his study years in London and Paris.
He wrote his thesis in Halle, on preparations for Louis XIV's attack on the Low Countries in 1680. Michels had previously tried officer training for a short time, so the military subject of his thesis came naturally to him.
As a young man, Michels was a member of the German Social Democratic Party (SPD). At that stage he was a radical critic of the SPD leadership from a syndicalist viewpoint. Michels criticized the SPD as "being too much concerned with winning seats in the Reichstag, too anxious to remain within the law, not militant enough in its opposition to the military dictatorship represented by the Kaiser." He left the party in 1907.
Michels was a protégé of Max Weber (his writings on oligarchy resemble Weber's work on bureaucracy. Weber was a liberal, not a socialist. However, due to Michels' previous socialist affiliation, even Weber could not obtain a job for Michels in Germany. Finally, though, he found him a job in Italy. There, at the University of Turin, Michels taught economics, political science, and sociology.
In 1914, he became the professor of economics at the University of Basel in Switzerland, where he taught until 1926. His last years were spent in Italy teaching economics and the history of doctrines at the University of Perugia. He died in Rome in 1936.
Work
Michels wrote 30 books and more than 700 articles. His work on democracy in organizations that eventually developed into “oligarchy in organizations” is the alpine peak among them and the one to which present-day students of sociology and government are forced to return.
Preambles to the "Iron Law of Oligarchy"
Michels lived at a time when mass democracy and the political party were new political and social phenomena. Early on in his adult career, Michels himself was an active socialist and a member of the German Social Democratic Party.
Michels' iron law of oligarchy can, in some senses, be seen as the product of his personal experiences as a socialist member of the German SDP. His "iron law" is based upon Michels' empirical study of the German SDP and a number of associated trade unions. He concluded from his studies that the German SDP, whilst proclaiming a "revolutionary" program and manifesto was quickly becoming part of the German "establishment."
The reasons for this were:
- In mass democracies, the individual is powerless on his/her own to have their voice heard and their demands met.
- Subsequently there is, in mass democracies, a basic need for organization. To get their voice heard and their demands met, individuals must organize themselves collectively.
- In the late nineteenth/early twentieth centuries, trade unions, business corporations, and political parties were the form this organization took.
- However, these organizations have an inbuilt tendency towards oligarchy—that is, rule by a few or rule by an elite.
- This elite tends to look after their own personal interests.
- This elite within the political party uses its own set of knowledge and expertise to influence the decision-making process within the organization.
- Subsequently, "ordinary members" of the organization may be effectively excluded from the decision-making processes of the organization.
The Iron Law of Oligarchy
Robert Michels first developed the Iron Law of Oligarchy as a political theory in his 1911 Political Parties book. Michels gave his masterpiece the quite vapid title of Zur Soziologie des Parteiwesens in der modernen Demokratie (1911) ("Political Parties: A Sociological Study of the Oligarchical Tendencies of Modern Democracy"), but defined his subject more precisely in the subheading, Über die oligarchischen Tendenzen des Gruppenlebens ("On the Oligarchic Tendencies of Group Life").
Here, lies the theme of the book: all organizations, regardless of whether they have a democratic constitution or agenda, in practice develop into oligarchies.
Michels showed in detail how oligarchy develops out of a desire to be effective. For good reasons (the division of labor), the members look for leaders and organizers, these people specialize in various tasks, and their specialized knowledge and skill makes them indispensable—they can threaten resignation if the organization seems to be on the point of making a wrong decision.
The "rank and file" (a significant phrase) leaves it to the officials: they do not attend meetings; in fact supporters often do not bother to join the organization, being confident that it is good hands. Members and supporters develop attitudes of gratitude and loyalty to the leaders, especially those who have suffered for the cause.
Among the leaders, megalomania develops, and this reinforces their power:
This overwhelming self-esteem on the part of the leaders diffuses a powerful suggestive influence, whereby the masses are confirmed in their admiration for their leaders, and it thus proves a source of enhanced power (Michels 1911).
Once the organization becomes large enough to have income and accumulated funds, it appoints full-time officials and establishes newspapers, training schools, and so on. This means that the party leaders have patronage: the power to appoint people to paid jobs.
Michels attempted to address why power tends to fall in the hands of small groups of people in all organizations. He studied labor and socialist movements of his time, the early 1900s. As organizations expand in size and complexity, Michels concluded:
…the need for effective leadership becomes more and more essential…. Size eventually renders collective decision making impractical because of both the number of issues and the need for the organization to appear united (Michels 1911).
The "Iron Law of Oligarchy” suggests that organizations wishing to avoid oligarchy should take a number of precautionary steps:
They should make sure that the rank and file remain active in the organization and that the leaders not be granted absolute control of a centralized administration. As long as there are open lines of communication and shared decision making between the leaders and the rank and file, an oligarchy cannot easily develop (Michels 1911).
Clearly, the problems of oligarchy, of the bureaucratic depersonalization described by Weber, and of personal alienation are all interrelated. If individuals are deprived of the power to make decisions that affect their lives in many or even most of the areas that are important to them, withdrawal into narrow ritualism (over-conformity to rules) and apathy are likely responses.
Such withdrawals seemed to constitute a chronic condition in some of the highly centralized socialist countries. However, there are many signs of public apathy in the United States, too. For example, in 1964 about 70 percent of those eligible to vote in presidential elections did so. In succeeding elections this figure dropped, reaching only 50 percent in 1988.
Michels' theory is based on documented fact: no organization remains egalitarian in the long run. Every organization develops within itself an elite, comprising the leadership and executive staff. Only this elite has the specialized knowledge required to make the organization successful.
Organizations come to be dominated by their elites, not by their members. The elite determines the organization's meetings, subjects, and speakers; it has control over the members' address register and can determine the contents of the members' journal. It can also, in all essentials, control the agenda at annual meetings and also frequently dictate the alternatives in voting. The organizational elite's perspective on life becomes, in time, different from that of the members, even if the leaders have themselves once been ordinary members (e.g., workers).
Michels pointed out that any large organization is faced with coordination problems that can only be solved by creating a bureaucracy. A bureaucracy is hierarchical in nature and therefore requires a concentration of much power in the hands of a few people. This led Michels to conclude that the "Iron Rule" is always true.
The strength of Michels' analysis lies in his compilation of the factors affecting the power structure in an organization. He focused throughout on what sociologists call "structural factors," which, according to Michels, are in all essential attributes of the organizational structure, not personality traits in members and leaders, that push democratic organizations—parties, trade unions, popular movements, interest groups—towards oligarchy. He rejected the argument that it is the leaders' personal lust for power that underlies the trend towards rule of the few.
They are good democrats running ever smaller democratic organizations. In other words, Michels cleanses the debate from the vulgar argument that trade union leaders and party politicians are driven by the desire for power. Accordingly, he effects the same kind of clean-up job that Max Weber did when he demonstrated that capitalism could not be explained by the personal greed of businessmen, and that bureaucracy cannot be deduced from the officiousness of civil servants (Michels 1911, XX).
Flirtation with Mussolini’s Fascism
In 1928, Michels accepted a chair of politics from Mussolini's government, specifically established to promote fascism. In his later writings, Michels sometimes underlined the advantages of such a regime:
By its nature, the rule of the elite will be frank, clear, concrete, direct. The elite does not exercise its function by means of tortuous intrigues and of "connections" dear to majoritarian and democratic regimes. Nor is it inevitably prey to lack of clarity, to vacillation, indecision, and to foolish and insipid compromises (Michels 1949, 121).
But his “true colors” came up in the following excerpt:
In democracy…various elites…struggle for power. From this derives…lack of stability…an expenditure of time, a slowing down of necessary training for those who intend to acquire governmental competence. But on the other hand the democratic system offers a certain guarantee to the members of the various elites of the repetition…of their turn at the helm of the state. But, be it said parenthetically, these manifold minor elites inevitably become bitter enemies of every government conquered and held by a single strong elite of anti-democratic tendencies. For the latter has an almost permanent character and is based on a principle which prolongs the usual expectation sine die, actually excluding the majority of the elites from political power. And without the least intention of harming anybody we will say, Hinc illae lacrimae ("Hence these tears") (Michels 1949, 119).
Michel’s legacy
Michels is counted among the four greatest in political sociology in the Latin school, the other three being Gaetano Mosca, Georges Sorel, and Vilfredo Pareto. In many ways, Michels stands out as the first cosmopolitan sociologist among his contemporary shining stars of the new science: Émile Durkheim in France, Max Weber in Germany, Vilfredo Pareto in Italy and W. I. Thomas in the United States.
There is a kind of tragic despair about Michels' presentation. Freedom-loving socialists are inspired to seek social innovations that avoid the fate of oligarchy. Intellectuals in popular movements outside the socialist tradition are also called upon, after reading Michels' work, to search for mechanisms that ward off or mitigate the oligarchic tendencies in their organizations.
While Michels favored fascism for Italy he may have thought that in other circumstances democratic forms would reduce the evils of oligarchy. Similarly, Weber seems to have favored a combination of British and American institutions to secure good political leadership for Germany. The point made by Michels is not to secure genuine democracy (whatever that may be), but to achieve good leadership.
Michels showed that the problem of loss of good leadership lies not just in the self-centered nature of the leaders themselves, but in the very structures of social organization. He suggested that the inevitability of oligarchy might be curtailed by the maintenance of open communication between leaders and others, as well as commitment to shared decision-making. The complete solution to this problem, however, which Michels could not uncover, requires the involvement of leaders who truly live for the sake of others. Such leaders, with the attitude of a true parent toward all the members, would be able to develop social structures that support the continuation of good leadership.
Publications
- Michels, Robert. 1911. Zur Soziologie des Parteiwesens in der modernen Demokratie. Untersuchungen über die oligarchischen Tendenzen des Gruppenlebens.
- Michels, Robert. 1914. Grenzen der Geschlechtsmoral.
- Michels, Robert. 1925. Sozialismus und fascismus in Italien.
- Michels, Robert. 1927. Corso di sociologia politica.
- Michels, Robert. 1949. First Lectures in Political Sociology. Trans. Alfred De Grazia. University of Minnesota Press.
- Michels, Robert. 1970. Zur Soziologie des Parteiwesens in der modernen Demokratie: Untersuchungen über die oligarchischen Tendenzen des Gruppenlebens.
References
- Hetscher, Joachim. 1993. Robert Michels: die Herausbildung der modernen politischen Soziologie im Kontext von Herausforderung und Defizit der Arbeiterbewegung.
- Nye, Robert A. 1977. The Anti-democratic Sources of Elite Theory: Pareto, Mosca, Michels. Sage Publications. ISBN 0803998724
- Pfetsch, Frank. 1965. Entwicklung zum faschistischen Führerstaat in der politischen philosophie von Robert Michels.
- Röhrich, Wilfreid. 1971. Robert Michels; vom sozialistisch-syndikalistischen zum faschistischen Credo. Duncker & Humblot.
- Volpe, G. 1972. Elite e/o democrazia.
External links
All links retrieved July 28, 2019.
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Coining the term "grand theory"
Charles Wright Mills (August 28, 1916 – March 20, 1962) was an American sociologist, and a professor of sociology at Columbia University from 1946 until his death in 1962. Mills was published widely in popular and intellectual journals, and is remembered for several books such as The Power Elite, which introduced that term and describes the relationships and class alliances among the US political, military, and economic elites; White Collar: The American Middle Classes, on the American middle class; and The Sociological Imagination, which presents a model of analysis for the interdependence of subjective experiences within a person's biography, the general social structure, and historical development.
Mills was concerned with the responsibilities of intellectuals in post-World War II society, and he advocated public and political engagement over disinterested observation. Mills's biographer, Daniel Geary, writes that Mills's writings had a "particularly significant impact on New Left social movements of the 1960s." Indeed, it was Mills who popularized the term "New Left" in the U.S. in a 1960 open letter, Letter to the New Left.
Contents
Early life
Mills was born in Waco, Texas on August 28, 1916. He lived in Texas until he was 23. His father, Charles Grover Mills, worked as an insurance salesman, while his mother, Frances Wright Mills, stayed at home as a housewife. His father moved to Texas from his home state of Florida, and his mother and maternal grandparents were all born and raised in Texas.:21 His family moved constantly when he was growing up and as a result, he lived a relatively isolated life with few continuous relationships. Mills spent time living in the following cities (in order): Waco, Wichita Falls, Fort Worth, Sherman, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio.:25 He graduated from Dallas Technical High School in 1934.
College years
Mills initially attended Texas A&M University but left after his first year and subsequently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1939 with a bachelor's degree in sociology and a master's degree in philosophy. By the time that he graduated, Mills had already been published in the two leading sociology journals in the US: the American Sociological Review and the American Journal of Sociology.:40
While studying at Texas, Mills met his first wife, Dorothy Helen Smith, who was also a student there seeking a master's degree in sociology. She had previously attended Oklahoma College for Women, where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in commerce.:34 They were married in October 1937. After their marriage Dorothy Helen, or "Freya," worked as a staff member of the director of the Women’s Residence Hall at the University of Texas to support the couple while Mills completed his graduate work; she typed and copy edited much of his work, including his Ph.D. dissertation.:35 There, he met Hans Gerth, a professor in the Department of Sociology, who became a mentor and friend although Mills did not take any classes with Gerth. In August 1940, Freya divorced Mills, but the couple remarried in March 1941. Their daughter, Pamela, was born on January 15, 1943.
Mills received his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1942. His dissertation was entitled "A Sociological Account of Pragmatism: An Essay on the Sociology of Knowledge.":77 Mills refused to revise his dissertation while it was reviewed. It was later accepted without approval from the review committee. Mills left Wisconsin in early 1942 once he had been appointed Professor of Sociology at the University of Maryland, College Park.
Early career
During his work as an Associate Professor of Sociology from 1941 until 1945 at the University of Maryland, College Park, Mills’s awareness and involvement in American politics grew. Mills became friends with historians, Richard Hofstadter, Frank Freidel, and Ken Stampp during World War II. The four academics collaborated on many topics and so each wrote about many contemporary issues surrounding the war and how it affected American society.:47
In the mid-1940s while he was still at Maryland, Mills began contributing 'journalistic sociology' and opinion pieces to intellectual journals such as The New Republic, The New Leader, and politics, the journal established by his friend Dwight Macdonald in 1944.:67–71
In 1945, Mills moved to New York after securing a research associate position at Columbia University's Bureau of Applied Social Research. Mills separated from Freya with the move, and the couple divorced in 1947. Mills was appointed Assistant Professor in the University's sociology department in 1946. Mills received a grant of $2,500 from the Guggenheim Foundation in April, 1945 to fund his research in 1946. During that time, he wrote White Collar which was finally published in 1951.:81
In 1946, From Max Weber: Essays in Sociology, a translation of Weber's essays co-authored with Hans Gerth, was published.:47 In 1953, the two published a second work, Character and Social Structure: The Psychology of Social Institutions.:93
In 1947, Mills married his second wife, Ruth Harper, a Bureau of Applied Social Research statistician who worked with Mills on New Men of Power (1948), White Collar (1951), and The Power Elite (1956). In 1949, Mills and Harper went to Chicago so that Mills could serve as a visiting professor at the University of Chicago; Mills returned to teaching at Columbia after a semester at the University of Chicago and was promoted to Associate Professor of Sociology on July 1, 1950. Their daughter, Kathryn, was born on July 14, 1955. Mills was promoted to Professor of Sociology at Columbia on July 1, 1956. From 1956 to 1957, the family moved to Copenhagen, where Mills acted as a Fulbright lecturer at the University of Copenhagen. Mills and Harper separated in December 1957, when Mills returned from Copenhagen alone, and he divorced in 1959.
Later years
Mills married his third wife, Yaroslava Surmach, an American artist of Ukrainian descent, and settled in Rockland County, New York in 1959. Their son, Nikolas Charles, was born on June 19, 1960.
In August 1960, Mills spent time in Cuba where he worked on developing his text Listen, Yankee. He spent some of his time in Cuba interviewing Fidel Castro, who claimed to having read and studied Mills's The Power Elite.:312
Mills was described as a man in a hurry, and aside from his hurried nature, he was largely known for his combativeness. Both his private life, with three marriages, a child from each, and several affairs, and his professional life, which involved challenging and criticizing many of his professors and coworkers, have been characterized as "tumultuous". He wrote a fairly obvious, though slightly veiled, essay in criticism of the former chairman of the Wisconsin department, and he called the senior theorist there, Howard P. Becker, a "real fool". On one special occasion, when Mills was honored during a visit to the Soviet Union as a major critic of American society, he criticized censorship in the Soviet Union through his toast to an early Soviet leader who was "purged and murdered by the Stalinists." He said, "To the day when the complete works of Leon Trotsky are published in the Soviet Union!"
In one of Mills's biographies written by Irving Louis Horowitz, the author writes about Mills's acute awareness of his heart condition and speculates that it affected the way he lived his adult life. Mills was described as someone who worked fast, yet efficiently. That is argued to be a result of his knowing that he would not live long due to his heart health. Horowitz describes Mills as “a man in search of his destiny”.:81
Mills suffered from a series of heart attacks throughout his life and his fourth attack led to his death on March 20, 1962.
Influences
C. Wright Mills was heavily influenced by pragmatism, specifically the works of George Herbert Mead, John Dewey, Charles Sanders Peirce, and William James. The social structure aspects of Mills's works is largely shaped by Max Weber and the writing of Karl Mannheim, who followed Weber's work closely. Mills also acknowledged a general influence of Marxism; he noted that Marxism had become an essential tool for sociologists and therefore all must naturally be educated on the subject; any Marxist influence was then a result of sufficient education. Neo-Freudianism also helped shape Mills's work.
Mills was an intense student of philosophy before he became a sociologist and his vision of radical, egalitarian democracy was a direct result of the influence of ideas from Thorstein Veblen, John Dewey, and Mead. During his time at the University of Wisconsin, Mills was heavily influenced by Hans Gerth, a Sociology Professor from Germany. Mills gained an insight into European learning and sociological theory from Gerth.:39
Books
From Max Weber: Essays in Sociology (1946) was edited and translated in collaboration with Gerth. Mills and Gerth had begun began collaborating in 1940, and they selected a few of Weber’s original German text and translated them into English. The preface of the book begins by explaining the disputable difference of meaning that English words give to German writing. The authors attempt to explain their devotion to being as accurate as possible in translating Weber's writing.
The New Men of Power: America's Labor Leaders (1948) studies the "Labor Metaphysic" and the dynamic of labor leaders cooperating with business officials. The book concludes that the labor movement had effectively renounced its traditional oppositional role and become reconciled to life within a capitalist system. Appeased by "bread and butter" economic policies, unions had adopted a pliant and subordinate role in the new structure of American power.
The Puerto Rican Journey (1950) was written in collaboration with Clarence Senior and Rose Kohn Goldsen. It documents a methodological study and does not address theoretical sociological framework.
White Collar: The American Middle Classes (1951) offers a rich historical account of the middle classes in the United States and contends that bureaucracies have overwhelmed middle-class workers, robbing them of all independent thought and turning them into near-automatons, oppressed but cheerful. Mills states there are three types of power within the workplace: coercion or physical force; authority; and manipulation. Through this piece, the thoughts of Mills and Weber seem to coincide in their belief that Western Society is trapped within the iron cage of bureaucratic rationality, which would lead society to focus more on rationality and less on reason. Mills's fear was that the middle class was becoming "politically emasculated and culturally stultified," which would allow a shift in power from the middle class to the strong social elite. Middle-class workers receive an adequate salary but have become alienated from the world because of their inability to affect or change it.
Character and Social Structure (1953) was co-authored with Gerth. This was considered his most theoretically sophisticated work. Mills later came into conflict with Gerth, though Gerth positively referred to him as, "an excellent operator, a whippersnapper, promising young man on the make, and Texas cowboy à la ride and shoot." Generally speaking, Character and Social Structure combines the social behaviorism and personality structure of pragmatism with the social structure of Weberian sociology. It is centered on roles, how they are interpersonal, and how they are related to institutions.
The Power Elite (1956) describes the relationships among the political, military, and economic elites, noting that they share a common world view; that power rests in the centralization of authority within the elites of American society. The centralization of authority is made up of the following components: a "military metaphysic," in other words a military definition of reality; "class identity," recognizing themselves as separate from and superior to the rest of society; "interchangeability" (they move within and between the three institutional structures and hold interlocking positions of power therein); cooperation/socialization, in other words, socialization of prospective new members is done based on how well they "clone" themselves socially after already established elites. Mills's view on the power elite is that they represent their own interest, which include maintaining a "permanent war economy" to control the ebbs and flow of American Capitalism and the masking of "a manipulative social and political order through the mass media." In a contemporary extension of Mills' Power Elite, Dr. Asadi suggests that the modern World System is highly militarized and a counterpart of the US permanent war economy where a global division of labor based on military Keynesian stabilization exists concomitant with economic accumulation, and a confluence of interests between (global) military, economic and political elites.
The Causes of World War Three (1958) and Listen, Yankee (1960) were important works that followed. In both, Mills attempts to create a moral voice for society and make the power elite responsible to the "public." Although Listen, Yankee was considered highly controversial, it was an exploration of the Cuban Revolution written from the viewpoint of a Cuban revolutionary and was a very innovative style of writing for that period in American history.
The Sociological Imagination (1959), which is considered Mills's most influential book, describes a mindset for studying sociology, the sociological imagination, that stresses being able to connect individual experiences and societal relationships. Three components form the sociological imagination:
- History: why society is what it is and how it has been changing for a long time and how history is being made in it
- Biology: the nature of "human nature" in a society and what kinds of people inhabit a particular society
- Social Structure: how the various institutional orders in a society function, which ones are dominant, how they are kept together, how they might be changing too, etc.
Mills asserts that a critical task for social scientists is to "translate personal troubles into public issues". The distinction between troubles and issues is that troubles relate to how a single person feels about something while issues refer to a society affects groups of people. For instance, a man who cannot find employment is experiencing a trouble, while a city with a massive unemployment rate makes it not just a personal trouble but an issue. Sociologists, then, rightly connect their autobiographical, personal challenges to social institutions. Social scientists should then connect those institutions to social structures and locate them within a historical narrative.
The version of Images of Man: The Classic Tradition in Sociological Thinking (1960) worked on by C. Wright Mills is simply an edited copy with the addition of an introduction written himself. Through this work, Mills explains that he believes the use of models is the characteristic of classical sociologists, and that these models are the reason classical sociologists maintain relevance.
The Marxists (1962) takes Mills's explanation of sociological models from Images of Man and uses it to criticize modern liberalism and Marxism. He believes that the liberalist model does not work and cannot create an overarching view of society, but rather it is more of an ideology for the entrepreneurial middle class. Marxism, however, may be incorrect in its overall view, but it has a working model for societal structure, the mechanics of the history of society, and the roles of individuals. One of Mills's problems with the Marxist model is that it uses units that are small and autonomous, which he finds too simple to explain capitalism. Mills then provides discussion on Marx as a determinist.
Legacy
Mexican writer Carlos Fuentes dedicated his novel The Death of Artemio Cruz (1962) to Mills and called him the "true voice of North America, friend and companion in the struggle of Latin America." Fuentes was a fan of Mills's Listen, Yankee and appreciated Mills's insight into what he believed Cubans were experiencing as citizens of a country undergoing revolutionary change.
Mills's legacy can be most deeply felt through the printed compilation of his letters and other works called C Wright Mills: Letters and Autobiographical Writings, edited by two of his children, Kathryn and Pamela Mills. In the book's introduction, Dan Wakefield states that Mills's sociological vision of American society is one that transcends the field of sociology. Mills presented his ideas as a way to keep American society from falling into the trap of what is known as "mass society." Many scholars argue that Mills’ ideas sparked the radical movements of the 1960s, which took place after he died. His work was recognized in the United States and was also greatly appreciated abroad, having appeared in 23 languages.
Above all, Wakefield remembers Mills's character most as being surrounded by controversy:
|“||In that era of cautious professors in gray flannel suits, Mills came roaring into Morningside Heights on his BMW motorcycle, wearing plaid shirts, old jeans, and work boots, carrying his books in a duffel bag strapped across his broad chest…. In the classroom as well as in the pages of his widely read books, Mills was a great teacher. His lectures matched the flamboyance of his personal image, as he managed to make entertaining the heavyweight social theories of Karl Mannheim, Max Weber, and José Ortega y Gasset. He shocked us [students] out of our "silent generation" student torpor by pounding his desk and proclaiming that each man should build his own house (as he did himself) and that, by God, with the proper study, we should each be able to build our own car!:6||”|
In 1964, the Society for the Study of Social Problems established the C. Wright Mills Award for the book that "best exemplifies outstanding social science research and a great understanding the individual and society in the tradition of the distinguished sociologist, C. Wright Mills."
Outlook
There has long been debate over Mills's intellectual outlook. Mills is often seen as a "closet Marxist" because of his emphasis on social classes and their roles in historical progress and attempt to keep Marxist traditions alive in social theory. Just as often however, others argue that Mills more closely identified with the work of Max Weber, whom many sociologists interpret as an exemplar of sophisticated (and intellectually adequate) anti-Marxism and modern liberalism. However, Mills clearly gives precedence to social structure described by the political, economic and military institutions and not culture, which is presented in its massified form as means to ends sought by the power elite, which puts him firmly in the Marxist and not Weberian camp, so much that in his collection of classical essays, Weber's Protestant Ethic is not included. Weber's idea of bureaucracy as internalized social control was embraced by Mills as was the historicity of his method, but far from liberalism (being its critic), Mills was a radical who was culturally forced to distance himself from Marx while being "near" him.
While Mills never embraced the "Marxist" label, he told his closest associates that he felt much closer to what he saw as the best currents of a flexible humanist Marxism than to its alternatives. He considered himself as a "plain Marxist" working in the spirit of young Marx as he claims in his collected essays: "Power, Politics and People" (Oxford University Press, 1963). In a November 1956 letter to his friends Bette and Harvey Swados, Mills declared "[i]n the meantime, let's not forget that there's more [that's] still useful in even the Sweezy kind of Marxism than in all the routineers of J. S. Mill put together."
There is an important quotation from Letters to Tovarich (an autobiographical essay) dated Fall 1957 titled "On Who I Might Be and How I Got That Way":
|“||You've asked me, 'What might you be?' Now I answer you: 'I am a Wobbly.' I mean this spiritually and politically. In saying this I refer less to political orientation than to political ethos, and I take Wobbly to mean one thing: the opposite of bureaucrat. […] I am a Wobbly, personally, down deep, and for good. I am outside the whale, and I got that way through social isolation and self-help. But do you know what a Wobbly is? It's a kind of spiritual condition. Don't be afraid of the word, Tovarich. A Wobbly is not only a man who takes orders from himself. He's also a man who's often in the situation where there are no regulations to fall back upon that he hasn't made up himself. He doesn't like bosses—capitalistic or communistic—they are all the same to him. He wants to be, and he wants everyone else to be, his own boss at all times under all conditions and for any purposes they may want to follow up. This kind of spiritual condition, and only this, is Wobbly freedom.:252||”|
These two quotations are the ones chosen by Kathryn Mills for the better acknowledgement of his nuanced thinking.
It appears that Mills understood his position as being much closer to Marx than to Weber but influenced by both, as Stanley Aronowitz argued in A Mills Revival?.
Mills argues that micro and macro levels of analysis can be linked together by the sociological imagination, which enables its possessor to understand the large historical sense in terms of its meaning for the inner life and the external career of a variety of individuals. Individuals can only understand their own experiences fully if they locate themselves within their period of history. The key factor is the combination of private problems with public issues: the combination of troubles that occur within the individual’s immediate milieu and relations with other people with matters that have to do with institutions of an historical society as a whole.
Mills shares with Marxist sociology and other "conflict theorists" the view that American society is sharply divided and systematically shaped by the relationship between the powerful and powerless. He also shares their concerns for alienation, the effects of social structure on the personality, and the manipulation of people by elites and the mass media. Mills combined such conventional Marxian concerns with careful attention to the dynamics of personal meaning and small-group motivations, topics for which Weberian scholars are more noted.
Mills had a very combative outlook regarding and towards many parts of his life, the people in it, and his works. In that way, he was a self-proclaimed outsider.
|“||I am an outlander, not only regionally, but deep down and for good.||”|
C. Wright Mills gave considerable study to the Soviet Union. Invited there, where he was acknowledged for his criticism of American society, Mills used the opportunity to attack Soviet censorship. He did hold the controversial notion that the US and the Soviet Union were ruled by similar bureaucratic power elites and thus were convergent rather than divergent societies.
Above all, Mills understood sociology, when properly approached, as an inherently political endeavor and a servant of the democratic process. In The Sociological Imagination, Mills wrote:
|“||It is the political task of the social scientist -- as of any liberal educator – continually to translate personal troubles into public issues, and public issues into the terms of their human meaning for a variety of individuals. It is his task to display in his work – and, as an educator, in his life as well -- this kind of sociological imagination. And it is his purpose to cultivate such habits of mind among the men and women who are publicly exposed to him. To secure these ends is to secure reason and individuality, and to make these the predominant values of a democratic society.||”|
Contemporary American scholar Cornel West argued in his text American Evasion of Philosophy that Mills follows the tradition of pragmatism. Mills shared Dewey's goal of a "creative democracy" and emphasis on the importance of political practice but criticized Dewey for his inattention to the rigidity of power structure in the US. Mills's dissertation was titled Sociology and Pragmatism: The Higher Learning in America, and West categorized him along with pragmatists in his time Sidney Hook and Reinhold Niebuhr as thinkers during pragmatism's "mid-century crisis."
See also
Footnotes
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y Mills, C. Wright (2000). Mills, Kathryn; Mills, Pamela (eds.). C. Wright Mills: Letters and Autobiographical Writings. Berkeley and Los Angeles, California: University of California Press. ISBN 9780520211063.
- ^ Radical Ambition: C. Wright Mills, the Left, and American Social Thought By Daniel Geary, p. 1.
- ^ Mills, C. Wright (September – October 1960). "Letter to the New Left". New Left Review. New Left Review. I (5). Full text.
- ^ a b c d Ritzer, George (2011). Sociological Theory. New York, NY: McGraw Hill. pp. 215–217. ISBN 9780078111679.
- ^ Crossman, Ashley. "C. Wright Mills". The New York Times Company. Retrieved 4 October 2012.
- ^ Short biography of C. Wright Mills published in the Dictionary of Modern American Philosophers in 3 volumes by Thoemmes Press, Bristol, UK, 2004
- ^ a b c d Horowitz, Irving Louis (1983). C. Wright Mills: an American utopian. New York: Free Press. ISBN 9780029149706.
- ^ Darity, William A., Jr., ed. (23 March 2008). Mills, C. Wright Check
|url=value (help). 5. Macmillan Reference USA. pp. 181–183 – via Gale.
- ^ Elson, John (4 April 1994). "No foolish consistency: biographical sketch of Dwight Macdonald". Time. Time Inc. 143 (14). Archived from the original on 21 January 2013.
- ^ Geary, Daniel (2009). Radical ambition: C. Wright Mills, the left, and American social thought. Berkeley: University of California Press. ISBN 9780520258365.
In early 1946, he was appointed assistant professor at Columbia College
- ^ edited; Sica, with introductions by Alan (2005). Social thought: from the Enlightenment to the present. Boston: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon. ISBN 978-0-205-39437-1.
- ^ Oakes, Guy; Vidich, Arthur J. (1999). "Introduction". In Oakes, Guy; Vidich, Arthur J. (eds.). Collaboration, reputation, and ethics in American academic life: Hans H. Gerth and C. Wright Mills. Urbana: University of Illinois Press. p. 1. ISBN 9780252068072.
- ^ a b c d e f Scimecca, Joseph A. (1977). The sociological theory of C. Wright Mills. Port Washington, New York: Kennikat Press Corp. ISBN 9780804691550.
- ^ Tilman, Rick (1984), "Introduction: our foremost dissenter", in Tilman, Rick (ed.), C. Wright Mills: a native radical and his American intellectual roots, University Park, Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania State University Press, p. 1, ISBN 9780271003603.
- ^ Oakes, Guy; Vidich, Arthur J. (1999). "Introduction". In Oakes, Guy; Vidich, Arthur J. (eds.). Collaboration, reputation, and ethics in American academic life: Hans H. Gerth and C. Wright Mills. Urbana: University of Illinois Press. p. 6. ISBN 9780252068072.
- ^ a b c Mann, Doug (2008). Understanding society: a survey of modern social theory. Don Mills, Ont. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780195421842.
- ^ a b Sim, Stuart; Parker, Noel, eds. (1997). The A–Z guide to modern social and political theorists. London: Prentice Hall, Harvester Wheatsheaf. ISBN 9780135248850.
- ^ Asadi, Muhammed (1 May 2012). "The Military, Economy and the State: A New International System Analysis". Dissertations.
- ^ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 18 September 2015. Retrieved 22 September 2015.CS1 maint: Archived copy as title (link) The Sociological Imagination ranked second (outranked only by Max Weber's Economy and Society) in a 1997 survey asking members of the International Sociological Association to identify the books published in the 20th century most influential on sociologists
- ^ a b Mills, C. Wright (2000). The sociological imagination, fortieth anniversary edition. Oxford England New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780195133738.
- ^ Mills, C. Wright (2012), "From the sociological imagination", in Massey, Gareth (ed.), Readings for sociology (Seventh ed.), New York: W. W. Norton & Company, pp. 13–18, ISBN 9780393912708
- ^ "C. Wright Mills Award". Society for the Study of Social Problems. Retrieved 12 April 2012.
- ^ Paul M. Sweezy, founder of Monthly Review magazine, "an independent socialist magazine".
- ^ a liberal intellectual.
- ^ Wobblies are members of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), and the direct action they are favouring includes passive resistance, strikes, and boycotts. They want to build a new society according to general socialist principles but they are refusing to endorse any socialist party or any other kind of political party.
- ^ "Stanley Aronowitz on C. Wright Mills -- Logos Summer 2003". www.logosjournal.com.
Further reading
- Aptheker, Herbert (1960). The World of C. Wright Mills. New York: Marzani and Munsell. OCLC 244597.
- Aronowitz, Stanley (2006), "A Mills Revival?", in Bronner, Stephen Eric; Thompson, Michael J. (eds.), The logos reader: rational radicalism and the future of politics, Lexington: University Press of Kentucky, pp. 117–140, ISBN 9780813191485. Available online.
- Aronowitz, Stanley (2012). Taking it Big: C. Wright Mills and the Making of Political Intellectuals. New York: Columbia University Press. ISBN 9780231135405.
- Domhoff, G. William (November 2006). "Review: Mills's The Power Elite 50 Years Later". Contemporary Sociology. 35 (6): 547–550. doi:10.1177/009430610603500602. JSTOR /30045989. Full text.
- Dowd, Douglas F. (Winter 1964). "On Veblen, Mills... and the decline of criticism". Dissent. University of Pennsylvania Press. 11 (1): 29–38.
- Eldridge, John E.T. (1983). C. Wright Mills. Key Sociologists Series. Chichester West Sussex London New York: E. Horwood Tavistock Publications. ISBN 9780853125341.
- Geary, Daniel (2009). Radical ambition: C. Wright Mills, the left, and American social thought. Berkeley: University of California Press. ISBN 9780520258365.
In early 1946, he was appointed assistant professor at Columbia College
- Geary, Daniel (2008). "'Becoming International Again': C. Wright Mills and the Emergence of a Global New Left". Journal of American History. 95 (3): 710–736. doi:10.2307/27694377. JSTOR 27694377.
- Horowitz, Irving Louis (1983). C. Wright Mills: an American utopian. New York: Free Press. ISBN 9780029149706.
- Hayden, Tom (2006). Radical nomad: C. Wright Mills and his times. Boulder, Colorado: Paradigm Publishers. ISBN 9781594512025. With contemporary reflections by Stanley Aronowitz, Richard Flacks, and Charles Lemert
- Kerr, Keith (2009). Postmodern cowboy: C. Wright Mills and a new 21st century sociology. East Boulder, Colorado: Paradigm Publishers. ISBN 9781594515798.
- Landau, Saul (Spring 1963). "C. Wright Mills — The Last Six Months". Root and Branch. Root and Branch Press. 2: 2–15.
- Mattson, Kevin (2002). Intellectuals in action: the origins of the new left and radical liberalism, 1945-1970. University Park: Pennsylvania State University Press. ISBN 9780271022062.
- Milliband, Ralph. "C. Wright Mills," New Left Review, whole no. 15 (May–June 1962), pp. 15–20.
- Muste, A.J.; Howe, Irving (Spring 1959). "C. Wright Mills' Program: Two Views". Dissent. University of Pennsylvania Press. 6 (2): 189–196.
- Swados, Harvey (Winter 1963). "C. Wright Mills: A Personal Memoir". Dissent. University of Pennsylvania Press. 10 (1): 35–42.
- Thompson, E.P. (July – August 1979). "C. Wright Mills: The Responsible Craftsman". Radical America. Students for a Democratic Society. 13 (4): 60–73. Pdf of magazine.
- Tilman, Rick (1984). C. Wright Mills: a native radical and his American intellectual roots. University Park, Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania State University Press. ISBN 9780271003603.
- Treviño, A. Javier (2012). The social thought of C. Wright Mills. Thousand Oaks, California: Pine Forge Press. ISBN 9781412993937.
- Frauley, Jon, ed. (2015). C. Wright Mills and the criminological imagination: prospects for creative inquiry. Farnham, Surrey: Ashgate Publishing. ISBN 9781472414755.
Primary sources
- Mills, C. Wright (2000). Mills, Kathryn; Mills, Pamela (eds.). C. Wright Mills: Letters and Autobiographical Writings. Berkeley and Los Angeles, California: University of California Press. ISBN 9780520211063.
External links
- Official website
- C.Wright Mills-The Power Elite
- Frank Elwell's page at Rogers State
- An interview with Mills's daughters, Kathryn and Pamela
- C. Wright Mills and Radical Sociology-Joseph A. Scimecca
- Mills-On Intellectual Craftsmanship
- Contemporary C. Wright Mills
- C.W. Mills, Structure of Power in American Society, British Journal of Sociology, Vol.9, No.1 1958
- A Mills Revival?
- C. Wright Mills, The Causes of World War Three
- "Letter to the New Left". New Left Review. New Left Review. I (5). September – October 1960. Full text.
- Sociology-Congress in Köln 2000 workshop: C. Wright Mills and his Power Elite: Actuality today? | http://wiki-offline.jakearchibald.com/wiki/C._Wright_Mills |
Vilfredo Federico Damaso Pareto (UK: /pæˈreɪtoʊ, -ˈriːt-/ pa-RAY-toh, -EE-, US: /pəˈreɪtoʊ/ pə-RAY-toh, Italian: [vilˈfreːdo paˈreːto], Ligurian: [paˈɾeːtu]; born Wilfried Fritz Pareto; 15 July 1848 – 19 August 1923) was an Italian civil engineer, sociologist, economist, political scientist, and philosopher. He made several important contributions to economics, particularly in the study of income distribution and in the analysis of individuals' choices. He was also responsible for popularising the use of the term "elite" in social analysis.
He introduced the concept of Pareto efficiency and helped develop the field of microeconomics. He was also the first to discover that income follows a Pareto distribution, which is a power law probability distribution. The Pareto principle was named after him, and it was built on observations of his such as that 80% of the wealth in Italy belonged to about 20% of the population. He also contributed to the fields of sociology and mathematics, according to the mathematician Benoit Mandelbrot and Richard L. Hudson:
His legacy as an economist was profound. Partly because of him, the field evolved from a branch of moral philosophy as practised by Adam Smith into a data intensive field of scientific research and mathematical equations. His books look more like modern economics than most other texts of that day: tables of statistics from across the world and ages, rows of integral signs and equations, intricate charts and graphs.
Pareto was born of an exiled noble Genoese family in 1848 in Paris, the centre of the popular revolutions of that year. His father, Raffaele Pareto (1812–1882), was an Italian civil engineer and Ligurian marquis who had left Italy much like Giuseppe Mazzini and other Italian nationalists. His mother, Marie Metenier, was a French woman. Enthusiastic about the 1848 German revolution, his parents named him Wilfried Fritz, which became Vilfredo Federico upon his family's move back to Italy in 1858. In his childhood, Pareto lived in a middle-class environment, receiving a high standard of education, attending the newly created Istituto Tecnico Leardi where Fernando Pio Rosellini was his mathematics professor. In 1869, he earned a doctor's degree in engineering from what is now the Polytechnic University of Turin (then the Technical School for Engineers). His dissertation was entitled "The Fundamental Principles of Equilibrium in Solid Bodies". His later interest in equilibrium analysis in economics and sociology can be traced back to this paper. | https://m.wikiwordbook.info/Vilfredo%20Pareto |
I have some book suggestions in Disinformation alumnus Roy Christopher’s Summer Reading List 2015.
The emergent theme in my list this year is: the wealth extraction strategies of oligarchical elites and how to Become them.
Here is some bonus material I wrote that you might find useful:
Lasse Heje Pedersen Efficiently Inefficient: How Smart Money Invests & Market Prices Are Determined (Princeton University Press, 2015). Lasse Heje Pederson is the John A. Paulson Professor of Finance and Alternative Investments at the New York University Stern School of Business. Perdersen’s “efficiently inefficient” theory of financial markets focuses on active investors who have a comparative advantage. This book examines six economically motivated investment styles and eight hedge fund strategies. It contains one of the best descriptions I have read of how active management works. Pedersen also interviews influential hedge fund managers and investment managers including James Chanos, Cliff Asness, George Soros, Myron Scholes, Ken Griffin, and John A. Paulson. For a history of hedge funds see Sebastian Mallaby’s More Money Than God: Hedge Funds and the Making of a New Elite (Bloomsbury, 2010).
Han Smit and Thras Moraitis Playing At Acquisitions: Behavioral Option Games (Princeton University Press, 2015). Han Smit is a Professor in the Faculty of Economics at the Erasmus University Rotterdam. Thras Moraitis was Group Head of Strategy and Corporate Affairs at Xstrata. Playing At Acquisitions offers a synthesis of three business strategy methodologies: behavioural economics, game theory, and real options. An in-depth case study on the company Xstrata is also provided. Smit and Moraitis provide a personal synthesis that will enable you to perceive your own cognitive biases, to understand others, and to make more effective decisions under uncertainty. For a conceptual understanding of business strategy see J.C. Spenders Business Strategy: Managing Uncertainty, Opportunity, and Enterprise (Oxford University Press, 2014).
Lauren A Rivera Pedigree: How Elite Students Get Elite Jobs (Princeton University Press, 2015). Lauren Rivera is Associate Professor of Management & Organizations at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. Pedigreefollows in the footsteps of Vilfredo Pareto and Gaetano Mosca in examining how the processes of elite reproduction and social stratification occur in elite firms who hire students from elite schools into entry-level jobs. Rivera uses interviews and participant observation to discover how employers use a range of filtering mechanisms to reproduce elites in a way that is reminiscent of ancestral heritage and cultural transmission. This book also offers novel insights on the sociological study of contemporary elites and elite circulation. For a micro-study on elites, non-elites and economic stratification see Robert D. Putnam’s Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis (Simon & Schuster, 2015).
Karen Dawisha Putin’s Kleptocracy: Who Owns Russia? (Simon & Schuster, 2014). Karen Dawisha is the Director of the Havighurst Center for Russian and Post-Soviet Studies at Miami University. Putin’s Kleptocracy was originally under contract at Cambridge University Press before potential libel concerns led to Simon & Schuster publishing the book. Dawisha uses archival, internet, interview, and other sources to show how Putin rose to power and how he and a small oligarchical elite succeeded in extracting economic wealth from post-Soviet Russia. Dawisha’s research informed the PBS Frontline documentary Putin’s Way (13th January 2015). Putin’s success at wealth extraction can be compared with Thor Bjorgolfsson’s Billions to Bust – and Back (Profile Books 2014) and Bill Browder’s Red Notice (Simon & Schuster, 2015) in which self-styled ‘adventure capitalists’ and emerging market financiers were not so lucky. On Putin’s use of sociological propaganda to restructure post-Soviet Russia see Peter Pomerantsev’s Nothing Is True And Everything Is Possible (PublicAffairs, 2014) and Jason Stanley’s How Propaganda Works (Princeton University Press, 2015). | http://www.alexburns.net/2015/06/24/roy-christophers-summer-reading-list-2015-bonus-material/ |
Are you hearing about the 80/20 rule of customer relationship management? Many vendors and consultants are using the 80/20 rule as a popular sales pitch, touting it as the success strategy for businesses seeking out a customer relationship management (CRM) solution. But how does the 80/20 rule work in business, and what does it mean for CRM?
The 80/20 rule states that 20 percent of customers are driving 80 percent of your business. The idea is that applying it to CRM applications, such as data mining, campaign management, and sales force automation, will help your business identify your best customers—that 20 percent segment.
In this article, I’ll explain the origins of the 80/20 rule. And I’ll tell you why some economists disagree with this principle and argue that it would be harmful to apply it to a CRM strategy.
A popular rule
The 80/20 rule is not applied only to CRM applications, it’s frequently applied to a variety of business and management situations. Here are a few examples:
- 80 percent of your profit comes from 20 percent of your customers.
- 80 percent of customer service problems come from 20 percent of the customers.
- 80 percent of human resource problems come from 20 percent of the employees.
- 80 percent of your results will come from 20 percent of your effort.
- 80 percent of a manager’s time is spent pushing papers while 20 percent is spent actually managing.
The list of examples of where “80 percent of x means 20 percent of y” can be applied is virtually endless.
Where did it come from?
The principle of the 80/20 rule is not new. It is called Pareto’s Principle and was developed by Vilfredo Pareto, an Italian economist and sociologist born in Paris in 1848.
Pareto was interested in class distinctions and the distribution of wealth among societal classes. He studied the class systems of different European countries and formulated that the distribution of wealth in each country fell roughly into an 80/20 division. He found that 20 percent of the people in each country made up the ruling class and controlled the other 80 percent of the population, and that the same top 20 percent controlled 80 percent of the wealth.
Pareto also believed that even if there were a major shift in a country’s social system, such as an economic recession or a military revolution, this disruption would not mean an end to the 80/20 ratio. Instead, society would eventually revert to 80/20 segments. In addition, Pareto developed the theory of the “circulation of elites,” which says that no matter what political system is in place (communism, fascism), an elite class will always surface, and the 80/20 cycle will continue.
Where does CRM fit?
So what do the ideas of an Italian economist at the turn of the last century mean to CRM? On the surface, it makes sense that marketing and selling to the top 20 percent of your customers will keep you from wasting valuable resources on the remaining 80 percent—the deadbeat customers. But many economists disagree with this idea for several reasons.
If Pareto’s Principle is followed to the letter, the 20 percent of customers CRM is designed to identify will eventually fall into another set of 80/20 segments. This continual breakdown of the top 20 percent will ultimately leave you with one customer, who is unlikely to create 80 percent of your profit. Following the principle also becomes problematic if you have failed to isolate the right 20 percent at the beginning. In a business, an entire 80 percent of your customer base cannot be ignored.
J.M. Juran, a Romanian immigrant to the United States who is also an economist, took Pareto’s Principle one step further. In the early 1900s, Juran said that it represents the relationship between the “trivial few and the critical many.” Common sense would tell any business that customers who buy, even if they do not belong to the elite 20 percent, are not trivial.
A modern-day interpretation
In a recent article, “Writing off 80 percent of customers is economics gone berserk,” published by American Banker, financial expert Jerry Weiner warns, “At some point, forcing unprofitable customers away would result in the loss of more incremental revenue than expenses.”
As for losing revenue, CRM applications also promise to take that 80 percent segment of “unprofitable customers” and turn them into customers who actually open their pocketbooks. But how is that possible if all of your energy in sales and marketing is targeted to the top 20 percent?
A more realistic theory behind CRM is that not every customer will be a highly profitable piece of your business, and not every customer is going to respond favorably to marketing campaigns. CRM applications are not a set of magical end-to-end business solutions. So if you’re feeling pressured to buy from a vendor or an application service provider (ASP) that’s telling you their product will create an 80/20 win-win situation for your business, ask them about Pareto.
Is CRM a passing fad or a new beginning?
Is your senior management team talking about implementing CRM? What issues are surfacing because of the talk? Post a comment below or drop us a note to tell us what you think. | https://www.techrepublic.com/article/think-80-20-is-a-new-idea-heres-how-to-wise-up/ |
This paper starts with summarizing the major theoretical elements in the definition of a global ruling class. It then examines how neoconservatives in the US took power and used regime change to create chaos in other regions. A strategy of tension is used to press the population into conformity. But the real revolution is to what extent factual politics escape any attempt to democratic control. Three case studies show how far the Deep State already goes. Democracy is on the brink of survival.
1. Theory
In the earlier paper (Hamm, B. 2010) I suggested an analytical framework for the study of power as it relates to the future of global society. This outline specifically addressed four questions: (1) How is the global ruling class structured internally? (2) Is it theoretically correct to use the term class for the ruling elite? (3) Which are the major instruments of power? (4) How do these analytical insights impact on the probable future of human society?
Drawing on C. Wright Mills’ seminal work on The Power Elite, recent power structure research suggests an ideal-type model of four concentric circles: In the inner circle, we find the global money trust, the richest individuals, families or clans, all with fortunes well above one billion Euros. The CEOs of big transnational corporations and biggest international financial players make up the second circle. They are mostly concerned with increasing the wealth of the inner circle, and with it their own. Top international politicians, some active in governments and international institutions, some more in the background as advisers, plus the top military, compose the third circle. This political class has assignments: organize the distribution of the social product in such a way as to transfer as much as the actual power balance allows into the pockets of the inner and second circles, and secure the legitimacy of government by organizing the political circus of an allegedly pluralistic structure. The fourth ring will be composed of top academics, media moguls, lawyers, and may sometimes include prominent authors, film and music stars, artists, NGO representatives, few religious leaders, few top criminals and others useful for decorating the inner circles. They enjoy the privilege of close access to those in power, they are well paid and will make sure not to lose such benefits (Hamm, B. 2010:1008-9; see also Phillips, P., Osborne, B. 2013).
It appears that the degree of internationalization of the powerful correlates with their status on the ring hierarchy. The two inner circles have always been international. The third and fourth rings, however, tend to be much more nationally bound (by ownership, by elections) than the first and the second. The inner circle is not static but relatively solid. It builds on financial and social capital often accumulated by former generations, the steel, banking, weapons, or oil barons. The major source of power is being borne to a family of the inner circle. The Rockefellers, the Rothschilds, the Morgans, the DuPonts, the Vanderbilts, the Agnellis, the Thyssens or the Krupps would provide illustrative examples (see, e.g., Holbrook, 1953; or more recently Landes, 2006; Marshall, A.G. 2013).
There are also the nouveaux riches. Names like George Soros, William Gates, Warren Buffett, Marc Zuckerberg, Sheldon Adelson, or the Koch brothers come to mind (Smith, Y. 2013); Russian or Eastern European oligarchs like Alisher Usmanov, Mikhail Chodorkowski, Boris Berezowski, Mikhail Fridman, Rinat Ahmetov, Leonid Mikhelson, Viktor Vekselberg, Andrej Melnichenko, Roman Abramovich; as well as Carlos Slim Helu, Lakshmi Mittal, Mukesh Ambani, Jorge Paulo Lemann, Iris Fontbona or Aliko Dangote from the so-called less developed countries. These parvenus tend to be politically more active, at least on the front stage, than the old rich families: George Soros with his Open Society Foundation and his permanent warnings of the evils of unregulated capitalism is the best known for his liberal leanings, while the Koch brothers, Sheldon Adelson or Robert Murdoch are aggressively right-wing (Heath, T. 2014; Snyder, M. 2013; Webster, S.C. 2013). The oligarchs of the former Soviet block have almost all grabbed their fortunes during the presidency of Boris Yeltzin who, pathological alcoholic as he was, made room for large scale privatization of state corporations and raw materials after the collapse of the socialist regime.
Shock therapy was pushed through under the influence of Western advisors, especially the Harvard privatization program with Jeffrey Sachs as the leading figure, as well the International Monetary Fund. Jegor Gajdar, Anatoli Tschubais, an oligarch himself, and Alfred Koch were their local executives in Russia, Vaclav Klaus in Czechoslovakia, Leszek Balcerowicz in Poland. The method how to create oligarchs, and social polarization, is easy to understand and has been practiced by the IMF time and again to this very day as part of their structural adjustment policy (later cynically called poverty reduction strategy): Abolish all prize control and public subventions, lay-off civil servants, limit wages, devalue the currency, and privatize public corporations and infrastructure, i.e. the Washington Consensus. Widespread poverty is the immediate result and the other side of the coin of extremely concentrated wealth in few hands.
Does this global oligarchy constitute a social class in the theoretical sense of the term? If so, it should (1) be in control of the means of production, (2) be bound together by class consciousness, and in-group mentality; (3) be party in a global class struggle over the distribution of the social product. The second criterion has been discussed in the 2010 paper, and answered positively: “The GRC will tend to see themselves, very much like feudal kings, as being of divine superiority placing them far above all other human beings. Fascism is very likely to be a basic pillar of their ideology, and war will be just one of the tools to increase their power and profits” (Hamm, 2010:1010; see also Turley, J. 2014; Dolan, E.W. 2013). As the money elite generally tends to focus their social contacts inside, groupthink is permanently reinforced. This might hold true even if it is not homogeneous in other respects (Lofgren, M. 2013).
For the first question it must be emphasized to what extent the financial sector has taken over control of productive industries. Here, the enormous amount of freshly printed dollars injected in the global economy since the abolishing of the gold standard in 1971 is decisive. The Federal Reserve Bank under successive US administrations has followed this policy up to the present day. The amount of money strolling around for profitable investment is not underpinned by production or services but rather by printing fiat notes. It allowed the financial industry to buy up real businesses by shares and bonds and their respective derivatives inside and outside the US. Thus, the financial industry acquired in fact control of large parts of the real economy including, via production chains, small and medium-sized businesses, fertile lands, and raw materials. It is also highly influential on science and technology and, through its lobbying and campaign donations, on political decision-making. In fact, as US lawmakers tend to belong to the upper strata of the financial hierarchy, and thus to the third circle of our power model, they also tend to widely identify with the interests of the inner rings (Money Choice 2013). Therefore, it is correct to conclude that the financial industry is in control of the means of production. | http://rinf.com/alt-news/politics/power-global-ruling-class-rules-world/ |
Figure. MnO2/RGO composites show improved Li-ion battery performance. The reason for the improvement was attributed to better electrode kinetics, more rapid diffusion of Li+ to intercalation sites, and a greater capacitance effect during discharge.
One of the key components that must be combined with an energy source, such as photovoltaics, that relies on sunlight is an affordable, robust energy storage method. This energy storage can be done in a variety of ways, but one of the most promising technologies is batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are of particular interest in the search for high capacity, light, batteries because of lithium's low molecular weight (6.9 g/mol) and high discarge voltage (typically 3+ volts). This gives Li-ion batteries the highest specific energy (energy per weight) of any type of battery. In Li-ion batteries, upon discharge, Li+ ions move from the negative to the positive electrode through an electrolyte and back to the negative electrode upon charging. Most commercial rechargable Li-ion batteries use a graphite anode (negative electrode) and a LiCoO2 cathode (positive electrode) in a design pioneered by Sony.
Check out these links for more info!
- Origin of Enhancements Using RGO - A webinar on the enhancements in battery operation by utilizing reduced graphene oxide as an electrode substrate.
- Is Lithium-ion the Ideal Battery? - Learn about some of the fundamental advantages and disadvantages of Li-ion battery technology from the Battery University.
Our Research Focus
- Improve Li-ion intercalation rates for faster charging/discharging
- Couple Li-ion cathodes with carbon based nanostructures for improved Li-ion diffusion and charge transport
- Increase battery lifetime through the design of more stable cathode composites
- Elucidate the mechanistic aspects of common Li-ion battery materials
Recent Progress
- Doped MnO2 nanowires on graphene oxide with nickel for a stable Li-ion battery material
- Synthesized "holey" graphene which may increase diffusion and lead to better Li-ion batteries
- Implemented reduced graphene oxide (RGO) into the anode of an α-MnO2 based Li-ion battery that showed a capacity of ∼150mAh/g after 20 cycles at 0.4C rate
- Elucidated the mechanistic nature of the performance increases seen in Li-ion batteries of the RGO on the commonly observed improvements in cycling and capacity
Select Publications
444. Nickel-Doped MnO2 Nanowires Anchored onto Reduced Graphene Oxide for Rapid Cycling Cathode in Lithium Ion Batteries Radich, J. G.; Chen, Y.-S.; Kamat, P. V. ECS Journal of Solid State Science and Technology 2013, 2 (10), M3178-M3181.
439. Making Graphene Holey. Gold-Nanoparticle-Mediated Hydroxyl Radical Attack on Reduced Graphene Oxide Radich, J. G.; Kamat, P. V. ACS Nano 2013, 7 (6), 5546–5557.
431. Graphitic Design: Prospects of Graphene-Based Nanocomposites for Solar Energy Conversion, Storage, and Sensing. Lightcap, I. V.; Kamat, P. V. Acc. Chem. Res. 2013, 46 (10), 2235–2243.
425. Origin of Reduced Graphene Oxide Enhancements in Electrochemical Energy Storage. Radich, J. G.; Kamat, P. V. ACS Catal. 2012, 2, 807–816.
407. Graphene-based Composites for Electrochemical Energy Storage Radich, J. G.; McGinn, P. J.; Kamat, P. V. Interface 2011, Spring Issue, 63-66. | https://www3.nd.edu/~kamatlab/research_batteries.html |
Thermochemical heat storage is a promising alternative to sensible or latent storage technologies based on water tanks. The heat is stored by means of a chemical potential, which enables high thermal energy storage densities and low energy storage losses, and can be retrieved at any time. Unlike with hot water tanks, insulation to prevent heat loss over time is not required. Typical materials for thermomechanical heat storage are silica gel and zeolites in the form of pellets, which offer a relatively low price and a high energy density. One disadvantage of these highly porous adsorbents, especially in packed beds, is their poor heat conductivity, which leads to a high loss in performance during charging and discharging and the need for complicated heat exchanger structures. Fraunhofer IKTS has extensive capabilities in modification and processing of highly porous ceramics and has applied them in different projects for the development of materials and components for heat storage applications. Within the scope of a Fraunhofer project, cylindrical pellets were covered with a good thermal conductor, such as copper or aluminum. These metal-covered pellets showed a thermal conductivity that was five times higher than that of conventional pellets and thus allowed for faster charging and discharging cycles. A different technological approach, taken within the BMWi project “MoGeSoWa“, was the development of heat storage bricks enabling a higher heat storage system filling degree and better contact with the heat exchanger than was achievable with packed beds. The network-like permeation of the bricks improved the accessibility of the adsorbate to the inner volume of the adsorbent. Another subject of this BMWi project was the development of so-called composite adsorbents. These materials consist of a mesoporous support structure that is impregnated by an inorganic salt. In contact with water, the salt forms different hydrate phases and thereby releases heat. The advantage of these materials is the comparatively low loading temperature (~ 90 °C). Typical support structures are silica gel, attapulgite, and carbons of large surface area. Investigations within this research field were concentrated on the generation of support structures with a high specific surfacearea and a tailored pore structure.
Services offered
- Development of ceramic materials for heat storage applications
- Development of composite materials for sorbent and catalytic applications
- Development of manufacturing methods for industrial production of developed composites
- Application tests
- Manufacturing and analysis of test samples and small batches
Acknowledgments
The authors gratefully acknowledge BMWi for the funding of the project “MoGeSoWa“ (project number: 03ESP259E). | https://www.ikts.fraunhofer.de/en/departments/structural_ceramics/nonoxide_ceramics/porous_filter_ceramics/thermochemical_heat_storage.html |
The transition into the new era in transport sector after the invasive introduction of electromobility and the already established tactic of the installation of small-scale renewable energy units in the domestic field force to the exploration of an undiscovered aspect of energy allocation. The existence of a unique battery system is already a widespread policy in the new renewable installations in a household, whereas it still remains partly explored the coupling of two storage systems, which from structural point of view are complementary.
In the frame of this research it is attempted to delimitate the capability of a hybrid energy storage system (HESS) so as to support the domestic load demand of a single family house in a central north area in Germany, which is accumulated from the load demand of an E-vehicle, that is used for commute reasons of the family and always charges at home.
The designed HESS is composed of a PV installation, two storage devices, namely a lead acid battery system (LAB) and a vanadium redox flow battery (VRB), as well as the respective load demand of the dwelling.
So as to succeed an optimized utilization of the dual storage system a novel algorithm is developed based on the Markov Decision Process, according to which the priority for charging and discharging process is assigned to the storage facility which depicts a favorable performance under the given conditions. The main target is to reduce the great fluctuations between the building and the grid and succeed a higher rate of self-energy consumption.
The designed method tackles the problem of controlling a dual storage installation in the domestic sector, when considering the electric vehicle charging requirements, and contributes to the management of the energy flow into a novel system topology with the introduction of reinforcement learning tools.
In the evaluation part it is proved that the designed approach is not only more efficient from a benchmark method but also lower rates of grid interaction are succeeded and higher self-energy consumption is achieved. It is thereby proved that a control algorithm is essential in order to fully leverage all the key resources. | https://www.dr.hut-verlag.de/9783843939768.html |
How long does a salt battery last?
The life of a battery of any type depends on various parameters, such as temperature (lead, lithium), depth of discharge (all batteries), charging and discharging currents (all batteries), length of storage before use (lithium, lead), etc.
An important parameter is the charging and discharging power (current intensity of charging and discharging). If a battery is very heavily loaded, such as in an e-vehicle, then the battery will not live as long as if it is only rarely discharged, as is the case with a UPS system.
The cycle depth also plays a role. For the salt battery, this can be seen in the following diagram. It should be noted that this curve is a "synthetic" curve derived from accelerated cell tests in the laboratory. After all, you can't wait 20 years for the tests to be completed. The diagram shows a life expectancy, i.e. an average life span for a standard cycle.
What is the charging behaviour of a salt battery?
The salt-nickel battery is a "cosy" battery. It charges slowly. The battery itself - without taking the battery inverter power into account - can absorb about 2 kW of power at maximum and only for a short time (1 hour) when the battery is almost empty. The salt battery is therefore not suitable for absorbing large and short-term PV production peaks.
If larger PV production peaks are to be utilised in order to reduce the return delivery to the electricity grid, a combination of battery and thermal storage is recommended. The battery storage then takes over the basic supply of the house with its own electricity and the thermal storage (heating rod or heat pump) stores additional surplus in the form of hot water.
How long does it take to fully charge a salt battery?
The duration until the salt battery is 100 % charged depends on the initial state of charge. It takes approx. 11 hours to completely charge a completely empty battery.
The diagram gives insight into the loading times. Click on the image to see an enlarged version.
What is the discharge behaviour of a salt battery?
Typically, a salt battery can be discharged faster than it can be charged. A 9 kWh salt storage can be discharged with a maximum of 6 kVA continuous power.
Due to the internal resistance of the battery, the internal temperature of the salt battery increases with large discharge currents. The battery can be operated with an internal temperature between 265° Celsius and 350° Celsius. This means that this battery has the widest operating temperature range of all known batteries.
The diagram shows the energy content of the battery at different discharge rates.
How much energy is needed to bring a 9 kWh salt battery to operating temperature (250° C)?
To bring a 9 kWh salt battery to operating temperature requires 9 kWh and takes about 6-8, maximum 12 hours. If the salt battery is heated up via normal mains electricity, the costs are only about 2 CHF in Switzerland – in Germany it costs about 3 EUR. Of course, the battery can also be heated up via your own photovoltaic system.
How much power is needed to keep the 9 kWh salt battery at operating temperature?
On average, 120 watts are required for self-preservation of the operating temperature per 9 kWh salt battery. The battery has an efficiency of 90 % with a standard cycle of C/5. This means that the battery requires approx. 10 % to maintain the temperature of 250° C.
With what maximum power can the batteries be discharged?
Each type of battery heats up during discharge because a battery has an "internal resistance". The internal resistance of the salt battery is greater than that of a lithium-ion battery (LIB). Thus, the salt battery heats up faster than a LIB. To prevent the saline battery from overheating during rapid discharging (internal temperature > 330° Celsius), innovenergy has limited this discharging power to 100 A per battery, which corresponds approximately to a discharging power of 5 kW.
The salidomo© ECO is a single-phase system with a single battery inverter with a capacity of 2.4 kW (or 3 kVA). The inverter can draw 2.4 kW of power from the battery.
The salidomo© 9 is a three-phase system with a rated power of 7.2 kW (or 9 kVA). The three battery inverters could draw about 7 kW from a single saline battery. However, due to the battery, only a maximum of 5 kW can be extracted. With the salidomo© 18, on the other hand, the entire inverter power of 7.2 kW can be taken from the two salt batteries.
The salidomo© EXT 27/36 is also a three-phase system with a nominal battery inverter power of 12 kW (or 15 kVA). The three batteries of the salidomo© EXT 27 can deliver a maximum of 15 kW; the four batteries of the salidomo© EXT 36 the whole 20 kW. The three battery inverters, however, can extract a maximum of 12 kW of power from the salidomo© batteries.
This discharge power applies at an operating temperature of 25° Celsius. If the temperature rises, the inverter power drops – this is called "derating".
See also technical data sheet of the inverters: | https://www.innov.energy/en/faqs/salt-battery/battery-technology |
Model based engineering and control of latent heat thermal energy storage
Latent heat thermal energy storages (LHTES) have a high potential for significant improvements in plant performance. They allow for stabilization of energy flows and improved peak power and demand side management. For LHTES solid/liquid systems with industrial relevant phase change temperatures exceeding 80°C are of high interest. In practice, the full potential of LHTES is not exploited for two reasons. Firstly, the design and operation of LHTES is mostly carried out in view of quasi-static energy duties, rather than dynamic heat integration. Secondly, conventional control strategies are simple and restricted to fluid flow control for charging and discharging of the storage.
modELTES aims at developing LHTES models which can be applied in standard engineering and control software. For a suitable first principle model, multiple phenomena in the phase transition of melting and solidification need to be considered, e.g. a temperature hysteresis, kinetics in the phase transition, super-/ subcooling at solidification. The thermo-physical properties of the phase change materials (PCM) also show strong temperature dependency.
The outcome of modELTES is an improved physical understanding of the phenomena in the phase transition of PCM which is supported not only by experimental analysis but also by validated first principles models. Dynamic models will be experimentally validated and implemented in relevant software with simulation times at least two orders of magnitude faster than real-time.
To validate the computer aided design and control engineering approach, the LHTES models and software tools will be used in industrial projects for dynamic heat integration under variable load conditions with complex (parallel, serial, cascade) storage configurations and control structures. | https://www.ait.ac.at/en/research-topics/sustainable-thermal-energy-systems/projects/modeltes?no_cache=1 |
Suman, Vinit Kumar (2014) HTS Inductive Energy Charging and Discharging Circuit and its Application in the Design of SMES UPS. MTech thesis.
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Abstract
In this era of high technological development, energy storage devices are one of the prime requirements. More and more focus is on designing efficient energy storage systems. One of the highly efficient energy storage systems is Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage system. It is a magnetic field based direct energy storage system. It stores the required energy in the magnetic field with almost zero loss. A SMES system consist of four parts - the superconducting coil (SC),the power conditioning system (PCS), the cryogenically cooled refrigerator (CS) or the cryogenic system and the cooling unit (CU). Since superconductors practically offer almost no resistance to current flow, energy can be stored indefinitely in the magnetic field owing to the reason that the direct current will not decay once the coil is charged. The stored energy can be supplied to the network by discharging the same coil. The present work basically deals with the study of various energy storage systems and comparing their performance and control characteristics. Also detailed modelling of the charging and discharging SMES circuit on different inductance and reference voltage values has been done. The reliability of the HTS inductors in the field of electrical design has been presented. In the present work, the aim is to build SMES UPS (Uninterruptible power source) so as to store energy for longer periods. The design is done using SIMULINK/MATLAB. | http://ethesis.nitrkl.ac.in/7882/ |
How long does a salt battery last?
The life of a battery of any type depends on various parameters, such as temperature (lead, lithium), depth of discharge (all batteries), charging and discharging currents (all batteries), length of storage before use (lithium, lead), etc.
An important parameter is the charging and discharging power (current intensity of charging and discharging). If a battery is very heavily loaded, such as in an e-vehicle, then the battery will not live as long as if it is only rarely discharged, as is the case with a UPS system.
The cycle depth also plays a role. For the salt battery, this can be seen in the following diagram. It should be noted that this curve is a "synthetic" curve derived from accelerated cell tests in the laboratory. After all, you can't wait 20 years for the tests to be completed. The diagram shows a life expectancy, i.e. an average life span for a standard cycle.
State of charge, calibration and deep discharge of a salt battery
A salt battery is operated between 20% and 100% SOC (State of Chage). Every seven days, the battery should be charged to 100% so that the SOC is calibrated again. If the battery is rarely fully charged (e.g. only once every month), the internal resistance of the battery increases and a full charge takes longer and longer. To prevent this from happening and to ensure that the battery management system (BMS) of the salt battery is calibrated, a full charge is programmed for every seven days.
A deep discharge to 0% SOC, on the other hand, has no effect on the battery capacity, according to the battery manufacturer. A unique feature of the NaNiCl battery is that it can be "switched off". This means that the salt battery is deep discharged and the internal temperature of 265 degrees cools down to ambient temperature. We call this "hibernation". This is used when the photovoltaic output drops sharply in winter and it no longer makes sense to operate a battery storage system because there is too little surplus energy.
What is the charging behaviour of a salt battery?
The salt-nickel battery is a "cosy" battery. It charges slowly. The battery itself - without taking the battery inverter power into account - can absorb about 2 kW of power at maximum and only for a short time (1 hour) when the battery is almost empty. The salt battery is therefore not suitable for absorbing large and short-term PV production peaks.
If larger PV production peaks are to be utilised in order to reduce the return delivery to the electricity grid, a combination of battery and thermal storage is recommended. The battery storage then takes over the basic supply of the house with its own electricity and the thermal storage (heating rod or heat pump) stores additional surplus in the form of hot water.
How long does it take to fully charge a salt battery?
The duration until the salt battery is 100 % charged depends on the initial state of charge. It takes approx. 11 hours to completely charge a completely empty battery.
The diagram gives insight into the loading times. Click on the image to see an enlarged version.
What is the discharge behaviour of a salt battery?
Typically, a salt battery can be discharged faster than it can be charged. A 9 kWh salt storage can be discharged with a maximum of 6 kVA continuous power.
Due to the internal resistance of the battery, the internal temperature of the salt battery increases with large discharge currents. The battery can be operated with an internal temperature between 265° Celsius and 350° Celsius. This means that this battery has the widest operating temperature range of all known batteries.
The diagram shows the energy content of the battery at different discharge rates.
How much energy is needed to bring a 9 kWh salt battery to operating temperature (250° C)?
To bring a 9 kWh salt battery to operating temperature requires 9 kWh and takes about 6-8, maximum 12 hours. If the salt battery is heated up via normal mains electricity, the costs are only about 2 CHF in Switzerland – in Germany it costs about 3 EUR. Of course, the battery can also be heated up via your own photovoltaic system.
How much power is needed to keep the 9 kWh salt battery at operating temperature?
On average, 120 watts are required for self-preservation of the operating temperature per 9 kWh salt battery. The battery has an efficiency of 90 % with a standard cycle of C/5. This means that the battery requires approx. 10 % to maintain the temperature of 250° C.
With what maximum power can the batteries be discharged?
Each type of battery heats up during discharge because a battery has an "internal resistance". The internal resistance of the salt battery is greater than that of a lithium-ion battery (LIB). Thus, the salt battery heats up faster than a LIB. To prevent the saline battery from overheating during rapid discharging (internal temperature > 330° Celsius), innovenergy has limited this discharging power to 100 A per battery, which corresponds approximately to a discharging power of 5 kW.
The salidomo© ECO is a single-phase system with a single battery inverter with a capacity of 2.4 kW (or 3 kVA). The inverter can draw 2.4 kW of power from the battery.
The salidomo© 9 is a three-phase system with a rated power of 7.2 kW (or 9 kVA). The three battery inverters could draw about 7 kW from a single saline battery. However, due to the battery, only a maximum of 5 kW can be extracted. With the salidomo© 18, on the other hand, the entire inverter power of 7.2 kW can be taken from the two salt batteries.
The salidomo© EXT 27/36 is also a three-phase system with a nominal battery inverter power of 12 kW (or 15 kVA). The three batteries of the salidomo© EXT 27 can deliver a maximum of 15 kW; the four batteries of the salidomo© EXT 36 the whole 20 kW. The three battery inverters, however, can extract a maximum of 12 kW of power from the salidomo© batteries.
This discharge power applies at an operating temperature of 25° Celsius. If the temperature rises, the inverter power drops – this is called "derating".
See also technical data sheet of the inverters:
- Victron Multiplus-II/3 kVA for salidomo© 9/18
- Victron Multiplus-II/5 kVA for salidomo© EXT 27/36
What is the end-to-end efficiency of a salt battery storage system?
The standard cycle of a salt battery has been precisely defined by the manufacturer and is 90% efficiency. Any deviation from this standard cycle means a poorer efficiency. However, this also applies to all specifications of other battery manufacturers.
The final efficiency depends very much on the actual operation (charging and discharging) of the battery. If the battery size is correctly dimensioned, one can assume an average efficiency (current in, current out including inverter losses) of 60 - 65 %.
Difference PV inverter and battery inverter?
First of all, a distinction must be made between PV inverters and battery inverters. All salidomo© are AC-coupled systems, i.e. PV inverters (conversion of DC current from the PV system to AC current into the house grid) and battery inverters (conversion of AC current from the house grid to DC current into the battery) are needed.
Since all consumers in the house require AC (alternating current), charging the battery directly from the PV system only works to a limited extent. After all, the consumers are to be supplied before the battery and only the surplus electricity is to be fed into the battery. Furthermore, the PV current has a different voltage than the battery, which is operated at 48 V. The battery is then charged directly from the PV system. The AC coupling compensates for this DC voltage difference.
Does the salidomo© also work with other battery inverters?
Since the salidomo© is an AC-coupled complete system and battery inverters from Victron are already installed, it works with all PV inverters.
The salidomo© must not be operated with other battery inverters, otherwise the device certification becomes invalid and a special approval becomes legally necessary. This is a matter of liability claims, which the converter must then bear in full. innovenergy as well as the manufacturers of the components no longer provide any warranty guarantees or support in the event of a conversion.
What is the difference between an AC-coupled and a DC-coupled battery storage system?
An AC-coupled battery storage system takes the alternating current from the (domestic) grid and converts it into direct current for charging the batteries. When the batteries are discharged, the battery direct current is converted back into alternating current for the (home) grid. When converting mains current into battery current and back again, losses occur in the battery inverter. Typically, between 10% and 15% of the energy is lost as waste heat in the inverters.
Advantage: An AC-coupled battery storage system can also be installed after the PV system has been built. Disadvantage: In total, up to 20% of the PV energy is lost, because in addition to the loss of the battery inverters described above, there are also the losses of the PV inverter. The PV inverter converts the direct current from the PV modules into alternating current, which is then used to charge and discharge the batteries via the battery inverters. Here, too, losses of a few percent occur between the PV modules and the AC grid.
A DC-coupled battery storage system avoids these conversion losses and converts the direct current of the PV modules directly into direct current for charging the batteries. When discharging the batteries, the battery direct current is converted into alternating current for the grid as before.
Advantage: Lower conversion losses and seamless operation of the PV system even without an AC grid. Disadvantage: Is usually only possible with a new PV system.
The salidomo© can be operated as an AC-coupled battery storage system, as a DC-coupled battery storage system or even a combination thereof.
Which products can be used to charge the salt batteries via DC?
All Victron solar charge controllers can easily charge innovenergy's salt battery storage systems. The charging power is limited to 6 kW for the salidomo© and to 12 kW for the salidomo© EXT.
The solar charge controllers from Studer Innotec also work, but cannot be read out and are therefore not displayed on the Victron web platform. | https://www.innov.energy/en/faqs/salt-battery/technique |
Artificial intelligence, also known as artificial intelligence or AI, is the development of a machine that can think, reason, and solve problems using machine learning and other computer science concepts.
Artificial intelligence is often associated with computer chips that can perform tasks such as processing video or video games.
However, it is also possible to build an AI with no computer at all.
This means that an artificial intelligences capabilities are directly linked to the underlying hardware that is built into a computer.
A system with artificial intelligence is typically capable of solving problems such as understanding and predicting human behavior.
The ability to think in this way is called machine learning.
A computer chip is a computer chip that can be programmed to learn and to perform specific tasks.
A chip that performs a task is called a processor.
For example, an IBM mainframe processor that is used to operate computer programs can learn about the types of things that computers do, and how they can be manipulated.
The process is called reinforcement learning, which is how machines learn to perform a specific task.
An artificial intelligence processor learns and executes the instructions that are written into the instruction set of a processor so that the processor can perform a particular task.
Machine learning algorithms are used to build and run computers.
Machine Learning algorithms can learn to predict how human behaviors will change in the future.
For this reason, machine learning algorithms can be used to create computers that can solve problems such to identify people in a crowd or detect dangerous objects, such as a bomb or an earthquake.
An example of an artificial neural network, which uses a large number of neural networks to learn, is shown here.
Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) are machine learning systems that can learn by taking a large amount of data and training them on a set of examples to learn how to perform tasks.
For the purpose of machine learning, ANN is sometimes referred to as reinforcement learning.
In order to learn a task, a machine must first build a large set of predictions about how a task will work.
A problem that is easy for a machine to solve is a general problem that does not require any specific solution.
ANN can be thought of as an approximation of the underlying problems that an agent must solve in order to achieve its goal.
For instance, an ANN can learn from the data that it has collected about the tasks that humans are doing to build their homes, cars, homes and so on.
Machine-learning algorithms can then use the data to create machines that perform tasks that are difficult for humans to perform, such a as detecting people in crowds or detecting dangerous objects.
ANNs can also be used in a number of other situations, such to design smart cities, to design robots that can interact with humans, and to build autonomous vehicles.
In many situations, machine-learning techniques can be applied to make predictions about the future, such that a computer can use a large data set to predict the behavior of robots that will come and go from the same place over time.
Artificial Intelligence can be defined as the development or implementation of computer programs or the development and use of machine technology for a purpose, including the use of AI technology for the development, testing, and implementation of new technologies.
In the context of artificial intelligence, we generally refer to a computer program that is able to perform some task.
The computer program, often called a “program,” is the software that can do a particular thing.
Artificial general intelligence refers to a program that can understand and apply a wide range of concepts.
For most tasks, it can be described as a “general purpose” or “supervised” system, and a supervised system is able, in theory, to understand how a given program works.
Supervised systems can be developed in a variety of ways.
They can be designed with limited knowledge of the environment, so that they can perform well on tasks that have no information about the environment.
They are also designed with many parameters and parameters that can only be tweaked or changed by a programmer.
The term general purpose refers to the broad range of tasks that can have a general purpose.
Supervisory general purpose means that a supervised general purpose system can be trained on a limited number of examples, in order for the system to learn about how to do a specific job.
The example that the supervised general-purpose system can learn is the difference between two numbers, where the numerator is positive and the denominator is negative.
When the system learns to distinguish between positive and negative numbers, it learns how to distinguish the numbers.
The supervised general learning system is capable of learning to recognize the differences between positive numbers and negative ones, which are called pattern recognition.
This is called general purpose recognition.
The system is then able to apply this knowledge to a particular job, such the identification of individuals.
An autonomous vehicle that can identify people using data from the ground, for instance, could be called general- purpose autonomous vehicle.
Artificial General Intelligence is an important aspect of artificial general intelligence.
It is used in order that a system can do things that humans cannot, | https://bicedeep.com/2021/09/17/what-is-an-artificial-intelligence/ |
Original Post Information:
"authorDisplayName": "Saira Kennedy", "publish": "2018-09-21T07:00:00.000Z", "tags": "machine-learning"
Editor's Note: This post is based on the MapR Academy course, Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
This post will give you a basic background on artificial intelligence and machine learning. It's a good place to gain an intro-level, working understanding of the categories, how they fit together, and their differences.
In this post, we begin by defining the differences between artificial intelligence and machine learning and what these terms mean. In future posts, we will discuss the different methods of machine learning and some of the most common algorithms available for your projects. After that, you'll learn about real-world use cases, utilizing this technology, and the unique value MapR solutions provide for machine learning endeavors.
Where do AI and ML fit in data science?
Before we get into the finer details of artificial intelligence and machine learning, let's see how it fits in the larger world of data science. Because this field is rapidly changing, some people may be confused or disagree about the overall landscape and terms being used in the industry, so let's clarify how we will be defining them in this blog.
Think of a series of Russian nesting dolls, but now imagine them as futuristic robot dolls, like the ones pictured below. With this analogy, we can have multiple robot dolls nested within each level.
With these nesting robot dolls, version 2.0, the largest doll represents the entire field of data science. The second doll represents artificial intelligence, and the next doll represents machine learning. A fourth doll, for deep learning, can also be nested within the machine learning doll, but we won't be going into much depth on that topic in this post.
What is Data Science?
Both artificial intelligence and machine learning nest under the largest doll of data science, whose purpose is to extract insights from data. Data science analyzes large amounts of data to deliver value and give businesses a competitive edge across all industries. As an example, retail businesses analyze buyer habits to better target recommendations and promotions to their customers.
In the growing world of big data, it is important to have an effective data science strategy to help make informed business decisions. All these fields have become more prominent, as the attempts to meet the growing demand for finding more efficient ways to extract value from data at scale has increased.
Using artificial intelligence to accomplish these goals is a natural outgrowth of the big data movement.
What is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial intelligence describes a machine that is capable of imitating and performing intelligent human behavior. Some of these tasks could include problem-solving and decision-making or specific activities requiring acute perception, recognition, or translation abilities.
Remember from the robot nesting doll example that machine learning is nested within artificial intelligence; therefore, all machine learning counts as AI, but not all AI counts as machine learning. Other robot dolls within classic AI, without machine learning, would include expert systems using symbolic artificial intelligence and AI Planning.
Symbolic Artificial Intelligence
Symbolic artificial intelligence is one of the first approaches to AI, which is based on the assertion that human intelligence can be achieved through the manipulation of symbols. This is the basis for physical symbol systems, also called formal systems, which center around three basic concepts that follow human thinking abilities:
- Symbols, like the plus sign as the physical joining of two perpendicular lines, are first encoded in our brains.
- Thoughts are the structures, like the plus sign means to add things together.
- The manipulation process is the act of thinking, or applying the symbol and its structure together, like when we use the plus sign in a mathematical equation for one plus two equals three.
To understand this concept more clearly, let's take a look at a couple of specific examples. Physical Symbol System examples include algebra, formal logic, and even chess.
Physical Symbol Example: Algebra
In algebra, the numbers and mathematical operators of plus, x, equals, et cetera, are the symbols. The equations and formulas are the expressions, and the calculation is the manipulated expression response.
Physical Symbol System Example: Formal Logic
With formal logic problems, words like "if," "or," and "not," are the symbols. The structures are true or false statements, and the process manipulation are the rules of logical deduction, which result in the final expression. So, we could say "If a primarily healthy adult has a fever, then they may have the flu."
Physical Symbol System Example: Chess
And in games, such as chess, the defined number of pieces are the symbols, and the legal chess moves are the structures. The manipulated expressions are the resulting positions of the pieces on the board after each move.
This AI approach states that machines are capable of mimicking this behavior. Though interest in this approach has faded over time, it led to the development of expert systems, which are widely considered to be one of the first successful forms of artificial intelligence.
Expert Systems
An expert system is a computer system that is designed to solve problems by imitating the decision-making abilities of a human expert. This system uses two subsystems: a knowledge base and an inference engine.
Input data is presented to an expert system for training. This data is then reasoned through production, or If-Then, rules. Together, the data and reasoning production rules create the knowledge base of an expert system.
The inference engine applies the rules to the data and facts in the knowledge base, and then deduces new facts from it.
AI Planning
Automated planning and scheduling, also known as AI Planning, is another branch of classic AI. AI Planning can be done in known environments, and it describes a system that coordinates strategies or action sequences from an initial state, in order to achieve a specified goal state. The actions may be executed by autonomous robots, intelligent agents, or unmanned vehicles, or a combination of them.
This field has such a wide variety of project scopes with varying complexity that the level of programming effort and the human resources required for AI Planning became too much for most organizations to support.
Today, machine learning has taken over this field, as it offers a much more agile approach.
Artificial Intelligence Examples
As we now realize, artificial intelligence varies greatly in its potential complexity.
It includes both piles of if-then statements, as with the simple rule-based, expert systems used in classic AI, along with more complex statistical models that use learning algorithms to generate predictions.
Then, there is also the Hollywood version of AI: super-fancy computer systems, specialized robots, and advanced androids.
It may all seem a bit campy, but every day we get closer and closer to this type of reality. Mainly, this is because we are now teaching machines how to learn, and grow, on their own.
What is Machine Learning?
Now that we know about artificial intelligence, how about machine learning? This is where AI really starts to get interesting.
Machine learning describes machines that are taught to learn and make decisions by examining large amounts of input data. It makes calculated suggestions and/or predictions based on analyzing this information and performs tasks that are considered to require human intelligence. This includes activities like speech recognition, translation, visual perception, and more.
The field of machine learning also encompasses the area of deep learning. The key difference between machine learning and artificial intelligence is the term "learning."
Why is Machine Learning Important?
Machines learn and provide intelligent insights through a sophisticated use of learning algorithms.
To provide business value, the machine is trained to learn patterns from data and then can proceed autonomously on new and changing data. This creates a dynamic feedback loop, which allows it to efficiently generate more models to gain further insights, even more accurately, without requiring additional resources or human interaction.
With continuous advancement in this field, machines are becoming increasingly self-healing, self-organizing, and self-architecting, seamlessly producing greater value for businesses.
What is Deep Learning?
Also known as artificial neural networks, deep learning is one of the most talked about sub-areas of machine learning.
Deep learning performs machine learning in a hierarchy of layers, where the output of decisions from one layer feeds into the next layer. This model is loosely patterned after the brain's neural networks and has been setting new records of accuracy when applied to sound and image recognition.
The term "deep" describes the number of layers in a network and some go deeper than others by using many layers, versus just one layer.
Where do we go from here?
Next in this series, we'll discuss the different learning methods used in machine learning, such as supervised, unsupervised, and semi-supervised types, along with some of the most common algorithms available for your projects.
For more information on this course, please visit: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. | https://developer.hpe.com/blog/artificial-intelligence-and-machine-learning-what-are-they-and-why-are-t/ |
Join Deloitte Insights for an in-depth discussion in this video AI explained, part of Cognitive Technologies: The Real Opportunities for Business.
- I'm here in the Helix in the Gates Hillman Centers of Carnegie Mellon University. In this lecture, I will offer you a definition of artificial intelligence, or AI, and give you a brief overview of its history from its inception in the 1950s. First, the definition. Let's start by saying what AI isn't. AI is not machines that think, or even computers that work the way the brain works. AI is what machines do, not how they do it. The authors of a leading textbook on AI have offered eight possible definitions of the term.
A founder of the field says there's no precise definition. I'll offer you one definition of artificial intelligence that I think is useful for our purposes. AI is the theory and development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. This includes cognitive tasks, like planning, reasoning, and learning, and also perceptual tasks, like recognizing speech, understanding text, and recognizing faces. The reality is the definition of AI is subject to change over time. "As soon as it works, no one calls it AI anymore," lamented one of the founders of the field.
"AI is whatever hasn't been done yet," said another. This means the definition of AI is a moving target. Once people get used to its amazing capabilities, they'll no longer think of them as examples of artificial intelligence. Sometimes you'll hear the term artificial general intelligence. This refers to the intelligence of a hypothetical machine that could successfully perform any intellectual task that a human being can. Artificial general intelligence has not been created, but many researchers aspire to do so. There's lots of speculation about when, if ever, it will be achieved.
Instead, today, the state of the art of artificial intelligence is concerned with performing relatively narrow tasks, some of which are really impressive, like recommending cancer treatments or driving a car. The current and near future state of AI is the focus of our course. Another definition that will be useful in this course is agent. In everyday English, an agent is something that acts or does something. All computer programs do something, but AI agents are expected to do more. To operate autonomously, perceive their environment, persist over time, adapt to change, and create and pursue goals.
A rational agent is one that acts to achieve the best outcome, or if that's uncertain, the best expected outcome. You may hear the phrase an AI, as in, we're building an AI that will schedule your meetings for you automatically. Consider that a synonym for agent. Artificial intelligence is in the news a lot these days, but did you know that the field started over 60 years ago? I'd like to walk you through a very brief history of the field to give you a better perspective of where we are today. The field dates from the 1940s and '50s when researchers thought to use computers to understand how the brain works by trying to mimic human intelligence.
The pioneers of the field were born in the 1910s and '20s. Among the most well-known to a general audience is Alan Turing. He was a logician and mathematician. He proposed a theory of logical computing machines that could be reprogrammed to solve an infinite number of problems. He also advanced the belief that machines could mimic human intelligence, and he proposed a test for this that has come to be known as the Turing test. He was also the subject of a recent Hollywood film starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley. Other pioneers of the field you will encounter if you read more on the history of AI include John McCarthy, who coined the term artificial intelligence.
McCarthy convened a seminal workshop on the topic in 1956. The proposal seeking funds for the conference was audacious or optimistic. It read, in part, "An attempt will be made to find how to make machines "use language, form abstractions and concepts, "solve kinds of problems now reserved for humans, "and improve themselves. "We think," continued the proposal, "that a significant advance can be made "in one or more of these problems "if a carefully selected group of scientists "work on it together for a summer." Amazing.
Other important early players in AI were Alan Newell and Herbert Simon, who created foundational AI tools and demonstrations, including, with a colleague, something they called a general problem solver. There's a building here at Carnegie Mellon named after them. In the 1960s and '70s, it was the era of demonstration programs. Researchers created basic autonomous robots and created programs that could prove theorems, solve calculus problems, even impersonate a psychotherapist. They achieved impressive results on a range of narrow problems, but harder or more ill-defined problems were out of reach due to simplistic algorithms, poor methods for handling uncertainty, a surprisingly ubiquitous fact of life, and limitations on computing power.
Amid disappointment with a lack of continued progress, AI fell out of fashion by the mid-1970s. In the 1980s, AI got a boost because of the threat from Japan. Japan had launched the Fifth Generation Project to develop a massively parallel computing architecture that would be the fifth generation of computing after tubes, transistors, chips, and whole processors on a chip. Fear of losing ground to Japan unleashed new investments in AI in the US. Computer vendors pooled funding for research.
The government provided research funds. A number of commercial vendors of AI technology were founded, and some offered stock to the public, including Intellicorp, Teknowledge, and Symbolics, where I worked. By the end of the 1980s, maybe half of the Fortune 500 were developing or maintaining AI systems called expert systems. High hopes for expert systems eventually cooled as their limitations became recognized. They suffered a glaring lack of common sense. It was difficult to capture experts' tacit knowledge in the form of rules, and it was expensive and difficult to build and maintain large expert systems.
By the end of the '80s, AI ran out of steam again. In the '90s, technical work on AI continued with a lower profile. Techniques such as neural networks and genetic algorithms received fresh attention, in part because they avoided some of the limitations of expert systems, and partly because newer algorithms made them more effective. By the 2000s, a number of factors helped renew progress in AI. We'll talk more about that in the next lecture. Wrapping up, AI is the field that aims to make machines perform tasks that only humans used to be able to do.
The field got started in the 1950s and experienced several periods of high expectations, and then disappointment. Accumulated technological progress over the last 10 years or so has ushered in a new era of AI. | https://www.lynda.com/Data-Science-tutorials/AI-explained/681100/5009861-4.html |
A Look at the Most Used Terminology Around Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI), once only present in science fiction, is now a science reality manifesting itself in every industry. It raises questions that make us wonder about how we should explore the possibilities of AI for our organization, institution, home, or city. But what do we really mean when we speak about AI?
In general, AI is a broad field of science encompassing much more than just computer science. AI includes also psychology, philosophy, linguistics, and other areas. How do these disciplines interconnect with each other?
AI is a deep topic and demands an equally deep understanding of each of its aspects, as well as getting familiar with the terminology around it before we jump into the pool of getting deeper, supporting, or condemning it.
So, let's begin with the basics and grow our knowledge with the Interesting Engineering series toward getting deep into the knowledge and understanding of Artificial Intelligence.
A whitepaper by the Artificial Intelligence Center of Expertise Deloitte in the Netherlands explains the many different faces of Artificial Intelligence and how the different AI terms we use relate and differ from one another.
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, and Smart Machines are part of the terminology that we see around frequently in headlines and that have become part of our daily conversations. Let's have a closer look at each of them.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence is a wonderful mix of computer science, philosophy, psychology, linguistics, and other areas. When these disciplines are put together, and are embedded into software and hardware, they can be used to perform tasks that would normally require a certain degree of human intelligence.
"AI is the science and engineering of making intelligent machines, especially intelligent computer programs." - Alan Turing
An AI system is able to combine and utilize machine learning and other big data analytic methods to resemble human reasoning and solve complex problems at a very high scale of intelligence and at a super high speed that goes beyond human capacity.
AI can be divided into Narrow and General. Currently, all existing AI is Narrow AI, which means it can only do what it has been designed for doing.
Narrow AIs are better at the tasks they have been made for than humans are. This includes facial recognition, chess computers, calculus, and translation. Basically, Narrow AI means that a specific algorithm needs to be designed in order to solve each specific problem.
On the other hand, and according to Deloitte, General AI is the holy grail of AI; a single system that can learn about any existing problem and then solve it.
The concept of intelligence, therefore, refers to the ability to plan, reason, and learn, to later on sense and build a perception of knowledge capable of allowing the human or the machine to communicate in natural language.
Machine Learning
Machine Learning is the process used by which a computer analyzes and extracts meaning and value from big data sets. Algorithms learn to identify certain patterns, like the occurrence of certain words, or combination of words.
An algorithm can be trained to identify certain pictures in collections of pictures, transform speech into text, handwriting into structured data. and so on. These examples would require labeled training sets.
The difference between Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence is that a Machine Learning algorithm is not able to understand what it was trained to do.
For instance, a Machine Learning algorithm can be trained to identify spam. However, it will not know or understand what spam is or why it is important to identify it.
Machine Learning is at the basis of AI systems. However, Machine Learning algorithms are not as smart as per the AI definition. They just look smart.
Cognitive Analytics
Cognitive analytics deals with cognitive behavior that is associated with thinking. What is thinking? Thinking in the process that allows an entity, being this human or machine, to obtain information from observations, learn from the observations, and finally communicate the results.
[see-also]
As a subset of AI, a cognitive system analyzes a vast amount of data, then selects and extracts information from unstructured data by extracting concepts and relationships into a knowledge base. The relations can be extracted from the information using Natural Language Processing (NPL).
The total of unstructured data represents 80 percent of all company data. It is data that does not hew to conventional data models and is not a good fit for a mainstream relational database.
Different types of unstructured data include images, sensor data, server, Website, and application logs, text files and documents, video files, audio files, emails, and social media data.
By interacting with humans, Cognitive Systems learn and improve over time. Feedback from the conversation partner and observing two humans interact also helps Cognitive Systems in their learning process. The ability to use context enables Cognitive Analytics Systems to infer meaning from language.
That is how a chatbot can take into account a whole conversation history to infer who is the person referred to by a word such as 'he' or 'she.'
A Cognitive Analytics System finds the answer to the specific question you asked by searching all of the data. The information is used for Business Intelligence (BI) and Analytics applications.
Robotics
Robots are machines that are, in their most simple design, programmed to perform simple tasks by following step-by-step instructions in assembly lines and manufacturing factories. Or, they can be advanced robotics creations shaped in the form of unmanned autonomous vehicles (UAV), drones, chatbots, smart assistants, or social robots to mention just a few.
Smart robots and other process automation applications use AI to be operational. Their operability will depend on the degree of intelligence that is embedded into the robot.
Robotics combine hardware with intelligent software powered with data to perform a task that requires a certain level of intelligence. This could range from orientation to motion to interaction with other robots --called machine-to-machine interaction or M2M-- and interaction with humans, as it is the case of social robots and smart assistants.
Smart Machines
When we talk about a smart machine, we talk about autonomy. Smart machines can be defined as systems that have been designed to be able to make decisions by themselves without the need of any human input. Level 5 autonomous vehicles fall into this category.
Cognitive Analytics Systems, robots, or any other kind of AI can belong to this category as long as it shows autonomy.
Cognitive Systems pro-actively learn more facts from interacting in conversation with humans, asking questions, and double-checking with the data they have available. A Cognitive System engages with customers and shares opinion on social media of the company.
When a Cognitive System becomes a Smart Machine they can specialize in areas that will let them provide more relevant information quicker than a non-specialized one.
Deloitte's Little AIME wants to meet you
Here comes the reward. This is what it can be done when all the above is applied. Deloitte has created its own Little AIME. When you turn around, this green eye will still be watching you. Meet AIME's cool green eye.
When Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Cognitive Analytics are put together things like Little AIME are born. In the future, we are going to see more little robots like this.
AIME is a homegrown robot developed by the Dutch Artificial Intelligence Center of Expertise (AICE). Little AIME can welcome and recognize people, mimic human mood, and play AI-related games. Little AIME can recognize objects and tell you what they are. This green eye even looks adorable!
Thinking Huts rely on additive manufacturing technologies to build sustainable schools. Recently, they built the first 3D-printed school in Madagascar. | https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/a-look-at-the-most-used-terminology-around-artificial-intelligence |
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is the ability of a computer or a computer-controlled robot to perform tasks that would normally be performed by intelligent beings. The word is often used to refer to a project aimed at creating systems with human-like cognitive abilities, such as the ability to think, discover meaning, generalize, and learn from past experiences. Since the invention of the digital computer in the 1940s, it has been demonstrated that computers can be programmed to perform extremely complex tasks with ease, such as finding proofs for mathematical theorems or playing chess.Despite ongoing improvements in computer processing speed and memory power, no systems have yet to equal human versatility across broader domains or in tasks involving a great deal of common knowledge.However, some algorithms have surpassed the performance standards of human experts and specialists in performing specific tasks, and artificial intelligence in this restricted context can be used in applications as diverse as medical diagnosis, computer search engines, and speech or handwriting recognition.
How AI works?
Building an AI system is a painstaking method of reversing human characteristics and skills in a computer and leveraging its computing prowess to outperform our skill.
To fully comprehend how Artificial Intelligence operates, one must first learn about the different subdomains of AI and how those domains can be extended to various industries.
1: Machine Learning:
Machine learning (ML) teaches a computer how to draw inferences and conclusions based on previous knowledge. It recognises trends, analyses previous results, and infers the value of these data points without relying on human experience to draw a conclusion. This automation of reaching conclusions by analyzing data saves companies time and allows them to make smarter decisions.
2: Neural Networks:
Human neural cells and Neural Networks all operate on the same concepts. They are a collection of algorithms that capture the relationship between different underpinning variables and interpret the information in the same way that a human brain does.
3: Computer Vision:
Computer vision algorithms attempt to comprehend an image by dissecting it and observing various portions of the objects. This aids the machine’s classification and learning from a series of photographs, allowing it to make better production decisions based on prior observations.
4: Cognitive Computing:
Cognitive computing algorithms attempt to imitate the human brain by analyzing language, voice, pictures, and objects in the same way as humans do, and then attempting to produce the desired output.
5: Deep Learning:
Deep Learning is a machine learning technique. It teaches a computer to identify, conclude, and forecast outcomes by processing inputs across layers.Deep learning can be thought of as a way to simplify predictive analytics at the most basic level. Deep learning algorithms are stacked in a hierarchy of increasing complexity and abstraction, unlike conventional machine learning algorithms, which are linear.
6: Natural Language Processing:
NLP is the science of a computer hearing, learning, and translating a language. When a computer knows what the consumer is trying to say, it reacts appropriately. Today’s Machines can also analyze more language-based data than humans can, without being fatigued and in a coherent and impartial manner. Given the massive amount of unstructured data produced every day, from medical records to social media, automation would be essential for efficiently analyzing text and speech data.
5 Advantages of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence technologies offer tremendous benefits and have the potential to revolutionize every industry. Let’s take a look at a few of them.
1: Reduce Human Errors:
Artificial intelligence makes decisions based on previously collected data and a selection of algorithms. As a result, errors are minimized, and the possibility of achieving greater accuracy and precision is increased.Since humans make errors from time to time, the term “human error” was coined. Computers, on the other hand, do not make these errors if they are correctly programmed.
2: Available all the time:
Without breaks, an average person can work for 4–6 hours a day. Humans are designed in such a way that they can take time off to refresh themselves and prepare for a new day at work, and they also have weekly off days to keep their work and personal lives apart. But, unlike humans, we can use AI to make machines work 24 hours a day, seven days a week with no breaks, and they don’t get bored.
3: Digital Assistance:
Digital assistants are used by some of the most innovative organizations to communicate with consumers, reducing the need for human resources. Many websites often use digital assistants to deliver things that users like. We should discuss what we’re looking for with them. Some chatbots are built in such a way that it’s difficult to tell if we’re talking to a bot or a human.
4: Faster Decision Making:
We can make machines make decisions and carry out acts faster than humans by combining AI with other technologies. While a person will consider multiple variables, both emotionally and technically, when making a decision, an AI-powered computer will focus on what it has been trained to do and will produce results more quickly.
5: Inventions:
Many technologies in almost every domain are driven by AI, which will aid humans in solving the majority of complex problems. Artificial intelligence can be thought of as “invention of a system of invention” and a technique that can be applied to a variety of different forms of innovation.
5 Disadvantages of Artificial
Intelligence (AI):
Here are some disadvantages of Artificial Intelligence:
1: Unemployeement:
Human interference is becoming less as AI replaces the bulk of routine jobs and other tasks with robots, causing a major problem in job standards. Every company is attempting to replace minimum-qualified employees with AI robots that can perform similar tasks more efficiently.
2: Humans becoming lazy:
With its applications automating the bulk of the jobs, AI is making humans lazy. Humans are prone to becoming addicted to these technologies, posing a threat to future generations.
3: Emotionless:
There is no question that robots are much stronger when it comes to operating effectively but they cannot eliminate the human interaction that makes the team. Machines are unable to form bonds with humans, which is an important characteristic of team management.
4: High Coast:
Since AI is evolving on a daily basis, hardware and software must be upgraded on a regular basis to keep up with the new specifications. Machines necessitate repair and servicing, all of which incur significant costs. Since they are extremely complicated devices, their construction necessitates exorbitant costs.
5: Lack of unconventional thinking:
Machines should only execute the functions for which they were designed or programmed; anything else causes them to fail or produce meaningless results, which can be a significant distraction. | https://www.tatechworld.com/www-tatechworld-com-artificial-intelligence/ |
Inside the inner engineering department at Microsoft is not just one big, dark room.
Here, you’ll find engineers working hard on projects that could have a big impact on the world.
Here’s a look at some of the things that could be at risk if we don’t change course.1.
The World’s Largest Computer EngineWe’re not sure how long this engine will be able to keep up with the world’s demand, but it’ll be bigger than any of the others in the game.
As the engine gets bigger, the amount of data that’s going to be going through it will increase.
As it grows, the demand for processing power will grow, too.2.
Artificial Intelligence and Virtual RealityA big part of the story behind the game is the game’s AI.
AI is the process by which the human brain can learn new tasks and get better at it.
Artificial intelligence isn’t a new concept, but the amount and scope of the work done in the field has been growing exponentially.
It’s possible that AI could become even more powerful as time goes on, and it could even lead to artificial superintelligence.3.
Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs)We’ve all seen ANNs being used to train machine learning models, but there are still a lot of questions about how the algorithms that we’re training with ANNs actually work.
In addition to all the noise that we’ve created in our learning processes, we have a lot more to learn from the network itself.
We’ll have to keep an eye on how it performs, and how it responds to feedback from other systems, too—this is what makes ANNs so powerful.4.
The Future of Artificial IntelligenceWe know that computers are increasingly able to think for themselves, and we’re seeing that progress in the AI space.
However, what if the future of artificial intelligence isn.
We’re already seeing this happening in the form of machine learning and machine learning applications.
There are so many applications in the realm of artificial intelligences that we can’t imagine that AI won’t be in our future as well.5.
The Bigger, Better, Better FutureWe’ve seen a lot about artificial intelligence and machine intelligence lately, and as a whole, we think the technology will become even better over time.
There will be far more intelligent machines that we work with in the future, and AI will be more than just a tool to do a particular task.6.
Artificial PhotosWe’ve already seen how artificial photos can be used to make photos.
Now, we’re beginning to see how AI can use photos as well, and make them even more sophisticated.
Artificial photos will allow us to take a photograph that’s far more detailed than ever before, even when you’re shooting from a distance.7.
The Next Era of Artificial SpeechThis is a big deal.
We’ve seen AI speakers and machine speech-recognition systems like Google’s DeepMind make big strides in speech recognition over the past few years.
This new AI will make its voice even more intelligent.
Speech will become much more human-like, and humans will be given the ability to speak to it in ways that humans don’t have the ability.8.
The New World of Machine IntelligenceAs we’ve seen in the past, AI and machine intelligences have an uncanny ability to mimic human behavior.
This is a very natural and natural phenomenon.
We are now seeing this technology being used in a number of areas, and these advances will eventually be applied to everything from medical diagnostics to food processing.9.
A Look at AI Technologies to Help Save the WorldThere are many exciting developments in AI technology right now.
One of them is the development of deep learning, the method that AI uses to learn how to think and learn.
Deep learning is the most powerful technology to date that has the potential to be used in many different fields, from gaming to healthcare to transportation to agriculture.
But deep learning has also led to some interesting and scary developments.10.
Artificial Eyes and Robots We’ve been seeing the advent of more and more robots, which can be controlled remotely and interact with humans on a much more level than humans can.
Artificial eyes and robots are also beginning to become a bigger threat to humanity.
Robots can be programmed to act as surgeons, nurses, and other highly skilled professionals.
There is also the potential for machines to become self-aware, meaning that they could even make decisions for themselves.11.
Artificial Sensors and Augmented RealityThe world is full of technologies that can be built into an augmented reality headset, for example.
These technologies could be used as part of a virtual reality headset to help people feel more comfortable in virtual environments.
However it’s also possible that these technologies could help humans to understand their surroundings.12.
AI in the Movies We’ve already been seeing some of these developments. | https://cpe-vn.com/archives/137 |
In September 1955, John McCarthy, a young assistant professor of mathematics at Dartmouth College, bravely suggested that "any aspect of learning or any other characteristic of intelligence, in principle, can be described as accurately as a machine can be made to simulate it. "
McCarthy called this new field of research" artificial intelligence "and suggested that a two-month effort by a group of 10 scientists could make significant progress in the development of machines that" Using language ". Form abstractions and concepts, solve problems that are now reserved for humans, and improve themselves. "
At that time, scientists optimistically believed that we would soon have thinking machines that would do all the work a human could do. more than six decades later, advances in computer science and robotics have helped us to automate many of the tasks that previously required human physical and cognitive work.
But the true artificial intelligence McCarthy invented escapes
What exactly is AI?
A major challenge for artificial intelligence is that it is a broad concept, and there is no clear consensus about its definition.
As previously mentioned McCarthy suggested that AI would solve the problems the way people do: "The ultimate effort is in it "Computers make programs that can solve problems and achieve goals in the world as well as in people," said McCarthy .
. Andrew Moore Dean of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University, offered a more modern definition of the term in an interview with Forbes from 201
But our understanding of "human intelligence" and our expectations Technology is constantly evolving. Zachary Lipton, editor of Approx approx Correct calls AI the "aspiring goal, a moving target based on the abilities people possess, but not the machines." In other words, the things that we ask of the AI change over time.
In the 1950s, scientists regarded chess and checkers as a major challenge to artificial intelligence. But today only a few chess players would be considered AI. Computers are already solving many more complicated problems, including cancer detection, driving, and voice command processing.
Narrow AI vs. General AI
The first generation of AI scientists and visionaries believed that ultimately we could create people's intelligence at the highest level.
However, several decades of AI research have shown that mimicking the complex problem-solving and abstract thinking of the human brain is extremely difficult. For one, we humans are very good at generalizing knowledge and applying concepts that we learn in one area to another. We can also make relatively reliable decisions based on intuition and with little information. Over the years, AI has become known on a human scale as Artificial Common Intelligence (AGI) or as a strong AI.
The initial hype and excitement surrounding the AI found great interest in government agencies. However, it soon turned out that, contrary to early perception, human intelligence was not just around the corner, and scientists could hardly reproduce the basic functions of the human mind. In the 1970s, unfulfilled promises and expectations eventually led to "AI Winter," a long period of dampening public interest and AI funding.
It took many years of innovation and a revolution in deep learning technology to revive interest in AI. But despite huge advances in artificial intelligence, none of the current approaches to AI can solve problems in the same way as the human mind, and most experts believe that AGI is at least decades away.
The flip side, narrow or faint KI is not aimed at to reproduce the functionality of the human brain. and focuses instead on optimizing a single task. Narrow AI has already found many real-world applications, such as recognizing faces, converting audio to text, recommending videos on YouTube, and displaying personalized content in the Facebook Newsfeed.
Many scientists believe that someday we will create an AGI have a dystopian vision of the age of thinking machines . In 2014, renowned English physicist Stephen Hawking described AI as an existential threat to humanity warning that "full artificial intelligence could mean the end of humanity".
In 2015, Y Combinator President Sam Altman and Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, two other AGI believers, founded the OpenAI, a nonprofit research lab that aims to create artificial general intelligence in a way that benefits all humanity comes. (Musk has since gone.)
Others believe that artificial general intelligence is a pointless goal. "We do not have to duplicate people, so I focus on tools that help us instead of copying what we already know, we want people and machines to team up and do something they can not do on their own." says Peter Norvig Research Leader at Google.
Scientists like Norvig believe that a close AI can help automate repetitive and tedious tasks and increase people's productivity. For example, physicians can use AI algorithms to examine x-ray scans at high speeds so that they can see more patients. Another example of a close AI is the fight against cyberthreats: security analysts can use AI to locate signals that detect data breaches in the gigabytes of data being transmitted through their corporate networks.
Rule-based AI against Machine Learning
Early AI The creation efforts focused on the transformation of human knowledge and intelligence into static rules. Programmers had to write code (if-then statements) meticulously for each rule that defined the behavior of the AI. The benefit of rule-based AI, later known as "Good Old Fashioned Artificial Intelligence" (GOFAI), is that man has complete control over the design and behavior of the system he has developed.
The rule-based AI is still very popular in areas where the rules are unique. An example is video games where developers want AI to provide a predictable user experience.
The problem with GOFAI is that unlike McCarthy's original premise, we can not accurately describe every aspect of learning and each aspect of behavior in a way that can be transformed into computer rules. For example, defining logical rules for recognizing voices and images – a complex accomplishment that man instinctively accomplishes – is an area in which classical AI has struggled in the past. AI ” border=”0″ class=”center” src=”https://assets.pcmag.com/media/images/624713-ai-future.jpg?thumb=y&width=980&height=495″/>
An alternative approach to the generation of artificial intelligence is machine learning. Instead of manually developing rules for AI, machine engineers "train" their models by providing them with a huge number of samples. The machine learning algorithm analyzes and finds patterns in the training data and then develops its own behavior. For example, a machine learning model can train large volumes of historical sales data for a business and then generate revenue forecasts.
Deep Learning A subset of machine learning, has become very popular in recent years. It is especially good for processing unstructured data such as images, video, audio and text documents. For example, you can create a deep-learning image classifier and train it with millions of available photos with captions. For example, the ImageNet dataset . The trained AI model can recognize objects in images with an accuracy that often surpasses humans. Advances in deep learning have driven AI into many complicated and critical areas such as medicine, self-driving cars and education.
One of the challenges of deep learning models is that they develop their own behavior based on training data. That makes them complex and opaque . Even deep learning experts often find it difficult to explain the decisions and inner workings of the AI models they create.
What are examples of artificial intelligence
Here are some of the possibilities of AI bringing with it tremendous changes in various fields.
Self-propelled cars: Advances in artificial intelligence have brought us very close to realizing the decades-long dream of autonomous driving. AI algorithms are one of the key components that enable self-driving cars to understand their environment by capturing the cameras installed around the vehicle and recognizing objects such as roads, traffic signs, other cars, and people.
Digital Assistants and Smart Speakers: Siri, Alexa, Cortana, and Google Assistant use Artificial Intelligence to turn spoken words into text and assign the text to specific commands. AI helps digital assistants understand different nuances in spoken language and synthesize human-like voices.
Translation: For many decades, translating text between different languages has been a pain point for computers. However, deep learning has helped create a revolution in services such as Google Translate. To be clear, AI still has a long way to go before mastering human language, but progress so far has been spectacular.
Face detection: Face detection is one of the most popular applications of artificial intelligence. It has many uses, such. For example, unlocking your phone, paying with your face, and finding intruders in your home. However, the increasing availability of face recognition technologies has also raised concerns about privacy, security and civil liberties.
Medicine: From the detection of skin cancer to the analysis of X-rays and MRI scans to the provision of personalized health tips and recommendations Artificial intelligence, which manages entire health systems, is becoming a key element of health and medicine. KI does not replace your doctor, but it could contribute to better health services, especially in deprived areas where AI-assisted healthcare professionals may lose some of the health care of the few general practitioners who serve large populations
The Future of AI
In our quest to crack the code of AI and create thinking machines, we've learned a lot about the importance of intelligence and reasoning. And thanks to the advances in AI, in addition to our computers, we are also completing tasks that were once considered the exclusive domain of the human brain.
Among the emerging areas in which the KI is moving include Music and Art . where AI algorithms manifest their very own kind of creativity. There is also hope that AI will help combat climate change care for the elderly and eventually create a utopian future in which people do not work at all have to .
There is also the fear that AI will cause mass unemployment, disrupt economic equilibrium, trigger another World War and eventually drive people into slavery.
We are still here I do not know in which direction the AI will go. But as the science and technology of artificial intelligence continues to improve, our expectations and definitions of AI will change, and what we now call AI might become the mundane functions of tomorrow's computers. | https://howtotechglitz.com/what-is-artificial-intelligence-ai-news-opinion/ |
Artificial intelligence use is booming, but it’s not the secret weapon you might imagine.
ALEXA O’BRIENJun 21, 2022 4:14
From cyber operations to disinformation, artificial intelligence extends the reach of national security threats that can target individuals and whole societies with precision, speed, and scale. As the US competes to stay ahead, the intelligence community is grappling with the fits and starts of the impending revolution brought on by AI.
The US intelligence community has launched initiatives to grapple with AI’s implications and ethical uses, and analysts have begun to conceptualize how AI will revolutionize their discipline, yet these approaches and other practical applications of such technologies by the IC have been largely fragmented.
As experts sound the alarm that the US is not prepared to defend itself against AI by its strategic rival, China, Congress has called for the IC to produce a plan for integration of such technologies into workflows to create an “AI digital ecosystem” in the 2022 Intelligence Authorization Act.
The term AI is used for a group of technologies that solve problems or perform tasks that mimic humanlike perception, cognition, learning, planning, communication, or actions. AI includes technologies that can theoretically survive autonomously in novel situations, but its more common application is machine learning or algorithms that predict, classify, or approximate empiric-like results using big data, statistical models, and correlation.
While AI that can mimic humanlike sentience remains theoretical and impractical for most IC applications, machine learning is addressing fundamental challenges created by the volume and velocity of information that analysts are tasked with evaluating today.
At the National Security Agency, machine learning finds patterns in the mass of signals intelligence collects from global web traffic. Machine learning also searches international news and other publicly accessible reporting by the CIA’s Directorate of Digital Innovation, responsible for advancing digital and cyber technologies in human and open-source collection, as well as its covert action and all-source analysis, which integrates all kinds of raw intelligence collected by US spies, whether technical or human. An all-source analyst evaluates the significance or meaning when that intelligence is taken together, memorializing it into finished assessments or reports for national security policymakers.
In fact, open source is key to the adoption of AI technologies by the intelligence community. Many AI technologies depend on big data to make quantitative judgments, and the scale and relevance of public data cannot be replicated in classified environments.
Capitalizing on AI and open source will enable the IC to utilize other finite collection capabilities, like human spies and signals intelligence collection, more efficiently. Other collection disciplines can be used to obtain the secrets that are hidden from not just humans but AI, too. In this context, AI may supply better global coverage of unforeseen or non-priority collection targets that could quickly evolve into threats.
Meanwhile, at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, AI and machine learning extract data from images that are taken daily from nearly every corner of the world by commercial and government satellites. And the Defense Intelligence Agency trains algorithms to recognize nuclear, radar, environmental, material, chemical, and biological measurements and to evaluate these signatures, increasing the productivity of its analysts.
In one example of the IC’s successful use of AI, after exhausting all other avenues—from human spies to signals intelligence—the US was able to find an unidentified WMD research and development facility in a large Asian country by locating a bus that traveled between it and other known facilities. To do that, analysts employed algorithms to search and evaluate images of nearly every square inch of the country, according to a senior US intelligence official who spoke on background with the understanding of not being named.
While AI can calculate, retrieve, and employ programming that performs limited rational analyses, it lacks the calculus to properly dissect more emotional or unconscious components of human intelligence that are described by psychologists as system 1 thinking.
AI, for example, can draft intelligence reports that are akin to newspaper articles about baseball, which contain structured non-logical flow and repetitive content elements. However, when briefs require complexity of reasoning or logical arguments that justify or demonstrate conclusions, AI has been found lacking. When the intelligence community tested the capability, the intelligence official says, the product looked like an intelligence brief but was otherwise nonsensical.
Such algorithmic processes can be made to overlap, adding layers of complexity to computational reasoning, but even then those algorithms can’t interpret context as well as humans, especially when it comes to language, like hate speech.
AI’s comprehension might be more analogous to the comprehension of a human toddler, says Eric Curwin, chief technology officer at Pyrra Technologies, which identifies virtual threats to clients from violence to disinformation. “For example, AI can understand the basics of human language, but foundational models don’t have the latent or contextual knowledge to accomplish specific tasks,” Curwin says.
“From an analytic perspective, AI has a difficult time interpreting intent,” Curwin adds. “Computer science is a valuable and important field, but it is social computational scientists that are taking the big leaps in enabling machines to interpret, understand, and predict behavior.”
In order to “build models that can begin to replace human intuition or cognition,” Curwin explains, “researchers must first understand how to interpret behavior and translate that behavior into something AI can learn.”
Although machine learning and big data analytics provide predictive analysis about what might or will likely happen, it can’t explain to analysts how or why it arrived at those conclusions. The opaquenessin AI reasoning and the difficulty vetting sources, which consist of extremely large data sets, can impact the actual or perceived soundness and transparency of those conclusions.
Transparency in reasoning and sourcing are requirements for the analytical tradecraft standards of products produced by and for the intelligence community. Analytic objectivity is also statuatorically required, sparking calls within the US government to update such standards and laws in light of AI’s increasing prevalence.
Machine learning and algorithms when employed for predictive judgments are also considered by some intelligence practitioners as more art than science. That is, they are prone to biases, noise, and can be accompanied by methodologies that are not sound and lead to errors similar to those found in the criminal forensic sciences and arts.
“Algorithms are just a set of rules, and by definition are objective because they’re totally consistent,” says Welton Chang, cofounder and CEO of Pyrra Technologies. With algorithms, objectivity means applying the same rules over and over. Evidence of subjectivity, then, is the variance in the answers.
“It’s different when you consider the tradition of the philosophy of science,” says Chang. “The tradition of what counts as subjective is a person’s own perspective and bias. Objective truth is derived from consistency and agreement with external observation. When you evaluate an algorithm solely on its outputs and not whether those outputs match reality, that’s when you miss the bias built in.”
Depending on the presence or absence of bias and noise within massive data sets, especially in more pragmatic, real-world applications, predictive analysis has sometimes been described as “astrology for computer science.” But the same might be said of analysis performed by humans. A scholar on the subject, Stephen Marrin, writes that intelligence analysis as a discipline by humans is “merely a craft masquerading as a profession.”
Analysts in the US intelligence community are trained to use structured analytic techniques, or SATs, to make them aware of their own cognitive biases, assumptions, and reasoning. SATs—which use strategies that run the gamut from checklists to matrixes that test assumptions or predict alternative futures—externalize the thinking or reasoning used to support intelligence judgments, which is especially important given the fact that in the secret competition between nation-states not all facts are known or knowable. But even SATs, when employed by humans, have come under scrutiny by experts like Chang, specifically for the lack of scientific testing that can evidence an SAT’s efficacy or logical validity.
As AI is expected to increasingly augment or automate analysis for the intelligence community, it has become urgent to develop and implement standards and methods, which are both scientifically sound and ethical for law enforcement and national security contexts. While intelligence analysts grapple with how to match AI’s opacity to the evidentiary standards and argumentation methods required for the law enforcement and intelligence contexts, the same struggle can be found in understanding analysts’ unconscious reasoning, which can lead to accurate or biased conclusions. | https://healthcarereimagined.net/2022/06/22/the-power-and-pitfalls-of-ai-for-us-intelligence-wired/ |
Artificial Intelligence in Robotics
Artificial intelligence in robotics assists robots in performing critical tasks such as recognizing distinct things with human-like vision. A robot is a device that resembles a person and, in some circumstances, even acts like one. The study of robotics focuses on the development and design of these mechanical people. Robotics today is not just limited to the mechanical and electronic fields.
Computer science is now being used to make robots "smarter" and more effective. Artificial intelligence has so significantly contributed to improving human comfort and industrial productivity, which encompasses both cost-effectiveness and high-quality output. This article summarizes the role that artificial intelligence plays in the subject of robotics.
Let's start with the most fundamental Questions:
Question 1: Exactly what is a Robot?
A machine that can sense its surroundings and interact with them is a robot.
Question 2: What is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a computer program that may create a machine with its own intelligence and behavior. AI primarily focuses on the development and study of algorithms.
Let's look at the primary issue now:
How Do Artificial Intelligence and Robots Interact?
There is a simple fix. Artificially intelligent (AI) robots can navigate, analyze their surroundings, and make decisions about how to respond, thanks to computer vision. Robots learn how to perform their tasks from people through the process of machine learning, which is also a part of computer programming and AI.
Since 1956, when John McCarthy first used the term "artificial intelligence," it has stirred up a lot of controversies. This is so that robots can be given life and the ability to make their own judgments thanks to AI. Today there are many applications of AI in robotics. Different AIs are utilized depending on the purpose and the tasks that the robot must complete. Examples:
Narrow AI
Artificial intelligence of this kind is used to simulate human thought and behavior. The commands and replies for the robots are predetermined. The robots merely locate the appropriate response when the proper instruction is provided; they cannot interpret the commands. The best examples of this are Alexa and Siri. These devices' AI only completes duties that the owner requests of it.
General AI
These autonomous robots use this kind of artificial intelligence to complete their tasks. Once they have been trained to complete the task correctly, they do not require any monitoring. Self-driving and internet automobiles are two of the most intriguing instances of this form of AI today, as many processes are getting automated. Humanoid robots that can perceive their environment and interact with it well are also equipped with this kind of AI. As no human interaction is necessary, robotic surgery is also growing in popularity.
Specialized AI
This type of AI is employed when a robot is required to carry out only particular, specialized duties. It is only confined to a few jobs. This primarily comprises industrial robots that carry out predetermined and repetitive duties, such as painting, tightening, etc. | https://www.alibabacloud.com/knowledge/hot/artificial-intelligence-in-robotics |
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In this tutorial of difference between Data Science and Machine Learning, Let us first learn:
Data Science is the area of study which involves extracting insights from vast amounts of data by the use of various scientific methods, algorithms, and processes. It helps you to discover hidden patterns from the raw data.
Data Science is an interdisciplinary field that allows you to extract knowledge from structured or unstructured data. This technology enables you to translate a business problem into a research project and then translate it back into a practical solution. The term Data Science has emerged because of the evolution of mathematical statistics, data analysis, and big data.
In this Data Science vs Machine Learning tutorial, you will learn:
Machine Learning is a system that can learn from data through self-improvement and without logic being explicitly coded by the programmer. The breakthrough comes with the idea that a machine can singularly learn from the example (i.e., data) to produce accurate results.
Machine learning combines data with statistical tools to predict an output. This output is then used by corporate to makes actionable insights. Machine learning is closely related to data mining and Bayesian predictive modeling. The Machine receives data as input, uses an algorithm to formulate answers.
Check the following key differences between Machine Learning vs Data Science.
Here, are an important skill required to become Data Scientist
Here, are an important skill required to become Machine learning Engineers
Here are the major differences between Data Science vs Machine learning:
|Data science||Machine Learning|
|Data science is an interdisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge from many structural and unstructured data.||Machine learning is the scientific study of algorithms and statistical models. This method uses to perform a specific task.|
|Data science technique helps you to create insights from data dealing with all real-world complexities.||Machine learning method helps you to predict and the outcome for new databases from historical data with the help of mathematical models.|
|Nearly all of the input data is generated in a human-readable format, which is read or analyzed by humans.||Input data for Machine learning will be transformed, especially for algorithms used.|
|Data science can work with manual methods as well, though they are not very useful.||Machine learning algorithms hard to implement manually.|
|Data science is a complete process.||Machine learning is a single step in the entire data science process.|
|Data science is not a subset of Artificial Intelligence (AI).||Machine learning technology is a subset of Artificial Intelligence (AI).|
|In Data Science, high RAM and SSD used, which helps you to overcome I/O bottleneck problems.||In Machine Learning, GPUs are used for intensive vector operations.|
Here, are important challenges of Data Science Technology
Here, are primary challenges of Machine learning method:
Here, are the application of Data Science
Google search uses data science technology to search a specific result within a fraction of a second
To create a recommendation system. For example, "suggested friends" on Facebook or suggested videos" on YouTube, everything is done with the help of Data Science.
Speech recognizes systems like Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa runs on the technique of data science. Moreover, Facebook recognizes your friend when you upload a photo with them.
EA Sports, Sony, Nintendo, are using data science technology. This enhances your gaming experience. Games are now developed using machine learning techniques. It can update itself when you move to higher levels.
PriceRunner, Junglee, Shopzilla work on the data science mechanism. Here, data is fetched from the relevant websites using APIs.
Here, are Application of Machine learning:
Machine learning, which works entirely autonomously in any field without the need for any human intervention. For example, robots performing the essential process steps in manufacturing plants.
Machine learning is growing in popularity in the finance industry. Banks are mainly using ML to find patterns inside the data but also to prevent fraud.
The government makes use of ML to manage public safety and utilities. Take the example of China with massive face recognition. The government uses Artificial intelligence to prevent jaywalker.
Healthcare was one of the first industry to use machine learning with image detection.
The machine learning method is ideal for analyzing, understanding, and identifying a pattern in the data. You can use this model to train a machine to automate tasks that would be exhaustive or impossible for a human being. Moreover, machine learning can take decisions with minimal human intervention.
On the other hand, data science can help you to detect fraud using advanced machine learning algorithms. It also helps you to prevent any significant monetary losses. It helps you to perform sentiment analysis to gauge customer brand loyalty.
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Learning basic arithmetic skills is key to success in algebra 1.
Algebra is the first and most basic of the mathematical languages. Algebra marks the transition from concrete arithmetic to symbolic mathematics and abstract reasoning skills. As such, it forms the foundation of other, more complex mathematics study. Success in algebra 1 requires a firm grasp of core skills and concepts of arithmetic.
Students of algebra 1 should have a good grasp of basic arithmetic. This includes addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Beginning students should be able to work with positive and negative integers and solve equations with one variable. Many of the problems presented in algebra 1 can be simplified to arithmetic problems. Other pre-algebra skills should include an understanding of fractions, ratios and proportions and the ability to comfortably manipulate fractions in equations. Key to setting up and interpreting algebraic equations is the concept of the placeholder. Students should understand the role of placeholders in equations.
A good grasp of the associative, commutative and distributive properties is essential for simplifying and solving algebraic equations. Of the three, the distributive property is the one most often used in algebra. However, appropriate use of all of these properties is a basic math skill needed to solve algebraic equations successfully. The use of a formula as an algebraic expression is often introduced using geometry. Students should be familiar with basic geometric shapes and the concepts of perimeter, area, diameter and radius.
Students need to be able to translate word problems into algebraic expressions. The ability to read a simple story problem and then set up the arithmetic equation for the solution is a critical basic math skill. Students introduced to complex story problems and the concept of a placeholder or variable more easily develop an understanding of how to translate problems posed in text into an algebraic expression, which will produce the solution. Students should be able to incorporate the core skills and the basic number properties and formulas to set up an appropriate algebraic equation as the basis for solving the problem. This is a key skill and the pivotal step from concrete arithmetic to symbolic math.
Other basic math skills necessary for success in algebra 1 include an understanding of pictorial presentations, fluency in units of measure and familiarity with scientific notation. Students should be able to construct graphs -- such as bar graphs and pictographs -- to scale, read and interpret information from graphs and graph equations. They should also have some understanding of simple statistical concepts such as maximum, minimum, mean, media and mode.
Success in algebra 1 is essential for students who plan to move on to algebra II, calculus and other higher math courses. For students who do not pursue higher math, algebra is an important skill in everyday life. Whether calculating how many hours it will take to drive somewhere, recalculating a recipe for twice the number of servings or trying to figure out how many gallons you need to paint the house, algebra is an important and useful tool for everyone.
Regina Skarzinskas has a MPH from Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta. She has more than 30 years of experience in clinical and environmental toxicology. Simplifying complex scientific issues is her strongest skill set. Her personal interests include cooking, gardening, dog training, dog breeding and green living.
Skarzinskas, Regina. "Math Skills Needed for Algebra 1." Synonym, https://classroom.synonym.com/math-skills-needed-algebra-1-15586.html. 26 September 2017. | https://classroom.synonym.com/math-skills-needed-algebra-1-15586.html |
Over the past couple of months I have worked on trying to increase my flow of writing. So far I have failed at that. I don’t really have an excuse for it but upon reflection I thought that I could maybe make things a little easier on myself by simplifying my website.
I’m hoping to use this site to curate a “digital garden” or a source of where I can display my projects, share interesting sites or papers I find, or speed up my writing. I’ve moved away from this being a way to get a job towards an expression of who I am. I hope this resonates with others and that they reflect and build something themselves.
Follow Up
Since writing this post I stumbled across this article and was happy to see that there are more people who are looking towards developing sites that are simple. | https://joelholmes.dev/posts/simple-site/ |
Students will physically model the concept of simplifying algebraic expressions as a class then apply this knowledge to written expressions. This is a great lesson for both introducing the concept as well as remediating like terms, if needed.
Essential Question(s)
How can abstract concepts in math fit together?
Snapshot
Engage
Students will sort various objects into groups and explain their reasoning.
Explore
Using large variable cards, students will stand up and model expressions that the teacher has on the board. After the initial expression, students will regroup and combine similar variables.
Explain
Students will construct the 'rules' for simplifying based on what they did in the Explore activity.
Extend
In small groups, students will continue to model algebraic expressions with note cards, and then translate information to written form.
Evaluate
Students will "Create the Problem" using various answers written on the board.
Materials
Items to sort: tangram tiles, centimeter cubes, playing cards, fruit, etc. (Be creative and use what you have!)
Large group cards
Small group cards and group documentation sheet
Row accountability problems
Create the Problem format sheet
Engage
Divide students into groups and give them 10-15 items to sort. (Keep it at around 3-4 different groups of items) Ask students to write an explanation of how they decided to sort their items and, on a dry erase board, make a list of their items and how many of each type they have.
Combine two or three groups into one to form larger groups. Give the expanded groups a new board (or piece of paper) and a new color of marker. They should title the new board "RESULT." Ask the groups to come up with new item totals by counting items. Have them compare their RESULT board to their first brainstorm boards of their initial groups and reasons. Have each group present their combined findings.
Explore
Place the printed copies of the variable cards in stacks (X, -X, Y, and -Y) that are visible to students. Write a simple expression (or the first problem on the handout, 3x + 2y) on the board and ask students to come take one card each to model the expression.
Add another expression, (x + 5y), and have another set of students model this expression in another area, such that two expressions are being modeled at the same time.
Put a plus sign (+) on the board between the two expressions, and tell the students to figure out how to combine together correctly. Have students determine the final expression and write it on the board.
Continue with this format for a few more examples. After students seem to understand addition, do a few subtraction problems.
Explain
Have students look back on all of the examples and the answers. Students will write, either on paper or in their notebooks, a modified Justified List. That is, they will write what they think the 'math rules' are for the problems and what evidence they have from the examples to justify their 'rules.'
Next, have students group into pairs to compare their 'rules' and edit as needed. Continue the discussion using the Inverted Pyramid strategy by having the pairs form larger groups and then come back together as a whole class. Discuss until there is a class consensus of what the 'rules' are for simplifying expressions.
Extend
Match students in pairs and give them copies of the "Group Problem Worksheet" and "Group Work Small Variable Cards."
Have students take turns modeling each problem in their pairs. For each problem, the team member who did not model the expression should explain conceptually what is happening using the correct math terminology.
Toward the end of the class period, have students simplify some expressions without the cards. Also, consider simplifying some expressions without performing the actual grouping but by underlining the x terms and circling the y terms (assuming this is an acceptable form of regrouping in your classroom).
Evaluate
Do a Create the Problem activity where you give students the simplified expression (i.e. the answer) and they create a problem that would lead to that answer by following various guidelines (it needs two subtractions, it needs to use the distributive property, etc.). Use the "Create the Problem" attachment as a guide. Have students share some of their problems and emphasize correct use of symbols and vocabulary. | https://learn.k20center.ou.edu/lesson/351 |
Join Will Kemp for an in-depth discussion in this video Goodbye, part of Painting Foundations: Creating Palettes for the Landscape.
- So, I really hope you've enjoyed…all the lessons on this course,…and you're starting to feel confident…about putting all your new color knowledge…into your paintings,…from how to choose the perfect pigment…before you begin your painting…to how to mix subtle color strings…that could help you work within a compressed tonal range.…I really hope you enjoyed…capturing the different colors and moods of the seasons,…and I really look forward to seeing you on the next course.…
AuthorWill Kemp
Released2/23/2016
Will explains how to simplify and separate tonal values into areas of light and shadow, how to use warm and cool colors effectively, and how to mix a naturalistic green palette — a major color stumbling block in landscape painting. A vibrant spring green, for example, can be easy to mix, but hard to balance. The same is true for warm autumnal colors and the vivid blues of summer skies. Will shows how to build these palettes and use gestural impressionistic brushstrokes to paint different landscape scenes. By introducing washes and glazes, he demonstrates how to simulate the atmospheric light of each season. So break out your brushes and paints. Start watching to learn how to mix color for the landscape and approach painting the seasons with confidence.
- Setting up supports and grounds
- Choosing brushes, paints, and additional materials
- Mixing harmonious color palettes
- Creating a winter palette with neutrals
- Blending colors of atmospheric light
- Painting smoky edges and dark areas of a landscape
- Mixing and balancing green
- Underpainting a spring landscape
- Creating autumnal golden light
- Extending color palettes
- Adding watery washes and glazes
- Creating a vibrant summer palette
- Simplifying shapes in a landscape painting
Skill Level Beginner
Duration
Views
Related Courses
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Drawing Foundations: Fundamentalswith Will Kemp2h 24m Beginner
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Painting Foundations: Acrylicwith Will Kemp3h 14m Beginner
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Drawing Foundations: Light and Shadowwith Will Kemp1h 52m Intermediate
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Introduction
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Welcome2m 9s
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1. Materials and Setup
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Supports and grounds1m 57s
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Paints and mediums2m 8s
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2. Winter
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Setting a winter tone2m 14s
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A compressed tonal range2m 45s
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A winter color palette14m 45s
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A winter snow scene: Adding blue14m 35s
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3. Spring
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Mixing and balancing green11m 11s
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An impressionistic touch6m 22s
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4. Autumn
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Extending the palette5m 38s
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Watery washes and glazes6m 12s
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5. Summer
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A vibrant palette7m 9s
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Simplifying shapes6m 19s
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A summer scene: Adding green14m 36s
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Conclusion
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Goodbye33s
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Phoenix Villas will be located in the heart of East Legon, close to the amenities of the A&C Mall, hospitals and schools. The architectural expression is simple and modern. The development is in two phases. Phase 1 includes a 24 unit residential complex consisting of modern detached houses ranging from 195m² to 264m² each with private gardens. Phase 2 will consist of a mix of modern detached and semi-detached houses. The scheme is conceptualized as a small neighbourhood, and master planned around generous open spaces and common areas. The intention is to create a tranquil exclusive residential oasis in an urban context. The buildings are broadly laid out around the perimeter, from the gatehouse, to the to the two-storey houses, with a soft central heart for lush gardens. The development will have a modern, fitness centre, crèche, pool and clubhouse. The houses are arranged in a semi-circle around the main common garden and swimming pool, which will be a popular attraction where neighbors meet. | https://meqasa.com/townhouse-for-sale-at-Adjiringanor,-within-Phoenix-Villas,-East-Legon-033701?y=717352691 |
Coastal Garden House NSW
Designed for a couple and their two children, the Haxstead Garden House in Cental Tiba, NSWAustralia is located within a rural setting on a large historic family estate, surrounded by native bushland and landscaped gardens overlooking the Sapphire Coast.
Designed by Tobias Partners, the brief called for a house that would enjoy views, offer protection from bracing winds and heavy rainfall, provide a strong connection with nature; and given its harsh location and remoteness, be tough and as low-maintenance as possible. Previously containing garages for the main homestead, the site selected has sweeping views to the south-east so the material combination, in-situ concrete on the southern facade and a pre-fabricated galvanised steel structure to the north, was chosen to buffer the elements and engage with views of the surrounding landscape.
The design approach aims for a clear expression of its construction with highly resolved details that take form in concrete, steel, glass and timber. There is an economy of material employed throughout. With no superfluous components or lavish decorative elements, materials are expressed as both form and finish. The level of refinement achieved and the cost-effective building program is testament to the construction team led by builder Pat Waddell.
Myles Baldwin designed the gardens to reflect the coastal location. A perimeter of Melaleuca and Casuarina trees blend with the native bush, and Norfolk Island pines punctuate lawns and are complemented by sculptural beds of native Poa, exotic Miscanthus grasses, cactus and succulents. | https://designaddictsplatform.com.au/2018/06/25/coastal-garden-house-nsw/ |
This project introduces three new materials that define, shape and animate this garden perched above the iconic Lombard Street. Wood defines the edge and becomes an important threshold between public and private, granite shapes the programmed areas of the garden and water animates the space as well as provides a focal element from the interior spaces of the house.
The two tiered garden interfaces with the historic and hectic Lombard Steps and Street, which generates a critical need to define a garden threshold that provides privacy without limiting the gardens commanding views.
The lower garden pays homage to the historical planting structure put in place in 1922, by the former Commissioner for Parks and Recreation, Peter Bercut. His plan to plant hydrangeas along the length of Lombard, exist to this day and help create the stunning visual character of the beloved street.
The upper garden is accessed from the well-worn historic brick steps of Lombard Street and is the primary outdoor space for the residence. The garden references the rich maritime history of the past and current residents; materials are left raw and exposed, the composition uses bold simple shapes.
The defining element of the garden is the wood clad garden wall. Previously a concrete painted wall, the clad wall defines the perimeter of the garden and introduces a new texture and pattern to the garden. Black Bamboo is used along the perimeter to shape and define the threshold between adjacent neighbors and the well-trodden public walkway. The horizontal spaces of the garden are demarcated with black basalt, which is cut and patterned to create a smooth rhythm that runs the long axis of the garden connecting the home and garden. | http://www.groundworksoffice.com/lom |
THE PHOTO:
From the garden after a rain, a macro shot of a droplet at the end of a shrub. Similar to this shot waay back in 2007. Shot using my Sigma 150mm Macro.
POST-PROCESSING:
RAW pre-processing in LightRoom, PS CS5 post includes sharpening, vignette (filter), levels/curves.
- Aperture: ƒ/4
- Camera: NIKON D700
- Focal length: 150mm
- ISO: 400
- Shutter speed: 1/8s
EXIF: | https://www.seriocomic.com/photos/liquid-insight/ |
Students at The King Alfred School Academy (TKASA) are celebrating another year of outstanding GCSE results.
Year 11 students are celebrating today (Thursday) after some remarkable individual performances.
Despite the difficulties of the past two academic years, which affected many weeks of face-to-face learning, the students are now preparing for further education courses and training.
Many of them are staying on at TKASA to go to their sixth form.
Emily Murphy gained nine grade 9 grades, one grade 8, and one distinction star. She will study at TKASA sixth form and plans to be a lawyer.
Thomas Hicks achieved three grade 9s, six grade 8s, one grade 7, and one distinction star.
Tajwar Tarafdar gained five grade 9s, three grade 8s, and three grade 7s, while Sam Grant achieved eight grade 9 grades, one grade 8, and one distinction star.
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- 1 Changes to bus services in Weston
- 2 Pub nominated for pub of the year in national awards
- 3 New school welcomes its first pupils
- 4 Ed Sheeran announces huge UK tour
- 5 Poignant artwork installed on Weston beach
- 6 Fine food and drink on offer at biggest ever eat:Weston festival
- 7 Number of homes in major development could be reduced as amended plans submitted
- 8 New restaurant named Hospitality Hero by Mercury readers
- 9 Plan to build £30million second school site approved
- 10 North Somerset's garden waste service to resume with collections every four weeks
Acting principal at TKASA Dan Milford said: “We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our year 11 students after what has been such a challenging two years for them.
“They have shown tremendous resilience, determination and maturity toward their studies throughout the last two years and all the staff at the academy wish them all the best for the future.
“Obviously, we look forward to seeing may of them stay on at TKASA to study A level courses with us from September. We couldn’t be more proud of all of them.”
TKASA is part of The Priory Learning Trust. | https://www.thewestonmercury.co.uk/news/education/north-somerset-gcse-results-2021-8231012 |
Updated: March 2018
If you want to go to graduate school (not counting business or law school), chances are you will have to take the GRE or Graduate Records Exam. This test is designed to measure how much you have managed to absorb in four years of college but in reality, the math portion tests heavily on high school level math. The only difference between GRE math questions and the type you saw in high school is the level of trickiness or problem solving you are expected to do. From the GRE’s website:
The content in these areas includes high school mathematics and statistics at a level that is generally no higher than a second course in algebra; it does not include trigonometry, calculus or other higher-level mathematics
Alright, so no calculus or trig – then what can you expect?
GRE Math Topic 1: Arithmetic
Can you find percentages? add fractions? know how to work with absolute value and a number line? Can you simplify radical expressions (roots)?
Specifically you should be familiar with:
- the properties of integers: divisibility, prime numbers, prime factorizations; types of integers: even and odd, prime and composite; basic arithmetic (though you will have a calculator) exponents; radicals (roots); ratios and percents; using absolute value; the number line; sequences of numbers; and decimal representation.
GRE Math Topic 2: Algebra
You find the usual stuff here such as simplifying expression and solving linear equations but also a couple of surprises as well.
- rules of exponents, factoring and simplifying, relations and functions, solving both linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, solving systems of equations and inequalities, word problems (big – many problems will be word problems), and graphing functions and inequalities (be familiar with the graphs of linear equations specifically – think things like slope and intercepts of lines).
GRE Math Topic 3: Geometry
There are quite a few geometry questions on the GRE and since most people take this in high school, you should really take the time to brush up on this topic. However, you will NOT have to worry about constructing proofs – only problems such as:
- congruence, similarity, special triangles, properties of parallel and perpendicular lines, polygons and quadrilaterals, area, perimeter, volume, surface area, the Pythagorean theorem, and angles (measured in degrees).
GRE Math Topic 4: Statistics and Data Analysis
If you recently took statistics, don’t worry. There is no hypothesis testing or linear regression on the GRE. But, there are a wide variety of stats topics covered such as:
- mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation (not calculating it – only the idea and intepretation), quartiles and interquartile range, percentiles, reading from graphs and tables of all types including scatterplots and frequency distributions, probabilities including compound events (like “or”, “and”), independent events, random variables, probability distributions (including normal distributions), counting methods including combinations and permutations, and Venn Diagrams.
Calculators on the GRE
When taking the computer based test, you will have a simple calculator available to you. But, complex calculations are not the point of the GRE and you should be careful about wasting time using the calculator too much. Instead try to focus on your mathematical knowledge to help you solve problems. You can read more about this here: https://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/prepare/quantitative_reasoning/calculator/
GRE Math Review
ETS offers a free math review for the GRE quantitative reasoning section. You can download this here: https://www.ets.org/s/gre/pdf/gre_math_review.pdf
Summary
A high score on the quantitative section of the GRE can mean the difference between getting into graduate school and making other plans – even if you are planning on majoring in a non-quantitative field. Don’t neglect this section, and start studying early. You can get a great score even if you aren’t a math whiz!
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Sign up to get occasional emails (once every couple or three weeks) letting you know what's new! | https://www.mathbootcamps.com/what-kind-of-math-is-on-the-gre/ |
Security is a major concern for businesses today. More and more customers are turning to digitization and as the network becomes integrated with all aspects of your business, the need for security control is high. We're seeing exponential growth in online devices - from 15B today to an expected 500B by 2030. Compute has become abundant and cost effective, whether it be on premise or in the cloud, and networks have become ubiquitous - it's hard to think of anywhere there's not a wired or wireless network. Today’s rapidly evolving business models reflect trends like mobility and BYOD, meaning the network perimeter has largely dissolved. A dissolved network perimeter causes a need for customers to figure out how they will digitize their businesses to remain competitive while maintaining their brand integrity, protecting their intellectual property, and safeguarding key customer and employee data.
Ensuring peripherals are secured prevents risk and lowers the cost of IT.
Enforcing security through policy enables productivity while maintaining security.
Simplifying access improves effectiveness and is a win for IT.
Policy Development, Vulnerability Assessments, and deployment expertise. | https://www.lookingpoint.com/security |
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