Computer Science Into The Curriculum - 1524 Words

Computing Computer Science back into the Curriculum Imagine I am an employer and I m looking to hire someone with computer science skills. Now I look for people who have the skills required for the position. And then something surprises me, there’s hardly anyone who qualifies. What do I do? Do I hire someone who will learn on the job, or someone who already has the skills needed for the position? I will do the latter and outsource to someone from outside the US and bring him in using an H-1B working visa. However I’m not the only company, that’s using this same solution. In fact, so many other companies are outsourcing, that there aren’t enough H-1B visas to go around. Obama has recognized this problem and has increased the number of†¦show more content†¦Across America we must change the way we educate our students on computer science in secondary education, for computer science is the only field out of the STEM (science technology engineering math) fields that has seen a decrease in student part icipation in the last 20 years despite it’s rapid growth. If technology is the future, we need to better prepare our nation’s students for it. I have first hand experience of the lack of computer science exposure and education in California’s school system. I wasn’t exposed through a class and I had no interest or knowledge of programming at all. I was in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition in my sophomore year of High School. Our robot required programming code to run, and out of our whole team of 36 people, only one of us knew how to program. He graduated that same year, and left our team with some big shoes to fill. Because of the need I learned how to fill his position by taking a class at my local community college the next summer. When it came for next year’s competition, I was ready. However my school’s team wasn’t the only one with a graduated programmer. Out of all 5 schools from my surrounding school district no one knew how to code including the teachers leading the teams in each school. To educate the teams in our

The Evolution of American Self Essays - 870 Words

The American Self is the common character and values of American people which evolved depending on governmental philosophy, religious belief, and economical aspiration from beginning of its formation to the present. Any of the change in the above factors would contribute to the evolution of the American Self. Over time, the American Self changed from communalism, whole hearted religious faith, and interest in material goods to individualism, self interests, and greed. The American Self depended on the governmental philosophy held by its early colonial leaders, the Founding Fathers, and the later elites who governed the nation. The Puritans were theocratic; the early Puritans based their governmental philosophy on their religious view†¦show more content†¦The leaders separated themselves into two parties, the Federalism and the Republicanism. The Federalism provides for a powerful federal government. Their philosophy was giving up on the publics ability to live selflessly, political actors [federalists] promulgated in its place the need for selfless leaders to carry out the common good.[44] The Federalists believed democracy would lead to self-interest, license, and the eventual dissolution of the Union[45] In contrast, Republicans following the philosophy of the founding fathers continued to advocate the extending of autonomy to the communities. During this transitional era, Republicans accuse Federalist of tyranny and Federalists acc using Republicans of unwittingly perpetrating anarchy.[44] Finally, by mid-century, communalism was hardly proffered as viable social option by the American intelligentsia.[46] Religion also impacted the American Self to a great degree. As mentioned above, Puritans based their governmental structure on the religious view. Raised in a pious society, the Founding Fathers were bound to be influenced by church doctrines.[42] Ben Franklin said, The longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth--that God governs in the affairs of men.[43] The religious beliefs of the founders contributed toShow MoreRelatedEvolution of the dichotomy Self and Other Within American History600 Words   |  3 PagesEvolution of the dichotomy Self and Other Within American History American’s culture has been a big influence for American literature; because it not only has serves writers to convey the lives of Americans ancestors, but also to express their thoughts and feelings. Furthermore, American literature shows the power exerted by the white Americans against African American slaves. The superiority of white Americans over blacks population forms part of American heritage and it is reflected in AmericanRead MoreThe Evolution of Self in Asian-American Women in the Us (Joy Luck Club)4993 Words   |  20 PagesEssay 2-The Evolution of Self in Asian-American Women in the US The conflict of a typical mother/daughter relationship exists in many cultures. This conflict for many Asian-American women was further exasperated as these women were forced to also deal with adjusting as first, second, and third generation Americans in a sometimes unwelcome society. As a child, Japanese-American Janice Mirikitani, was interned, along with her mother, at a â€Å"work relocation camp† during 1941in Rohwer, Arkansas (AmericansRead MoreAmerican Revolution Accelerated evolution vs Cataclysmic revolution1624 Words   |  7 Pagesï » ¿The American Revolution was an accelerated evolution rather than a cataclysmic revolution to a certain point. An accelerated evolution is a rapid process of growth and change, while a cataclysmic revolution is a sudden and violent event that brings great changes. The extent to which the American Revolution was an accelerated evolution was during events that completely disregarded the government. When considered politically, eco nomically and socially the extent to which the American Revolution wasRead MoreEvolution Of Language And The Brain1447 Words   |  6 Pages Professor Terrence Deacon, an American Neuroanthropoligist; for his undergraduate attended Fairhaven College of Western Washington University from 1972-1976 as an Interdisciplinary major. Later attending Harvard’s Graduate School of Education from 1977-1978 in Philosophy and Cognitive Development. Ultimately pursuing a Ph.D. from Harvard in Biological Anthropology from 1978-1984. Later he joined the Harvard faculty as an assistant professor of biological anthropology, he was promoted to an associateRead MoreWalt Whitman Poetry Essay1685 Words   |  7 PagesWhitman’s Contribution to American Identity Walt Whitman’s portfolio of poetry was a crucial staple in the American identity. Whitman used his poetry to contribute to the evolution of self-reliance, human freedom and concepts of democracy. These influences can be seen throughout all of his poems, but more relevantly in â€Å"Song of Myself†, â€Å"For You O Democracy† and in â€Å"Live Oak, with Moss†. After analyzing these works thoroughly, Whitman has undeniably aided in the development of American identity and influencedRead MoreThe Social Darwinism Of The World War I1311 Words   |  6 PagesAmerican Social Darwinism â€Å"For their point of view does not permit of a live-and-let-live kind of carrying on. It is a point of view that justifies itself by a whole hearted acceptance of the worst of Neo-Darwinism, the Allmacht of natural selection applied rigorously to human life and society and Kultur†(p.22, Headquarters Nights by Vernon Kellogg). In the years following World War I, the Social Darwinist movement lost some of its momentum due to the unpopularity of Germany s Neo-Darwinism.Read MoreThe Natural History of the Galapagos Written by Ian Thornton1150 Words   |  5 PagesThe theory of evolution is a very interesting, but also a bit of a controversial topic. The Merriam Webster dictionary defines evolution as â€Å"a theory that the differences between modern plants and animals are because of changes that happened by a natural process over a very long time.† Even though many people would and have disagreed with this following statement, the theory of evolution as of now is the best the best way of explaining why people and the animals which are, are on earth today. Read MoreCreation Versus Evolution in Schools770 Words   |  3 PagesCreation vs. Evolution: the School Front Despite great efforts to convince the opposing belief for centuries, a battle still brews amongst creationists and evolutionists over the beginning of life and the universe, but neither opinions’ palpability can be firmly upheld through scientific manners. Since science can only prove hypotheses that are testable and based on current observations, neither creation nor evolutionary concepts can be proven with irrefutable evidence. However, regardless of theRead More Names and Titles in Gloria Naylors novel, Mommy, What Does Nigger Mean1444 Words   |  6 PagesNames and Titles in Gloria Naylors novel, Mommy, What Does Nigger Mean    Words themselves are innocuous; it is the consensus that gives them true power. (Naylor 344) A name is a mark of classification, a basis for self identity. Able to elevate or annihilate a persons perception of herself and the surrounding society, these designations can uplift, joke, chide, mock, insult, degrade. Society implies the people and the atmosphere encompassing an individual in her daily lifeRead MoreCooley And Mead s Theories1287 Words   |  6 Pagesof interaction and communication. Socialization becomes an important key in understanding society and individuals while also getting a glimpse into evolution and progression. Articles by Mead and Cooley provide different perspectives on the human advancement of the â€Å"self’† by looking at early stages of development and maturation. The idea of social self and socialization allows for individuals to build their identity and connect with society. The importance of social relations is seen in various cultures

Derivation Principle of Revenue Allocation in Nigeria Free Essays

string(49) " taxes to their central \(federal\) governments\." 1. CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION Revenue allocation in Nigeria has been one of the most intractable and controversial issues. Particularly, the `principle of derivation’ has been highly contentious in the country’s fiscal federalism since oil discovery in 1958. We will write a custom essay sample on Derivation Principle of Revenue Allocation in Nigeria or any similar topic only for you Order Now The derivation principle seeks to allocate natural resource (say oil and gas) revenues accruable to the federation’s account[1] on the basis that is perceived to be equitable, given particular consideration to the resource-producing states and regions. Since the introduction of the principle by the then colonial administration, the formula underlying it has undergone numerous retrogressive alterations, following a pattern that has concentrated revenues with the central (federal) government. The percentage revenue due to producing states has declined from the initial 50% share to 1% in the 1990’s, and subsequently was increased again to a currently 13% share which does not reflect full offshore derived revenues. This has been considered unfair and unacceptable by the producing states especially Akwa-Ibom and Ondo states whose oil is virtually 100% offshore, which technically limits their benefits from the principle of derivation. This has resulted to the continuously seen agitations by these states for equitable share of her God given natural endowment for its effective development. The equitability proposed by the derivation principle in its original sense is of great importance because it is an instrument that can promote diversification of revenue generation streams for the country and support economic development as well as reduce the hostility in the Niger Delta and any other resource rich region in the future. States and regions with natural resource endowments other than oil and gas will now be compelled to develop these natural resource(s) and hence, benefit from the principle. Unfortunately, the principle has been highly compromised by various political and ethnocentric factors, leaving the producing states (minority) with very low percentage derivation. This paper seeks to explore this interesting subject as it analysis the derivation principle with respect to the actual expectations from it, and then present the advantages and challenges. . Chapter two defines and explains the derivation principle and the expectations that are associated with it; Chapter three presents the problems and dissatisfaction of the current derivation percentage; Chapter four presents the advantages and challenges (including the Peruvian example) of the actual principle, and Chapter five concludes. 2. CHAPTER TWO 2.1. INTRODUCTION The principle of derivation is a component of fiscal federalism and ensures that a region or state retains a certain percentage from oil tax revenues derived from the exploitation and extraction of natural resources (like oil and gas) in its territory. This revenue is calculated based on the direct contributions from a natural resource state. As it was originally practiced, after deduction of the percentage derivation, the remainder is sent to the federation’s account for onward sharing among all states. Unfortunately, today the case is different. 2.2.Brief History About the Principle of Derivation in Nigeria The principle was first open to discussion in 1946 by the Phillipson commission who regarded it as a way of making regions with natural resources benefit from their God given endowment based on contribution to the central revenue pot (Adebayo, 1988). The principle of derivation became the major basis of revenue allocation between 1954 and 1957 due to the dominance of Nigerian’s export market by the three main ethnic groups[2] especially with cocoa from the West (Anugwom, 2001). From the period of oil discovery in 1958, the percentage derivation due for mineral producing states began to decline. This trend called for concern when recommendations made by the Binns commission of 1964 rejected the principle as part of the revenue allocation formula. When the military took over power in 1966, it set up an interim committee (Dina committee) that again recommended the derivation principle due to its relevance. The committee argued that the rent from the onshore oil exploration be fully given to the state from which the extraction was made, while 10% of the royalties be shared on derivation (Ekpo, 2004). However, the military government rejected the committee’s recommendations and then enacted Decree 13 of 1970, which adopted a revenue allocation formula on the basis of 50% on equality of states and 50% on population, retaining derivation only on onshore exploration. This favoured the non-oil producing states (majority) than the producing minority. By this t ime oil contributed about 70% of the total revenue accruing to the federation’s account. The principle has continued to undergo retrogressive changes as different administrations took over power. 2.3. What is Expected Considering the evolution of the principle of derivation and the rationale behind its applicability prior to the discovery of oil in Nigeria, it is expected in a fair sense, and in the absence of true federalism in Nigeria that the principle bequeathed to us by the founding fathers be maintained. Different bodies and groups have continued to call for the original 50% derivation used in the era when groundnut from the North and cocoa from the West dominated the country’s export market. For Example, The Kaiama declaration[3] of 1998 lamented the declining trend of the percentage derivation since the discovery of oil in the Niger Delta, and called for a reverse of the principle. This is what the oil rich Niger Delta region continues to ask for, since federalism in Nigeria has become a politically manipulated practice by the power dominant majority, creating a serious barrier to the resource control agitators. The expected percentage derivation should be able to reflect positively on the citizenry under normal circumstances (checks and balances). 3. CHAPTER THREE 3.1. Current Percentage Derivation Fiscal federalism in Nigeria is a system that is practically shallow compared to the actuality of the system. When juxtaposed with practices in some federal states like Canada, Australia, USA etc, it can be rightly said that the Nigerian Practice is far from rigorous. In the above mentioned states, constituent tiers of government have exclusive (full) control over natural resources in their respective territories, but pay necessary taxes to their central (federal) governments. You read "Derivation Principle of Revenue Allocation in Nigeria" in category "Essay examples" However, Nigeria has adopted a system many now refer to as fiscal centralism (where revenue allocation and fiscal policies are left to the central government) and not the fiscal federalism (decentralised and devolved revenue allocation and fiscal policies) it so claims to practice. Despite Nigeria’s developing state, it would have been possible to maintain the expected principle, especially now that the local work force has improved. However, political sentiments have been applied in administering the percentage derivation due to natural resource producing states. This practice has indeed fall short of its expectation due to this political manoeuvring of reaping revenues to the central government; where the ethnic majority and non-oil producing states have higher control of power, and in return providing the minority and oil rich states with a token of compensation for playing host to the central government’s joint ventures with oil companies. This has become possible b ecause the 1976 constitution vest all mineral rights exclusively to the control of the federal government. The application of the principle since the country’s independence has failed to encourage and attract the development of other abundant natural resources other than oil and natural gas, as percentage derivation due to mineral producing states continue to decline. Currently, it is set at 13%, which is still insignificant, unfair and unacceptable to the agitators of resource control (Niger Delta). Although, there is an increase compared to the immediate past 1% derivation. 3.2.Problems and Dissatisfaction with the Current System A vital problem with the present percentage derivation is the lack of sound technical basis or traceable mathematical derivation formula. Rather, it is a politically imposed type of compromise between ethnocentric parties. For Example, the current 13% derivation is a mean agreed value of a political negotiation in a constitutional conference held in 1995 between propositions by dominant 8% and opposing 18% parties (Ikpatt and Ibanga, 2003). Another problem with the current percentage derivation is a constitutional one, and can be traced back to the Supreme Court ruling in 2002, where the federal government filed a suit against the littoral states at the Court requesting a resolution of the seaward margin of a littoral state within the federal republic of Nigeria for the purpose of calculating the amount of revenue accruing to the federal account directly from any natural resource obtained from that state in pursuant to Section 162(2)[4] of the 1999 constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria. In its ruling, the apex court did sustain the plaintiff’s submission, declaring that for the purpose of calculating revenue accruing to the federal account directly from any natural resource obtained from a littoral state pursuant to section 162(2) of the 1999 constitution, the seaward margin will be the low-water mark of the land surface thereof or in specific cases (like in Cross River State) with archipelago of Island s, the seaward margin will be that of the inland waters within the state. This judgement created a total dissatisfaction to the littoral states of the Niger Delta region especially Akwa-Ibom and Ondo states whose oil resources are virtually 100% offshore (probably beyond the low-water margin and inland waters within the state), thereby tactically sidelining them from offshore derivation benefits accruable to the federation’s account. However, a Bill abolishing the offshore/onshore dichotomy ruling of the Supreme Court was signed into law by then President Obasanjo in 2004 after approval from the National Assembly. As this controversial magnanimity created applauses to the president from many Niger Delta political elites, some activists and professionals raised possible concerns about the new law (still in place). For Example, Ledum Mitee, president of the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni people (MOSOP), considers the law as a scratch on the surface of the numerous problems facing the oil-rich region, as core issues like environmental degradation, marginalization and the right of self determination and natural resource control has failed to be addressed by the new law. Furthermore, the Executive Director of the Environmental Rights Action (ERA), Mr Douglas Oronto called for clarification on the meaning of the 200 meters depth Isobaths provided by the law as the new seaward margin for a littoral state. In the sam e vein, a onetime president of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr O. C. J. okocha (SAN) questioned the ambiguity of the new margin and in his view; it may likely make no difference from the earlier judgment of the Supreme Court in 2002 as it concerns offshore derivation to littoral states. Finally, Professor Ben Nwabueze, one of the country’s leading authority in constitutional law faulted the new law, saying what was (and is still) needed was (and is) a constitutional amendment, not an Act of parliament (Ojameruave, 2004). Another salient dissatisfaction is the too much concentration of revenues at the central level with no positive impacts on the citizenry. Since the country gained independence in 1960, revenue allocation has continued to skew in favour of the federal tier of government, which has benefited as high as about 60% and as low as 40% of oil dominated revenue shared among the three tiers of government. This high concentration has promoted wasteful spending and encouraged corruption by the politically privileged elites at the central level. In Nigeria, the federal government has hijacked responsibilities traditionally should have been under the state control, all with the aim of concentrating greater revenues at its control. Examples include responsibilities like the police, public transport, etc. Unlike Nigeria, in the Australian federation, responsibilities are well shared with the federal level responsible for taxation, defence, foreign affairs, postal and communication and the powers to make laws over states/territories. It remains a fact that the federal government of Nigeria lacks basic plans for transforming resources into meaningful developments. This explains the reasons for its political system being classified as a â€Å"do or die affair† (Awolaja, 2011). The gap between the federal government and the citizens is a major barrier on citizen’s demands for concrete development. In addition the weak and corrupt representation both in national and state levels exacerbate the condition. Increasing state derivation may help reduce dependence on the federal government’s monthly allocation; an exercise now considered a ritual that must be done. This change could likely increase the chances of accountability as government will be closer to the people, who in turn will stop at nothing to ensure their resources are rightfully channelled for equitable and meaningful development. 4. CHAPTER FOUR 4.1. Advantages and Challenges 4.2. Advantages There exist numerous benefits both to the federal and state tiers of government as well as local governments when the principle of derivation is implemented in its original sense. In the previous chapters, I have been able to highlight on some of the advantages. However, the expected principle may lead to: 4.2.1.Economic Diversification It is an obvious fact that the principle of derivation will encourage diversification of the country’s economic activities and increase revenue generation as well as reduce the prevailing revenue sharing ritual that has eating deep into the fabrics of the Nigerian system. This will only be possible when percentage derivation to mineral producing states become attractive. This could also compel non-oil producing states that are now highly dependent on the Niger Delta wealth for sustenance to develop the natural resources within its territory. 4.2.2.Human Capacity Development The cornerstone of a country’s economic success depends on how developed is the human wherewithal and competence. An economic diversification powered by the expected principle of derivation can fuel the development of human capacity of a nation, as the training and exposure of skilled professionals in the various industries which are technology driven and highly challenging, will become a necessity. 4.2.3.Investment and Job Creation Also, rapid diversification will undoubtedly lead to investment opportunities and the creation of jobs for the increasingly high rate of unemployed Nigerian youths and possibly reduce crime level in the society. 4.2.4.Proper Development The present percentage derivation has failed to reflect the needs of the local people and its governance. State and local governments should be able to handle development according to their felt needs and priorities, and not being constrained by lack of finances. Applying the derivation principle in its original sense may increase the chances of implementing programmes according to the needs and priorities of the people. For example, the Niger Delta region has continued to call for the remediation of its polluted environment whose damage came as a result of oil exploration; rather, the federal government has invested in what is not considered top priority. 4.2.5. Reduction of Hostility Despite the fact that the oil producing Niger Delta region has long been agitating for resource control, a fair percentage derivation will reduce the agitation turned hostility especially on oil installations in the region and any other region in the future. 4.3. Challenges Despite these numerous advantages, there exist various challenges to the actualization of a favourable percentage derivation. Some are: 4.3.1. Political and Capacity Problems The highly competitive but fragmented political system in Nigerian (like in Peru) coupled with the lack of checks and balances pose a major challenge to the implementation of the expected derivation principle. In terms of capacity, we believe Nigeria has come of age, but the influence of the former tends to weaken the latter. Today, we have seen some sub-national governments performing well above average in Nigeria. This is possible because these governments decided to invest in human capacity development in order to strengthen their local labour force. Unlike Nigeria, the Peruvian fiscal decentralization policy based on the system of automatic transfers to mineral producing areas failed because it never took into consideration the strength of its human capacity at the local level before implementing the policy. Despite its longer period in the mining business, conflicts with neighbouring countries on territorial issues and political interests at the local level, and short-term poli cies contributed to the failure of this fiscal policy. 4.3.2.High Dependence on Oil Proceeds It is a well known fact that oil contributes over 90% of Nigeria’s foreign earnings, and also its national budgets are predicated on the basis of yearly crude oil production and price. These dependences continues to sustain its importance and attract high political actors and interests, and also explains why oil is considered now in the country as a natural resource for all unlike the periods when groundnuts and cocoa dominated the export market. In other words, upholding the expected percentage derivation may be perceived as unleashing financial threats on the federal government and the non-oil producing states. 4.3.3.Legal Regimes The challenge posed by the country’s legal regime which is under the federal government’s control is indeed worrisome. For instance, the 1976 constitution vests mineral rights exclusively to the federal government’s control, the land use Act of 1978 and 1993, and the petroleum Act of 1969 are also legal regimes in favour of the federal government as it concerns natural resources. Repealing these repugnant laws has been faced with political manipulations from the federal government. This has always given the federal government the greater powers when it comes to the percentage derivation issue. Correcting these anomalies is highly necessary. This could explain why violence and hostility seems to be a favourable option. 4.3.4.The Game with Fiscal Federalism in Nigeria If true federalism that reflects on fiscal policies is allowed to thrive in the Nigerian polity, the problem of unfair or too much derivation as conceived by both the dominant and opposing parties will be a thing of history. This is a major challenge facing the country at this stage of its development, and correcting this will mean reducing developmental barriers and increasing the chances of attaining sustainable economic stability. 5. CHAPTER FIVE 5.1. CONCLUSION/RECOMMENDATIONS The research has been able to establish the derivation principle currently in operation, and that which existed during the periods when groundnut from the North and cocoa from the West were the main sources of foreign earnings for Nigeria. It was found that the principle has been under the influence of political and ethnocentric factors, creating the much seen problems and dissatisfactions in the system. Also, analysis of various revenue allocation commissions’ recommendations prior to oil discovery in the Niger Delta indicated 50% as percentage derivation to natural resource producing regions and states. Unfortunately, this declined to a languishing 1% in the early 90’s, and currently stands at 13%. The major problem with the current system is the lack of technical base or any form of mathematical calculation. The paper has also been able to present some of the advantages and challenges of the expected percentage using Peru as an example. Finally, I consider the expected derivation principle (as opposed to resource control) as not presenting the best option for Nigeria’s economic success, but however, provides an opportunity or a pathway to getting there, especially as it can support developments in non-oil producing states and not turning them into a dependent variable as can be seen today. In order to reduce this dependence, the government should apply for a start (say 3 to 5 year term) a derivation of not less than 25% of direct revenues gotten from the exploration and the exploitation of natural resources of a producing state, with no first line charge of any kind from the federal government. At the expiration of the proposed term, a review can be made to ascertain the level of success achieved before further steps are taking. However, the country’s main focus should be on establishing a true federalism that reflects fiscal autonomy and independence of the constituent tiers of government, while the federal government concentrates more on its tax functions. This I believe will open the doors for rapid economic development in Nigeria. BIBLIOGRAPHY PRIMARY SOURCES 1976 and 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria SECONDARY SOURCES BOOKS Adebayo, A. G; (1988) â€Å"Revenue allocation: A Historical Analysis of the Nigerian Experience† In: Olaniyan, R. O; (ed) Federalism in a Changing World (Nigeria). (Lagos, Nigeria: The Presidency) INTERNET SOURCES Aluko, M. E; (2002) â€Å"Revenue Allocation and the Nigerian State: Of Derivation, Dichotomy and Debt Issues† at http://www.dawodu.com/aluko16.htm (last Visited on 28th June, 2011) Anugwom, E. E; (2001) â€Å"Federalism, Fiscal Centralism and the Realities of Democratisation in Nigeria: The Case of the Niger Delta† at http://www.unesco.org/most/crossroadsedl.htm (last visited on 28th June, 2011) Arellano-Yanguas, J; (2008) â€Å"A Thorough Modern Resource CurseThe New Natural Resource Policy Agenda and the Mining Revival in Peru at http://www.ids.ac.uk/files/Wp300.pdf (last visited on 25th July, 2011) Arowolo, D; (2011) â€Å"Fiscal Federalism in [email protected] Theory and Dimension† at http://onlineresearchjournals.com/aajoss/art/64.pdf (last visited on 28th June, 2011) Awolaja, A; (2011) â€Å"Nigeria and Challenges of Fiscal Federalism, In: Nigerian Tribune of 19th May, 2011† at http://tribune.com.ng/index.php/politics/22172-nigeria-and-challenges-of-fiscal-federalism (last visited on 28th June, 2011) Centre for the Future State; â€Å"How do Natural Resource Revenues Affect the Quality of Public Spending in Developing Countriesat http://www.dfid.gov.uk/r4d/PDF/Outputs/FutureState/CFS_resource_revenues_and_fiscal_governance.pdf (last visited on 24th July, 2011) Ejobowah, J. B; (2000) â€Å"Who Owns the OilThe Politics of Ethnicity in the Niger Delta of Nigeria† at http://www.jstor.org/pss/4187306 (last visited 27th June, 2011) Ekpo, A. H; (2004) â€Å"Intergovernmental Fiscal Relations: The Nigerian Experience† at http://www.ffc.co.za/conf/papers/nigeria-igfr.pdf (last visited on 29th June, 2011) Ikpatt, C; and Ibanga, N. H; (2003) â€Å"Nigeria’s Mineral Resources: A Case for Resource Control† at http://www.nigerdeltacongress.com/narticles/nigeria_mineral_resources_a_case.htm (last visited on 1st July, 2011) Ojameruaye, E; (2004) â€Å"The Offshore/Onshore Oil Dichotomy Abolition Act- Matters Arising† at http://www.nigerdeltacongress.com/oarticles/offshoreonshore_oil_dichotomy_ab.htm (last visited on 27th June, 2011) Ojo, E. O; (2010) ‘The Politics of Revenue Allocation and Resource Control in Nigeria: Implications for Federal Stability’ at http://scholar.googleusercontent.com/scholar?q=cache:fVOo0BDFwDMJ:scholar.google.com/+The+Politics+of+Revenue+Allocation+and+Resource+Control+in+Nigeria:+Implications+for+Federal+Stability%E2%80%99hl=enas_sdt=0,5as_vis=1 (last visited on 29th June, 2011) Tuodolo, F; and Kaiser-Wilhelm, T. O; (1998) â€Å"The Kaiama Declaration† at http://www.unitedijawstates.com/kaiama.html (last visited on 14th July, 2011) Uche, C. U; and Uche, O. C; (2004) â€Å"Oil and the Politics of Revenue Allocation in Nigeria† at http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=vq=cache:6XmkQeNCqdEJ:citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi%3D10.1.1.135.3436%26rep%3Drep1%26type%3Dpdf+oil+and+the+politics+of+revenue+allocation+in+nigeriahl=engl=ukpid=blsrcid=ADGEESi2zBl_n5yX0t76JotakM73xR4TWkn1y5k9adXeo7u2gLWBwjb6xtE_ZB63ZlnYRdd79rvvorofWlQB8PU_B-2piuX1eiJOt3ge6WFJZ5h9B2TzNs0SnMi06erq9LLBm8xPd1h4sig=AHIEtbQ30QoHjmLsMe4wf05fVfKwDTVcFw (last visited on 30th June, 2011) World Bank; (2001) State and Local Governance in Nigeria at http://info.worldbank.org/etools/docs/library/5783/State_and_Governance_Nigeria.htm (last visited on 27th July, 2011) How to cite Derivation Principle of Revenue Allocation in Nigeria, Essay examples

Buyer Behaviour Essay Example For Students

Buyer Behaviour Essay Working women buy products and services essentially the same as non working women. INTRODUCTIONConsumer behaviour can be defined as the acts of individuals directly involved in obtaining and using economic and services, including the decision process that precede and determine these acts. (Engel et al, 1968, p 5)Buyer behaviour refers to the acts of individuals directly involved in the exchange of money for economic goods and services and the decision process that determined these act. (Engel et al, 1968, p 5). Both consumer and buyer behaviour differ amongst the population as people have different wants and needs. Therefore it is untrue to say that working women buy products and services essentially the same as non working women. No two people are similar as physiological factors, cultural forces, economic considerations, interpersonal relationships, personality, self-concept, and learning are variables that shape goals and influence. (Runyon, K.E. 1980). However consumers can be put into groups if they have similar characteristics, i.e. if they come from the same social class, background, age, lifestyle. Working and non-working women can be segmented in two separate groups. They are different because of many influences. Some are external due their social environment. What they do with these social stimuli involves a psychological process that differs from each other. These social influences and internal processes may evolve into a decision by the consumer to make a purchase or not. (refer to table 1). (Engel et al, 1968). As both groups possess different characteristics, it is necessary for marketers to understand that they will have different wants and needs. Table 1. Factors influencing behaviourPersonal PsychologicalCulturalSocial ? Age LifestyleMotivationCultureReference groups? OccupationPerceptionSubcultureFamily? Economic LearningSocial classRoles status? Personality Beliefs ? Self conceptAttitudesCulturalEngel et al, (1968) suggest that culture refers to the unique patterns of behaviour and social relations that characterises and distinguishes it from other societies. Culture is not inherited genetically, it is rather the result of learning. Parents, teachers and schools help indoctrinate each generation into a cultural decision. All cultures will develop from interactions between people in efforts to adjust to one another and their environments. In each society, the culture of that society has a functional purpose. It provides values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours that facilitate human interaction. The culture of a working woman will be very different from that of a non working female. Spiro, R.L studies show that Strodtbec t, I. L. found cultural differences with respect to the roles of females were related to differences in decision making. This is because both groups will have different beliefs and attitudes due to the way they have been nurtured. Social In a materialist society economic well-being much determines what social class you are in. If this was the case, than working women would be in a much higher class than non working. However focusing primarily on income fails to recognise the differences in spending of disposal income characteristics of social classes. For example a teacher who earns the same as a truck driver will spend their money in distinctly different ways, the service and goods will not be the same. (Runyon, K.E 1980). Working women may spend their money on socialising i.e. with friends etc. whereas a non working woman may have children and therefore spend much money on the family Social class differences are variations in life-styles, in values, interpersonal attitudes and self perception. These differences influence consumer behaviour, shopping patterns, and effective communications. Therefore marketing practitioners should understand that social class should be considered as a variable when may be help ful in developing strategies of product differentiation and market segmentation, however this does depend on the type of product itself the patterns of usage and competitive climate in which the product exists in. The working woman will more likely be earning a salary/wage than the non working which then puts them into different social group. Because of the money being earned this again changes the lifestyles, behaviour and attitudes of the non working female. The significance of reference group to buying behaviour varies depending upon the product or service, i.e. whether it is a necessity or luxury. Reference groups can be segmented into different categories, primary references will include immediate families, close friends and work co-workers. This group is particularly important when are purchases are made that will affect other members of the family such as holidays are booked. Secondary reference groups are those who we have formal contact with such as religious organisations, trade unions. (Runyon, K.E, 1980)Women change as consumers, as they have move through different stages of the lifecycle. The way they buy, and use products, read, watch and listen to media is affected by whom they live with, i.e. if there is a partner, children or single. Harvard Business Review (1978)Familiy background will also affect buying decision. This includes political views and how education is valued. It can be assumed that a working woman may be more educated than a non working women who may not find education as being a key priority. Adcock, D et al, (1993) suggest that status within these groups are not necessarily automatic, therefore purchase which imply status within this group are likely to be affected by the expected attitude to the product itself. Roles and status Working women tend to play a greater role in family decision making than non working. Studies by Wolfe, D.M. (1959) claim that the working woman gains power in several ways. Firstly she has resources such as financial. Intellectual, skill which cannot be developed at home, and secondly she becomes less dependent on her partner (if not single) for the satisfaction of her social and prestige needs. Personal The buying decision often depends on the consumers demographic profile. Any of the below variables can be relevant to an individuals buying decision. Lifestyle age A working woman will lead a different lifestyle to a non working woman. Working women will tend to spend money on lunch snacks from shops and eat out in restaurants more than unemployed as working women avoid cooking and this is one reason for eating out. Mintel report (Women 2000 Women and Shopping: The Role Of Convenience. (11/01/99) claims that 47% of working women will spend their Friday evening at the public house whereas only 19% of non working women will. (Refer to appendix 1). 11% of women with full time jobs say they visit or order from pizza or pasta restaurant at least once in 2 weeks where as only 4% of non working women do. (see appendix 2)Mintel studies of Women 2000 claim that working women are considerably more likely than those without jobs to be interested in film, book and music review. (WWW.sinatra.com)Bartos, R. (1979) studies show that working wives spend fewer hours per week carrying out house chores, thus many find it necessary to purchase time saving goods and services in order to successfully combine dual productive roles. Marginal costing distingushes between fixed costs and variable costs Essay? Target market selection? Product and services? Pricing decisions? Promotion decisions. ? Distribution process? PositioningTarget market segmentationMarketers should look at working women and non working women as two separate segments. This is because they shop differently, favour different brands, use media differently, have different motives and lifestyles. Harvard Business Review (1978)Product and servicesFrom the research carried out, evidence shows that working women will not purchase products and services essentially the same. Many internal and external factors will determine their purchase decision making. Pricing decisionNon working women will be cautious about the value of products and services, whereas the higher salary /wage earned by the working woman will vary in the cost of what they will pay for a service or product. The working woman may be brand loyal, however the non working woman will usua lly buy a less expensive product. (WWW.mintel.com). Promotion decisionsMintel report (Women 2000, 11/01/99) concludes that advertisers and marketers need to target working women differently from non-working women. This is because non working women watch more television than working women who scarcely view it morning or evening. Also working and non working women perceive different perceptions and messages from advertising. For example a study was conducted to examine how employed and non-employed wives respond to different elements of automobile advertising messages. Data was gathered by interviewing 727 women via telephone. Results revealed that employment status significantly affects perceptions of advertising message appeals. More so, retired wives respond differently from other home-makers even though they are also non-employed. It also found that employed wives views value for money, interest rate of loan and monthly payment more important than non-working women. However the latter considered length of warranty and special rebate offer to be of greater importance than employed women. European Business ASAP (Jan,1997 v37 p54)Working women are the heaviest listeners to Radio and magazines tend to be more important in their lifestyles. Harvard Business Review (1978). Distribution decisionsWorking women are least likely to enjoy any grocery shopping however they do shop in more than one grocery shop. It can be recommended that a secondary shopping outlet be situated near workplaces. Home deliveries could be successful as this would make them a prime target for home shopping services. PositioningTherefore marketers will need to position their products differently in the market so they can target both groups of women who have different wants and needs. BIBLIOGRAPHYBooksWolfe, D.M. Power and Authority In the Family. In Dorwin Catwright, ed., Studies in Social Power (Ann Arbor: University of Michigan, 1959), P.109Engel, J.E., Kollat, D.T,. Blackwell, R.D. Consumer Behaviour. Pub-Holt, Reinhart and Winston, Inc. (1968,)Runyon, K.E. Consumer Behaviour and the Practice of Marketing. 2nd edition. Pub-A. Bell and Howell Company (Northern Arizona University) (1980). Adcock, D., Bradfield, R., Halborg, A., Ross, R., Marketing Principles and Practice. Pub-Pitman Publishing (1993). JournalsWhat Every Marketer Should Know About Women. Harvard Business Review 56, 3 (1978): 73-85European Business ASAP (Jan,1997 v37 p54)European Business ASAP, (September,19,1991 p5)Spiro, R.L Persuasion in Family Decision Making. Journal of Consumer Research 9, 4 (1983): 393 402Bellante, D., and Foster, A.C. Working Wives and Expenditures on Services. Journal of Consumer Research 11 (1984): 700-707 Bartos, R. The Moving target: The impact of Womens Employment on Consumer Behaviour. Journal of Marketing 41, 3 (1977): 31-37. InternetWWW.Mintel.com Women 2000, Women and Shopping: The Role Of Convenience. (11/01/99)WWW.Mintel.com Women and Finance (27/10/99)WWW.Emerald.com. Bartos, R. The Moving target: The impact of Womens Employment on Consumer Behaviour. Journal of Marketing 41, 3 (1977): 31-37.