Research Design Location And Research Time Psychology Essay

Research Design Location And Research Time Psychology Essay This chapter will present the methodological approach and research technique used in this thesis along with how the data will be gathered to find the answer or solutions of the research questions and problems, such as research design, theoretical perspective, data collection method, data analysis method as well as the validity and reliability of the data. Research Design, Location, and Research Time This research was planned and designed to obtain answer to research questions. Research design is the framework or plan for study, used as a single guide to collect and analyze the data. It is the blueprint that is followed to complete a study. According to Sekaran and Bougie (2009, p. 24), a research method or approach/design gives details on the most suitable methods of investigating the nature of the research, instruments, the sampling plan and the type of data to be used. Furthermore, Sekaran and Bougie (2009, p. 24) also report that a research method or design forms the framework of the entire research process. Therefore, if it is a good method or design, it will thus ensure that the information obtained is important to the researchers problem and those objectives and economic procedures in collecting it are all within limits. It simply is a systematic quest for undiscovered truth. In pursuit of this undiscovered truth, a researcher needs facts, published documents from primary sources and secondary sources. This research was using a cross sectional study which the data are gathered just once (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 119). Research location was done at six locations: Central Jakarta, North Jakarta, South Jakarta, West Jakarta, East Jakarta and Tangerang city to household customers of PT. Perusahaan Listrik Negara between March to July 2012, with the distribution of questionnaires within June 2012. Research Framework The research framework of this thesis is shown in Figure 3.1 below. The first research step is to define the research problem, followed by research objective. The third step is a literature review, followed by data collection, data analysis, hypothesis test, and finally generate conclusion and recommendation. Source: Author Figure 3.: Research Framework Research Questions and Hypotheses In this study, researcher would like to answer the questions and analyze the hypotheses below: RQ1: How do cultural factors, social factors, personal factors, psychological factors, and PLN services influence customer decision in using electricity at peak load hours? H1: From those factors, all factors are positively influence customer decision in using electricity at peak load hours. RQ2: How is the correlation between the decisions in using electricity during peak load hours with the household customers behavior towards saving electricity? H2: There is a correlation between the decisions in using electricity during peak load hours with the household customers behavior towards saving electricity. RQ3: How do pro-social intensions, motivations, access to information, and knowledge influence customer behavior in saving electricity? H3: From those factors, all factors are significantly influence customer behavior in saving electricity. RQ4: How is the correlation between customer awareness of consequences, aspiration of responsibility, personal norms towards their pro-social intensions in saving electricity? H4: There is STRONG correlation between customer awareness of consequences, aspiration of responsibility, personal norms towards their pro-social intensions in saving electricity? RQ5: What interventions or instruments are most likely to affect households saving electricity behavior? H5: The intervention or instrument most likely to affect households saving electricity behavior is by increasing their motivation, knowledge, and access to information about saving electricity programs. RQ6: From the classification of household segments, which class is the most involved in saving electricity? H6: From the classification of household segments, class R1:2.200VA is the most involved in saving electricity. Conceptual Framework Source: Author (Adapted from Kotler, 1999, and deGroot Steg, 2009) Figure 3.: Conceptual Framework Research Data Type and Source of Data There are two types of data that researches collected depending on the purpose. The data of research consists of both primary and secondary data. The primary data are the first-hand information acquired by the researcher on the variables under study while the secondary data refer to information gathered from sources that already exist which may come from archives or organizational files (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 180). This research was used both primary and secondary data. The primary data sources were obtained through the survey method by distributing structured questionnaires to household customers of PT. PLN Jakarta Raya and Tangerang Distribution. The secondary data were obtained from the company internal data such as figures in customer-base segmentation, and existing data in books, journals, publications, reports, and websites. Data Collection Method The data collection for primary and secondary data is done through the following methods: Literature Review. According to Sekaran and Bougie (2009, p. 38), a literature review is a step-by-step process that involves the identification of published and unpublished work from secondary data sources on the topic of interest, the evaluation of this work in relation to the problem. In this research, the literature review is done by search and study books, reports, journals, research reports, internet website related to electricity business and customer behavior. The information related to the company is obtained through the companys website and published reports. Questionnaire. Sekaran and Bougie (2009, p. 197) define questionnaire is a pre-formulated recorded series of questions to which the respondents giving their answers usually within rather closely defined alternatives. For this research, the questionnaire is formulated and distributed to the respondents in two methods. First method used is by distributing the questionnaire to respondents through email. The second method is the direct questionnaire to respondents, by asking them to give their answer on the questionnaire paper provided. Questionnaire Design Questionnaires are efficient data collection method when the researcher knows the information to gather and how to determine the variables of interest (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 197). Questionnaire survey is formulated to answer the research questions. It is a tool that may be conveniently distributed personally or electronically to respondent. According to Burns and Bush (2006, p. 300), there are six key functions of a questionnaire: To translate the research objectives into specific questions. To standardize the questions and the response categories to let every participant responds to identical stimuli. To reinforce cooperation and motivates respondents to respond. To serve as permanent records of the research. To speed up the process of data analysis, depending on the type of questionnaire used by the researcher. To contain the data which may be addressed for reliability and validity. The first part consists of the demographic attributes questions such as gender, age, education, occupation, annual income, and the second part consists of questions analyzing customer behavior in terms of cultural, social, personal, and psychological factors that base on Griffin and Eberts model (2006, p. 283). Part two in the questionnaires use Likerts scale which enables the respondents to give level of the attributes stated in the questions. A Likerts scale was used in the research, in which respondents were asked to indicate their level of agreement or disagreement on a systematic agree-disagree scale for each of a series of questions (Burns Bush, 2006, p. 281). Each question in the questionnaire on this part is ranged from 1 to 5, where 1 = Strongly Disagree; 2 = Disagree ; 3 = Neutral or Not Applicable ; 4 = Agree ; 5 = Strong Agree. The questionnaire format for this research is shown in Figure 3.3 below. Source: Author Figure 3.: Questionnaire Design for This Research Table 3.1 shows the distribution of items in order to measure the variables in the questionnaires. Table 3.: Variable, Scale of Data and Category of Questions Part 1: Respondent Profile No. Variables Scale of Data Category of Questions 1. Gender Nominal Male Female 2. Age Interval 20-30 years old 30-40 years old 40-50 years old 50-60 years old à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¥ 60 years old 3. Occupation Nominal Government employee Private company employee Self-employed Professionals Retired Others 4. Number of Family Members Interval Small: à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤ 4 members Medium: 5-6 members Big: à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¥ 7 members 5. Educational background Ordinal Basic / Junior High School Senior High School College Degree Bachelor Degree Master Degree PhD 6. Income per month Ratio à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤ 2 million rupiahs 2 to 5 million rupiahs 5 to 10 million rupiahs à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¥ 10 million rupiahs 7. Classification electricity Nominal 900 VA 1.300 VA 2.200 VA 8. Domicile Area Central Jakarta West Jakarta East Jakarta South Jakarta North Jakarta Tangerang City Part 2: Exploratory Questions (Data are in Likert scale) Customer Decision in using electricity at peak load hours No. Variables Category of Questions A. Cultural Factors Regularly using electricity at peak load hours (between 17.00 to 20.00). Household activities were dominated by using electrical equipment. Regularly using electrical equipment in day time. B. Social Factors The capacity of installed electricity is in accordance with the requirement. Able to pay if electricity tariff is go up. Electricity tariffs are still cheap. Its normal to reduce electricity subsidized and to increase tariffs when oil prices are up. C. Personal Factors Able to pay electricity and can afford the electricity bills. It is necessary to increase capacity because the need of electricity will increase. Electricity bills are relatively small compare to the total expenditure. D. Psychological Factor When using electricity at peak time, we will pay more expensive. Feeling guilty when using electricity at peak time. Feeling happy if every rooms are bright. E. PLN Services Power failure was rarely, so it is convenient to use it, especially at peak time. Recording of electricity is on time and the bill is in accordance with the use. Since electricity is stable, we are not worry to use it at peak time. Part 2: Exploratory Questions (Data are in Likert scale) Customer behavior towards saving electricity No. Variables Category of Questions A. Access to Information Get information about saving electricity from friends, family, neighbor, PLN, or community leaders. Get information about saving electricity from television, radio, magazine/newspaper, and internet. Often receiving information about saving electricity. B. Knowledge Knows electricity-saving equipment. Electrical equipment will be more efficient when turned off than in standby. Using electrical equipment at its maximum capacity will take more energy. C. Motivation Being motivated to prioritize electricity saving behavior. Being motivated to respect environment. D. Pro-social Intensions There are negative consequences of any actions that do not respect the environment. Feel responsible for environmental damage. Having a moral obligation towards energy efficiency and environmental protection. Questionnaire Format In this research, the questionnaires were prepared in printed and online formats using Indonesian language, because some of the respondents were not able to read and speak in English language. During the pre-test stage, the questionnaire was distributed only through email to 30 respondents to find out the validity and reliability of the data or questions in the questionnaires. At the post-test stage, the revised questionnaire was printed and distributed door to door. Due to time limitation, researcher employed a strategy by setting up a team consist of 6 (six) members to meet the respondents in 6 (six) different locations (domiciles). The revised questionnaire was also distributed by email. By using email, it was very convenient in terms of shortening the time spent to send the questionnaire and receiving the responses from the respondents. However, there were difficulties because the respondents were depended on a computer and internet service. Survey Sampling Method According to Sekaran and Bougie (2009, pp. 262-263), a sample is a subset of the population. It comprises some members selected from it. A sample is thus a subgroup of the population, which represents the whole group of people, actions, or things of interest that the researcher wants to investigate. According to Burns and Bush (2006, pp. 372-374), the size of the sample affect the sample accuracy of results, thus sample accuracy refers to how close a random samples statistic is to the populations value it represents. The most correct method of determining sample size is confidence interval approach. In order to calculate the proper sample size of the survey, Burns and Bush (2006, p. 366) said, there are three items required: Amount of variability of population Desired accuracy, and Required confidence level. Sampling Methodology In this research, the population is the total number of customers of PT. PLN Jakarta Raya and Tangerang Distribution from the Household segment, which according to the statistics are 3.330.815 number of customers. For this amount of population, the sample size may be calculated using the formula recommended by Burns and Bush (2006, p. 372): Where: n = the sample size z = standard error associated with the chosen level of confidence (1.96) p = estimated percentage in the population q = 100- p e = acceptable sample error Sample population sample size = population sample size x In this research, researcher chose to use a probability of 90% with a 95% level of significance equivalent to a z value of 1.96 and sample error 4%. The sampling calculation was determined by using a software application, PHStat2. PHStat2 is a Windows-based software that assists students and professionals in learning the statistic concepts while using Microsoft Excel. Table 3.: Sampling Size Determination Data Estimate of True Proportion 0.9 Sampling Error 0.04 Confidence Level 95% Intermediate Calculations Z Value -1.95996398 Calculated Sample Size 216.0820587 Result Sample Size Needed 217 Finite Populations Population Size 3.330.815 Calculated Sample Size 216.0681064 Sample Size Needed 217 Source : Data on File Based on the calculation in Table 3.2, the minimum number of sample size needed is 217 samples; however in this research the number of samples is added to another 10 percent in order to produce greater accuracy. Therefore, this research will be used 240 samples. This research will use a cross sectional-study in which the data are gathered at once in order to answer the research questions (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 119). Sample Withdrawal Techniques The populations in this research were household customers of PT. PLN Jakarta Raya Tangerang Distribution. Sampling technique was done by using stratified random sampling, involves a process of stratification or segregation, followed by random selection of subjects from each stratum. The population is divided into stratum, and then sampling conducted in each stratum (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 272). In this research, customers who become household population were stratified based on electrical power and is divided into three groups, namely: 900VA, 1.300VA and 2.200VA. It is based on the Regulation of the President of Republic Indonesia No. 8, 2011, p. 9 (see Appendix A2). The sample selection techniques are described in Figure 3.4. Source: Author Figure 3.: Sample Withdrawal Techniques Data Analysis After data are obtained through questionnaires, the next step is to analyze them to test the research hypothesis. To ensure that the data obtained are reasonably good and ready for use for statistical analysis, Sekaran and Bougie (2009, pp. 306-330) recommend followings: Getting the data to be ready for analysis: Coding and data entry Coding the responses Data entry Editing data Data transformation Getting a feel for the data: Relationship between variables Correlations Testing goodness of data Reliability Validity Testing the hypothesis Hypothesis testing and data analysis will be conducted using appropriate statistical method and based on sample data associated with software such as PHStat2, SPSS version 20, and AMOS version 20. Descriptive Analysis Descriptive analysis such as the mean, mode, standard deviation, and range are used by researcher to describe the sample data matrix in such a way as to portray the typical respondent and to reveal the general pattern of responses. Descriptive measures are regarded as the steps undertaken by the researcher earlier in the process of analysis and become foundations for subsequent or more complex analysis (Burns Bush, 2006, p. 424). Descriptive statistics were used to portray the main characteristics of a collection of data in quantitative terms and distinguished from inductive statistics in that they intend to quantitatively review a data set, instead of being used to support reports regarding the population that the data are supposed to represent. Even when a data analysis obtains its major conclusions using inductive statistical analysis, the descriptive statistics are usually presented alongside the formal analyses to show the audience an overall perception of how data being examined. Validity and Reliability Test A good quality measurement instrument is needed in order to obtain precise data of this research. The ideal instrument has to be reliable and valid. The researcher must address both validity and reliability of the measures in assessing the degree of measurement error present in any measures. Any measure designed or adapted for use in any research should both be reliable and valid. A reliable measure is one in which a respondent acts in response to the same or a very similar manner to an identical or nearly identical question (Burns Bush, 2006, p. 290). The reliability of a measure is a test of how consistently a measuring instrument measures whatever concept it is measuring. In testing the reliability of the questionnaire, the test-retest reliability test was used which measures the correlation between the same respondents obtained at the two different times (Sekaran, 2010, p. 162). To achieve reliability of a measure, the researcher was using SPSS software with Cronbachs Alpha as the measurement. Cronbachs Alpha is a reliability coefficient that determines how well specific items of the measurement tools are positively correlated to one another. Cronbachs Alpha is computed using the average intercorrelations among the items measuring the concepts. If Cronbachs Alpha is greater than 0.70, it means that the data are more consistent and reliable. The closer the alpha value to 1 indicates the data are most consistent and reliable. A high quality reliable instrument can be used as a guide to draw a conclusion and making decisions (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, pp. 324-325). Validity is a test of how fine a developed instrument to measure the particular concept it is planned to measure. In the other words, validity is related to measurement with the right concept and reliability with stability and consistency of measurement (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, pp. 158-160). Correlation Analysis Correlation analysis is an analysis done to trace the mutual influence of variables on one another. A correlation coefficient that indicates the strength and direction of the relationship can be computed by applying a formula. There could be a perfect positive correlation between two variables, which is represented by 1.0 (plus 1), or a perfect negative correlation which would be -1.0 (minus 1) (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 322). The formula to calculate the coefficient of correlation is: Source: Burns Bush, 2005 Where: r = coefficient correlation n = samples xi = variable X x = mean X yi = variable Y y = mean Y Table 3.3 presents the rules of thumb in interpreting the correlation coefficient values. Table 3.: Rules of thumb of degree of correlation Coefficient Range Strength of Association  ±0.81 to  ±1.00 Strong  ±0.61 to  ±0.80 Moderate  ±0.41 to  ±0.60 Weak  ±0.21 to  ±0.40 Very Weak  ±0.01 to  ±0.20 None Source: Burns Bush, 2005 Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) Structural equation modeling (SEM) is a statistical approach for testing and estimating causal relationship using a combination of statistical data and qualitative causal assumptions. Typically, this theory represents causal processes that produce examinations on multiple variables. The term structural equation modeling expresses two important features of the procedure: causal processes, represented by a sequences of structural (i.e. regression) equations, and these structural relationships can be displayed pictorially to allow a clearer conceptualization of the theory. Then, the hypothesized model can be examined statistically in a simultaneous analysis of the entire variables to conclude the degree of its consistency to the data. If goodness-of-fit is adequate, the model argues for the credibility of hypothesized relations among variables. If it is inadequate, the reasonability of those relations is rejected (Byrne, 2010, p. 3). Statistical models provide an efficient and convenient way of describing the latent structure underlying a set of observed variables. Expressed either diagrammatically or mathematically via a set of equations, such models explain how the observed and latent variables are related to one another. Typically, a researcher postulates a statistical model based on his or her knowledge of the related theory, on empirical research in the area of study, or on some combination of both. Once the model is specified, the researcher then tests its plausibility based on sample data that comprise all observed variables in the model. The primary task in this model-testing procedure is to determine the goodness-of-fit between the hypothesized model and the sample data. As such, the researcher imposes the structure of the hypothesized model of the sample data, and then tests how well the observed data fit this restricted structure. Because it is highly unlikely that a perfect fit will exist between the observed data and the hypothesized model, there will necessarily be a differential between the two; this differential is termed the residual. The model-fitting process can therefore be summarized as follows: Data = Model + Residual Where: Data represent score measurements related to the observed variables as derived from persons comprising the sample. Model represents the hypothesized structure linking the observed variables to the latent variables and, in some models, linking particular latent variables to one another. Residual represents the discrepancy between the hypothesized model and the observed data (Byrne, 2010, p. 7). Structural equation models are schematically portrayed using particular configurations of four geometric symbols: a circle (or ellipse), a square (or rectangle), a single-headed arrow, and a double-headed arrow. By convention, circles (or ellipses; ) represent unobserved latent factors, squares (or rectangles; ) represent observed variables, single-headed arrows (à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢) represent the impact of one variable on another, and double-headed arrows (à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬ ) represent covariance or correlations between pairs of variables (Byrne, 2010, p. 9). In building a model of a particular structure in this research, the researcher uses these symbols within the framework of four basic configurations, each of which represents an important component in the analytic process. These configurations, each accompanied by a brief description, are as follows: Path coefficient for regression of an observed variable onto an unobserved latent variable (or factor) Path coefficient for regression of one factor onto another factor Measurement error associated with an observed variable Residual error in the prediction of an unobserved factor The Path Diagram Schematic representations of models are termed path diagrams because they provide a visual portrayal of relations which are assumed to hold among the variables under study. Essentially, a path diagram depicting a particular SEM model is actually the graphical equivalent of its mathematical representation whereby a set of equations relates dependent variables to their explanatory variables (Byrne, 2010, p. 10). Using path diagram as a structural equation modeling tool, the pattern of causal relationship can be detected. Causal relationship describes interrelations among a set of latent (unobserved) variables and a set of observed variables. Path diagram is a relationship structure between the exogenous and endogenous variables. The independent (X) variables are called exogenous variables. The dependent (Y) variables are called endogenous variables. Model Measurement According to Hair et.al (2010) measurement model validity depends on establishing acceptable levels of goodness of fit (GOF) for the measurement which indicates how well specify model reproduces the observed covariance matrices, smaller the difference between covariance matrices estimate with the observe covariance matrices, more fit the model. (Hair et. al, 2010, p.639). The GOF value contains several parameters to be considered by the researcher as stated by Hair et.al (2010, p.640-650), this thesis confirm the overall model fit the parameter will used the following: Chi-square (CMIN) or minimum discrepancy (), it is to test whether there is the different covariance matrices estimate within the covariance matrices observe, smaller () shown the different of both not significant and the model more fit. df (degree of freedom), more positive (>=0) of the df which shown with minimum was achieved the process of the estimate could be done. CMIN/DF. CMIN represents the minimum value of the discrepancy while DF is the degree of freedom. According to Wijaya (2009, p. 45), the model could be accepted if the CMIN/DF is à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤ 2.00. RMR (root mean square residual), this is called badness of fit whether the value is less than 0.1 than it is better because deference between sample and the estimate is smaller (Hair et.al 2010, p.642) GFI and AGFI (Goodness fit index and Adjusted Goodness fit index), GFI and AGFI value between 0 to 1, more closed to 1 more fit the model (Hair et.al 2010, p.643)

Labor Relations

In this paper, unions and labor relations will be defined and their impact on organizations will be elaborated. Also, the impact of changes in employee relations strategies, policies, and practices on organizational performance will be examined. After this, the question â€Å"Are unions still relevant in the U.S.?† will be answered. Furthermore, the campaign, the election, contract negotiations, grievance handling, arbitrations, labor relations, and strikes will be addressed. Labor unions and labor relations Labor unions, which are the watchdogs and negotiators for the American workforce, are a way of collectively bargaining with employers for fair working conditions and fair wages. The craft unions or skilled laborers and industrial unions or laborers in the same industry, regardless of skill are the two types of labor unions that are organized. In the U.S. Groups of highly-trained carpenters, tailors, printers, and weavers in the colonial age, the seed of modern labor unions were the guilds. Guilds, which are economic and social in nature, are associations of persons who are involved in the same craft or business. The workers who members of guilds are banded together so that the quality standards would be maintained and the employers’ hiring of skilled laborers from home would be ensured. In the mid-19th century, there was an increase in the number of new industrial unions which were created for the assertion of workers’ rights. This change in the personality of the American workforce was due to the invention of the steam engine and other industrial advancements. The Knights of Labor, which inaugurated the Labor Day holiday in 1882, was one of the most important industrial unions. In the 1890s, the American Federation of Labor (AFL) was formed. It is composed of the craft unions which include both skilled and unskilled laborers. The federation was formed because its member craft unions were opposed to the composition of the Knights of Labor’s membership. The United Mine Workers and the Danburry Hatters case in 1902 were ones of the early conflicts and strikes included in this period. In the 1930s, when the Great Depression took place, the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) was formed. Many of the members of CIO were the dissidents of the AFL who favors industrial unionism. Workers in the steel, rubber, auto, maritime, glass, and meat packing industries were some of the major constituents of the CIO. In spite of the conflicts during the 30s and 40s, a powerful body known as the AFL-CIO was formed from the merging of the two national organizations in 1955. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is an independent agency of the U.S. government. It was created under the National Labor Relations Act of 1935 or the Wagner Act and was amended by the acts of 1947 or the Taft-Harley Labor Act and 1949 or the Landrum-Griffin Act. The board affirmed the rights of the labor to organize and bargain collectively through representatives they chose or to refrain from such activities. The board which is composed of five members is assisted by 33 regional directors. The members are appointed by the U.S. President with the approval of the Senate for five-year terms. The proper bargaining units are determined, the elections for union representation are conducted, and the charges of unfair labor practices by employers are investigated by the board. Coercion, interference, or restraint in labor’s self-organizational rights is included in the unfair practices (Villanueva Siasoco). A research study revealed that the collaboration of an organization (such as community organizations) and a labor union is an impetus for change. For example, the labor unions and community organizations in Greater Boston, which have worked together in recent years, have achieved remarkable successes. Some of their victories include the passing of a Boston living wage ordinance, an increase in the minimum wage in Massachusetts, improvement in union contracts and in workplace conditions, an earned income tax credit on state income taxes, $6 million state job training program for 1, 500 workers, and a number of progressive tax policies which includes a new tax on capital gains. These significant achievements in Boston are reverberated throughout the country. This is manifested by the continuous formation of alliances by community organizations with the organized labor. Again, these alliances are formed for the purpose of tackling problems that affect the lives of the low-wage workers. The Service Employees International Union, which is known for its successful Justice for Janitors campaigns, is one of the unions that organize low-wage workers. The Hotel Employees and Restaurant Union is also a low wage-workers union. These unions are included in the most vibrant and fastest growing organizations in the country. The collaboration of labor unions and community organizations is really needed for the achievement of long-term goals of economic and social justice. The need for the collaboration is being intensified by the changes in the national economy over the last few decades. One the changes that forces for a collaboration of labor unions and community organizations is the shifting of the economy from higher-paying manufacturing jobs to lower-paying jobs in the service sector. Similarly, the public policy efforts for the promotion of the welfare of working families in general are being broadened by the labor movement. The national AFL-CIO, under the new leadership since 1995, has devoted increased resources to advocate policies. These policies include the universal health care coverage which is intended to benefit all American who are working (not only those who are members of unions) and the raising of the federal minimum wage. One of the impacts of labor unions in policies is the announcement of support of amnesty for undocumented immigrants by the AFL-CIO in February, 2000. In addition, the AFl-CIO also played a major role in organizing, planning, and supporting the Immigrant Workers Freedom Ride of 2003. This ride is a nationwide effort which aims to raise the visibility of the issues of the immigrant workers (Ranghelli 4). On the other hand, the impact of changes on employees is the decrease in the purchase of labor by employers because of the higher wages won by unions. The success in asserting for higher wages and better working conditions also reduced the number of jobs available (Reynolds). Are unions still relevant in the U.S.? The question â€Å"Are unions still relevant in the U.S.?† does not need anymore time to think about. Unions are absolutely relevant in the U.S. Considering the economic situation today, wherein the trend is to shift from higher-paying jobs to lower-paying jobs, to use more machines than labor force, and to employ contractualization, the exploitation of the labor sector becomes more intense. Thus, unions play a vital role in achieving economic and social justice. Considering the opinions raised by Reynolds, it is very shallow to say that the labor unions are the anticompetitive force in the labor markets. It is very inhumane to think of workers as simply inputs that are needed to be purchased in order for a process such as production or manufacturing to materialize. It is in this thinking where the exploitation of the laborers’ rights arises. Regarding campaigns and elections, union officers are elected based on the standards established by the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (LMRDA). Officers in the local unions are elected through secret balloting. On the other hand, officers of the national and international unions are elected either by secret balloting of the members or by delegates who are chosen by the secret ballot. The election of the officers of the national and international unions is held at least every five years. For the intermediate bodies, the election of officers is held at least every four years and for the local unions, election of officers is held at least every three years. The funds of a union may be used in conducting an election. Also, it is an option for the employers and unions to use their funds in promoting the candidacy of any candidate (http://www.dol.gov/compliance/topics/unions-elections.htm). Collective bargaining refers to the negotiations between an employer and a group of employees. Negotiations are done so that the conditions of employment would be determined. The result of the procedures of the collective bargaining is called collective agreement. Union or other labor organizations represent the employees in bargaining. Federal and state statutory laws, judicial decisions, and administrative agency regulations govern collective bargaining. Arbitration refers to the method of dispute resolution. This method is used as an alternative to litigation. Arbitration is usually used to resolve disputes between employers and employees during a collective bargaining (http://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/index.php/Collective_bargaining#collective_bargaining_and_labor_arbitration:_an_overview). Usually, strike is the last resort taken by workers in addressing their grievances. Holding mass pickets is the most effective way to involve all strikers. Although strikes may mean decrease in wages or dismissal from work, success in such solidarity actions is effectively achieved through picketing the workplaces of the workers (http://libcom.org/organise/guide-to-taking-strike-action). The aforementioned concepts support the answer that unions are still relevant in the U.S. For example, the funds of unions are very vital during an election because may be used to promote the candidacy of a certain candidate who, when elected, must address the concerns not only of the workers but the families in general. Also, it is very significant in addressing the welfare of the people because what labor unions fight for is not just their interests but the interests of the masses. Again, labor union should not be viewed as a hindrance for the economic development. It is not enough to say that a country is developed based on a high gross national product which is achieved through lower cost of production that includes lower wages for the laborers. Higher gross national product which is achieved through exploitations of workers does not mean economic and social justice. Reference Collective bargaining and labor arbitration: an overview. Retrieved November 18, 2006, from   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/index.php/Collective_bargaining#collective_bargaini  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ng_and_labor_arbitration:_an_overview John. (November 11, 2006). Guide to taking strike action. Retrieved November 18, 2006,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   from http://libcom.org/organise/guide-to-taking-strike-action National Labor Relations Board. Retrieved November 18, 2006, from   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.factmonster.com/ce6/bus/A0834954.html Ranghelli. (March 2005). Joining Forces Community Organizations and Labor Unions Form   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   New Collaborations. Retrieved November 18, 2006, from Unions and Union Members: Union Elections. Retrieved November 18, 2006, from   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.dol.gov/compliance/topics/unions-elections.htm Villanueva Siasoco, Ricco. Hard Labor. How unions fought to honor the American worker.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Retrieved November18, 2006, from http://www.factmonster.com/spot/labor1.html       Labor Relations Labor relation entails policies and daily practices that are concerned with the regulation and management of individual and team relationships within the organization. Essentially, employee relations are centered on the ability to resolve and prevent conflicts that involve either an individual or the teams in the organization which directly affect work situations and performance. Efficient communication ensures that information is passed to the employees in order to allow them understand better the company’s goals and objectives. Most employee relations managers uphold the responsibility of handling grievances, individual code of conduct while in the office, evaluation of employee performance and counseling programs. Sound employee relations are based on participation and effective communication for both the management and the employees. There are various management styles that cover the way employee relations must be conducted in order to achieve the best from the employees. (Selid, 1995) Trade unions are organized groups of employees officially recognized by both the government and their employer that have come together to promote their common interests. Trade unions have a responsibility of ensuring get the value of what they work for. They are directed to provide a communication channel between the employer and the employees. In some cases, In the United States, trade unions are registered by the specific State that it operates from and they are ratified by the federal government. The United States have a national advisory board referred to as Employee Relations Advisory Board (ERAB) that is concerned with formulating national policies which must be adhered to by individual Employee Relations Advisory Organization (ERAO) which every institution including airline companies must have. At least one representative of ERAO is elected to sit at the Employee Relations Advisory Board. In an airline setting for example, their union is responsible for providing the company’s management with suggestions on how to solicit and disseminate information on plans and programs that are designed for employees who will enhance efficiency and effectiveness in the workplace. (Employee Relations Advisory Organization, 2004) There are impact of changes in employee relations strategies, policies, and practices on organizational performance. For example if employees within an organization are represented by a trade union fully recognized by the same organization e.g. the airline company and the government, cooperation between the employer that is airline company and its employees will be enhanced the workplace. Good and sound formulated strategies and policies that relates to labor relations in organization particularly the airline companies will lead to attainment of organizations goals and pursuing the company’s mission statement in the direct path. There are various management styles that cover the way employee relations must be conducted in order to achieve the best from the employees. These management styles are intended to teach employees the following; applicable regulations and policies, bargaining agreements, grievance and appeal rights, and discrimination and protection of whistleblowers. The impact of changes in employee relations has broadened its definition from the initial industrial relations to such aspects as employer-employee relations, personal contracts, workplace environmental safety, and socio-emotional factors. In developed countries like in the U.S and mostly in airline industries, there is a growing trend of harmonization in almost all levels of government mainly because of the government commitment to enhance employee relations programs. (Sparrow and Hilltop, 1994) Trade unions plays a very major role in trying to protect the rights of employees who form there membership and research indicates that they still relevant in the U.S. administration because they have the task of ensuring that employees rights regarding to the workplace are protected. However, due to corruption and other malpractices the effectiveness of these trade unions has been compromised over the last few years. Research indicates that the employers in the U.S. for example employers in the airline industry are reported to be harassing there employees in the pretext that they are giving out instructions to be obeyed in order to achieve the stated organizational goals, a development which does not auger well with trade unions in the U.S. (Delaney and Huselid, 1996) In general, these trade unions has the following roles, labor climate assessment, positive employee relation programs, union campaigns and election objectives, unfair labor practices such as poor wages and unfounded dismissals, dealing with workplace harassment, coordinating and implementing cooperate relations programs, and handling complaint/issue resolution processes in the respective organizations among others. The only problem that normally cause misunderstanding between the trade unions and the companies or government is that the trade unions can organize go slows, strikes, destructions etc when round table solutions to issues fails. This is very hard for a company to control but with negotiations, it can reach an agreement. Trade unions officials are responsible to their members and they are usually elected to office mainly through secret ballots. This implies those vying for any seats have to campaign for votes from the union members. Sometimes some officials use unfair campaign strategies that do not foster fairness and equality among the contenders. Also these trade union officials play a significant role in any country’s general election because they can influence their members on what directions to vote e.g. advising the members to vote out the present government because of some dissatisfaction that they have with it. Trade unions plays an important role contract negotiations; almost everything can be bargained these days and therefore with employee relations through trade unions such issues as awarding contracts, compensations, benefits, and work schedules can be sorted out by discussing them until a solution is achieved. The bargaining approach settles conflicts that arise as a result of contract matters. It also outlines the rules with which the basis of handling specific work agreements is sorted out. Normally, if this approach is well utilized, employee relations are greatly improved. Grievance handling in any organization is very crucial to all organizations and at least every company has some way of dealing with their grievances. In fact, it is considered that a few individuals in a company are so arrogant that they are font of harassing their workmates leading to poor productivity. Companies need to develop a grievance handling procedure that will ensure that conflicts are eliminated in the organization. Without proper handling grievances of the employees well trade unions may call for strikes to force the government to implement their desired changes. In the recent past strikes and go-slows have become common methods which employees use them to pass their grievances to their employers. (Brewster, 1995) It is therefore prudent for management of any organization to adopt employee recognition strategies. This is another factor that the employers put into consideration for the organization to improve its employee relations; this is basically a communication instrument, which strengthens and compensates the most significant production that the employees have created for the organization. The recognition structure is always made simple, instant, and effectively supportive to the employees’ relations and the organization at large. (Chevrier, 2003) Reference: Brewster. C (1995): Towards a European Model of Human Resource Management- Journal of International Business. Vol 26 Pp 45-67 Chevrier, S. (2003): Cross-cultural management in multinational project groups Journal of World Business. Vol.38. Pp 77-89 Delaney. J and Huselid. M (1996):- The impact of human resource management practices on perceptions of performance in for-profit and non-profit organizations. Academy of Management Journal. Vol 39. Pp 34-56 Employee Relations Advisory Organization, (2004): Labor Relations Washington D.C, Article 2. Pp 5-29 Murray, A. (1989): Top management group heterogeneity and firm performance. Strategic Management Journal Vol. 10, Special issue. Pp 13-34 Selid, M. (1995):- The impact of human resource management practices on turnover, productivity, and corporate financial performance- Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 38. Pp 54-76 Sparrow, P. and Hilltop, J. (1994): European Human Resource Management in Transition. Prentice Hall, New York. Pp 23-45               

Life, Death, and Ap Spanish Essay Samples 2018

Life, Death, and Ap Spanish Essay Samples 2018 Ap Spanish Essay Samples 2018 - Is it a Scam? If you've always experienced difficulties with this kind of assignment or couldn't find relevant data to supply solid arguments, our experts are at your services. Plastic surgery may be great solution because of medical explanations. Moreover, you ought to take advantage of the numerous business study guides offered for your usage. Use the assistance of true academic experts and receive the service you have earned! Top Choices of Ap Spanish Essay Samples 2018 Translating an English essay into Spanish may look like a formidable job. The phrases may be used in the essay, but these phrases should not ever be. It's about to receive a small bit simpler for you because here in the following article, we've listed down useful Spanish essay phrases that you could readily use in your essays. Download Some helpful essay phrases. 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Romanticism in The Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allan Poe - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 1 Words: 418 Downloads: 1 Date added: 2019/08/08 Category Literature Essay Level High school Tags: The Fall of The House of Usher Essay Did you like this example? The Fall of the House of Usher short by Edgar Allan Poe. Gothic literature is the gloomy side of romanticism. Gothic literature also honors emotions, imagination, nature, and supernatural events. Edgar allan poe saw dead as his muse for writhing. He also married his second cousin name virginia. Edgar Allan Poes short story The Fall of the House of Usher is an example of Gothic literature because in incorporates architecture, weather, and foreshadowing. Within the story, the architecture represents an element of Gothic literature,because the house has a zigzag crack in the direction of the small lake near the house. The house also has beautiful Gothic arches. The narrator said Made its way down the wall in a zigzag direction, until it became lost in the sullen waters of the tarn. and I entered the Gothic archway of the hall.pg.751. The zigzag crack and the Gothic archways of the house gives us the perfect Gothic setting. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Romanticism in The Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allan Poe" essay for you Create order In the story, the weather represents an element of Gothic literature, because when the narrator enters the house he is fill with an atmosphere of sorrow and gloom. The narrator said I felt that I breathed an atmosphere of sorrow. An air of ster, deep, and irredeemable gloom hung over and prevaded all. pg.751. This atmosphere affected the narrator once he enter. An was also making his friend Roderick more ill. Within the story, foreshadowing represents an element of Gothic literature, because both Roderick and the narrator hear the sounds of madeline trying to out of her coffin. The narrator says Instinctive spirit prompted me -to certain low and indefinite sounds which came through the pauses of the storms.pg.758. Roderick says to the narrator yes, I hear it, and have hearit. Long-long-long-many minutes, many hours, many days, have i heard it.pg.761. This foreshadows that Roderick knew he had bury Madeline alive. It also tells us that madeleine is coming to get her revenge. In conclusion Edgar Allan Poes short story The Fall of the House of Usher contains three of the elements of Gothic literature which are architecture, weather, and foreshadowing. The Gothic architecture gave the house the complete Gothic setting. This story had a gloomy and sorrow atmosphere that tie in with the weather. It also incorporated a noise that foreshadows that she is coming to get her revenge for being bury alive by Roderick. In my opinion this is one of the best short stories that I have ever read because is very thrilling and Gothic.