Managing Information Essay Example for Free

Managing Information Essay Introduction With nearly 40 years’ experience has seen the industry change many times, and has always kept itself at the forefront of that change. Its reputation is a source of pride for all who work here, and it’s something we’re keen to preserve and develop the only way possible: through satisfying our clients. We have developed into a leading multidisciplinary contractor offering a truly comprehensive, integrated service to clients in development, construction, energy and many other sectors. (See appendix 1 for Organisational chart’s of company) My job role within the organisation is quiet a varied one in that my day to day activities are never quite the same, but to summarise my main duties include submitting monthly applications in line with the various contracts worked on for example NEC and JCT to name but a few, attending site progress meetings with a range of clients from the commercial / technical and construction departments, submitting internal applications and working progress, attending internal financial meetings with the Financial Director / Demolition Director and Management Accountant and producing a report with the inclusion of monthly forecasts, attending meetings with Contracts Managers and Estimating director to discuss and produce budget and target sheets, completion of contract sum analysis and end life forecasts which are then discussed and agreed by the Demolition Director, overseeing a wide variety of sub contractors from different construction disciplines used which requires the need to send out tend er packages, raising and awarding sub contract orders, raising of sub contract payments after assessing applications received. All the above assists in the monitoring of various contracts and ensures projects are delivered on time within budget and the client receives maximum satisfaction to secure future work opportunities. 1.0 Understand the Management of Information within the organisation 1.1 Critically assess information flow through a number of different channels within the organisation Throughout the organisation there is various different types of information used which is transferred throughout the organisation in several capacities. Information generally described as below: Production and Operational – Information on assets / quality / standards Financial Information – Profit / Costs / Margins / Cash Flow / Targets Internal Documentation – Purchase Orders / Delivery Notes / Invoices Applications / Credit Notes / Departmental reports / Department Meetings and minutes / Hire Sheets / Plant Sheets and Information / Allocation Sheets and Plant Returns / Employees Records / Cost Books Tender Information / Applications and Invoices (Client) All the above is aided with an Integrated Management System ‘This Integrated Management System outlines how Cuddy plans to satisfy the: Quality requirement of ISO9001:2008 (Quality Management System Specification) Health safety requirements of OHSAS18001:2007 (Occupational Health Safety Assessment Series 18001) Environmental requirements of ISO14001:2004 (Environmental Management Systems Specification) by operating a framework based on these requirements This Integrated Management System is intended to directly meet the requirements of the following legislation and regulations: Health Safety at Work Act 1974 – Section 2(3) requires organisations to have a Health Safety policy which should include: Statement of Intent (i.e. Health Safety mission) Organisation (i.e. structure, roles responsibilities) Arrangements (i.e. procedure and guidance) Management of Health Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – Regulation 5 requires organisations to have arrangements for undertaking effective planning, organisation, control, monitoring and review of the preventive and protective health and safety measures. HSG65 Successful Health Safety Management – This guidance outlines the management system requirements for implementing the arrangements required within regulation 5 of the Management of Health and Safety Work Regulations 1999. This Integrated Management System will provide the mechanism for managing other legislative, regulatory and other policy requirements (e.g. risk assessment, training, etc).’ Above abstract taken from Cuddy To be read alongside the IMS as an aid is the following: Standard procedures Forms and Guidance Notes Standard Operating Procedures Certificates, Insurances, Licences Policy Statements Standard COSHH and Risk Assessments As touched on there are various different ways in which the information is transferred throughout the organisation with the use of electronic, hard copy and spoken for the various types, all this aids us to capture the different types of hard and soft information we need in order to ensure a project is a successful one. ‘Soft information includes feelings, perceptions, opinions; values on the other hand hard information includes verifiable data and knowledge.’ http://onemind.com/2010/03/07/hard-and-soft-information/ I have touched on how information is transferred internally and specifically in the office and from a manager’s point of view through various different capacities but haven’t gone into depth how information is transferred to the boys on the front line on site. As I currently see it within the company there is clear breakdown in communication from when we tender and win a job to what information is received on site and in particular how the site personnel are managed on that specific job In relation to what exactly we priced. This I believe is impacting on the duration we are taking to complete the job and impacting on the possibility of making the job as successful as possible, also this may have a negative effect on the company as whole whilst tendering for works in the future. As part of the IMS there are procedures in place (listed below), but neither allows for the manner and information to be transferred to site. To summarise from the information that is transferred needs to be clear, simple and set out in the way in which the site supervisor understands what is required in order to ensure the project is successful. Place for Enquiry, tender and contract review Project Delivery As a brief understanding in reference to specifically the Demolition Department we have an estimating director who will visit the sites which require pricing and produce a cost book document which is passed to the  demolition director and managing director for comment before submitting what they believe to be our most competitive tender and or bid. If we are lucky enough to be successful in winning that specific job the cost book along with the tender information will be passed to the relevant contracts manager and quantity surveyor in order to generate a budget / target sheet and an extent of works sheet. This is when the middle managers have the opportunity to raise any queries regarding the job with the estimating director or the demolition director on what exactly has been allowed and priced for. The next step in the current process is for the tender information to be copied and a site file produced and passed to the supervisor in order to carry out the works. The cost book, target / budget sheet is not passed onto site and this is just for reference between the middle managers and directors of the company for the protection of vital information. Therefore I propose we come up with a procedure that will allow the smooth transfer of information to site and give a clear indication of what exactly has been allowed in the tender. In setting this procedure I hope to bridge the gap between site and the information held at the office, and in doing so hold regular meetings with agendas, minutes disturbed. 1.2 Propose improvements to the flow of information within your area of responsibility, based on your organisational assessment Due to my job role being one in which I try to minimise cost and enhance value you for money, I believe in setting clear and simple targets to the Supervisors on site this will empower them and give them incentives and a clear understanding on what needs to be achieved in order to ensure the job awarded becomes a successful and profitable one. As mentioned previously in the current situation the Supervisors are given the tender information and briefly explained the job but in some senses are left to run the job with open ended targets and no clear sense of direction or management, this is turn is causing jobs to run over and us not maximising profitability. Currently the transfer of information from tender stage stops at the middle managers point. The reasons being for this is due to confidentiality of the information contained within the cost book and target / budget sheet and as managers there is information we do not want the site operatives to see. Therefore the first action in the procedure would be to hold a pre start meeting or  initial meeting or the like on site with the following being in attendance. The reason I have listed the below as typically they will be deciding factor on how well a job goes: Relevant Contracts Manager Relevant Quantity Surveyor Relevant Site Supervisor Within this meeting the job as a whole would be discussed briefly only. In demolition for example it is possible to break a general job up into the following categories: Site set up Asbestos Removal Soft Strip Demolition to top of slab Removal of slabs and foundations Crush material Clear Site As you can see from above generally there are a few different categories of work required to be carried out on a typical demolition job. Therefore I believe we should not choose to discuss the whole job in detail but targets given for each individual work activity only, as if we discuss the job in detail this may cause the supervisor to go into his / her shell and be intimidated before the job has even commenced. Therefore within this procedure it will be broken down into the specific work activities and depending on the size of the job these work activates could even be broken up into phases if need be. For example in the first pre start meeting or initial meeting the general site set up would be discussed and particular what is required in respect of cabins / welfare / heras fencing to name a few items and the location of where we intend to site up site. As it currently stands the contracts manager usually sets up the site but I believe if we have the supervisor on board early doors and allow him to have an input of the set up required / location this will give him a sense of pride and authority that he is in charge of the site. What site set up that’s required usually depends on the size of the site but typically this usually takes a week or longer and under current HS and CDM Regulations 2007 no works are to commence unless the following are in place: Flushing toilets and running water and drainage systems. Washing Facilities with hot and cold water. Soap or other suitable means of cleaning. Towels or other suitable means of drying. Sufficient ventilation and lighting. Sinks large enough to wash face, hands and forearms. Drinking Water. Changing rooms and lockers. Rest Facilities and heating. After initial site set up has been completed another progress meeting will be held on site with a specific target laid out for the work activity in question. Generally on a demolition site Asbestos Removal usually has to take place before we can commence soft strip depending on what type of asbestos and in line with the specific site asbestos report in place. But for example if we take the job as a linear project and the soft strip cannot commence until after the asbestos, then within this meeting we discuss in length the asbestos removal and set a clear target with the input from the supervisor. Typical of example of this target could be again depending on size of the site but take for arguments sake we take it as the site is split up into 5 phases. Phase 1 -10 Men x 6 Weeks Phase 2-5 Men x 3 Weeks Phase 3 -8 Men x 5 Weeks Phase 4 -8 Men x 2 Weeks Phase 5 -6 Men x 6 Weeks The groundwork will put in by the middle managers to ensure the target above is in line with the cost book and or target / budget sheet, and in line with this procedure it will attempt to set it out as basic as possible in order to attempt to take as much pressure off as possible. Weekly progress meeting will be held after the initial meeting in order to reflect on the previous week’s activity. Within this meeting it will be an opportunity for the supervisor to assess his performance and the performance of his team on site, in doing so will be a self appraisal tool for the supervisor without knowing. It will also give the middle managers an update of current position in respect of the targets set out and give an opportunity to amend or change  anything that is not quiet working correctly and keep the things that are. The meetings will continue on a weekly basis with clear targets and open and frank discussions with input from all parties to create a sense of a team as I beli eve this will help with the running of the job. Constant communication will be held throughout on a daily basis to ensure all parties are aware of constant ongoing on site. When works have been completed the final action in the procedure would be to have a post contract meeting again with all parties where all the information is discussed /analysed / targets reviewed and the like. This will be handy in going forward and used as a tool to gather date / information. This information could be fed back to the estimating director and demolition director in order to have the full circle should a similar job arise in the future. The above will be written out in a clear procedure therefore should someone leave the company, or the job being transferred to someone else then everyone will be aware what is required of them. See Appendix 4 for proposed new Procedure By putting in place the above procedure it will aid with spoken, electronic and hard information and the transfer of. Spoken – Due to the nature of the procedure it encourages the daily dialogue between managers and the site supervisors. Hard Copies – Agendas and Minutes will be taken of all meetings taken placed, which will be updated electronically and distributed accordingly. Electronic – Targets will be collated and circulated, along with copy of the minutes. 2.0 Gather and Analyse information to make decisions to solve problems in your area of responsibility 2.1 Collect information from a wide range of sources to support management decision-making Site Managers / Supervisors Verbal examples from site managers / supervisors stating that the lack of information in respect of the scope / tender inclusions is having a negative impact on the overall performance of our jobs. As mentioned this is transferred verbally therefore we will have to take into account of its reliability and validity. As mentioned previously there is a clear breakdown in the flow of information  from when we price and win a job to the information passed onto site and the management of that information in order to make the job as successful as possible. This is readily backed up from verbal conversations with the site supervisors themselves who are unsure of what the extents of works are and the possible impact this is having on the duration of the projects? Specifically within the Construction Industry as a manager the below is at the forefront of every decision we make. The triangle illustrates the relationship between three primary forces in a project. Time is the available time to deliver the project, cost represents the amount of money or resources available and quality represents the fit-to-purpose that the project must achieve to be a success. http://www.projectsmart.co.uk/project-management-scope-triangle.html But ultimately the decisions we make from site level up the chain to the managing directors determine the outcome. Below is evidence that everyone makes decisions. Above it shows the impact and importance of decisions with regards to the Cuddy Group it is possible to split the three groups up into the following: High Value -Managing Directors and Directors Medium Value-Middle Managers e.g. Contracts Managers and Quantity Surveyors Low Value-Site Managers and Site Personnel Quiet often when making a decision we use past knowledge in order to aid and assist us. Past knowledge or the information that is generally contained within the brains of individuals is generally known as tacit knowledge. This knowledge is continually getting updated and revised depending on learning, experiences and insight. There are various different types of knowledge and this is summarised in various models. One of the widely accepted approaches to summarising knowledge management is the Nonaka Takeushi, (see appendix 9 for web location) Below are a couple of diagrams showing the matrix. Nonaka Takeuchi model the process of organisational knowledge creation as a spiral in which knowledge is amplified through these four modes of knowledge  conversion. Quote taken from class notes. Along with the specific project management matrix / flow and knowledge diagrams there is general management information available that will aid in decision making see below. Reliability and Validity Model (see appendix 9 for web location) Knowledge Classifications Model (see appendix 9 for web location) Good decisions make good projects, so what makes a good decision (and, hence, a good project)? The answer is, one that’s well planned. But then you run into the question of how long the decision-making process should take. Well, the last thing we need is a new formal methodology for decision-making—nothing would ever get done. Thats why Id like to propose several useful rules you can apply to decision-making: Consider the importance of the decision. To determine the importance of a decision, ask yourself: What are the consequences for both the project and for you? In reality, how urgent is the decision? (Note that theres a difference between important and urgent.) Ask yourself if there are more options. In other words, if youre choosing between three options, ask yourself if theres also a fourth option. Think about stakeholders opinions. Have you listened to the opinions of stakeholders in the decision? You should. Even though they may not like your ultimate decision, theyll have to live with it. Concede the fact that youre going to make some irrational decisions. We often make decisions almost by reflex, using a combination of experience, data analysis, gut feelings, fear, personal preference, and peer pressure. I’m not saying that you shouldn’t take into account your sense of self-preservation, the views of your team, or your recollections about why a previous project caused you grief. You just need to be aware that each new situation demands a clear point of view and a fresh decision; otherwise, the same mistakes will recur. Remember that even some small choices can have big consequences. Don’t underestimate the possibility that major consequences could result from seemingly insignificant choices you make along the way.  http://www.techrepublic.com/article/decisions-decisions-make-them-timely-wisely-and-responsibly/1049740 Along with the information above collated from the web I have also read the following text books / Management books. NLP Pocketbook (see appendix 10) Engaging Employees, A practical guide for busy leaders managers (see appendix 10) Both books aid management and in particular with decision making. In respect of the NLP Pocketbook it produmitaly focus on yourself and your actions, It works on a SMART goal setting strategy. SMART goal setting is Specific Measurable Achievable Realistic and within a defined Time Frame. SSpecific and positive M Measurable and meaningful to you AAchievable and covering all areas of your life, stated in the present tense as if you have achieved it now RRealistic and right for you  TTimes and targeted, towards what you want. In addition to SMART goal setting, NLP incorporates a process called ‘creating a well-formed outcome. Creating a well-formed outcome involves asking a series of questions that will help you clarify your goal. They will help you to ascertain how important the goal is to you, how (if necessary) to revise it and make it more achievable. Well –formed outcome questions: Is the goal stated positively? What do you want? (Eg, wanting to increase company profits rather than a statement about reducing the loss) Can you start and maintain the process of achieving the goal by yourself, and keep it in your control? Does the goal include all the senses? How will you know you have achieved it? What will you feel, see and hear when you have achieved it? What will other people fee, see and say when you have achieved it? Is the context clearly defined? How long will it take? Who will be involved? Where will it take place? How will it be achieved? When do you want it? Have you checked that it is ecological or meaningful for you, ie is it worth the investment in time and money? Does the outcome fit in with your life and who you are? Does the goal keep those aspects of the present situation you want to preserve, ie are there positive elements you wish to maintain? Does it identify the resources you need – those you already have  or those you need to acquir e? What first step must you take? What are the next steps? Abstract directly taken from the NLP Pockebook. But in contrast to the above the Engaging Employees, A practical guide for busy leaders managers text book focuses predominately on how to get the best out of your team. See contents page taken from the text book to back this up. Is starts with you Planning to communicate Understanding your audience Engaging people in change Face to face matters Team meetings; getting it together High Impact presentations Checking you’re getting through Effective email – at last The write stuff. 2.2 Analyse the information collected from a wide variety of sources, to inform decision-making Project Management Models When project managing a job in construction there are various different types of models that we are able to follow some of which I have given examples of but ultimately the primary focus specifically within the construction industry is the triangle between the three primary forces. Delivering the job on time, within budget to a high standard. Decision making model With the triangle in mind we all have to make decisions of variable impact and volume as is set out in the decision making model. With this in mind managing information and the decisions we make are key. ‘By not making a decision you’re making a decision to not make a decision’ taken from the ILM class notes. The decisions we make as a business ultimately determines how successful the outcome is, and in particular the flow of information within the company to aid our decision making is critical. Therefore before we make  any decisions we have to take into account the impact of the decisions we are making. Nonaka takeuchi model When making a decision we usually take into account past experiences / doing otherwise defined as Tacit Knowledge. Under the Nonaka Takeuchi model it explains the relationship and how we can turn Tacit Knowledge into Explicit knowledge which can be readily transmitted to others. Most common forms of explicit knowledge are manual, documents and procedures in our organisation we can relate to the ILM system and the various procedures in place. Please see below which makes good reading. The patent had attempted to be bought by a buyer in other words the tacit knowledge had attempted to be turned into explicit knowledge but due to it possibly not being documented correctly or the manner in which it was presented not being explained correctly it failed. Therefore the tacit knowledge that had been turned into explicit knowledge was little or no use to the buyer. We must bare this in mind if we are relying too heavily on explicit knowledge and in particular how reliable the knowledge is? In the same sense it’s possible to categorise Wikipedia as explicit knowledge but we have to take into account the source and what past experience or where the information originated from before using it to make a decision. ‘Bessemer steel process — Bessemer sold a patent for his advanced steel making process and was sued by the purchasers who couldnt get it to work. In the end Bessemer set up his own steel company because he knew how to do it, even though he could not convey it to his patent users. Bessemers company became one of the largest in the world and changed the face of steel making.[15]’ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tacit_knowledge Measuring Validity and Reliability model When gathering information to make a decision we must take in the validity and reliability of what we looking to achieve. Especially within the construction industry there is specific ways in which to measure or calculate something and this can be best described as the below. Reliability Reliability refers to how consistent a measuring device is. A measurement is said to be reliable or consistent if the measurement can produce similar  results if used again in similar circumstances. For example, if a speedometer gave the same readings at the same speed it would be reliable. If it didnt it would be pretty useless and unreliable. Importantly reliability of self-report measures, such as psychometric tests and questionnaires can be assessed using the split half method. This involves splitting a test into two and having the same participant doing both halves of the test. If the two halves of the test provide similar results this would suggest that the test has internal reliability. http://www.holah.karoo.net/reliabilityandvalidity.htm In respect of validity this refers to the extent of what we are measuring and what we hope to measure. Validity This refers to whether a study measures or examines what it claims to measure or examine. Questionnaires are said to often lack validity for a number of reasons. Participants may lie; give answers that are desired and so on. It is argued that qualitative data is more valid than quantitative data. http://www.holah.karoo.net/reliabilityandvalidity.htm Both the reliability and validity have categories in themselves in which we can use to measure if they are achieving what we set out to achieve. To summarise we need to be mindful if we are using specific data or gathered information if it’s reliable and valid in terms of what we are hoping to achieve and fit for purpose. Information to Knowledge Management With respect of the next model it gives us an insight of how the ever evolving computer industry and in particular the capacity to store and distribute data / information is enabling personnel learning and also the capacity to make correct decision in going forward. Given an example that is relevant to the Cuddy group is the below. We are able to save / store and distribute raw facts and figures on a particular job and in doing so we are able to see if a job was successful in respect of profit? We then can move  on to give meaning to the obtained data in respect of information and give reasons why that job was successful? We then can analyse the derived information and understand what we did well on that job. This will then give us the wisdom going forward to know what to do for the best on other jobs. As mentioned evolving technology is aiding us with the transfer and storing of this information and aiding us with the capability of personnel learning. There are various examples and models that differ slightly some of which I have given examples but all cover the above. General Management Tools As the assignment is targeted at middle managers I have looked into the impact that decisions have and what to consider before making decisions? As a rule the following applies: Consider the importance of the decision Ask yourself if there are more options Think about stakeholders opinions Concede you’re going to make some irrational decisions Remember that even small choice have big consequences I also looked into how SMART goal setting and how to engage with employees. 2.3 Use this analysis of information to make and justify a management decision Using the analysis and the information collated along with the procedure I believe this will better the flow of information throughout the company. The triangle The procedure will aid with delivering the job on time within budget and to a high standard. Delivering the job on time – By having weekly meetings on site and the constant daily dialogue this should enable any problems to be caught at an early stage and thus giving time to nip in the bud the potential to impact on progress and in particular the end date which quiet often is key to a job being a successful one from a clients point of view. Within Budget – Due to the procedure allowing for a review of the target v actual on a weekly basis this will enable weekly monitoring of the budget to ensure everything is on track, atm there if only an allowance of monthly reporting and it’s possible for any job to change dramatically from month to month. High Standard – Again as the procedure allows for the contracts  manager / quantity surveyor to visit site at least once a week with the supervisor having chance to put his / hers views across together this should r aise standards. Decision making model In reference to the procedure this will reiterate the fact that everyone makes decisions especially as minutes will be keep, actions assigned and closed out as and when this occurs. Nonaka Takeuchi Model With the procedure in place it will allow for smoother transfer of tacit knowledge into Explicit Knowledge. This will be done by taking minutes; monitoring progress against targets and reporting this information back to directors / managing directors in order to have the full cycle. Validity and Reliability Under the procedure progress meetings will be held on site this will allow us to audit and monitor the reliability and the validity of the information we are being told by the site manager / supervisor. This will be used as a checking tool before information is transferred around the company to directors and managing directors alike. Knowledge Management With the procedure set in place where minutes are taken / targets are monitored it will allow for us to save / store and distribute raw facts. Also with the weekly minutes we will be to give meaning to the obtained data for example why we missed out specific targets? Why we bettered targets? From this then we can analyse the information and understand how and why? This will then enable us to make the correct decisions in going forward. Along with the analysing the above models and information, I have taking account of why from a managers point of view why the procedure in place will aid with the running of jobs on site and the transfer of information. With regards to the current situation of producing the cost book that is translated to a target / budget sheet, this information will be little or no use to the supervisor for a number of reasons listed below: Information Overload – Due to the nature of the document this may cause confusion in the way the document is set out, therefore as set out in the procedure by breaking things the whole job down into specific tasks this will more than  likely take the pressure off and give a clear understanding of what is required and expected off of them. This is likely to make them less intimated and more confident as if they are clear More hands on and practical – The academic level of a supervisor generally is not the same as what we would normally expect from a middle manager in that the cost book / target and budget sheet will not be fit for purpose if passed onto the supervisor, therefore the information should be broken down so it is easily understood. Team ethos – As it currently stands the information is passed to the supervisor with no clear direction and management give, therefore by employing the proposed procedure this will then bridge the gap and increase the we are in it together approach. Why will meetings be held face to face? Sense of Importance – By making the effort to travel to site, as typically our sites are all of the United Kingdom then this will instil into the supervisor the confidence he needs in that he got your support should he need it. Ability – may not be able to use the computer therefore face to face will enable supervisors to have an opportunity to contribute their input without feeling intimidated Sense of importance – By holding the meetings face to face this will enable them to feel like they got you in their corner and in doing so should create a clear divide from site operatives to supervisors. Meetings more personnel – Generally meetings face to face are more personnel and can be structured better with agendas / minutes and the like assisting Why will the supervisor in respect of the site operatives be the only site member to be part of the meeting? Clear level of management between site operatives / supervisors and middle managers – This will empower the site supervisors and in doing have a clear barrier between the site operatives and himself. Self Worth – It will also give the site supervisor the self worth and mutual respect between himself and the middle manager, hopefully this should increase productivity as he is likely to want to do more for the middle manager if he believes he has the respect. Respect earns respect! Company generally uses agency Labour – As touched on previously due to the company operating throughout the company there is the need to employ agency labour, by having weekly meetings with the supervisor in attendance again this is creating a clear structure. How the meetings should be conducted? Ability – plenty of discussions questions to ensure supervisor gets points you’re making. Allow supervisor to have their say and input – By asking questions this will allow supervisor to have their say and input. Informally rather than formally, don’t want supervisor to feel under spotlight – Due to the nature of the construction industry and especially on site it is rather informal, therefore if the meetings are held in the same manner this should enable the middle line managers to get the most out of the supervisors. From analysing the various different models and combining with general middle management responsibilities I believe the procedure I have put in place will significantly help with the transfer of information from site to board level alike. 3.0 Disseminate information on a management decision, through the right organisational channels 3.1 Communicate information to team member or other colleagues to meet business objectives, using appropriate organisational channels In reference to the procedure set up this should allow for the constant communication of how a specific job is performing from site level to the board of directors and in particular through the correct organisational channel. To elaborate on the above; Site Supervisors will have constant dialogue with middle managers on a daily basis, with a weekly progress held on site to discuss performance. Munities of the meeting with be typed up and performance analysed with knowledge added to explain how performance is operating? Are we going to hit our target? Be on time? Within budget? To name a few of the questions answered? This will then in turn be disrupted to the relevant director, finance director and the management accountant. This will then be discussed on weekly basis in the departmental weekly progress meeting, and the fortnightly Trading Review meeting with finance with the relevant directors. This in turn then can be reported back to the MD by the relevant directors when board level meeting happens. As you can see from the procedure put in place we will allow for the reporting from site to board of directors level to be on a weekly basis rather than a monthly as is currently in place, this in turn will give us every opportunity possible to achieve the best possible  outcome in respect of the construction triangle. Delivering the job on time, within budget to a high standard. 3.2 Communicate information to stakeholders or customers to meet business objectives In reference to the procedure as mentioned previously this will allow for the constant flow of information from site to managing directors (stakeholders) to be done on a weekly basis. In respect of customers or clients quiet the construction triangle is key, therefore by having weekly progress meetings this information will be able to be fed back to the client, giving them the confidence that we are putting their needs first ‘the customer is always right ethos’

Unemployment In Jamaica Cause and Effect

Unemployment In Jamaica Cause and Effect This project is consisting of information on unemployment in Jamaica and what can be done to improve employment. Unemployment is macroeconomics There are different types of unemployment such as frictional unemployment this is a type of voluntary unemployment that arises because of the time needed to match job seekers with job openings, structural unemployment this happens when a large amount of unemployed workers (labor force) isnt qualify for a large amount of labor force demand. seasonal unemployment, this is when persons are employed temporary for reasons such as a hotel or supermarket needing extra help because of a season (Christmas, summer) but will cut loose those workers when that season period is finish and cyclical unemployment this is used to refer to the fluctuation in unemployment that is incurred by business cycles, more specially, the unemployment caused by economic recessions. In this project you will find information on this problem and why it is consider being an ec onomic one, the theories and model pertaining to unemployment, recommend economic concepts and inventions that can be employed to correct unemployment and the benefits of applying these concepts and inventions. What is the economic problem? Unemployment in Jamaica Unemployment Spikes to 14.1% with 23,000 Jobs lost Unemployment is one of the main problems affecting Jamaica. According to Streetdirectory, Unemployment refers to the condition and extent of joblessness within an economy, and is measured in terms of the unemployment rate, which is the number of unemployed workers divided by the total civilian labor force. (Sinha, 2012) According to The Gleaner, published Friday May 18, 2012, Some 23,000 jobs were lost last year after the current survey was done. In January 2012, The Labor force Survey release in May put the unemployment rate at 14.1 per cent compared to last year, which was at 12.9 per cent. The labor force has grown to 177,200 and the latest survey shows that some 9,300 people dropped out of the labor force, cutting the pool from 1.27 million to 1.26 million. The Gleaner also stated that The result for the January 2012 survey, which was conducted over the period December 18-24, estimate that there are 686,900 males and 573,700 women in the labor force. The employed pool totaled 1.08 million, of which was 56.7 per cent or 614,800 are men and 468,600 or 43 per cent are women. The Gleaner also states that, The spike in unemployment is heavily skewed towards females among whom the unemployment rate is 18.3 per cent, while for men it is 10.5 per cent. Sectors with the largest jobs cuts over one year included construction, 10,900 jobs lost, and professionals, senior officials and technician, 10,200 cuts. Statin estimates that the persons seeking work in the January 2012 survey as increased by 4.3 per cent. The effects unemployment has on Jamaica Unemployment affects majority of our Jamaicans especially the inter city areas and in particular the youth of this area. Unemployment creates many problems such as crime and violence, lowering of ones self-esteem, and poverty. Etc. Crime and Violence comes to present because when unemployed person are in need and cannot assist themselves or other, they turn to robbing and killing others to satisfy their needs and wants. The lowering of ones self-esteem may occur when they see another working and being able to assist themselves while he/she cant do the same. This can lead to crime and violence. Poverty is a big issue in today economy and most unemployed person are the one facing this situation. When person cant work and afford things, this lead to financial problems, divorce, children losing their education and health, hunger, fights and more which then can lead to poverty. Why consider unemployment to be an economic problem? 1. Unemployment is an economic problem due to the fact that when the economy is not doing well, businesses begin to lay off workers 2. It affects consumer confidence in terms of consumers that are employed will start to devote their money more in savings than to spend it on unnecessary items because of the fear of them losing their jobs. 3. High unemployment creates pressure on the government budget. High unemployment reduces the total taxation receipts the government receives because people without an income wont be able to pay their income tax. This will then place a drain on the government funds as the unemployed claim the job search allowance. 4. Unemployment reduces the output of goods and service that could otherwise have been produced by unemployed labor force. If unemployment rate is very high, an economy will produce below its potential. Etc Question 2 Economic Theories and model pertaining to this problem Classical economic theory 1. According to the lead authors, Global Development and Environment Institute, Neva R. Goodwin, Julie A. Nelson, Frank Ackerman, Thomas Weisskopf classical economic theory, unemployment is seen as a sign that smooth labor market functioning is being obstructed in some way. The classical approach assumes that markets behave as described by idealized supply-and-demand model. The labor market is seen as though it were a single, static market, characterized by perfect competition, spot transaction, and institutions for double auction bidding (Global Development and Environment, 2006). Resume help for Unemployed Assess the Gap 2. According to Teena Rose, director of resume-writing firm ExpertResume.com, the best way to address an employment gap depends on how long one has been out of work. She states that if one is unemployed for a year or less, then the best thing to do is to not say anything. This is not necessary to place on resume (Kim Isaacs, 2012). 3. Short Run Phillip Curve The short run Phillips curve shows the inverse relationship between unemployment and inflation rate. According to theory, when there is high unemployment, producers can set lower wages and still attract labor. When unemployment level is low, firms will have to pay high wages in order to attract labor as there wouldnt be much competition between them. This theory contradicts with two of the four main aims of the government low/stable inflation rate and low unemployment level. Question 3 Economic concepts or intervention that can be used to correct unemployment 1. According to Kimberly Amadeo and About.com Guide, the solution for unemployment is obviously to create new jobs. They state that a healthy economic growth rate of 2-3% is enough to create the 150,000 new jobs needed to keep unemployment from rising. (Kimberly Amadeo, 2012) 2. According to Answers, the solution for unemployment can be correct in many ways, such as, a) cutting in real wage, cutting in real wage are a reaction to the view that through their demands for higher wages, some groups of workers have priced themselves out of a job. b) Unemployment agencies could tighten their job search and acceptance requirement. c) Improving the education and training provided to young people, with a greater focus on vocational skills. d) Government support to struggling industries in order to try and save jobs. e) The government needs to try and create demand in economy. This could give grant to businesses to produce goods, have projects such as road building, cut interest rates to encourage spending and cut income tax to encourage spending. f) Countries need to ensure that their welfare systems do not provide disincentives to workers. (Answers, 2012) 3. Phillip curve Its a large believe that unemployment could be solve using the Phillips curve. This involves increasing inflation to reduce unemployment by fooling workers into accepting jobsat at a lower rate than they would otherwise have done, due to the declining value of money. 4. Demand side supplies Monetary policy and fiscal policy can both be used to increase short-term growth in the economy, increasing the demand for labor and decreasing unemployment. The demand for labor in an economy is derived from the demand for goods and services. As such, the demand for labor will increase, increasing employment and wages. 5. Supply side policies Minimum wages and union activity keep wages from falling, which means too many people want to sell their labor at the going price but cannot. Supply-side policies can solve this by making the labor market more flexible. This includes removing the minimum wage and reducing the power of unions, which act as a labor cartel. Other supply side policies include education to make workers more attractive to employers. Cutting taxes on businesses and reducing regulation, creates jobs and reduce unemployment. (curve) Question 4 What are the benefits of applying the economic concept above? 1. Creating new jobs Creating new jobs accommodates employment, growth in GDP, develop infrastructure, help to reduce depts and more. Having a job is essential in living life and retiring at a comfortable age and this is something that all individual looks forward to and without them having a job this may lead to crime and violence. The concept of creating new job will increase employment and decrease unemployment. 2. A. Cut in wage Not cutting the real wage can allow persons to keep their job instead of pricing themselves out. B. Unemployment agencies could tighten their acceptance requirement and job search. Job agencies tightening their acceptance requirement and job search could lead to more persons that are not fully qualified or have the right requirement to have the chance to be employed instead of them being unemployed. C. Improving the education and training provided to young people, with a greater focus on vocational skills. Improving the education and training of young adult will help them to be better equipped for the working world. One way is to train them by actually allowing them to do the work instead of teaching them orally and from them writing. This will help them to better understand and to have gained some experience. D. The government needs to try and create demand in economy. Government creating demand in the economy will also workers to produce more goods and interest rate will be cut which will then produce more spending of consumer. E. Government support to struggling industries in order to try and save jobs. Government supporting struggling industries and trying to save jobs will help in building the economy, reduce unemployment and more. 3. Supply side policies Inputting supply side policies will allow wage and union to not fall to a lower price so a lot of person will be able to sell their labor at a going price. This can make the labor market more flexible by removing the minimum wage and reducing the power of union, which act as a labor cartel. 4. Demand side supplies Monetary policy and fiscal policy can both be used to increase growth in the economy. This can increase the demand for labor and decrease unemployment, the demand for economy is derived from the demand for goods and services so the demand for labor will increase which will increase employment and wages. Recommendation I would strongly recommend that the government of Jamaica try to find new ways to implement strategies that can produce employment in Jamaica because with so many person unemployed, it is affecting the economy and also affecting the citizens. With so many persons being out of job it affects their daily life which leads to disaster such as robbery, crime and violence, lack of education to children and young adult and more. Conclusion It has been concluded that unemployment have a major effect on Jamaica economy. With unemployment rate increasing each year, it affects families, students and others. Unemployment is an economic problem due to the fact that when the economy is not doing well, businesses begin to lay off workers, It affects consumer confidence in terms of consumers that are employed will start to devote their money more in savings than to spend it on unnecessary items because of the fear of them losing their jobs and more.

Essay --

What is Schizophrenia? Schizophrenia is brain disorder that makes it hard to see the difference between reality and imagination, have normal emotional responses, and act normal in social situations. Schizophrenia is relatively young, it has only been around for less than 100 years. It was first discovered by Dr. Emile Kraeplin in 1887. He believed it was a mental illness. A few documents take Schizophrenia’s origins back to Egypt during the Pharaoh’s rule around 1550 B.C. People originally thought schizophrenia was simply madness, and usually associated it with madness, even though it is quite different from madness. Symptoms of this disease include Positive symptoms, which are: hallucinations, or things that someone can see, feel, smell, or hear that do not really exist. Many people hear voices inside their heads, see people that are not there, or smell odors no one else smells. Delusions are another symptom, also known as bizarre beliefs, these may include paranoid de lusions also, which are delusions that tell the person that others are trying to hurt them. Thought Disorders are a symptom in which the person thinks unusually or dysfunctionally. Movement disorders may be present in schizophrenic people, they may seem like twitches or small, sharp, and sudden movements. Schizophrenia’s â€Å"negative symptoms† are harder to recognize. These include the flat affect, in which the persons face doesn’t move and the voice is droning. The lack of pleasure in life is another once, along with the lack of ability to start and sustain activities, and little speech. These symptoms prevent or block the person from living a normal life because they cause social, physical, and emotional, and mental problems. This may lead to psychosis, insanity, or ... ...ients that suffer severe symptoms. The most common treatment is a combination of medicine and therapy. Where the patient engages in individual psychotherapy with a therapist, rehabilitation, family education, or self help groups. These therapies usually help people cope with schizophrenia and its effects. At this time there is no cure for schizophrenia, there are very effective treatments and medications. Research is being conducted to help scientists understand the disorder better and is being used to try to treat schizophrenia permanently. The only way this is possible is with the use of new treatments, such as new experimental drugs and electrotherapy. No treatments today are preventative nor do they permanently â€Å"cure† schizophrenia, but we can look to the bright future for the development of a new treatment option that could potentially fully cure schizophrenia.

Creation In Schools Essay -- essays research papers

Creation in School   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The debate of Creation versus Evolution. This has been a very heated debate since Darwin published Origins of Species in 1859. The reason for this debate comes from the contradicting ideas that this book has with the theory of Creation set forth in the Bible. Due to the fact that is extremely hard to prove what created the earth, people have wrestled between these ideas for the last one hundred and forty years. When Evolution was first introduced it was widely rejected because it went against what people were brought up to believe. Evolution has so far stood the test of time and has become more widely accepted, to the point to which it is taught in our schools. Where Evolution has found its way into the school curriculum, the theory of Creation has not. Some people feel that it Creation should get equal time to Evolution in schools. In this paper I will use what I have learned from Professor Swenson’s Christian Theology course and my personal feelings to tr y and express why there is no reason for the theory of Creation to be taught in school. Creation is based on Christianity and you must understand Christianity before you can make claims. Christianity is a very strong force that works in many people’s lives. It gives us morals to live by, inner strength, a reason to live, and much more. It is based on God creating the world in seven days. Most everyone has a religion and can try to imagine what would it be like to live in a world without religion? The way in which religion structures a society helps it to be more successful as a whole. Stanley Tambiah would agree with this, because its similarities to the Trobriands, a tribe that he studied the rituals of and found that the rituals they performed had practical purpose along with the mystical meaning. The Trobriands had certain rituals they must perform when eating yams and they could only eat them at certain times. If the Trobriands did not have the structure to there society all their yams would be eaten to quickly and the tribe would starve. As for our culture, do we need this structure? Americans are in no trouble of running out of yams. Maybe this is why we see a decline in religion in the United States and other developed countries. The practical purpose for Christianity is no longer needed and the religion is losing speed. Although we do not need thes... ...gious parents are trying to use in order to get their religion taught in school. As for me, I would not mind other religions being taught to my kid, I would want my children to know all the information before they go off believing just anything that I taught them. He could make the choice for himself. Although I can see where these things would help, I believe there would be too many complications in trying to teach it. On top that I also feel that it should be left at that without an argument. If a parent were to push any further, I would have to question their responsibility. Schools do not have to teach you child everything they know. Schools teach so much already, do you want your kid to only learn stuff from school. As a parent I would hope that I could at least teach my child religion along with many other things. We have become so dependant on school, it seems somewhat ridiculous. Back when my Grandfather was at school it was completely different. To bring this to a close I would like to say that although I am a religious person and would like to see what my faith calls on taught in school, but I believe the controversies it raises lays this idea to rest. Creation In Schools Essay -- essays research papers Creation in School   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The debate of Creation versus Evolution. This has been a very heated debate since Darwin published Origins of Species in 1859. The reason for this debate comes from the contradicting ideas that this book has with the theory of Creation set forth in the Bible. Due to the fact that is extremely hard to prove what created the earth, people have wrestled between these ideas for the last one hundred and forty years. When Evolution was first introduced it was widely rejected because it went against what people were brought up to believe. Evolution has so far stood the test of time and has become more widely accepted, to the point to which it is taught in our schools. Where Evolution has found its way into the school curriculum, the theory of Creation has not. Some people feel that it Creation should get equal time to Evolution in schools. In this paper I will use what I have learned from Professor Swenson’s Christian Theology course and my personal feelings to tr y and express why there is no reason for the theory of Creation to be taught in school. Creation is based on Christianity and you must understand Christianity before you can make claims. Christianity is a very strong force that works in many people’s lives. It gives us morals to live by, inner strength, a reason to live, and much more. It is based on God creating the world in seven days. Most everyone has a religion and can try to imagine what would it be like to live in a world without religion? The way in which religion structures a society helps it to be more successful as a whole. Stanley Tambiah would agree with this, because its similarities to the Trobriands, a tribe that he studied the rituals of and found that the rituals they performed had practical purpose along with the mystical meaning. The Trobriands had certain rituals they must perform when eating yams and they could only eat them at certain times. If the Trobriands did not have the structure to there society all their yams would be eaten to quickly and the tribe would starve. As for our culture, do we need this structure? Americans are in no trouble of running out of yams. Maybe this is why we see a decline in religion in the United States and other developed countries. The practical purpose for Christianity is no longer needed and the religion is losing speed. Although we do not need thes... ...gious parents are trying to use in order to get their religion taught in school. As for me, I would not mind other religions being taught to my kid, I would want my children to know all the information before they go off believing just anything that I taught them. He could make the choice for himself. Although I can see where these things would help, I believe there would be too many complications in trying to teach it. On top that I also feel that it should be left at that without an argument. If a parent were to push any further, I would have to question their responsibility. Schools do not have to teach you child everything they know. Schools teach so much already, do you want your kid to only learn stuff from school. As a parent I would hope that I could at least teach my child religion along with many other things. We have become so dependant on school, it seems somewhat ridiculous. Back when my Grandfather was at school it was completely different. To bring this to a close I would like to say that although I am a religious person and would like to see what my faith calls on taught in school, but I believe the controversies it raises lays this idea to rest.

Free College Essays - Comparison of Macbeth and Lord of the Flies :: comparison compare contrast essays

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Macbeth is one of the protagonist in a Shakespeare play "Macbeth". Jack is also a protagonist in the novel "Lord of the Flies".   The following essay will outline the differences and similarities of these two characters.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There are five similarities between Jack and Macbeth. Firstly, they were both leader of some kind.   Jack was a leader of a choir group while Macbeth was a co-leader of Duncan's army.   Secondly, they were brave.   Jack was brave, he went up to the top of the hill by himself and searched for the beast.   Macbeth was brave too, he won the battle in the beginning of the story.   Thirdly, they were both ambitious. Jack was the leader of the hunting party in the beginning of the story, but he wanted to become the leader of the entire group on the island.   Macbeth wanted to become the king of Scotland after having the conversation with the three witches. Fourthly, they both became more cruel as they gained more power.   After Jack formed his own group and set up a camp on Castle Rock, he became more cruel than before.   For Macbeth, he hesitated six times before killing Duncan.   But when he planned to kill Banquo and Macduff's family, he didn't hesitated and killed them without regret.   Lastly, they were both superstitious.   Jack was superstitious, he worshipped the Lord of the Flies and held a ritual dance around the camp fire after sacrificing the pig. For Macbeth, he believed in the fortune telling of the three witches. (Quote: All hail Macbeth, hail to thee, Thane of Glamis.   All hail Macbeth, hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor.   All hail Macbeth, that should become king here after.)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There are five differences between Jack and Macbeth. Firstly, their ages were different.   Jack was a teenager while Macbeth was an adult with a wife.   Secondly, they have different endings.   Macbeth was killed in the end of the story while Jack was rescued.   Thirdly, Jack kills to consolidate his power while Macbeth kills to success his goal.   Jack's goal was achieved in the middle of the story, he had to maintain his power over others.   For Macbeth, he had to kill other people in order to have a chance

Goals Paper Essay

My second long-term goal is an academic goal. My academic goal is to graduate from the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. This academic goal of mine is very important to me because I want to be a teacher. I have always wanted to become a teacher since I was a young girl but I foolishly did not pursue my dream. I am now at a point in my life where I recognize that tomorrow is not promised. Therefore, I have decided to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher and will not allow myself to steer off that path. My third long-term goal is career orientated. This long-term career goal is to simply become an effective elementary teacher. By becoming an effective elementary teacher, I will be able to make a positive difference in the lives of my students. I know firsthand the importance of an effective teacher because I experienced what one was like. That person was my fifth grade teacher and she made such a positive difference in my life at that time. I want to be able to do the same and so that is why becoming an effective elementary teacher is my long-term career goal. Now that I have identified my three long-term goals I will now discuss how I will accomplish these goals. In order for me to achieve my personal long-term goal of becoming a homeowner, I have set a short-term and an intermediate goal. My short-term goal which will help lead me to becoming a homeowner is finding a job, because I am currently unemployed. The only income I have at this time is from my husband’s full-time job. His income alone cannot qualify us for a mortgage loan. Therefore, I intend to consistently look for employment on a weekly basis. Although this short-term goal may seem to be an easy one, it is not. The reason it is not is due to the fact that there are a lot of people currently unemployed whom are looking for work themselves. This has a negative effect on me because it makes my chances of finding a job much harder. However, I am determined to find a job no matter how many applications it may take. I will make sure that I attach a resume and will make follow-up calls to each of the employers that I have submitted an employment application to. I will also keep a positive attitude on my pursuit for employment so that nothing sabotages my short-term goal. With that said, having a job is not the only thing that is necessary for me to achieve my long-term personal goal. I will also need to have some money saved to put down towards the purchase price of a home. Therefore, I have set an intermediate goal to have saved at least two percent of $195,000 dollars within the next two and a half years by putting $130 dollars per month into a savings account. I am confident that I can achieve my personal long-term goal as long as I adhere to the short-term and intermediate goals that I have indicated above. As for my long-term academic goal to achieve a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, I have set a short-term and an intermediate goal that will assist me in obtaining it. My short-term goal consists of two parts. The first part is to take a minimum of four courses, per semester, that are required for the type of degree I am seeking. The second part is to maintain a grade point average of 3. 0 or higher. In order for me to meet these short-term goals I will make sure that I follow the education catalog which outlines all the courses I need to complete and I will make sure that I consistently keep up with all assignments. I will also keep myself organized and maintain a positive attitude in every course that I take. My intermediate goal is to earn my associates degree at Valencia by the year 2012. I know that I can accomplish this intermediate goal as long as I adhere to my short-term goal stated above. Now this may sound like an easy thing to do but in reality there are always challenges that can arise and put a damper on things. One of the challenges that I face in meeting my short-term goal is procrastination. I tend to procrastinate when it comes to studying and completing assignments that I find to be challenging. This course has already taught me the importance to stop procrastinating and to study. I plan to utilize the information from our course to stop the cycle of procrastination and to study in an effective manner. I also intend to consistently reaffirm my long-term academic goal so that it will motivate me to keep in line with my short-term and intermediate goals. Lastly for my long-term career goal, which is to be an effective elementary teacher, I have set a short-term and an intermediate goal. My short-term goal is to get hired as an elementary teacher shortly after obtaining my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. In order for that to happen, I will submit employment applications at several elementary schools for a teacher position. I will also make sure that I provide a resume along with my portfolio to all of the schools that I have submitted an employment application to. My intermediate goal that I have set which will assist me in becoming an effective elementary teacher consists of developing professionally on a personal level and on a career level. Once I am employed as an elementary teacher, I plan to attend workshops that will improve my skills as a teacher so that I can apply such skills in the classroom. In time I know that I can be an effective elementary teacher because I have a passion to teach and love being around children. In summary, I have a long-term personal goal to own a home, a long-term academic goal to earn a bachelor’s degree, and a long-term career goal to become an effective elementary teacher. All three of my long-term goals are very important to me and in essence builds and/or relies on the other. In order for me to accomplish my three long-term goals, I have set S-M-A-R-T short-term and intermediate goals for each. I also believe that I will be able to achieve all three long-term goals because of Valencia. One of the reasons why Valencia will assist me in reaching my goals is simply due to the fact that this community college is very affordable. Also, this community college has many wonderful professors that are dedicated in guiding students successfully on their career paths. Valencia Community College also has many resources available to me that will assist me in obtaining my associate’s degree and will prepare me with the skills needed to be a successful student at UCF.

Learning Enviroment and Its Effects on Student Academic Performance in Integrated Science Essay

In Nigeria, secondary education is the education children receive after primary education and before the tertiary stage. Consequently, the broad goals of secondary education are geared to prepare the individual for useful living within the society and to progress to higher education (Federal Government of Nigeria, 2004). The school at this level is established so that students can learn in order to be able to transmit knowledge from one generation to another for the continuity and well-being of the society. Learning as a hypothetical construct can only be inferred from observable behavior. Psychologists usually define learning as a relatively permanent change in behavior due to past experience or the process by which relatively permanent changes occur in behavioral potentials as a result of Experience (Gross, 2010) In fact, secondary school education is an investment and an instrument that can be used to achieve a more rapid economic, social, political, technological, scientific and cultural development in the country. The role of secondary education is to lay a solid foundation for better academic performance of students in their pursuit of university education and in other higher institutions with the aim of producing competent manpower for the growth and development of the nation. Recent trends in this tier of education in Nigeria show poor academic results from our children. The preponderance of mass failure in the final examinations conducted by various examination bodies (WAEC, NECO NABTEB) has led to the hue and cry by all and sundry over students’ poor academic performance. It is clear that this tier of education is now seriously threatened by total near collapse as evident by students’ abysmal performance in 2011 examination results in Nigeria. Dissenting groups have passed the blame of students’ poor performance on teachers, parents and government policy somersault. According to Aremu and Sokan (2003), and Aremu and Oluwole (2001), secondary school students’ poor performance may be hinged on students because of their low retention, parental factors, association with wrong peers and motivation. Previous research evidence showed that poor academic performance at the secondary school level of education is a product of teacher, school and the home environment. According to Morakinyo (2003), the falling level of academic performance of secondary school students is attributable to teachers’ non-use of verbal reinforcement. Also the home environment or family background of learners affects their academic performance (Ajila & Olutola, 2007) The sharp decline in the academic performance at various levels of our educational system in Nigeria is largely attributed to the poor conditions in our educational institutions. These include lack of modern instructional technology, poor classroom conditions and lack of adequate training programmes for teachers. Similarly, classroom learning environments and school factors exert some dominant influence on learners, since man is a product of his environment. The importance of learning environment to a successful academic achievement cannot be overemphasized. The learning environment includes school location and physical buildings, laboratory equipment, library services and materials, instructional aids and effective classroom management. Intelligence is not the only determinant of academic achievement. Learning environment affects the academic achievement of a student. According to Basque and Dore (1998), learning and teaching environment ought to implement six functions: inform, communicate, collaborate, produce, scaffold and manage. They added that conceptually speaking, the learning environment refers to the whole range of components and activities within which learning happens. Learning environment that is free from barriers or distraction such as noise, gas/smoke pollution and so on, will promote students’ concentration or perceptual focus to learning (Sprinthall, 1987). Similarly, the entire unattractive physical structure of the school building could demotivate learners to achieve academically. This mismatch promotes poor academic performance. Danesty (2004) stated that dilapidating building lacking mental stimulating facilities that are characterized with low or no sitting arrangement, will also affect students’ learning. Class size has also been identified as a determinant of academic performance. Schools with smaller class size perform better academically than schools with larger class size. Kraft (1994) in his study of the ideal class size and its effects on effective teaching and learning concluded that any class size above forty (40) has negative effects on students’ achievement. Generally, good teaching is best done in classes with small numbers that allow for individual attention. Teachers do make a difference to motivate students in learning, working in tandem with parents who are the first teachers to children. Noordin, Azizi, Jamaludin, Shahrin and Zurihanmi (2010) opined that teachers can make school life miserable or appealing by filling the classroom with excitement and hope. Students will continue in their learning and even search for more knowledge under the leading of enthusiastic teacher (Wlodkowski & Jaynes, 1990). Atkinson (2000) found a positive relationship between teachers’ motivation and the students’ performance. The availability and use of teaching and learning materials affect the effectiveness of a teacher’s lesson. The use of a variety of media increases the probability that the students would learn more and that young children are capable of understanding abstract ideas if they are provided with sufficient materials and concrete experience with the phenomena that they are to understand. Adu and Olatundun (2007), Adediwura and Tayo (2007), and Star (2002) suggested that effective teaching is a significant predictor for students’ academic achievement. In short, poor academic performance of students has been linked to poor teachers’ performance in terms of accomplishing learning tasks (Ofoegbu, 2004; Asikhia, 2010). The home environment or family background of students affects their academic performance (Ajila and Olutola 2007; Nzewuawah, 1995; Ichado, 1998). The home environment sharpens the child’s initial view of learning. Parents’ beliefs, expectations and attitudes about education have a profound early impact on students’ conceptions of the place of education in their life. ` Children in poverty often face problems at home and at school that compromises their learning (Ceballo and McLoyd, 2002, Evans and English, 2002). At home, they might have parents who do not set high educational standards for them, who are incapable of reading to them, and who do not have enough money to pay for educational materials and experiences such as books and trips to zoos and museums. They might be malnourished and live in areas where crime and violence are a way of life (Santrock, 2004). The home environment is as important as what goes on in the school. The home factors include: parental involvement in children’s education, how much parents read to young children; how much television children are allowed to watch; and how often students change schools. Phillips (1998) also found that parental education and social economic status have an impact on students’ achievement. Students with parents who were both educated tended to achieve at the highest levels. Income and family size were moderately related to achievement (Ferguson, 1991). Thus from the analysis of academic achievement, home environment (including family income) and educational activities, it can be concluded that home environment and educational activities explained the greatest amount of variance (Peng and Wright, 1994; Kamaruddin, Zainal, Aminuddin and Jusoff, 2009) The performance of secondary school students in science and non-science subjects in NECO, WAEC and JAMB calls for proper investigation. Student low performance in those subject can be traced back to the effect of their learning environment. Although, several scholars have proposed various factors responsible for the poor performance of students, few research have been dedicated to the correlation between student learning environment both at school and home and academic achievement of students. Thus, this study addressed those learning environment factors that hinder student from performing better in integrated science. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of learning environment on secondary school student academic performance in integrated science. Specifically, the study will; Examine 1.How do secondary school students perceive the quality of learning environment in relation to their academic performance? 2.How do secondary school students perceive teachers’ teaching methods in relation to their academic performance? 3.How do secondary school students perceive parents economic status in relation to their academic performance? 1: How do secondary school students perceive the quality of learning environment in relation to their academic performance? Ho 2: How do secondary school students perceive teachers’ teaching methods in relation to their academic performance? Ho 3: there is no significant difference between class size and student academic performance in integrated science?