Social Cognitive Theory Definition and Examples

Social cognitive theory is a learning theory developed by the renowned Stanford psychology professor Albert Bandura. The theory provides a framework for understanding how people actively shape and are shaped by their environment. In particular, the theory details the processes of observational learning and modeling, and the influence of self-efficacy on the production of behavior. Key Takeaways: Social Cognitive Theory Social cognitive theory was developed by Stanford psychologist Albert Bandura.The theory views people as active agents who both influence and are influenced by their environment.A major component of the theory is observational learning: the process of learning desirable and undesirable behaviors by observing others, then reproducing learned behaviors in order to maximize rewards.Individuals beliefs in their own self-efficacy influences whether or not they will reproduce an observed behavior. Origins: The Bobo Doll Experiments In the 1960s, Bandura, along with his colleagues, initiated a series of well-known studies on observational learning called the Bobo Doll experiments. In the first of these experiments, pre-school children were exposed to an aggressive or nonaggressive adult model to see if they would imitate the model’s behavior. The gender of the model was also varied, with some children observing same-sex models and some observing opposite-sex models. In the aggressive condition, the model was verbally and physically aggressive towards an inflated Bobo doll in the presence of the child. After exposure to the model, the child was taken to another room to play with a selection of highly attractive toys. To frustrate participants, the child’s play was stopped after about two minutes. At that point, the child was taken to a third room filled with different toys, including a Bobo doll, where they were allowed to play for the next 20 minutes. The researchers found that the children in the aggressive condition were much more likely to display verbal and physical aggression, including aggression towards the Bobo doll and other forms of aggression. In addition, boys were more likely to be aggressive than girls, especially if they had been exposed to an aggressive male model. A subsequent experiment utilized a similar protocol, but in this case, the aggressive models weren’t just seen in real-life. There was also a second group that observed a film of the aggressive model as well as a third group that observed a film of an aggressive cartoon character. Again, the gender of the model was varied, and the children were subjected to mild frustration before they were brought to the experimental room to play. As in the previous experiment, the children in the three aggressive conditions exhibited more aggressive behavior than those in the control group and boys in the aggressive condition exhibiting more aggression than girls. These studies served as the basis for ideas about observational learning and modeling both in real-life and through the media. In particular, it spurred a debate over the ways media models can negatively influence children that continues today.   In 1977, Bandura introduced Social Learning Theory, which further refined his ideas on observational learning and modeling. Then in 1986, Bandura renamed his theory Social Cognitive Theory in order to put greater emphasis on the cognitive components of observational learning and the way behavior, cognition, and the environment interact to shape people. Observational Learning A major component of social cognitive theory is observational learning. Bandura’s ideas about learning stood in contrast to those of behaviorists like B.F. Skinner. According to Skinner, learning could only be achieved by taking individual action. However, Bandura claimed that observational learning, through which people observe and imitate models they encounter in their environment, enables people to acquire information much more quickly. Observational learning occurs through a sequence of four processes: Attentional processes account for the information that is selected for observation in the environment. People might select to observe real-life models or models they encounter via media.Retention processes involve remembering the observed information so it can be successfully recalled and reconstructed later.Production processes reconstruct the memories of the observations so what was learned can be applied in appropriate situations. In many cases, this doesn’t mean the observer will replicate the observed action exactly, but that they will modify the behavior to produce a variation that fits the context.Motivational processes determine whether or not an observed behavior is performed based on whether that behavior was observed to result in desired or adverse outcomes for the model. If an observed behavior was rewarded, the observer will be more motivated to reproduce it later. However, if a behavior was punished in some way, the observer would  be less motivated to reproduc e it. Thus, social cognitive theory cautions that people don’t perform every behavior they learn through modeling. Self-Efficacy In addition to the information models can convey during observational learning, models can also increase or decrease the observer’s belief in their self-efficacy to enact observed behaviors and bring about desired outcomes from those behaviors. When people see others like them succeed, they also believe they can be capable of succeeding. Thus, models are a source of motivation and inspiration. Perceptions of self-efficacy influence people’s choices and beliefs in themselves, including the goals they choose to pursue and the effort they put into them, how long they’re willing to persevere in the face of obstacles and setbacks, and the outcomes they expect. Thus, self-efficacy influences one’s motivations to perform various actions and ones belief in their ability to do so. Such beliefs can impact personal growth and change. For example, research has shown that enhancing self-efficacy beliefs is more likely to result in the improvement of health habits than the use of fear-based communication. Belief in one’s self-efficacy can be the difference between whether or not an individual even considers making positive changes in their life. Modeling Media The prosocial potential of media models has been demonstrated through serial dramas that were produced for developing communities on issues such as literacy, family planning, and the status of women. These dramas have been successful in bringing about positive social change, while demonstrating the relevance and applicability of social cognitive theory to media. For example, a television show in India was produced to raise women’s status and promote smaller families by embedding these ideas in the show. The show championed gender equality by including characters that positively modeled women’s equality. In addition, there were other characters that modeled subservient women’s roles and some that transitioned between subservience and equality. The show was popular, and despite its melodramatic narrative, viewers understood the messages it modeled. These viewers learned that women should have equal rights, should have the freedom to choose how they live their lives, and be able to limit the size of their families. In this example and others, the tenets of social cognitive theory have been utilized to make a positive impact through fictional media models. Sources Bandura, Albert. â€Å"Social cognitive theory for personal and social change by enabling media.† Entertainment-education and social change: History, research, and practice, edited by Arvind Singhal, Michael J. Cody, Everett M. Rogers, and Miguel Sabido, Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 2004, pp. 75-96.Bandura, Albert. â€Å"Social Cognitive Theory of Mass Communication. Media Psychology, vol. 3, no. 3, 2001, pp. 265-299, https://doi.org/10.1207/S1532785XMEP0303_03Bandura, Albert. Social Foundations of Thought and Action: A Social Cognitive Theory. Prentice Hall, 1986.Bandura, Albert, Dorothea Ross, and Sheila A. Ross. â€Å"Transmission of Aggression Through Imitation of Aggressive Models.† Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology, vol. 63, no. 3, 1961, pp. 575-582, http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/h0045925Bandura, Albert, Dorothea Ross, and Sheila A. Ross. â€Å"Imitation of Film-Mediated Aggressive Models.† Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology, vol. 66, no. 1, 196 1, pp. 3-11, http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/h0048687Crain, William. Theories of Development: Concepts and Applications. 5th ed., Pearson Prentice Hall, 2005.

Genetically Modified Crops - 1056 Words

In a perfect world, what would everyone have? Well, they most likely would have good health, money, stability, and proper environment to live very productive lives. This is what people strive to have, but very few receive. Why? There are many reasons. One reason might be the lack of agricultural advancement in many countries. If these countries were to embrace genetically modified crops, the citizens would have much better lives. According to Osakabe, Yuriko, Kajita, and Osakabe, in their article â€Å"Genetic Engineering Of Woody Plants: Current And Future Targets In A Stressful Environment†, genetic engineering in plants is better than traditional breeding methods because â€Å"†¦they bypass the long generation for breeding†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (106).†¦show more content†¦Due to the unpredictability of the profession, the job that will be needed most, right now and in the future, might not have enough people to perform it. Genetic engineering is already providing a more stable solution for agricultural production in the economy to stand on. In nine years (i.e. 1996-2005), profits from genetically modified crops were twenty-seven billion dollars. Those twenty-seven billion dollars were not just in the United States or countries like it, but the profits almost split half and half between first and third world countries (ONeill 19). In India, for example, cotton yields have jumped to one hundred-fifty percent from the use of genetically modified crops, vastly increasing the farmers’ profits (19). The planting of these crops can really help farmers know what they are going to make every year and plan accordingly. Also, helping the farmers’ expenses is the lack of chemical pesticides needed on the crops and reducing time spent using the pricey traditional breeding methods (Mannion and Morse 749-751). Even if genetically modified crops are not planted in every field, adjoining fields can b enefit due to the â€Å"halo effect.† The â€Å"halo effect† is the ability of pest protection on the genetically modified crops to affect the non-genetically modified crops due to the lack of insects in the genetically modified field (754). Genetically modified crops affect the economy in a positive way and should be seen as a smartShow MoreRelatedThe Problem Of Genetically Modified Crops1214 Words   |  5 Pagesstores are genetically modified; they make up about seventy to eighty percent of the produce individuals consume. These genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, are â€Å"safe and nutritious as conventional crops†; however, there are many misconceptions about them (Manila Bulletin). Many people believe that the creation of the GMOs poses a threat to the wellbeing of individuals; though, GMOs are clinically proven to be highly nutritious and are approved by the FDA. In addition, these crops have been modifiedRead MoreEssay On Genetically Modified Cro ps1370 Words   |  6 PagesGenetically Modified Crop Plants Biological Basis Genetically modified crops (GMCs) are also referred to as biotech crops and are plants which are used in Agriculture. Their genes (DNA) are modified through genetic engineering methods with an objective of introducing a new trait that is not found in the natural species. Genetic engineering is the manipulation of the genes of the crop by use of biotechnology. First, genetic engineers select which genes they want to insert into the crop and then aRead MoreBenefits Of Genetically Modified Crops1230 Words   |  5 PagesThe topic of GM crops is perhaps one of the most exiting and continually growing aspects of genetic science. It has an interesting history, many and varied applications, well-researched techniques and its own set of issues ripe for debate; this essay will discuss these aspects. Genetically modified crops have been a large part of the agricultural landscape for thousands of years. Ever since wild crops were domesticated by the first farmers domesticated wild varieties of grains and tubers. SimplyRead MoreThe Policy Of Genetically Modified Crops1401 Words   |  6 PagesINTRODUCTION: There are a lot of questions concerning the policy of genetically modified crops in India, regarding the approach towards the development of economy, the technological impact on the nation and also the relationships between farming and business communities. The supporting parties of Biotechnology in agriculture argue that the genetically modified crops could be the solution to most of the existing problems in the country’s agriculture; opposing parties argue that it could have negativeRead MoreGenetically Modified Crops Essay1151 Words   |  5 PagesGenetically Modified Crops 1. Introduction It is ironic that some individuals, strongly supporting fresh, organic natural vegetables to be delivered to their dinner tables, enjoy purchasing genetically modified crops that make their lives easier. The United States of America is one of the most prominent countries where genetically modified crops are widely adopted, in contrast to Europe where genetically modified food has never gained approval from the public, and Japan where no genetically modifiedRead MoreGenetically Modified Crops - Essay1749 Words   |  7 PagesGenetically modified crops; what are they? Crops that have been scientifically altered, to create a better species. Though crops can sometimes breed through cross-breeding, with genetically modified crops this is not the case. These crops have had pieces of DNA inserted into them to create a superior race. The reason we produce these superior species of crops are because they are often stronger, resistant to herbicides, quicker growing, and therefore cheaper to p roduce. That way, the community asRead MoreThe Benefits of Genetically Modified Crops1191 Words   |  5 PagesAbout 90% of planted areas of soybeans in the United States are genetically modified strains. Genetic engineering is very important to modern society because of the world’s expanding population and with the arising need of food; it provides an adequate source. Genetic engineering may have both advantages and disadvantages, but the future of mankind may be affected greatly if it is allowed to prosper as a modern science. Several main arguments that many people have about genetic engineering are theRead MoreGenetically Modified Food and Crops1792 Words   |  8 PagesGenetically Modified Food and Crops Genetically Modified Food and Crops Title Page: Following the American Psychological Associations Guidelines Abstract Since the 1980s scientists have been altering crops, including some of the food we eat (Fairly Gaskins, 2000). Genetically modified food has always been a concern for many people. I find the concerns to be unwarranted because there has never been a negative health report due to the fact of consuming GM foods. Biotechnology gives us theRead MoreGenetically Modified Crop Plants1593 Words   |  7 PagesGene Therapy: Genetically Modified Crop Plants Coward Introduction to Biology - SCI 115 Professor Johnson March 4, 2014 Genetically modified organisms have become a standard rather than an exception in America. Since their introduction in the 1990’s, genetically modified (GM) products have conquered agriculture in the United States and hold a large share of the food on American’s plates. (Dupont) Everyone has been exposed to it whether they knowRead MoreBenefits Of Genetically Modified Crops2392 Words   |  10 PagesGenetically Modified Crops Genetically modified crops are an incredibly important issue that everyone should be aware of since it is something we are exposed to at a daily basis. Genetically modified crops also known as GM crops or Biotech crops has been one of the most heated debates of issues within our society. The debate about the safety, concerns and disadvantages of GM crops have raged since the mid 1990 s but this is due to the lack of knowledge of the general public. Many people are unaware

Online Therapy Paper - 1368 Words

Online Therapy Paper Keisha Lucas BSHS/352 April 8, 2013 Professor Kari Siemieniewski Online Therapy Paper Online Therapy is a service that helps people to obtain therapeutic services through an online database that is ran by a therapist or a group of therapists, who are in charge of the website. Therapeutic websites are very helpful for someone who isn’t able to get to an office setting to have face-to-face sessions. They are extremely convenient because one can have counseling sessions in the privacy of their own home with strict confidentiality and assertiveness. Serenity Online Therapy, created and founded by Carl Benedict, a licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Baltimore, Maryland. His therapy entails many†¦show more content†¦Carl Benedict has been bound to protect you while online in confidentiality of all of one’s personal business, records, and personal information. The client’s information is sealed with approval that it will not be shared with anyone else and that’s guaranteed. Mr. Benedict just asks that his client’s information be sealed and not shared. Reverend Dawn Sutton is highly educated in Social Work and comes with a tremendous therapeutic approach that will definitely meet the qualifications of anyone who is in need of her services. Dawn also sticks directly to her client’s rights and will not let you down. Some professional associations and state regulatory boards of the Mental Health Department will stick behind Reverend Dawn Sutton’s credentials and back up that she is the best of the best. Confidentiality is kept into practice for all clients that Dawn Sutton comes into contact with and some of her cases are; 1)If child abuse is suspected, she will report it; 2)IF a client releases information with written authorization; 3)If a court subpoenas your records; 4) If the client is or becomes a ‘vulnerable adult†.(Sunrise, 2002-2008) Sunrise Counseling Online Therapy and Counseling, Dawn Sutton, MSW, RSW is the therapist for this website. The content of this website is the definition of online therapy, emergency contact information, fees and payment methods, qualifications of therapist, confidentiality, contact information, Christian counseling,Show MoreRelatedOnline Therapy Paper1146 Words   |  5 PagesMARY H. GOODMAN JUNE 20TH, 2013 ONLINE THERAPY PAPER BSHA/352 TECHNOLOGY IN HUMAN SERVICES JASON ANDRADE ONLINE THERAPY PAPER INTRODUCATION This paper will discuss conduct and discuss three different online therapy sites. It will discuss the contact of each website, the professional involved, how the actual online interaction occurs. It will address how professional associations and state boards view online therapy. It will discuss the related security and ethical issues, such as informedRead MoreOnline Therapy Paper1114 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿ Online Therapy Paper Shanika Elebeck BSHS 375 June 23, 2015 Ms. Reyes Online Therapy Paper Technology has made an enormous advancement with the helping field through technical applications. Applications like Skype can allow a person to communicate through video. A person can use Skype for personal and professional purposes. Applications that allow a person to video chat have been used to perform online doctor visits and online psychotherapy services. Like everything in this world nothingRead MoreOnline Therapy Paper1529 Words   |  7 PagesOnline Therapy Heather Lattea BSHS/352 Instructor Andrade August 13, 2012 Online Therapy Online therapy has emerged as a viable new option in the helping profession. Online therapy or e-therapy occurs when a therapist provides therapy and support over the Internet. E-mail, chat, video, or smart phone are all waysRead MoreOnline Therapy1280 Words   |  6 PagesOnline Therapy Daryl Hartlauer BSHS-375 06/18/2015 David B. Lagerson Online Therapy The purpose of this paper is to investigate and to report how on-line therapy is currently being implemented in treatment today. I will be looking at three different current services and how they are regulated, how they are implemented, security issues, ethical issues, and treatment facilitation. In my opinion on-line therapy offers some unique advantages both for the client and the therapistRead MoreIntroducing The Internet Into The Therapeutic Relationship1366 Words   |  6 PagesFrom homework assignments and assessments, using technology can be an opportunity. On the obstacle side, online counseling provides complex and unique ethical concerns from the clinician’s perception, particularly as it relates to couples counseling. What is online counseling? What ethical issues do practicing MFTs perceive regarding online counseling to couples? Web-based Couples Therapy Interventions Though internet-based interventions for couples are available as preventative measures likeRead MoreOnline Therapy Sites1574 Words   |  7 PagesOnline Therapy Sites Online therapy is professional counseling services that are offered over the internet. Online therapy allows clients and professionals to communicate over the internet without having to communicate in the traditional office visits. In addition, online therapy allows clients and patients to attend online counseling in which the clients will feel more comfortable and less intimidated. On the other hand, clients are more likely to be open and honest when communicating throughRead MoreAdvantages And Disadvantages Of Therapeutic Alliance1276 Words   |  6 Pagesare a multitude of reasons why an individual may need or want therapy; whether it’s due to learning how to cope with a mental disorder or disability, life happenings such as traumas or abuse, addictions, or even PTSD. Anybody can receive it – individual persons, families, or groups. It isn’t hard to argue that most therapists and psychologists will agree that the therapeutic alliance is one of the most beneficial foundations of a therapy session. Also referred to as the working alliance or workingRead MoreInsomnia814 Words   |  4 PagesPSY 101 Freshman Introductions to Psychology November 24, 2014 Techniques Used by Professionals to Treat Insomnia I. Summary and Analysis of the Research. Majority of clinicians are not certain on whether to use medication or behavioral therapies to treat insomnia. Majority of them are not aware of the effectiveness, usefulness, and the importance of non medication methods. The topic here will discuss the various methods that health professionals have used to treat insomnia. A. In theRead MoreEssay on Hhs 310 Internet and Mental Health Isuues692 Words   |  3 Pagesservices conducted on the Internet have been described as e-therapy, online counseling, e -mail therapy, Internet-based therapy, and similar terminology. Online therapy services may be provided as an adjunct to more traditional forms of mental health treatment, or may be initiated without any offline contact between the therapist and client. Currently, there are a variety of websites providing links and information regarding online therapy. As I was reading about benefits and risks in using internetRead MoreOccupational Therapy Career Options Essay668 Words   |  3 PagesIn occupational therapy there are three options from which to choose. One can be an occupational therapist, an occupational therapist assistant, or an occupational therapist aide. In this health profession they are responsible for helping patients in their ability to perform daily living activities like speech, physic al, and mental activities. His or her patients have generally lost these abilities because of mental, physical, or developmentally or emotionally disabling conditions. This profession

Unitron Corporation Teaching Commentary - 3082 Words

OVERVIEW This is an excellent short case to introduce the managerial accounting issues related to the joint cost problem. Classic microeconomics argues unequivocally that attempts to assign cost to individual products in a joint set constitute a complete waste of time--just maximize the total revenue over the batch. Like the comparable adage to price so that marginal cost equals marginal revenue, the economists advice about joint costing is certainly accurate, given the assumptions, but not particularly useful in practice. Most managerial accountants, including this author, believe that there are important managerial issues involved in accounting for joint cost in real companies. This case covers those issues for a real company.†¦show more content†¦The case says that no production costs are assigned to the by-product. This is one alternative for dealing with by-products. We also assume here that any revenue from by-product sales is credited to miscellaneous income, rather than being offset against the $200,000 manufacturing cost. Otherwise, given the uncertainly about by-product revenues in the case, even the average cost calculation becomes very complex. If the by-product units (400s) are considered a joint product, the average cost is $.40 per unit ($200,000 à · 500,000 units). The RSV method has a number of twists that can result in many different unit costs for the five products. For inventory costing purposes, any systematic cost allocation system will do. The basic idea of the relative sales value scheme is that all sales should show gross margin percent equal to the average gross margin percent across the full joint product set. This average is 19% [(246 - 200) à · 246)]. This does imply 5 different costs for the 5 different products, based on the 5 different selling prices. As long as no product switching occurs, the basic idea is easily preserved. Note here that the relevant designation for a product is the sales designation. Anything sold as a 401 will carry 401 cost. Here are the resulting unit cost numbers: Unit Costs 401 402 403 404 405 Physical

Generation of Electricity Through Coal in Pakistan Free Essays

At present, the people are facing severe loadshedding/blackout problems due to shortage of power supply. Industries are closing down. Millions of Man hours have been lost leading to an increase in poverty and economic loss of billions of rupees to the country. We will write a custom essay sample on Generation of Electricity Through Coal in Pakistan or any similar topic only for you Order Now It is happening despite the facts that about 60% of Pakistan’s population has an access to electricity. And according to World Energy Statistics 2011, published by IEA, Pakistan’s per capita electricity consumption is one-sixth of the World Average. World average per capita electricity Consumption is 2730 kWh compared to Pakistan’s per capita electricity consumption of 451kWh. It is imperative to understand the crises. According to Pakistan Energy Year Book 2011, Pakistan’s installed capacity for power generation is 22,477MW and the demand is approximately the same. The question arises that if the demand and supply has no gap then why we are facing such a crucial electricity crises. To get the answer we need to look into Pakistan’s electricity generation mix fuel wise. Unfortunately, oil gas has 67% share in electricity generation. Pakistan is generating 35% of its electricity from furnace oil that is mostly imported. Pakistan spends over 12 billion US dollars for the import of furnace oil high speed diesel and crude petroleum that amount is equivalent to 60% of total export earnings and is a serious strain on country’s economy. It was recorded that in year 2011, the import of furnace oil increased by 19% compared to 2010 import. Moreover, the imported furnace oil is high sulphur furnace oil because low sulphur furnace oil is costly. The gaseous emissions from High sulphur furnace oil are polluting the environment and deteriorating the power plants as well. The bitter fact is that the per unit cost of electricity generated from imported furnace oil is high and is expected to increase further due to high forecasted increase in the oil prices. The per unit price of the electricity generated from furnace oil is neither viable for industrial consumers nor for domestic consumers. At the same time, Pakistan is generating 32% of its electricity from Natural Gas. According to Pakistan Energy Year Book, 2011, Pakistan has 27. 5trillion cubic feet (TCF) balance recoverable gas reserves. Current gas production is 4 billion cubic feet per day (bcfd) and the demand is 6 bcfd. The gas production is expected to fall to less than 01 bcfd by 2025 due to depletion and demand will increase to 8 bcfd. While depleting the indigenous natural gas reserves, about one third of the natural gas is used for electricity eneration (32%) causing a severe domestic and industrial load shedding. That has significantly damaged country’s export earnings and increased the import bill. The proposed Iran gas pipeline would provide only 01 bcfd at a cost of $ 1. 25 billion. The proposed TAPI gas pipeline would provide 3. 2 bcfd to 3 countries at a cost of $ 7. 6 billion. In response to a demand of 8 bcfd, we will be having 3 bcfd in 2025 if both proposed are completed. The gap will be 5 bcfd. The available gas will have 66% share of costly imported gas. In the light of above elucidated facts, it is evident that it will not be possible to feed gas based power plants in future that contribute 32 % of the power generation. In the light of above discussion, it is evident that electricity generated from Oil and gas is not an economically feasible option and the installed capacity of about 15000MW (67%) out of 22477MW would not be operational. International Energy Agency has forecasted that total electricity demandof the country will be 49078MW in 2025. This is a great challenge to enhance the installed capacity to 50000MW from 7000MW. Currently, Pakistan is generating 6481 MW of electricity from hydel sources that is 29% of the total installed capacity. If country completes all the proposed hydel projects including Bhasha Dam, the hydel contribution would be 15000MW until 2025 that is 29%. The biggest challenge is to redesign the electricity portfolio and substitute the oil and gas with an abundantly available indigenous fuel source. Pakistan must develop indigenous energy resources to meet its future electricity needs. Pakistan can overcome this energy crisis by utilising its un-used coal reserves. Coal is a game changer for Pakistan. Currently, 40. 6% of world’s electricity is being generated from coal and it is the single largest contributor in world electricity generation. By looking at the electricity generation mix of the countries that are blessed with coal, it is evident that coal is the largest contributor. For instance, Poland, South Africa, China, India, Australia ,Czech Republic, Kazakhstan, Germany, USA,UK, Turkey , Ukraine and Japan are generation 96%, 88%,78%, 78%, 77%, 72%, 69. 9%, 52. %, 52%, 37%, 31. 3%, 27. 5% and 22. 9% of electricity from coal. Pakistan is the only country that is blessed with 185 billion tons of coal and is producing negligible electricity from coal 0. 6%). Thar deposit alone is estimated to be 175 billion tons. It is further estimated that if all the Thar coal is extracted out and converted into electricity through coal fired power plants, it can provide 100,000MW for more than 500 years. There is a dire need to devise a strategy to utilise Thar Coal for power generation. Centre for Coal Technology Punjab University has conducted analysis of 328 samples of coal from all four provinces and AK including Thar coal. A substantial amount of coal in Punjab, Balochistan, KPK, AK and Sindh has high sulphur and ash content that is a challenge to utilise this coal for power generation. All the analysis carried out since 1994 to 2012 by G Couch, geological survey of Pakistan, Oracle coal fields, Centre for coal technology show that Thar coal has a sulphur content up to 1% that is the beauty of this coal that makes it suitable for direct combustion for power generation. At UK-Pakistan coal conference where CEO of world association for Underground coal gasification (UCG ) Julie Lauder and Robert Davidson of International Energy Agency gave presentations and informed the audience that UCG is still in experimentation stage and pilot operations are being carried out at various locations but UCG syn gas is not being used commercially yet. The experimentation is going on since 1928 for the coals that are deeper than 300 meters and not minable. Let me make it clear that I am not against UCG as a technique. My considered opinion is that Thar geology is against the pre-requisites for UCG. Here are some concerns regarding UCG of Thar Coal: 1. The geological structure of Thar block three has been published by geological survey of Pakistan. This structure is against the fundamentals of Underground gasification (UCG) given in every book. First condition for UCG is that the coal should be 300 metre or more deep. Where as in Thar the coal seams are present at a depth of 150 meter. Secondly, there should be no water around the deposit whereas Thar coal is immersed in water. The aquifer above the coal zone is at about 120 m. then a strata of sand stone and clay stone. The water table ranges between 52. 70 to 93. 27 meter depth. Right below the first coal zone, there are two to three perched aquifers that are aquifers within coal zone with sand horizons of medium to coarse grains. According to experts, the water can also be used for irrigation. Then after the coal seams, a deep aquifer at 200m depth is present. This aquifer is a source of water for tube wells installed in Thar. 2. Moreover, all the analysis carried out by various organisations at different times show that coal itself contains about 46% moisture in it. 3. For complete burning of coal in UCG, a temperature of 1000C is required. It is anticipated that the temperature will not be maintained at 1000 C due to 46% moisture leading to an incomplete burning of coal. The volatile matter will burn and FC content / the most valuable component may remain un-burnt leading to a very low HV gas. 4. About one year ago, Dr. M. Saleem (a member of Dr. Samar Team) predicted that the syn gas obtained will have a calorific value of 106 BTU/cubic foot. Now they claim that they have obtained a gas but have not declared the calorific value yet. This claimed HHV is one-tenth of Natural gas. Due to high moisture content, it would be lower than this claimed value. 5. It is expected to yield production of very low – grade and uneconomic syn gas, bearing high proportions of water vapours, carbon dioxide and sulphureted. 6. The gas with such a low heating value cannot be linked with the national grid. On 25th July, 2012 Dr. Samar briefing Standing Committee on Information Technology said that gas companies have refused to buy this gas. 7. If the heat contained in 46% moisture, compressors energy consumption, energy required for carbon dioxide removal, water removal, H2S, (Hydrogen Sulphide) HCN (Hydrogen Cyanide) removal, tar removal and other operational energy consumption is subtracted from the per unit syngas net heating value (that is vital for power generation) will be further lowered. 8. As the gasification proceeds, the water seepage from the upper aquifer will continue leading to further decrease in temperatures inside the chambers resulting further incomplete burning and yielding much lower HV gas along with un used air. . The sulphur content in the Thar coal will generate H2S (Hydrogen Sulphide) during gasification leading to an environmental catastrophe in Thar as a result of poisonous gases like H2S (Hydrogen Sulphide) and HCN (Hydrogen Cyanide) from the UCG chambers to the surface through the very loose overlying strata and through newly developed or pre-existing cracks etc. 10. There will possibly be con tamination of underground water so precious in Thar area, with poisonous chemicals originating from the burn chambers. 11. Proper scrutiny of Thar coal project is missing. One cannot find the models of the Thar UCG operation especially the reaction kinetics, heat transfer, gas flow etc ? that are fundamental for every project. 12. For UCG research, experts are of the opinion that the location allotted block V is not a right location because to stop the operation will not be easy and that can destroy the entire deposit. It should have been an isolated location. On the basis above stated concerns, Production of very low – grade and uneconomic syn gas, bearing high proportions of water vapours, carbon dioxide and sulphurated hydrogen due to high water and sulphur contents of the Thar coal is expected. The scope of Dr. Samar Mubarak Mand project was to generate electricity. But after claimed trials, he is now trying to give a new lolly pop to the nation that Diesel and methanol will be produced from Thar coal gas. The question is that India, China and USA and all other countries are generating electricity from coal why they are not producing methanol and diesel? Can you tell the nation how much percentage of global coal is used for these obsoleted routes compared to the coal used for power generation? Pakistan has about 83 sugar mills and methanol can be produced as by product of sugar at much cheaper rate with very little investment compared to the coal route suggested by Dr. Samar. Being a coal technologist and chemical process technologist I can warn that without knowing the process details, economics and economies of scale, a nuclear- political scientist is misleading the nation. If UCG of Thar is a wise option, why commercial organisations like Sindh Engro coal Mining Company, Oracle coal field, UK and Global Mining, China are opting open pit mining at Thar. Definitely, any profit making organisation that believes in â€Å"no free lunch† will go for tested commercial technologies. Only a group of retired hit and trial masters from various fields other than coal can afford this luxury on state expenses. Currently,8142 trillion watt hour of electricity is being generated from world coal. Out of which how much is generated from UCG? The answer is zero. In response to my post UK-PK coal conference statement of Dr . Samar Mubarak Mand’s lobby through a journalist managed a news item against me in Daily News on 23rd July, 2012. I strongly condemn the highly objectionable language he used. Instead of presenting his view point he tried for character assassination. He declared me as an American agent because I have technically exposed them. I understand that Dr. Samar and his fellows who get heavy Financial benefits from Thar UCG project consider everyone as their personal enemy who criticize the Thar UCG project honestly. Dr. A. Q Khan raised questions on Thar UCG project and declared that Dr Samar intellectually dishonest. Is he an American Agent? Now a days, Dr. Samar Mubarak Mand is running PPP Election Campaign to get heavy funds released. Despite the appearance of Dr. Samar in PPP media campaign on TV for next elections, Federal Minister for water and power Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar has stated in a TV talk show â€Å"Awam ki Adalat† on Geo TV dated 15-07-2012 that there is no truth in Dr. Samar’s claims. Is he an American Agent? Dr. Shahid Naveed, Dean of Engineering, University of Engg Tech Lahore has similar views on Thar UCG project. Is he an American agent? Daily The Nation in its editorial on 11 august 2012, wrote that Dr Mubarakmand’s has been the lone voice in the country advocating the idea and demanded a team of world class experts to do a feasibility study, covering technical as well as financial aspects prior to pour huge investment in this project that is what I have pointed out. What. The senior journalist with so-called solid knowledge should learn the art of investigation based journalism and note that I have doctorate in the area of coal technology from UK and many international research publications in high impact factor journals are on my credit. I am not an alien in the field of coal technology like Dr. Samar Mubarak Mand. As far as the Angren project is concerned, no doubt it’s one of the oldest UCG site but IEA still ranked it as â€Å"pilot project†. It is an admitted fact that UCG as a technique is still not a commercial technology. My considered opinion is that opening pit mining is the right strategy to extract coal. Once the coal is in our hands, there will be many invertors for the establishment of coal-fired power generation plants and our beloved country would enjoy 100000MW cheaper electricity for five hindered years. The writer is the Professor Director of Centre for Coal Technology, University of the Punjab, Lahore. This news was published in print paper. Access complete paper of this day. Electricity has become an essential part of our lives and its outage adversely affects the country’s economic growth and daily lives of common people. Since the past few decades, there has been an enormous increase in the demand of electricity and no appreciative steps have been taken to cope up this issue. Now the demand has exceeded supply and ‘loadshedding’ has become a common issue. Every day an outage of 3-4 hours has to be faced by the people and in summer season the outage length increases to an unbearable level which is making the lives miserable for everyone. What is the government doing to ensure a sustainable supply of energy resources for economic growth? What strategic steps are being taken to acquire energy resources in future? Is private sector willing to invest in Pakistan’s oil industry? What are the incentives being offered to the foreign players to continue working in the exploration sector? What hurdles are stopping other big players around the world to enter Pakistan? What is the role of gas distribution companies so far? Are the citizens of Pakistan being robbed by energy giants with ever rising utility bills? What should be the real price of petroleum, kerosene and other oil products in Pakistan? When will the nation have â€Å"loadshedding free† electric supply? Have we been able to make long term contracts with the countries to provide uninterrupted supply of energy resources? Will the government be able to provide enough sources to the citizens for a sustainable economic growth? Have we lost the race for acquiring maximum energy resources for future survival? Pakistan has rich reserves of coal. Most of the power generation in many parts of the world is being done by using coal as an energy resource. Thar, Lakhra, Badin etc are some of the mammoth coal reserves in Pakistan. If we talk about Thar reserves only we get astonishing facts. Thar coal reserves of Sindh are about 850 trillion cubic feet, which is more than oil reserves of Saudi Arabia and Iran put together. These reserves are estimated at 850 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas, about 300 times higher than Pakistan’s proven gas reserves of 28 TCF. Dr Murtaza Mughal, President of Pakistan Economy Watch, in a statement said that these reserves of coal worth USD 25 trillion could not only cater to the electricity requirements of the country for the next 100 years but also save almost billions of dollars in staggering oil import bill. Just two percent usage of Thar coal can produce 20,000 MW of electricity for next 40 years, without any single second of loadshedding and if the whole reserves are utilised, then it can easily be imagined how much energy could be generated. The coal power generation would cost Pakistan PKR 5. 7 per unit while power generated by Independent Power Projects cost PKR 9. 27 It requires just 420 billion rupees initial investment whereas Pakistan receives annually 1220 billion from tax only. Chinese and other countries’ companies have not only carried out surveys and feasibility of this project but also offered 100 percent investment in the last seven to eight years but the â€Å"petroleum gang† always discouraged them in a very systematic way. Petroleum lobby is very strong in Pakistan and they are against any other means of power generation except for the imported oil. This lobby is the major beneficiary of the increasing oil bill that is estimated to be above 15 billion dollar this year. Beyond the shadow of any doubt coal energy is the most viable solution to the energy crisis situation in Pakistan. The government should seriously think about it and put untiring efforts to cater to the energy crisis situation in Pakistan by utilising coal reserves. BUSHRA ASIM Karachi Tuesday, May 22, 2012 More Sharing ServicesShare|Share on facebookShare on twitterShare on linkedinShare on stumbleuponShare on emailShare on facebook_like| Thar coal — Pakistan’s hope for energy self-sufficiency By Amjad Agha Recently it has been reported that the Planning Commission has decided to stop further financing of Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) Project at Thar, since no encouraging results are forthcoming. This UCG project is the brainchild of Dr Samar Mubarakmand, who has been working on it for the last couple of years. This news has been given lot of coverage by the media, and a wrong impression is being created as if the Planning Commission has rejected the Thar coal. It is surprising that so far the Planning Commission has not clarified their position. Obviously the objection pertains to underground gasification of the Thar coal and not the mining of the huge deposit of coal. Thar coal deposits are the largest resource discovered in the country, which can provide the much-needed solution for generating large amount of electricity for many many years at affordable price. The estimates indicate that 135 to 175 billion tonnes of lignite coal can be obtained from the deposit, which can produce thousands of megawatts of electricity for decades. Thar coal can be obtained by open cast mining similar to the method used all over the world. The UCG is a method of converting unworked coal – coal still in the ground – into a combustible gas, which can be used for power generation. The UCG is at present not extensively used commercially, but research is going on to make it commercially attractive. However, the open pit mining of coal is the normal method being used, and most of the coal is being obtained in this manner. The UCG method is still in the research stage and if found suitable for Thar coal, it will be useful and economical. Therefore, Dr Mubarakmand’s project may be curtailed but should not be stopped until it reaches final outcome. The open cast mining of Thar coal is the project, which the nation has been keenly awaiting, but for some unknown reasons the work on it has still not started. Couple of months ago an article ‘Thar Coal and Energy Security’ by Muhammad Younus Dagha was printed in Dawn newspaper. Dagha is the secretary coal and energy Sindh. In the article, he had stated that final arrangement have been completed by Global Mining Company of China for Block-1 and another by Sindh Engro Coal Mining for Block-II. The mining on these projects shall reportedly start by June. Are these dates still valid? The public is desperately waiting for any good news about electricity. The Planning Commission should immediately clarify their statement on Thar coal and inform the public about the real status on start of mining. In my recent paper ‘Electricity Crisis and Circular Debt’, it was explained that real cause of the electricity crisis in the country is due to faulty fuel mix as we are using the highly expensive furnace oil as the main fuel for generating electricity. The fuel cost to generate one Kwh (unit) of electricity through furnace is about Rs 17-18. This does not include the fixed charges for the plant, transmission and distribution costs and losses etc. Since the government cannot afford to buy the oil at this high price, therefore several thermal power plants are shut down or producing much below their capacity. A news item indicated recently that monthly requirement of furnace oil for power plants is 32,000 tonnes but only 10,000 tonnes of oil is being imported. Obviously the generation is accordingly low. The natural gas is another fuel which is being used but is in short supply and very little is available for generation of electricity. The country needs $5 billion for the import of oil, only one-third of the amount will be required if the fuel mix is changed from oil. Globally about 21,000Twh of electricity is consumed per year, 41 percent of this electricity is generated through coal. China generates 78 percent of its electricity through coal, India 68 percent, USA 48 percent but Pakistan only 0. 1 percent. The world does not use oil for electricity, as less than five percent of the world electricity is generated through oil, but Pakistan is using oil for 40 percent of its electricity, which obviously it cannot afford. It’s time that we wake up to these realities, and concentrate on mining Thar coal and start generating electricity through this indigenous resource. Obtaining natural gas through fracturing of underground shale rocks is big news these days. The US is leading in this technology, and China is following very fast. Does Pakistan have any plans for expanding our natural gas production, again no information is passed on to the public. The writer is president of the Associated Consulting Engineers, former managing director of NESPAK, and former chief executive of Pakistan Hydro Consultants for the Ghazi Barotha Hydropower Project How to cite Generation of Electricity Through Coal in Pakistan, Essay examples

Aaron Douglas Essay Example For Students

Aaron Douglas Essay People may ask, what other than a tornado can come out of Kansas? Well, Aaron Douglas was born of May 26, 1899 in Topeka, Kansas. Aaron Douglas was a Pioneering Africanist artist who led the way in using African- oriented imagery in visual art during the Harlem Renaissance of 1919- 1929. His work has been credited as the catalyst for the genre incorporating themes in form and style that affirm the validity of the black consciousness and experience in America. His parents were Aaron and Elizabeth Douglas. In 1922, he graduated from the University of Nebraska School of Fine Arts in Lincoln. Who thought that this man would rise to meet W. E. B. Du Boiss 1921 challenge, calling for the transforming hand and seeing eye of the artist to lead the way in the search for the African American identity. Yet, after a year of teaching art in Kansas City, Missouri, Douglas moved to New York Citys Harlem neighborhood in 1924 and began studying under German artist Winold Reiss. His mentor discouraged Douglass penchant for traditional realist painting and encouraged him to explore African art for design elements would express racial commitment in his art. The young painter embraced the teachings of Reiss to develop a unique style incorporating African- American and black American subject matter. He soon had captured the attention of the leading black scholars and activists. About the time of his marriage on June 18, 1924, to Alta Sawyer, Douglas began to create illustrations for the periodicals. Early the following year, one of his illustrations appeared on the front cover of Opportunity magazine, which awarded Douglas its first prize for drawing. Also, in 1925, Douglass illustrations were published in Alain Lookes survey of the Harlem Renaissance, The New Negro. Publisher Looke called Douglas a pioneering Africanist, and that stamp of praise and approval for the artist influenced future historians to describe Douglas as the father of Black American art. His fame quickly spread beyond Harlem, and began to mount painting exhibitions in Chicago and Nashville, among the numerous other cities, and to paint murals and historical narratives interpreting black history and racial pride. During the mid- 1920s, Douglas was an important illustrator for Crisis, Vanity Fair, Opportunity, Theatre Arts Monthly, Fire and Harlem. In 1927, after illustrating an anthology of verse by black poets, Caroling Dusk, Douglas completed a series of paintings for poet James Weldon Johnsons book of poems, Gods Trombones: Seven Negro Sermons in Verse. Douglass images for the book were inspired by Negro Spirituals, customs of Africans and black history. The series soon to became among the most celebrated of Douglass work. It defined figures with the language of Synthetic Cubism and borrowed from the lyrical style of Reiss and the forms of African sculpture. Through his drawings for the series, Douglas came close to inventing his own painting style by this combination of elements in his work. During this time, Douglas collaborated with various poets. It was also his desire to capture the black expression through the use of paint. He spent a lot of time watching patrons of area nightclubs in Harlem. Douglas said that most of his paintings that were captured in these particular nightclubs were mainly inspired through music that was played. According to Douglas, the sounds of the music was heard everywhere and were created mostly during the Harlem Renaissance by well-trained artists. Douglass work was looked upon by most critics as a breath of fresh air. His work symbolized geometric formulas, circles, triangles, rectangles, and squares became the dominant design motifs for Douglas. It was in Douglass series of paintings called God Trombones that Douglas first expressed his commitment through the use of geometric shapes for Black artists. .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 , .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .postImageUrl , .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 , .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347:hover , .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347:visited , .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347:active { border:0!important; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347:active , .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347 .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ua86923de532645ea20a5db0ab56e4347:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Harriet tubman EssayThe faces and limbs in these series of paintings are carefully drawn to reveal African features and recognizable Black poses. In Gods Trombones, Douglas achieved his mastery of hard- edge painting using symbolized features and lines. Through his use of these things he was able to bring to life the stiffness in the figures which symbolized Art Deco. But, unlike the decorative programs that exist in Art Deco, most of Douglass work capitalized on the movement that was influenced by the rhythms of Art Nouveau. Each of the paintings in the Gods Trombone series expresses the humanist concerns of Douglas. For example, in Judgment Day, one of the seven Negro sermons Douglas illustrated for James Weldon Johnson, he planned to place emphasize on the positive appearance of Black power. In this painting, Gabriel, who represents the archangel, sounds the trumpet to awaken the dead from their spiritual rest. He is portrayed in this Painting as a lean Black man from whom the last earthly vocal sound is heard. The sound, which is perceived to travel across the world, is the inventive music of the Black man, and his blues. The music, which is perceived to waken all nations, is the song of a bluesman or famous trumpet player. The musician, who is consequently the artist, stands in the center of the universe sounding the loud horn on Judgment Day. Douglas also has followed Johnsons chronicle and used simplified figures and forms to permit his interpretation of the Black mans place of position to dominate the theme. At the height of his popularity, Douglas left for Europe in 1931 to spend a year studying at LAcadenie Scandinave in Paris. When he returned to New York in 1932, the Great Depression was engulfing America. Douglas completed, for the New York Public Library in 1934, a series of murals depicting the entire African- American experience from African Heritage, the Emancipation, life in the rural South, and the contemporary urban dilemma. Three years later after Charles S. Johnson an activist in the Harlem Renaissance joined the Fisk University faculty and became the Universitys president in the 1940s and a fellow black artist recruited Douglas to establish an art department in Nashvilles Fisk University. Edwin Harlston of Charleston, South Carolina completed a series of highly significant murals. These murals depicted the course of Negro History. Douglas taught painting and was chair of the art department at Fisk from 1937 until his retirement in 1966. Prior to Douglass death in Nashville of February 3, 1979, his work had been exhibited throughout the country and featured in companion volumes, including Paintings by Aaron Douglas 1971, by David Driskell, Gregory Ridley, and D. L. Graham and The Centuries of Black American Art 1976 by David Driskell. In the decade following his death, the innovative art of pioneering Africanist Aaron Douglas was features in numerous exhibitions and in critical publications.

Visual Arts Analysis Essay Example For Students

Visual Arts Analysis Essay Art Gallery to view the new Senior Art Exhibit. One piece in particular stood out, impressively. The work is titled Alternate Reality, composed consisting of acrylic on canvas, and done by Becky Lewis. Here, a bicycle is depicted as one looks past the railing of a set of stairs. Found the painting very intriguing because of its incredible use of color and line. One half of the stone floor sis vibrant red, and the other half, a brilliant orange. The railing and stairs are made colored a very cool blue and are contrasted by an electrically yellow pillar in the background. On either side Of the pillar are What look like black prison cells with pale purple bars enclosing them. The bicycle sits between the bars and the railing from our perspective, and is painted a rich green. The strangeness of this combination of colors, along with the strong directional forces Of the railing, really make this an interesting painting to view. I very much enjoyed spending time thinking about the though process used by the artist in deciding what colors would be used for each item. There was piece, however. That did not enjoy as much. This was a mixed media piece by Bailey Adulterated, titled When The Going Gets Weird. It is extremely difficult to describe what this piece depicts. There appears to be a flaming television at its center, and it is surrounded by alternating vertical stripes, one consisting of dog bones and another with a wavy golden pattern, In the foreground, there are two white pyramids, one with what Id describe as an Asian cartoon face. The television, and what is being shown on the screen (a man with a gun that extends from the screen) is somewhat silhouetted into the piece with a strange pale blue, In my opinion, there are absolutely no unifying components to this piece, and it seems as if the artist had no intention of creating any cohesion whatsoever. No element on its own is impressive either. Simply found it difficult to be pulled in and interested by this piece, and wish the artist wouldve taken a simpler approach to this work. Visual Arts Experience: Alternate Reality and The Going Gets Weird By Aaron