In response to the first reading I agree with what the article is saying. I think that most college students are very worried about getting out and finding a job after college, not thinking they have the required experience for the job they are applying to. I also know some friends who have not had to work and fear they have nothing to put on a resume but I agree with the article that just being in college and facing the many challenges are good qualities in themselves.
After reading the second article, I realize that cover letters are very important. In the past when I’ve had to do a resume for a class and include a cover letter, I really didn’t know where to begin or what to say in the cover letter.
I didn’t really like the third article because it states some things to do or not to do that go against what I’ve been taught in school. For instance, it said the one page resume really doesn’t apply, meaning if you have more than one page of information than by all means write more. I thought that future employers would only want to read one page at most. I do agree however with putting your GPA if it makes you look good and that it is okay to include volunteer work.
I liked the fourth article because it tells you things that potential employers might find annoying. I don’t think there are any reasons to include hobbies and interests that don’t pertain to the job or putting information that is “out dated” such as jobs or hobbies you had in high school.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Proposal
Introduction
With construction expanding at a rising rate in Lubbock, it is time for an alternative method of road construction. The proposal aims at getting Granite Construction Company to focus on smaller projects being implemented at a faster pace before moving on to the next project.
Lubbock is failing to keep up with the increasing rise of construction. The construction projects at Brownfield Highway are sizeable and put Lubbock drivers at a huge disadvantage. Breaking down the larger pieces of construction into smaller projects will help to eliminate wrecks and traffic jams and allow for easier access to stores and businesses.
We propose that the Granite Construction Company construct the projects at Brownfield Highway into smaller sections. Each small piece of construction should be completed before moving on to the next phase. This will allow more time for drivers to get from place to place as well as reduce vehicle stops and delays leading to savings in fuel consumption and lost time. This proposal contains information on the contents of the proposed problem and solution, our schedule to complete this project, our costs and budgets, and our qualifications to produce a plan that aims at easier access and overall effectiveness for Lubbock drivers.
Statement of Problem
Many Lubbock drivers use the Brownfield Highway every day on their commute to work or school. Also, Lubbock stores are along the Brownfield Highway and have been for many years. The construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway through the Brownfield Highway has caused many delays and wrecks for Lubbock drivers. It has also caused Lubbock stores a decline in sale and has disturbed their peace in the stores. We understand that updates to Lubbock roads must be made in order to keep up with the times but we believe this phase of the project could have been done better if it had been split up into sub-phases and each sub-phase worked on until complete.
In order to determine the importance of completing the Brownfield Highway portion of the Marsha Sharp Freeway, we created a small survey that permits us to get some insight of the already recognized problem and how it affects the sample. Due to the short amount of time to allocate this sample, we decided to get 30 subjects to take the survey. Since this is a problem that affects nearly all of Lubbock, rather it be driving or business related, it was not hard to find samples.
From the information we collected from the survey, we were able to determine that overall, 95% of the people surveyed agreed that the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway in the Brownfield Highway area was a nuisance.
In related research, we tested and compared our subject’s likely hood of being delayed, getting into an accident, avoiding stores and losing customers due to the construction.
· 30 subjects had delays due to the construction
· 7 subjects had gotten into an accident due to the construction
· 13 subjects had avoided stores in the area due to the construction
· 4 subjects had experienced lower customer data due to the construction
These results emphasize the necessity of changing the way the Marsha Sharp Freeway be constructed along the Brownfield Highway. Lubbock drivers and stores cannot afford the stress and money that these delays, accidents and consumer cuts have been put upon them.
Currently, there are many situations that support the need for the Marsha Sharp Freeway construction along the Brownfield Highway to be revised. According to our survey, all subjects interviewed experienced delays because of the construction in this area. These delays could be costing Lubbock drives more than just their time; they could be costing them their jobs too. According to an article by James Gallagher, Lubbock drivers can expect to have delays anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour due to the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway. “Some areas of town, such as the section of Slide and the Brownfield Highway, are so congested, have many more lights and have so much construction delays, it's hard to pass through it without hitting a red light and being delayed longer than expected” (Gallagher 1). It is important that the City of Lubbock recognize these problems that the construction is causing.
“Lubbock drivers have experienced a 34% increase in traffic accidents since the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway has begun,” as said by Robin Pyle (Pyle 3). In relation with Pyle’s opinion on the increase of traffic accidents since the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway began, it does seem to ring true based on the information obtained from our survey. I believe that this problem related with the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway is the biggest one of all. Lubbock drivers can get past the delays brought on but it is harder to get over a traffic accident that could possibly be fatal. Bad weather can also add to the already hectic driving situations in the construction areas.
Proposed Solution
We would like to see all construction on Brownfield Highway be broken down into smaller projects. We would also like to see each phase of the project completed before changing to the next. This would be very useful for Lubbock drivers because it would allow for them to get where they need to in a timely fashion as well as help to eliminate traffic jams and backups. Granite Construction Company has everything at their convenience to do this in a sensible manner as well as a low cost budget. One of the main costs of the proposal is equipment and supplies. The other costs are construction employees, engineers and land price. The Texas Transportation Commissions is in charge of funding as well as responsibilities that include: planning and making policies for the location, construction and maintenance of state highways as well as overseeing the design, construction, and operation of the project.
Scope
Since the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway in the Brownfield Highway area is still underway, the proposal to break up the phases into sub-phases and work on each sub-phase until complete in a very important and also cost effective. Breaking the phases up into sub-phases and working on each sub-phase until the sub-phase is complete will create fewer delays and a safer environment for Lubbock drivers.
Most Lubbock drivers do not have the time it takes to spend sitting in traffic and waiting on closed intersections. If major intersections were not closed and the construction along the Brownfield Highway was broken down into sub-phases, Lubbock drivers would spend less time in traffic and more time using their time in a better suited manner. Lubbock drivers would be able to get to work, school, meetings and home on time causing them to be happier people.
Through the research that we have accomplished we feel that this would be a valuable outflow for the City of Lubbock to take on. This minor alteration to the plan will increase the happiness, safety and sales of Lubbock drivers and stores.
Methods
To find support for our proposal, we conducted Internet research and had surveys completed by Lubbock drivers and stores who use the Brownfield Highway in one way or another. In our Internet research we found information about funding, phases, and timelines. We found evidence that costs could possibly be cut back on if our plan was implemented.
The survey that we completed showed that 95% of Lubbock drivers and stores thought that splitting phase II of the Marsha Sharp Freeway into sub-phases and having the workers complete each sub-phase before moving on would be an effective project that would make traffic delays, accidents and store inventory more manageable.
Qualifications
While preparing this proposal our group found that the three of us have a range of backgrounds qualifying us to write and present it to the Granite Construction Company, UCA and the City of Lubbock. Lindsey Davis is a senior and has used the Brownfield Highway daily to get to class for the past 4 years. Her actual hands on experience with the traffic delays are a very valuable asset to our project. Jaycé Lowe is a junior and has also used the Brownfield Highway to get to work daily for the past 4 months. The past 2 months would be considered the height of delays and traffic accidents in the Brownfield Highway construction area. Susan Brashear has lived in Lubbock from the time the Marsh Sharp Freeway construction started until the present. Her brother-n-law, Taylor Condit, also works for UCA, one of the main companies working on the Marsha Sharp Freeway. Due to this extra insight from Mr. Condit, our group was able to get the questions we needed answered in a timely manner.
Project Schedule
There are several steps that need to be completed in order to begin the construction. We will first need to present our proposal that will take at least one month, then we will obtain approval from the project manager that can take up to three months, then purchase equipment which can take up to six months, then plan into action which can take three months, and finally implement our plan which can take six months. The final step will be to make the part of the Brownfield Highway from the West Loop 289 to 19th Street Quaker Intersection accessible; this step can take up to nine months.
Month 1
Month 3
Month 6
Month 9
Month 12
Month 15
Present
Proposal
Obtain
Approval
Purchase
Equipment
Plan Into
Action
Implement
Plan
Make
Accessible
Budget
In order to implement our plan to Phase II-2 of the Marsha Sharp Freeway, there is already a budget that is in effect for the project, but our proposal can lower the expense of this phase. The original budget for the project that is expected to be finished in two and a half years and is quoted at costing $44.7 million dollars; the cost for our proposal can lower the cost by $10 million dollars and take up to fifteen months to complete.
The cost of the construction employees is pretty expensive but considering that there will be over five hundred employees for the entire project the cost for them would be approximately $2 million dollars for the entire project.
The construction engineers are also a vital role for this project and to keep all twenty of them on this project their services will cost $4 million dollars. For the entire Phase II of the project there are over fifty engineers on the phase, but for our Phase II-2 the project will only need twenty.
The supplies for the project can range in many different categories from concrete barricades for the freeway, to traffic signs that will be placed in the intersections. The cost for these supplies will total $8 million dollars; all of these supplies are bought out right and are not leased or rented.
The next item is equipment, which can be categorized into driving equipment like bulldozers or freightliners. It also contains any power equipment like drills, welders, and digging augers. These items will cost approximately $10 million dollars, but most of this equipment is rented and is already figured to cost for the time rented which is nine months.
The final item is the price for the land that was purchased by TXDOT. Which for this specific Phase is, Brownfield Highway from the West Loop 289 to the 19th Street intersection at Quaker. This Phase II land price is $28.6 million but since our section contains one part of the three part section it is totaled at $9.7 million dollars.
The total cost of the entire project will be $33.7 million dollars, but as I stated in the beginning our phase will lower the other price by $10 million dollars since the time spent on the project will be cut by nine months.
Item
Cost
Construction Employees
$2 Million
Construction Engineers
$4 Million
Supplies
$8 Million
Equipment
$10 Million
Land Price
$9.7 Million
TOTAL COST:
$33.7 Million
Conclusions
In conclusion, from our research we feel that it is essential for Granite Construction Company to implement our suggestions to make Brownfield Highway more beneficial to Lubbock drivers. It is apparent from our survey that in order to keep traffic accidents low and sales consistent for local businesses, the construction company needs to cut down the huge construction projects in that area. The process is a minor adjustment to the already mass amounts of construction projects and will overall be relatively inexpensive. It will lead to an easier flow of traffic, less traffic jams, and reduce vehicle delays. It will also benefit the local businesses that surround the construction area by making it easier for drivers to access their stores. We hope this proposal helps aim at overall success of Lubbock drivers.
Works Cited
Gallagher, James. “Driving Delays and Problems.” Article (Summer 2006): Vol. 28, Issue 17.
Hopmman, Randy. TxDot Expressway. April 12, 2008..
Pyle, Robin. “Is it Worth the Traffic Accidents?” Article (November 2007): Vol. 33, Issue 4.
APPENDICES
1) Has this inconsistent construction affected your daily commute?
Yes
30
No
0
2) Has this inconsistent construction affected your business?
Yes
3
No
1
3) Have sales dropped if the construction is near the place of business?
Yes
2
No
2
4) Have sales increased since the construction is past your business?
Yes
1
No
3
5) Have you experienced a traffic accident in the construction area?
Yes
7
No
23
6) Have you avoided stores in the construction area?
Yes
13
No
17
7) How often do you drive in the construction area?
Everyday
16
Once a week
5
Monthly
3
Never
2
8) How often are you delayed to your destination due to construction?
Everyday
11
Once a week
7
Monthly
5
Never
3
Ages of the Lubbock drivers Surveyed
52 – 2
35 – 7
30 – 3
24 – 5
21 – 8
18 – 5
With construction expanding at a rising rate in Lubbock, it is time for an alternative method of road construction. The proposal aims at getting Granite Construction Company to focus on smaller projects being implemented at a faster pace before moving on to the next project.
Lubbock is failing to keep up with the increasing rise of construction. The construction projects at Brownfield Highway are sizeable and put Lubbock drivers at a huge disadvantage. Breaking down the larger pieces of construction into smaller projects will help to eliminate wrecks and traffic jams and allow for easier access to stores and businesses.
We propose that the Granite Construction Company construct the projects at Brownfield Highway into smaller sections. Each small piece of construction should be completed before moving on to the next phase. This will allow more time for drivers to get from place to place as well as reduce vehicle stops and delays leading to savings in fuel consumption and lost time. This proposal contains information on the contents of the proposed problem and solution, our schedule to complete this project, our costs and budgets, and our qualifications to produce a plan that aims at easier access and overall effectiveness for Lubbock drivers.
Statement of Problem
Many Lubbock drivers use the Brownfield Highway every day on their commute to work or school. Also, Lubbock stores are along the Brownfield Highway and have been for many years. The construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway through the Brownfield Highway has caused many delays and wrecks for Lubbock drivers. It has also caused Lubbock stores a decline in sale and has disturbed their peace in the stores. We understand that updates to Lubbock roads must be made in order to keep up with the times but we believe this phase of the project could have been done better if it had been split up into sub-phases and each sub-phase worked on until complete.
In order to determine the importance of completing the Brownfield Highway portion of the Marsha Sharp Freeway, we created a small survey that permits us to get some insight of the already recognized problem and how it affects the sample. Due to the short amount of time to allocate this sample, we decided to get 30 subjects to take the survey. Since this is a problem that affects nearly all of Lubbock, rather it be driving or business related, it was not hard to find samples.
From the information we collected from the survey, we were able to determine that overall, 95% of the people surveyed agreed that the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway in the Brownfield Highway area was a nuisance.
In related research, we tested and compared our subject’s likely hood of being delayed, getting into an accident, avoiding stores and losing customers due to the construction.
· 30 subjects had delays due to the construction
· 7 subjects had gotten into an accident due to the construction
· 13 subjects had avoided stores in the area due to the construction
· 4 subjects had experienced lower customer data due to the construction
These results emphasize the necessity of changing the way the Marsha Sharp Freeway be constructed along the Brownfield Highway. Lubbock drivers and stores cannot afford the stress and money that these delays, accidents and consumer cuts have been put upon them.
Currently, there are many situations that support the need for the Marsha Sharp Freeway construction along the Brownfield Highway to be revised. According to our survey, all subjects interviewed experienced delays because of the construction in this area. These delays could be costing Lubbock drives more than just their time; they could be costing them their jobs too. According to an article by James Gallagher, Lubbock drivers can expect to have delays anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour due to the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway. “Some areas of town, such as the section of Slide and the Brownfield Highway, are so congested, have many more lights and have so much construction delays, it's hard to pass through it without hitting a red light and being delayed longer than expected” (Gallagher 1). It is important that the City of Lubbock recognize these problems that the construction is causing.
“Lubbock drivers have experienced a 34% increase in traffic accidents since the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway has begun,” as said by Robin Pyle (Pyle 3). In relation with Pyle’s opinion on the increase of traffic accidents since the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway began, it does seem to ring true based on the information obtained from our survey. I believe that this problem related with the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway is the biggest one of all. Lubbock drivers can get past the delays brought on but it is harder to get over a traffic accident that could possibly be fatal. Bad weather can also add to the already hectic driving situations in the construction areas.
Proposed Solution
We would like to see all construction on Brownfield Highway be broken down into smaller projects. We would also like to see each phase of the project completed before changing to the next. This would be very useful for Lubbock drivers because it would allow for them to get where they need to in a timely fashion as well as help to eliminate traffic jams and backups. Granite Construction Company has everything at their convenience to do this in a sensible manner as well as a low cost budget. One of the main costs of the proposal is equipment and supplies. The other costs are construction employees, engineers and land price. The Texas Transportation Commissions is in charge of funding as well as responsibilities that include: planning and making policies for the location, construction and maintenance of state highways as well as overseeing the design, construction, and operation of the project.
Scope
Since the construction of the Marsha Sharp Freeway in the Brownfield Highway area is still underway, the proposal to break up the phases into sub-phases and work on each sub-phase until complete in a very important and also cost effective. Breaking the phases up into sub-phases and working on each sub-phase until the sub-phase is complete will create fewer delays and a safer environment for Lubbock drivers.
Most Lubbock drivers do not have the time it takes to spend sitting in traffic and waiting on closed intersections. If major intersections were not closed and the construction along the Brownfield Highway was broken down into sub-phases, Lubbock drivers would spend less time in traffic and more time using their time in a better suited manner. Lubbock drivers would be able to get to work, school, meetings and home on time causing them to be happier people.
Through the research that we have accomplished we feel that this would be a valuable outflow for the City of Lubbock to take on. This minor alteration to the plan will increase the happiness, safety and sales of Lubbock drivers and stores.
Methods
To find support for our proposal, we conducted Internet research and had surveys completed by Lubbock drivers and stores who use the Brownfield Highway in one way or another. In our Internet research we found information about funding, phases, and timelines. We found evidence that costs could possibly be cut back on if our plan was implemented.
The survey that we completed showed that 95% of Lubbock drivers and stores thought that splitting phase II of the Marsha Sharp Freeway into sub-phases and having the workers complete each sub-phase before moving on would be an effective project that would make traffic delays, accidents and store inventory more manageable.
Qualifications
While preparing this proposal our group found that the three of us have a range of backgrounds qualifying us to write and present it to the Granite Construction Company, UCA and the City of Lubbock. Lindsey Davis is a senior and has used the Brownfield Highway daily to get to class for the past 4 years. Her actual hands on experience with the traffic delays are a very valuable asset to our project. Jaycé Lowe is a junior and has also used the Brownfield Highway to get to work daily for the past 4 months. The past 2 months would be considered the height of delays and traffic accidents in the Brownfield Highway construction area. Susan Brashear has lived in Lubbock from the time the Marsh Sharp Freeway construction started until the present. Her brother-n-law, Taylor Condit, also works for UCA, one of the main companies working on the Marsha Sharp Freeway. Due to this extra insight from Mr. Condit, our group was able to get the questions we needed answered in a timely manner.
Project Schedule
There are several steps that need to be completed in order to begin the construction. We will first need to present our proposal that will take at least one month, then we will obtain approval from the project manager that can take up to three months, then purchase equipment which can take up to six months, then plan into action which can take three months, and finally implement our plan which can take six months. The final step will be to make the part of the Brownfield Highway from the West Loop 289 to 19th Street Quaker Intersection accessible; this step can take up to nine months.
Month 1
Month 3
Month 6
Month 9
Month 12
Month 15
Present
Proposal
Obtain
Approval
Purchase
Equipment
Plan Into
Action
Implement
Plan
Make
Accessible
Budget
In order to implement our plan to Phase II-2 of the Marsha Sharp Freeway, there is already a budget that is in effect for the project, but our proposal can lower the expense of this phase. The original budget for the project that is expected to be finished in two and a half years and is quoted at costing $44.7 million dollars; the cost for our proposal can lower the cost by $10 million dollars and take up to fifteen months to complete.
The cost of the construction employees is pretty expensive but considering that there will be over five hundred employees for the entire project the cost for them would be approximately $2 million dollars for the entire project.
The construction engineers are also a vital role for this project and to keep all twenty of them on this project their services will cost $4 million dollars. For the entire Phase II of the project there are over fifty engineers on the phase, but for our Phase II-2 the project will only need twenty.
The supplies for the project can range in many different categories from concrete barricades for the freeway, to traffic signs that will be placed in the intersections. The cost for these supplies will total $8 million dollars; all of these supplies are bought out right and are not leased or rented.
The next item is equipment, which can be categorized into driving equipment like bulldozers or freightliners. It also contains any power equipment like drills, welders, and digging augers. These items will cost approximately $10 million dollars, but most of this equipment is rented and is already figured to cost for the time rented which is nine months.
The final item is the price for the land that was purchased by TXDOT. Which for this specific Phase is, Brownfield Highway from the West Loop 289 to the 19th Street intersection at Quaker. This Phase II land price is $28.6 million but since our section contains one part of the three part section it is totaled at $9.7 million dollars.
The total cost of the entire project will be $33.7 million dollars, but as I stated in the beginning our phase will lower the other price by $10 million dollars since the time spent on the project will be cut by nine months.
Item
Cost
Construction Employees
$2 Million
Construction Engineers
$4 Million
Supplies
$8 Million
Equipment
$10 Million
Land Price
$9.7 Million
TOTAL COST:
$33.7 Million
Conclusions
In conclusion, from our research we feel that it is essential for Granite Construction Company to implement our suggestions to make Brownfield Highway more beneficial to Lubbock drivers. It is apparent from our survey that in order to keep traffic accidents low and sales consistent for local businesses, the construction company needs to cut down the huge construction projects in that area. The process is a minor adjustment to the already mass amounts of construction projects and will overall be relatively inexpensive. It will lead to an easier flow of traffic, less traffic jams, and reduce vehicle delays. It will also benefit the local businesses that surround the construction area by making it easier for drivers to access their stores. We hope this proposal helps aim at overall success of Lubbock drivers.
Works Cited
Gallagher, James. “Driving Delays and Problems.” Article (Summer 2006): Vol. 28, Issue 17.
Hopmman, Randy. TxDot Expressway. April 12, 2008.
Pyle, Robin. “Is it Worth the Traffic Accidents?” Article (November 2007): Vol. 33, Issue 4.
APPENDICES
1) Has this inconsistent construction affected your daily commute?
Yes
30
No
0
2) Has this inconsistent construction affected your business?
Yes
3
No
1
3) Have sales dropped if the construction is near the place of business?
Yes
2
No
2
4) Have sales increased since the construction is past your business?
Yes
1
No
3
5) Have you experienced a traffic accident in the construction area?
Yes
7
No
23
6) Have you avoided stores in the construction area?
Yes
13
No
17
7) How often do you drive in the construction area?
Everyday
16
Once a week
5
Monthly
3
Never
2
8) How often are you delayed to your destination due to construction?
Everyday
11
Once a week
7
Monthly
5
Never
3
Ages of the Lubbock drivers Surveyed
52 – 2
35 – 7
30 – 3
24 – 5
21 – 8
18 – 5
Revised Assignment Reflection
Susan Brashear
ENGL2311-003
Dr. Liu
April 16, 2008
Assignment Reflection
The fourth assignment given was how to prepare and present proposals. This procedure is very important in the job industry and I believe that every student should have to take a course to learn the proper techniques involved with putting a professional and clear proposal together.
The main objective of this assignment was to teach students the correct way to put together a proposal. I think that the assignment given was very important and provided everyone with vital knowledge for the work force. I enjoyed making our proposal. I feel like this assignment and the information provided is going to stick with me throughout my life. The skills used in putting together a proposal are an ability that is going to persist through out my professional existence. Even if my job in the future does not always involve making proposals for my clients or employers, it is still important to be able to do this task efficiently and professionally. My specific duty was to set up the meetings we had with Taylor Condit. We were able to obtain our information through Mr. Condit, surveying Lubbock drivers and stores and also by speaking with Granite Construction Company. I believe that our proposal demonstrated awareness for our audience by showing that the construction causes delays and accidents. We were able to keep our personal opinions out of the proposal and we stayed on a more professional level. We also worked very hard on this assignment as a group. I feel like everyone did as much work as they could and were very professional about doing it.
In conclusion, the proposal assignment was one I enjoyed very much and will be able to use again and again in the future. Hopefully this assignment will help me be able to write clear and professional proposals for any situation I need.
ENGL2311-003
Dr. Liu
April 16, 2008
Assignment Reflection
The fourth assignment given was how to prepare and present proposals. This procedure is very important in the job industry and I believe that every student should have to take a course to learn the proper techniques involved with putting a professional and clear proposal together.
The main objective of this assignment was to teach students the correct way to put together a proposal. I think that the assignment given was very important and provided everyone with vital knowledge for the work force. I enjoyed making our proposal. I feel like this assignment and the information provided is going to stick with me throughout my life. The skills used in putting together a proposal are an ability that is going to persist through out my professional existence. Even if my job in the future does not always involve making proposals for my clients or employers, it is still important to be able to do this task efficiently and professionally. My specific duty was to set up the meetings we had with Taylor Condit. We were able to obtain our information through Mr. Condit, surveying Lubbock drivers and stores and also by speaking with Granite Construction Company. I believe that our proposal demonstrated awareness for our audience by showing that the construction causes delays and accidents. We were able to keep our personal opinions out of the proposal and we stayed on a more professional level. We also worked very hard on this assignment as a group. I feel like everyone did as much work as they could and were very professional about doing it.
In conclusion, the proposal assignment was one I enjoyed very much and will be able to use again and again in the future. Hopefully this assignment will help me be able to write clear and professional proposals for any situation I need.
Assignment Reflection
Susan Brashear
ENGL2311-003
Dr. Liu
April 16, 2008
Assignment Reflection
The fourth assignment given was how to prepare and present proposals. This procedure is very important in the job industry and I believe that every student should have to take a course to learn the proper techniques involved with putting a professional and clear proposal together.
The main objective of this assignment was to teach students the correct way to put together a proposal. I think that the assignment given was very important and provided everyone with vital knowledge for the work force. I enjoyed making our proposal. I feel like this assignment and the information provided is going to stick with me throughout my life. The skills used in putting together a proposal are an ability that is going to persist through out my professional existence. Even if my job in the future does not always involve making proposals for my clients or employers, it is still important to be able to do this task efficiently and professionally.
In conclusion, the proposal assignment was one I enjoyed very much and will be able to use again and again in the future. Hopefully this assignment will help me be able to write clear and professional proposals for any situation I need.
ENGL2311-003
Dr. Liu
April 16, 2008
Assignment Reflection
The fourth assignment given was how to prepare and present proposals. This procedure is very important in the job industry and I believe that every student should have to take a course to learn the proper techniques involved with putting a professional and clear proposal together.
The main objective of this assignment was to teach students the correct way to put together a proposal. I think that the assignment given was very important and provided everyone with vital knowledge for the work force. I enjoyed making our proposal. I feel like this assignment and the information provided is going to stick with me throughout my life. The skills used in putting together a proposal are an ability that is going to persist through out my professional existence. Even if my job in the future does not always involve making proposals for my clients or employers, it is still important to be able to do this task efficiently and professionally.
In conclusion, the proposal assignment was one I enjoyed very much and will be able to use again and again in the future. Hopefully this assignment will help me be able to write clear and professional proposals for any situation I need.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Revised MLA & APA Format
MLA Format:
MLA-style formatting gives the needed guidelines for documentation to be used in literary and linguistic analysis and for research in composition studies. MLA-style is necessary for papers submitted in English and other language or literature courses. “MLA format consists of two elements: the citation in the text and the list of works cited at the end of the document” (Markel 608). A works cited page is included in MLA-style format.
The multicultural consideration in technical writing is something that I think is very important and seems to be apart of almost any job. Just as Thrush states, “Most practitioners have probably encountered cultural differences directly on their jobs – in writing computer documentation for products to be sold worldwide, in designing maintenance manuals to be used by technicians of varying cultural backgrounds, or in working with the managers of their foreign owned companies” (par. 1). Not all audiences are going to learn or think on the same level as the next so it is important to be able to understand each culture and be considerate of each culture as well. It is important to have appropriate and clear headings and titles for multicultural audiences. One suggestion to achieve this is, “try to find samples written by people from the culture you are addressing to examine their use of headings and lists” (Markel 209). I think that this suggestion is going to be the best way to incorporate each culture into what you are trying to achieve.
Works Cited
Markel, Mike. Technical Communication. 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2007.
Thrush, Emily A. Multicultural Issues in Technical Communication. April 9, 2007.
APA Format:
APA-style formatting gives a published guideline for writers to use when writing papers and articles about psychology. It can also be used when writing over topics such as; education, economics and sociology. APA-style documentation is usually only appropriate for research in education and in social sciences. A reference page is included in APA-style format.
The multicultural consideration in technical writing is something that I think is very important and seems to be apart of almost any job. Just as Thrush (2007) states, “Most practitioners have probably encountered cultural differences directly on their jobs – in writing computer documentation for products to be sold worldwide, in designing maintenance manuals to be used by technicians of varying cultural backgrounds, or in working with the managers of their foreign owned companies” (para. 1). Not all audiences are going to learn or think on the same level as the next so it is important to be able to understand each culture and be considerate of each culture as well. It is important to have appropriate and clear headings and titles for multicultural audiences. As described by Markel (2007) one suggestion to achieve this is, “try to find samples written by people from the culture you are addressing to examine their use of headings and lists” (p.209). I think that this suggestion is going to be the best way to incorporate each culture into what you are trying to achieve.
References
Markel, M. (2007). Technical communication. (8th ed.). Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s.Thrush, E. Multicultural issues in technical communication. Retrieved April 9 2008, 1997,Fromhttp://director.hu.mtu.edu/webdesign/Seminar1/Assignments/Communication/Emily_thrush.pdf
MLA-style formatting gives the needed guidelines for documentation to be used in literary and linguistic analysis and for research in composition studies. MLA-style is necessary for papers submitted in English and other language or literature courses. “MLA format consists of two elements: the citation in the text and the list of works cited at the end of the document” (Markel 608). A works cited page is included in MLA-style format.
The multicultural consideration in technical writing is something that I think is very important and seems to be apart of almost any job. Just as Thrush states, “Most practitioners have probably encountered cultural differences directly on their jobs – in writing computer documentation for products to be sold worldwide, in designing maintenance manuals to be used by technicians of varying cultural backgrounds, or in working with the managers of their foreign owned companies” (par. 1). Not all audiences are going to learn or think on the same level as the next so it is important to be able to understand each culture and be considerate of each culture as well. It is important to have appropriate and clear headings and titles for multicultural audiences. One suggestion to achieve this is, “try to find samples written by people from the culture you are addressing to examine their use of headings and lists” (Markel 209). I think that this suggestion is going to be the best way to incorporate each culture into what you are trying to achieve.
Works Cited
Markel, Mike. Technical Communication. 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2007.
Thrush, Emily A. Multicultural Issues in Technical Communication. April 9, 2007.
APA Format:
APA-style formatting gives a published guideline for writers to use when writing papers and articles about psychology. It can also be used when writing over topics such as; education, economics and sociology. APA-style documentation is usually only appropriate for research in education and in social sciences. A reference page is included in APA-style format.
The multicultural consideration in technical writing is something that I think is very important and seems to be apart of almost any job. Just as Thrush (2007) states, “Most practitioners have probably encountered cultural differences directly on their jobs – in writing computer documentation for products to be sold worldwide, in designing maintenance manuals to be used by technicians of varying cultural backgrounds, or in working with the managers of their foreign owned companies” (para. 1). Not all audiences are going to learn or think on the same level as the next so it is important to be able to understand each culture and be considerate of each culture as well. It is important to have appropriate and clear headings and titles for multicultural audiences. As described by Markel (2007) one suggestion to achieve this is, “try to find samples written by people from the culture you are addressing to examine their use of headings and lists” (p.209). I think that this suggestion is going to be the best way to incorporate each culture into what you are trying to achieve.
References
Markel, M. (2007). Technical communication. (8th ed.). Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s.Thrush, E. Multicultural issues in technical communication. Retrieved April 9 2008, 1997,Fromhttp://director.hu.mtu.edu/webdesign/Seminar1/Assignments/Communication/Emily_thrush.pdf
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
MLA & APA Format
Susan Brashear
April 9, 2008
MLA Format:
MLA-style formatting gives the needed guidelines for documentation to be used in literary and linguistic analysis and for research in composition studies. MLA-style is necessary for papers submitted in English and other language or literature courses. “MLA format consists of two elements: the citation in the text and the list of works cited at the end of the document” (Markel 608). A works cited page is included in MLA-style format.
The multicultural consideration in technical writing is something that I think is very important and seems to be apart of almost any job. Just as Thrush states, “Most practitioners have probably encountered cultural differences directly on their jobs – in writing computer documentation for products to be sold worldwide, in designing maintenance manuals to be used by technicians of varying cultural backgrounds, or in working with the managers of their foreign owned companies” (par. 1). Not all audiences are going to learn or think on the same level as the next so it is important to be able to understand each culture and be considerate of each culture as well. It is important to have appropriate and clear headings and titles for multicultural audiences. One suggestion to achieve this is, “try to find samples written by people from the culture you are addressing to examine their use of headings and lists” (Markel 209). I think that this suggestion is going to be the best way to incorporate each culture into what you are trying to achieve.
Works Cited.
Markel, Mike. Technical Communication. 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2007.
Thrush, Emily A. Multicultural Issues in Technical Communication. April 9, 2007..
APA Format:
APA-style formatting gives a published guideline for writers to use when writing papers and articles about psychology. It can also be used when writing over topics such as; education, economics and sociology. APA-style documentation is usually only appropriate for research in education and in social sciences. A reference page is included in APA-style format.
The multicultural consideration in technical writing is something that I think is very important and seems to be apart of almost any job. Just as Thrush (2007) states, “Most practitioners have probably encountered cultural differences directly on their jobs – in writing computer documentation for products to be sold worldwide, in designing maintenance manuals to be used by technicians of varying cultural backgrounds, or in working with the managers of their foreign owned companies” (para. 1). Not all audiences are going to learn or think on the same level as the next so it is important to be able to understand each culture and be considerate of each culture as well. It is important to have appropriate and clear headings and titles for multicultural audiences. As described by Markel (2007) one suggestion to achieve this is, “try to find samples written by people from the culture you are addressing to examine their use of headings and lists” (p.209). I think that this suggestion is going to be the best way to incorporate each culture into what you are trying to achieve.
References.
Markel, M. (2007). Technical communication. (8th ed.). Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s.
Thrush, E. Multicultural issues in technical communication. Retrieved Sept. 16, 1997,
Fromhttp://director.hu.mtu.edu/webdesign/Seminar1/Assignments/Communication/Emily_thrush.pdf.
April 9, 2008
MLA Format:
MLA-style formatting gives the needed guidelines for documentation to be used in literary and linguistic analysis and for research in composition studies. MLA-style is necessary for papers submitted in English and other language or literature courses. “MLA format consists of two elements: the citation in the text and the list of works cited at the end of the document” (Markel 608). A works cited page is included in MLA-style format.
The multicultural consideration in technical writing is something that I think is very important and seems to be apart of almost any job. Just as Thrush states, “Most practitioners have probably encountered cultural differences directly on their jobs – in writing computer documentation for products to be sold worldwide, in designing maintenance manuals to be used by technicians of varying cultural backgrounds, or in working with the managers of their foreign owned companies” (par. 1). Not all audiences are going to learn or think on the same level as the next so it is important to be able to understand each culture and be considerate of each culture as well. It is important to have appropriate and clear headings and titles for multicultural audiences. One suggestion to achieve this is, “try to find samples written by people from the culture you are addressing to examine their use of headings and lists” (Markel 209). I think that this suggestion is going to be the best way to incorporate each culture into what you are trying to achieve.
Works Cited.
Markel, Mike. Technical Communication. 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2007.
Thrush, Emily A. Multicultural Issues in Technical Communication. April 9, 2007.
APA Format:
APA-style formatting gives a published guideline for writers to use when writing papers and articles about psychology. It can also be used when writing over topics such as; education, economics and sociology. APA-style documentation is usually only appropriate for research in education and in social sciences. A reference page is included in APA-style format.
The multicultural consideration in technical writing is something that I think is very important and seems to be apart of almost any job. Just as Thrush (2007) states, “Most practitioners have probably encountered cultural differences directly on their jobs – in writing computer documentation for products to be sold worldwide, in designing maintenance manuals to be used by technicians of varying cultural backgrounds, or in working with the managers of their foreign owned companies” (para. 1). Not all audiences are going to learn or think on the same level as the next so it is important to be able to understand each culture and be considerate of each culture as well. It is important to have appropriate and clear headings and titles for multicultural audiences. As described by Markel (2007) one suggestion to achieve this is, “try to find samples written by people from the culture you are addressing to examine their use of headings and lists” (p.209). I think that this suggestion is going to be the best way to incorporate each culture into what you are trying to achieve.
References.
Markel, M. (2007). Technical communication. (8th ed.). Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s.
Thrush, E. Multicultural issues in technical communication. Retrieved Sept. 16, 1997,
Fromhttp://director.hu.mtu.edu/webdesign/Seminar1/Assignments/Communication/Emily_thrush.pdf.
After Class Reading Assignment #2
Susan Brashear
After Class Reading Assignment #2
1. What is the identified problem that the sample proposal deals with?
The need to update the audio archives that are only available on cassette to CD.
2. Do the writers of the sample proposal declare what they are proposing directly in their introduction?
Yes, they say “ We propose changing the current audio archives process at Texas Tech Library Southwest Collections.”
3. How do the writers of the sample proposal describe the Statement of the Problem? Do they integrate both their primary and secondary research data to frame the problem? Are you convinced that there is an urgent need to solve this problem after you read this section of their proposal?
They say that it is difficult to use the audio archives available in the Library because they are only offered on cassette tapes instead of CD. Yes, I believe that they do. They experiment by doing a survey and research the problem themselves by seeing how many articles are on file only in cassette playing status. I believe that I am convinced that this is a problem. Although I have never needed to use one of the audio archives available here at the Library, if I were to I do not have a cassette player any longer.
4. How do the writers of the sample proposal propose their solution to the problem? Do they discuss the benefits of the solution in detail? Are you convinced that the solution is really effective? Why or why not?
They would like for the current audio archives to be put in compact disc mode. They do discuss the benefits. They say that they can use the archives on their CD players in their cars and also be able to download the files onto their computers of MP3 players. I think this is an effective solution because they everything would be available to everyone and there would be no excuse as to why things did not get done or turned in on time when a project or paper is in need of an audio archive.
5. Do you think that their method to put the solution into effect is effective? What do you learn for your group's method after reading this section ( the method) of the sample proposal)?
I think that five weeks is plenty of time to put this solution into effect. I think that our method is also going to be very effective and perhaps even save Lubbock some money!
6. How do the writers of the sample proposal try to show that they are qualified for doing this proposal?
They state that each of them have had to use the audio archives, worked in the library or have taken a technology course here at Texas Tech.
7. What are things in this sample proposal that impress you most?
That they could possibly move things to an MP3 downloadable database. This would virtually eliminate so many problems that come from trying to use these here at the library and they would be available right here in your home
8. What are the aspects in this sample proposal you might want to do them differently?
I don’t think that I would do anything differently. This subject is something that I am not that familiar with so I would have to do research on this topic to be able to make any suggestions.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)