Uwadileke,+Onyeka

Uwadileke, Onyeka has been a Teacher for close to 10 years now. She is a graduate of the Abuja University in Abuja Nigeria. She loves Kids and has taught ages 3-9, both in Nigeria and Qatar. This is her education philosophy. "Children are the future. She believes in allowing a child's curiosity to direct his learning. Each child is unique in his own way. Her job is to assist each child to discover, develop and attain their fullest potential by providing a safe environment for all". Before teaching, she worked as a consumer researcher with Nielson Company which has its head quarters in Cyprus. She is looking forward to doing this course. Here is a picture of her.

Assignment #1


 * (250 +- words) Describe what you think a course in Conflict Resolution / Peaceable Schools should be about. **

I think a course in Conflict Resolution and Peaceable schools should be focusing on making school environment a safe place for all. A course in Conflict Resolution and Peaceable schools should be able to identify conflict and get possible means to settling it. It should attempt to instill problem solving skill amongst teachers, parent, children etc. The ability for continuous training on the need for building peaceable schools and classroom climate should be enforced. A possible attitude to conflict can be the way a message is been presented, said or delivered to parents, teachers, superiors, students etc. knowingly or unknowingly or can be the way one has been brought up to have believe something said. A course in Conflict Resolution and peaceable schools be able to bring about self-esteem, self-confidence, self-respect within the school environment.


 * The five specific topics I would like to see in this course should include **:

>
 * 1) 1. Understanding Conflict
 * 2) 2. Approach to solving conflict
 * 3) 3. Power of communication
 * 4) 4. Tolerance
 * 5) 5. Collaboration strategies for school environment.

Assignment #2


 * The role of nature and nurture in the film (American History X 1998 movie ) and the role of school, teachers and mentors in the film. **

The Role of Nature in the film American History X 1998 will be attributed to the environment and what exists within the minds of the youths in the community. Nature has made people black and some white while others are of different races, background and culture. It remains natural that every race feels superior and important regardless of the fact that all are human. The blacks go along with their kind and the whites do likewise and this is the root cause of the series of conflicts as shown in the movie.

At the basketball court, a simple altercation between a Negro and Seth (the Fat guy) suddenly turned into a sticky situation resulting to a racial divide or escalating an existing agro between the whites and blacks. Notwithstanding your ideology, your mind set, age, level of exposure and education, in the movie, by birth nature has automatically placed you where you belong, either with the whites or the blacks and what affects the race you belong affect you naturally.

The role of Nurture in the film could be traced to the upbringing of the younger generation. At the younger age of Derek, he talked to his Dad about the school head Dr. Bob Sweeney. He made good comments about the school head and went ahead to say it’s almost impossible not to believe whatever he said. At that point Derek did not have that racist perception, but his father made it very clear to him that the principal’s comments are Bullshit. “Nigger Bullshit”.

Also Derek’s Dad and his family supported Derek to go into racist motivated competition in the basketball court thereby increasing his need to hate. Looking at Dr. Bob Sweeney’s action while Derek was in the prison signifies the role of nurture as he nurtured him, using words and providing him with books which were like watering a garden to make it flourish. Derek’s friend, (the black guy) in the prison gave Derek a different perception about life, making him understand that life do not depend on skin color but hearts. While leaving the prison, Derek acknowledged that he might not have survived life in prison if not for the sake of the black guy.

In summary, both nature and nurture played an important role in the movie as nature imbibes racial hatred into one another, while it takes courage to nurture an affected youth through the process of withdrawal from racial hatred and discrimination and learn to appreciate one another. Nurture can be on the positive and on the negative; Derek’s father nurtured him on the path of racial discrimination while the principal nurtured him on the path of love for one another and self-love.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Then, write a brief - 2- page (500 word+ or -) report describing the influences you observed and discussed. **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Influences played a major role in the movie and several influences were observed and discussed. Importantly, it was observed that influences were of two categories. First the Negative influences which were seen at the beginning part of the movie and Secondly the Positive influences which started coming into play at the later part of the movie. These two categories of influences revolved around each other, with each of them battling for prominence amongst the people of the community.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Firstly, the community in which people were born and exist is a major influence. In this scenario, the community poses a bad influence to its habitat being a community where people are racially motivated in almost whatever they do. Take for instance, the racially motivated bet at the basketball court which out shadowed the financially motivated aspect.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Peer group is also a negative influence on the mind set of people. People grow up to find themselves acceptable to only a particular race. These friends motivate them to act in a particular manner believing it’s the right path. Naturally peer groups have a strong influence on ideology.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Relationships also were one of the very negative influences that affected characters as seen in the movie. Derek’s relationship with his father affected his ideas. His relationship with his girlfriend also affected his ideas as he had lots of support from her. These two people had their ego on high, their belief towards racism was on the high and this influenced Derek who holds these two people on high esteem

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">History and Current affairs play a major role in influencing people’s ideology. By history Adolf Hitler was a great man who fought Great War. Who also spear headed the killings of millions of Jews with the aim of erasing the Jewish race. Going by this statement its evident that one man’s terrorist is another man’s freedom fighter. This history influenced the youths of the community at which the whites idolized Hitler and this could be traced to the symbol of Nazism tattooed on Derek’s chest, the posters on his brother’s room, and the salutation by one of the white prisoners.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Talking of Influence, the media cannot be ruled out. The media has the power to influence as they have a wide coverage to pass information to the people. When propaganda gets through the media, it turns to true news. In relation to the movie, the comments of Derek to the media at the death of his father were based on what his father told him. His father’s statement could be biased considering the fact that his wife Derek’s mother made the old man feel he is been compared with a Nigger teacher. The statement made by Derek on the media went a long way in motivating violence and hatred.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Meeting new people and being open to new ideologies go a long way in influencing people. Derek’s black friend in the prison influenced him with his attitude and his white friends also influenced him by associating with other races to make Derek understand that there is more to life than racial discrimination. The person he despised became his right hand man and confidant while in prison.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Also very importantly, books and words of wisdom contribute in influencing behavior. Books contain words of wisdom and words of wisdom could be heard from people of value and influence. The head teacher used books and words of wisdom to influence Derek who spent his remaining 6 months in prison alone and reading.

Assignment #3


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">A. Remembering the film we just watched describe what the elements of a peaceable community or peaceable school might be **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The elements of a peaceable community or peaceable school will firstly be characterized by **Understanding and tolerance** for one another without some group of people putting their personal interest or ego in the forefront as against the wishes of others. This simply brings about equity. The fair treatment for every single individual in the school or community is vital. The picture below shows a clear picture that there is more to equality which is equity and this can be achieved through understanding and tolerance without anyone agitating.



<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">In the movie, the two races were both feeling victimized and had reasons to agitate.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Also, **Responsibility and Leadership** is important in achieving a peaceable community or school. It remains the responsibility of the parents or the elderly ones as leaders to inculcate the spirit of fairness and equity into the younger ones in the community as the teachers and principals with regards to the school. When such respectable people in the society accept this responsibility to treat people fairly, it steps down to younger generation and respect becomes a norm.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Support **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> is also an important element of a peaceable school and community in the sense that people feel loved when they are supported and support brings about achievement which in turn brings about calm. According to the movie, Derek met the black guy in the movie who supported him in prison survival by advising him reasonable actions to take. The principal also did by visiting, advising him and offering him books. Derek felt supported, felt he achieved something and he found peace.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Togetherness **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">is seen when different people of different color and race have the same culture which is a group understanding, collective belief and perception of where they are, what they do and how they do it. When that strong belief exists, togetherness becomes evident. In the movie, this was lacking as people see each other differently, while some people see themselves as superior to others.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">What will a peaceable school or community look like:- **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">A peaceable school or community is one that places peace at the fore front of everything. A peaceable school or community is one that models acceptance of self and others and one that acknowledges the positive qualities in others. Modeling the kind of behavior you see in others is very important. The need to treat and respect all equal / fairly and the “we can do it”, is also vital. This brings out the best in a student, teacher, parent and the community at large.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">A peaceable School or Community should be one free of violence and without the existence of fear, where people or students need to look behind their shoulders in fear and uncertainty about the intentions of the next person. This was a regular occurrence in the school, street, prison as shown in the movie.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">A positive culture should exist in the school and community which include display of reasonable character worth emulating, with the intentions of being appreciated for what one has done for the school or community. This involves students and people of the community having a sense of ownership and participation.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Fairness and equity should be evident as people or students should respect and be treated with respect. Tolerance should be part of daily life and activity and in all aspects irrespective of differences in skin color, financial background, etc.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Ability to share is one of the characteristics of a peaceable school and community. This could be thoughts and ideas, facilities etc. For instance there was a need to share the basketball court and not to battle for ownership as seen in the movie**.**

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Lastly, there should be a clear evidence of appropriate law and order which control the actions and direct the intentions and motivation of members of a community or students of a school.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">What Elements of Communication would be included? **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Elements of communication in peaceable school / community includes:


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Media- **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Communication through the media to engage on anti-violence campaigns or other social vices
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Books- **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Some rational books which are motivating for the purpose of communicating positive culture and positive influences on the students and the people of the community
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">One on One communication **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">- Engaging on one on one discussion is important. Parents need to talk to their children on positive manner and teachers also need to communicate through teaching and individual monitoring of students which will in sometimes require having a one on one talk.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Teaching- **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Teachers have a great role to play with regards to communication. What they feed the students is what the students bring out to the community. Therefore what the teacher teaches is important. In this aspect teaching can come from parents, religious leader, leaders of the society, classroom teachers, sports coaches etc**.**
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Listening and Speaking- **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">There should be proper listening ability by those being communicated to. People need to be able to listen so as to get the message passed and it should be effective to their way of life. As well people need to speak with respect, wisdom and understanding.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Two way communications- **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">A two way communication is a situation where the receiver acknowledges he has clearly understood what was communicated. This ensures no form of misunderstanding is perceived.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Brainstorming- **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">A collection of like minds coming together to get the best interpretation of whatsoever that has been communicated to them.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">What would be tolerated and what would not be tolerated? **


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">TOLERATED - **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Respectfully listening to each other, and speaking to each other to solve conflict**.**
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">NOT TOLERATED - **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Violence, Name calling, and assigning blames on each other**.**


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">What would the rules be? **
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Listen respectfully
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Active Listening
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">One person speaks at a time ( taking turns speaking)
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Be respectful to each other
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Use “I statements”, I feel…., because I would like….”
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">When there is a conflict between students, talk about it, be honest and express yourself.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">What would the expectations be? **
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Conflict is a part of life however when choosing to solve it, it should be in a respectful and peaceful manner.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Conflict presents a learning opportunity.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Students are responsible members of the school community.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Solving conflict in a peaceful manner allows for development of relationships.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Use calm voice when possible.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">What would the responsibilities be? **
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The responsibilities will be being a role model by both the teachers and the school. The students will follow a good example.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The students responsibility is to be non-violent citizen who solves problems with their peers, parent or teachers by communication and listening.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> B. Do a web search for Oscar Arias (use a minimum of two sites other than Wikipedia ) **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I did a web search for Oscar Arias, I used

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">[]

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">[]

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> **C.** **I read the Oscar Arias speech to the international educators at the Tri-Association, found on the link.**

<span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">I read the poem and watched the video **


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">D. Describe how if Hank (your professor) came to your classroom or community he would observe the elements of a peaceable community. **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">250 - 500 words

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">If Prof Hank came into my classroom or community he would observe how I am trying to carefully instill a peaceable environment. My classroom expectation is hanged at the entrance saying we listen, we respect each other, we collaborate, and we care. We talk about this every morning before the start of the day and I encourage my student to act it out both in words and actions using the right manner and at the right time too. I believe each time I address behavior problem, I am teaching my student how to address and manage conflict. Prof would observe the use of clear communication.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Prof would observe synergy in my classroom. He would observe that some students week in one aspect are been supported by those who are strong in that aspect. This encourages and produces greater achievements in my classroom.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Prof Hank would also observe some of the virtues hanged on my wall. I use this on the go while in the classroom. For example after resolving a conflict amongst my student, I do not forget to say “thank you for being honest, tolerant etc.”

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Prof Hank would observe coherence if he met the class during rhyme time. This shows the extent to which the class exhibits the act of a unified whole.


 * **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">What evidence would he see? **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">He would see respect for each other while in the classroom.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">He would see cooperative learning.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">He would see the act of a unified whole.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">He would hear me use regular praise on my student based on what they are doing well and discussions on the need for improvement.


 * **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">How will you promote peace in your community? **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I will promote peace in my community by being a role model to peace first. I SHOULD PRACTICE WHAT I PREACH.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I will promote peace in my community by teaching social skills and having the people of the community practice them

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I will promote peace in my community by assigning specific roles to people of my community so that they can be in charge of the environment in which they live.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">.

Assignment #4
 * || QI || Q2 || Q3 || Q4 || Q5 ||
 * Onyeka || T || F || F || F || F ||
 * Bibo || F || F || F || F || F ||
 * Lauren || T || T || F || F || T ||
 * Isam || T || T || F || T || F ||
 * Suzzy || F || T || F || F || T ||
 * Answer || T || F || F || F || T ||


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Do an individual reflection on what you thought, what you learned and be sure to comment on the following specific points. (250 + or -). **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> **1**. **Why do you think the rate of homicide violence has gone down in the last 800** **years?** <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Improvements in manpower- Additional police officers were deployed. Government funding of security, increased budget on security would lead to installation of security gadgets which would help curb crime and getting people aware will decrease the urge to commit such rime when the possibility of being caught is high. The improvements and sophistication of technology with regards to security is significant. Also Control of substances with the ability to intoxicate has a major role to play in the reduction of homicide violence. Improved or stabilized economy leads to improvement in living standards thereby making citizens to be more responsible in their deeds. Finally awareness campaigns carried out by the Government, Human Right groups and NGOs have contributed immensely in controlling homicide violence.
 * 1) **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">1. ** **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Did you over or underestimate violence in the United States? **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I did underestimate violence in the United States considering the fact that it’s a country with good economy and security and the fact that it’s not a war thorn country where the aftermath of war would affect the country.
 * 1) **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">2. ** **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">What did your 4 subject colleagues think about violence in general? **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">In general, my 4 subject colleagues think about violence as an act that is most likely to increase if not properly controlled.
 * 1) **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">3. ** **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Why? **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">This is because the acts of violence are no longer unusual news in a lot of countries at which the US is not an exception. Of late we have heard of such in the news as some are acts of terrorism


 * 1) **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">4. ** **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">What did you think about this lesson? **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I think this lesson is very important to further have an estimate on what violence is around us and the approach to resolving it. This lesson redirects our mindset towards a more positive relationship with people around us.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Waterboarding. **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> **This is an "enhanced" interrogation technique. Write a brief comment about what you think about using torture or other "enhanced" interrogation techniques. (Less than 250 words)**


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Source: **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">[]

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">In my view of waterboarding, it’s inhuman and should not be supported. It is a good thing that the US has placed a ban on it and convicts people who use it during war as war criminals. Enhanced interrogation technique is next to treating a human like an animal but the big question is, do these people been tortured in such manner commit a crime that equates such torture? Will this torture bring out the truth or just an answer as a bargain for reduction of pain? Does it put fear into intending offenders and make them withdraw from activities that will lead to such? What is the opinion of victims of crime? These and many more questions we need to ask.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">With interrogation alone, criminals will likely get away or hide leading information that might be detrimental to the security of the citizens. This brings me to a reminder of a movie “Unthinkable” (2010) I had to watch again for the purpose of this comment.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Then, write a brief (250 word+ or -) report describing what you observed or experienced from session #4. **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">In my observation, there has been a reduction in violence and people have come to be more aware of the fact that violence can erupt at anytime and anywhere. This has brought people’s consciousness to a point of alertness taking the video of fighting back where students have been made aware that attacks could happen and measures to tackle them. Also measures that might be extreme have been put in place to curb these extreme acts of violence. It was also observed that different people have different ideas about violence in the United States. This session have also shown how people react to enhanced interrogation technique and the campaign to strap it out.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Furthermore, it was observed that violence in the United States is not new to the society and has existed over a long period of time which has reduced in recent years due to proactive and reactive measures put in place to curb violence. This is could be found in the line graph shown in the session.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The idea of fighting back is indeed a great one just as the saying goes, “the best form of defense is attack.” The use of food cans as a fight back weapon on free shooters could save lives, hold down the attacker until emergency response arrive. Just as seen in the video, if not that the students used objects like their textbooks; the shooter might have fatally injured as many students as possible. The idea of using can food for fight back gives the students a sense of ownership of their own security which in turn brings a level of togetherness amongst students. Moreover the use of articles around the students for a fight back do not really make the students take laws into their hands and would reduce the rate at which students might want to arm themselves as a result of personal fear of the unknown.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Watch this video ****Fighting Back****<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> on how one school is handling active shooters in a middle school. Do a You-tube search for "School Shooting Fighting Back". THEN Write two short 250 word paragraphs with both pro and con about what you have learn. **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Some of the dis advantages could be that the school management might start to lag on the aspect of security, believing security measures are in place even though use of can food has been made a last resort to security defense in the school. Also since the students are not trained, there could be mistakes and lapses which might make the shooter more aggressive as a result of fear. The idea may make the students develop a sense of rebellion and with the capability to easily insight riots, attack to the teachers or fellow students. The idea may start to fade away gradually especially when there has not been an attack over a long time and students may see carrying can foods for fight back as a discomfort. There is no yardstick to measure the effectiveness of using food cans for fight back.

Assignment #5 <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The word amygdala is an almond shaped mass of grey matter in front of the temporal lobe of the cerebrum that is part of the limbic system. It involves in the processing and expression of emotions, especially anger and fear.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Google the word "Amygdala" **


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Daniel Goleman (author of Emotional Intelligence) thinks the "Hijacking of a Brain" is. **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Hijacking of a brain according to Daniel Goleman in his book Emotional Intelligence is when emotions drive peoples thoughts and actions instead of rational. In this situation the thoughts, ideas and feelings of the person is overwhelmed by his emotions which are not controlled based on actuality or reality but by feelings. In this situation, the brain is acting based on the control of the emotions and what the emotions have instructed instead of the right thing to do. Simply put, the brain has been hijacked from the rational thinking and these results to violence, crime, fights etc which is referred to as emotional illiteracy, where emotions act uncontrollably.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Signs of an amygdala hijack: strong emotional reaction, sudden onset, and "when you reflect later, you realize it was inappropriate.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">“Hijacking of a Brain” **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> occurs when amygdala perceives a threat, it can make a person act irrationally and disproportionately reactive to the given situation. Once the amygdala learns something, it always remembers it. “Hijacking of a brain” is a disproportionately emotional response to a stimuli. It is a fight, flight, or freeze response

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I have had an experience where I saw a man react aggressively to his wife while he was driving. The man was screaming harshly to the top of his voice while he drove off a mall. His expression of anger reflected on his driving skills as he almost crashed the vehicle at one point and almost at the same time, almost overturned the vehicle which was containing himself, his wife and children. This action could have injured innocent people on the road as well as damage to lives and property. Though I do not know what had transpired between the couple, I believe the man has been overwhelmed by emotion without thinking rationally to what happens if the car crashed. At that point his brain has been hijacked by his amygdala.

**TED Talk by Amy Cuddy on YOUTUBE**


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> Write a brief (250 word+ or -) report describing what you observed or experienced **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> I observed or experienced a lot with the people I watched this video with. This was a very interesting video of the different types of communication, using of body language that tells a lot. It’s also interesting to know our body can change our mind and we are what we think we are. <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Amy used a lot of examples to buttress powerful communication. Like that of the animal, the president and the prime minister, and lots of sitting positions. The use of animals was quite fascinating and good to know it transpires in human too. Making oneself small and big affects ones whole. <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Taking a deep look at power posing, I believe it tells a lot about one’s personality. I haven’t really notice this aspect of power posing until now, I believe works. Amy’s research shows that posing powerfully have a way of instilling confidence. <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">While in the classroom with my student, they exhibit this kind of behaviors, when I praise one, the other students will fill eager to participate thereby using their brain to think out. <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I love this power quote of Amy, “Even if we fake it, to become it”. This is feeling confident <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I am now getting aware of whom I am. Relating this philosophy to the last job interview I had, I feel I exhibited this act of power posing with the way I look into the eye of my interviewee, gave a strong handshake and spoke with confident. Although I have learnt more and need to put them into practice

Assignment #6

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<span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif;">Conflict can be seen as an opposition resulting from perceived differences within a group when the actions of one or more members of the group are unacceptable to one or more members of another group. Conflict is also to come into disagreement of needs, ideas, belief, values or goals etc. =====


 * What is conflict resolution? **

Conflict resolution can be defined as intervention aimed at peaceful interest between two or more parties. It can also be a process of resolving dispute effectively by taking a positive, courteous, and non-confrontational approach. Conflict does exit in organizations and the ability to resolve it effectively eliminates problems that are hidden.

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 * <span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif;">Analyze one conflict that you have observed or participated in in terms of a "Hijacked Brain". This would be a conflict that started and escalated because of an emotional engagement. **=====

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 * <span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif;">Describe what happened in the conflict, who was involved in the conflict, and how the emotional engagements of the Amygdala were all working to hinder the conflict. **=====

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<span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif;">A conflict I observed and participated in terms of a “Hijacked Brain” was between two students of mine in my classroom during lunch time. One of the students mistakenly bumped into the other without noticing what he had done, so the other hit him with his water container on his head leading to a big fight. The case was, he wasn’t aware he bumped into the other guy, he just finished his lunch and wanted to drop the dirt in the trash bin kept at the middle of the class, but the other guy’s brain got hijacked by amygdala when he perceived the bumping as a threat and thought of defending himself with a fight. =====


 * Do the involvement of emotions and the Amygdala always hinder conflict resolution? **

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<span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif;">The involvement of emotions and Amygdala does not hinder conflict resolution. Learning ways to express emotions is vital. Emotion is a natural state of the mind and Amygdala in itself recollects all experiences. I believe both sides can work cap in hand for a peaceful resolution but when we allow our Amygdala to take over, things change. We are in charge of our actions. =====


 * Parts B **
 * Cursing Reduces Stress **

After going to the link and watching the video, I do not agree that swearing or cursing reduces stress. Psychologist might have proven the reason they said swearing / cursing reduces stress based on their findings, but things change and of course every study has a counter study.

On the video, I totally support the professor of psychologist at the Bristol school of experimental psychology who says swearing increase demotions and stress level. I believe cursing / swearing makes one regret the after mat of it, it has a long lasting effect which is harmful. I find swearing really harmful.

[]

I then search the internet and read one other article about swearing.

The article states most people swear just to ease themselves. According to the article, Psycholinguists have remarked that “taboo words communicate emotional information more effectively than non-taboo words” and allow us to vent anger without getting physical. Swear words are powerful and using it in a work place and home is dangerous too. We have to be careful / courteous during conflict. I could recall what happened to me, before then, I spoke to myself to take things easy, not to react to people’s words or actions. Someone used a bad word on me in the public, very unlike me, I smiled, said thank you and walked out immediately to a spot where I shed tears. Later on, this person called me on phone, heard the tone of my voice, ask what happened I said nothing. And then he began apologizing.

The point is, if I had replied with bad words, it would have got me fired. We need to take charge of our actions, sometimes it’s difficult but we can.

Assignment #7

 * Identify and deliver 3 - I Messages (1 correction or negative "I" message & 2 positive or Rewarding messages). Tell what the reaction was to your "I" messages! **

**__Negative__** __**“I” message**__

**Consequence of behavior**: I did not understand why **Feeling**: and I felt sad and embarrassed about your actions
 * Behavior ** : When you react violently to what people have said


 * Reaction: ** People have said things they believe, the important aspect is for us to be courteous and be able to take responsibility for our actions. If you fill yourhead with the negativity of things people have said without looking in-depth to it, then you called for it. Be positive and be happy.

**__1. Positive__** __**“I” message**__

**Behavior:** When you are patient with your colleagues
 * Consequences of behavior: ** He / she can see it clearly
 * Feeling: ** and that makes him/her feels comfortable around you


 * Reaction ** : I see my coordinator working with ease, even when she feels frustrated by the people she tries to correct. She is able to control her emotions and understands she is working with people of different background. We are happy we have her around.


 * __ 2. Positive “I” message __**


 * Behavior: ** When you told me you got a new job
 * Consequences of behavior: ** I can tell that I will miss you greatly
 * Feeling: ** and I feel happy about your success


 * Reaction: ** Telling my colleague that he is a great team player, he was thankful about my comments and said I could reach him at any point in time if I need a help.


 * __ Part 2 __**

**Give Gigi an "I message" to help her change her behavior and after she changes her behavior give her another "I Message" to reinforce her behavior change.** **"I Messages" One corrective** **and one positive!**

**1 Corrective I statement**__:__

Gigi, My boyfriend feels it is right for you to call before coming over even in my absence, would it be possible for you to call before coming over?

**1 Positive I statement:** Gigi, I noticed you called first before coming over to the house, I really appreciate it that you called first. Thank you for always checking on me even when I am not home.

Assignment #8

 * A **
 * Do describe the behavior issues that you are working to change. **

A kindergarten student of mine was finding it difficult to stay on task and also uses bad words in Arabic which affects his ability to concentrate in the classroom. He disrupts the class, turning the classroom into an Arabic Organization.The goal for this student was to minimize distraction, and to stay positive. I felt it was beneficial for me to provide the student with what the expected behavior looks like for maximum result. External motivation was not left out. I would let him go out in the garden to ride a bike since that was his favorite aside handing out stickers (extrinsic motivation) and hugs (intrinsic motivation). I made it mandatory to communicate daily with my parent, having a communication book of which the parent would sign to assist in making the best of their child.


 * Daily Behavior Chart **


 * Name: Date: **
 * ** 1 ** || ** I intend to set positive goals to shape my behavior ** || ** 1 ** || ** 2 ** || ** 3 ** || ** 4 ** ||
 * ** 2 ** || ** I will stay focus ** || ** 1 ** || ** 2 ** || ** 3 ** || ** 4 ** ||
 * ** 3 ** || ** Total ** ||  ||   ||   ||   ||
 * ** 4 ** || ** Comment ** ||||||||  ||
 * RATING: 1-STRONGLY DISAGREE, 2-DISAGREE, 3- AGREE, 4-STRONGLY AGREE. **


 * TEACHERS SIGNATURE: POINTS RECEIVED: **


 * PARENT SIGNATURE: GOALS MET: YES / NO **


 * Advantages and Disadvantages of having parents sign off on behavior contracts with students. **

**Advantages**:


 * Ability to monitor child’s daily progress
 * Parent/Teacher collaboration shows the student that everyone is working together to his benefit.
 * Provides the home and the school the ability to hold the student accountable for his behavior.

**Disadvantages:**


 * Student may lose the trust for the teacher
 * Parents may have other responsibility thereby leaving the contract in the care of the housemaid.
 * Fear of been punished by parent based on the student having a minimal contract scale

Intrinsic motivation is when you want to do something, it is an internal reward such as hugs which leads to self-confidence and self-esteem while extrinsic motivation is when somebody wants you to do something, it is a physical reward such as stickers, stamps etc.
 * Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. **

The article, “Giving Student what they need” gave an insight of the connection between a teacher and a student relationship. I found the article useful and interesting. Motivation in itself is very rewarding. It brings out the best from an individual or student. There is nothing as lovely as building relationships with young learners. I will save the article for my reference purpose.

Assignment #9

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 * <span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">In a short 200 word (+-) tell if you agree or disagree with your Personality Profile from the test you took. ****<span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Are you a People Person, a Practical Manager, a Learned Expert, or a Creative Problem Solver? **======

After taking the Baum & Nicols Personality test, the result showed that I am more of a Practical Manager with 30 point, followed by Peoples Person with 26 point, and next was Learned Expert with 23 point and Creative Problem Solver with 21 point.

I read this result with my sister and it was glaring that I am indeed a Practical Manager. She decided to partake and found out that she is a Creative Problem Solver. This really gave room for brainstorming. We looked into the result and saw what Personality profile looks like. The lifestyle of a person and awareness of it is indeed a great deal.

Looking deep into the test I took, I agree strongly with my Personality Profile. I am good at paying attention to details, keeping others on task, having finely tuned senses and creative to improving ideas. When I was growing up, I could remember that I kept my space organized, My appearance means everything to me, I do more of the reminder in the home then, I had just a close friend and this kind of lifestyle keeps me on till date.

In all I may be into one or two traits within the Peoples Person, Learned Expert and Creative Problem Solver but I go a lot more and have been confirmed strong at Practical Manager.

Reading this gave me an insight of what I am and what Personality Profile means. I am happy that I am able to expand my understanding of personal styles. Arranging my life to it is my next step, so that my expectation and activity will reflects my strength for a satisfying life.

Assignment #10

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 * <span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">After watching the movie (1999 film October Sky) compare and contrast that film with the film American History X. Use specific examples from each of the two movies to explain. **======


 * 1) 1. ** The role of nurture by the families of the two main characters, Derrick and Homer **.

Both characters were undoubtedly nurtured by their respective families, but the question is, to what direction. Derrick in the movie American History X was nurtured on the part of racial discrimination as his father made him believe that he should not believe in his teacher just because he is black. Also making him believe the black guys in his place of work are the cause of his death. These directed his actions towards a campaign against blacks. The same goes to Homer who had a dream to achieve a particular goal in an area where such seem to be impossible because all the children are perceived to end up in the mines. Homers father repeatedly told him how much the mines had given him and this beclouded the family.

In summary, the families in the two movies inculcated or tried to inculcate these ideas into these youths, by making them to believe what seem to be the custom, tradition and culture of the family and the community they find themselves. They are expected to live by these ideologies and grow up having such thoughts in mind as a guiding principle with every support towards making them great within the circle of these ideas.


 * 1) ** 2. ** ** The role of the mother in the development of each of the two main characters Derrick and Homer. **

The mothers played a major role in the development of the two characters in the sense that they always see hope even when it seemed impossible. The mothers are sometimes caught in a dilemma; knowing that what the family gives is what they have lived by and at the same time sees some possibilities of a breakthrough in their sons. Derrick’s mother at most times tried to change his perception of racial intolerance as seen in the movie where they were having a family dinner and while she visited Derek in the prison. While Homers mother played a supportive role towards helping him by finding a balance between Homer and his father to avoid further conflicts. As shown in the movie, during Homers birthday when Homer received an autograph that meant a lot to his ambition.


 * 1) ** 3. ** ** The role of the teacher Murray in Derrick’s life and the role of Miss Reilly in Homer’s life. **

The teacher Murray played a major role in turning the life of Derrick around through words of wisdom and he also gave derrick books that will inspire him to a better understanding of life and what life holds for him outside the circle he finds himself. The teacher never gave up on him even though he was in prison and with restricted access; the teacher found him there and gave him books. This is similar to the role of Miss Reilly, who inspired Homer at the time Homer had almost given up on his dreams. When Homer visited Miss Reilly, she told him how much she is proud of him, and that he should sometimes listen to his inner self and not just what people think or say. She further made him know that he should not end up in the mines. These words of Miss Reilly lit Homers ambition ones again.


 * 1) ** 4. ** ** The role of the two principals in the lives of Derrick and Homer. **

The two principals played different roles, While Derrick’s principal was very much supportive, and did not give up on Derrick. Homers principal was of the contrary. He already has the notion that these kids were going to end up in the mines and did not support Homer until he was proven wrong by Homer, with the help of Miss Reilly.


 * 1) ** 5. ** ** The role of the community in the lives of Derrick and Homer. **

With regards to Derrick, the community he found himself was not a friendly one. One with the capability to turn the lives of youths into a violent group of people filled with pride and hate. The community helped build Derrick into what he found himself to be until his transformation. Homer found himself in a friendly community, with responsible people who worked hard to earn a living. These are people who knew the worth of education and pursuing dreams. He gained there support individually and collectively and he gave his words of gratitude to the community.


 * 1) 6. ** Once you have finished this assignment and all of the other 9 assignments on our Wiki site send Hank an email letting him know that you are completely finished. He will then email you your grade. It may take a few weeks from your submission until the grading is completed **.