The Disadvantages of Full Day Schools Essay Example for Free

The Disadvantages of Full Day Schools Essay Full day schooling refers to a longer day at preschool where they not only learn but are also given time for play. (Lamphere, 2009) Full day preschools run for five hours or longer for five days a week. Half day preschools run for approximately 3 hours for five days a week. (Rosamilia, 2008) Researchers have constantly compared these two types of schooling and most studies came to a conclusion that full day schools are better than half day schools. There are a few example of studies conducted to show this. Some examples include: A study conducted by Cryan et al.in 1992 in two phases on the effects of half-day and all-day kindergarten programs on childrens academic and behavioral success in school and another study by Hough and Bryde in 1996 which looked at the student achievement data of children enrolled in half day and full day schools. Both studies showed that full day kindergartens benefit children in terms of academic successes, attendance and there are also fewer cases of retention for them. (Clark, 2013) Even though full day schools has its benefits, it also has its disadvantages. This literature review would be focusing on the disadvantages of full day school, be it long term or short term and it would also look into the benefits of other schooling programmes such as half day programs. This review is important it would give a better idea to parents and teacher as to why they should carefully consider other options other than just focusing on full day schools. Due to the limited resources on full day schools and case studies on full day schools, the countries this literature review would be focusing on would be US and Canada. Disadvantages of Full Day Kindergarten According to research, there are a number of disadvantages for Full Day kindergarten. Firstly, there is a lack of spaces for children. According to an article, in Canada, there is a lack of space to accommodate the rising number of children if they change their program to full-day kindergartens. In Calgary, Canada, it is believed that 50 out of 137 elementary schools would not be able to accommodate more than their current half-day school and the implementation of full-day programs would force some grades to be reshuffled to other schools. (Cuthbertson Herald, 2012) In some other articles, in United States, there has been lack of space to set up full-day kindergarten. (Martinez, Stuber, and Snider, 2006; Haglund, n. d. ) Thus, there have been talks going on as to whether they should set up full-day kindergartens in that district. (Placek, 2012) Another disadvantage would be the high cost for full-day programs. This includes the expenses for equipment, staff and space. In the article regarding the changing to the full day program in Canada, they mentioned that the cost of funding it for a year would be around $200 million. Another article stated that it would cost $2 million annually after an initial startup cost of $505,600. And, it would have required another $7 million from the districts reserves to pay for construction of additional classrooms and multipurpose rooms. (Placek, 2012) Another article by a graduate from East Stroudsburg University also states that the amount of money spent on the teachers’ salaries are also high because they now have to hire more teachers for full-day kindergartens. An average teacher in the US would earn about $33,000 a year. Thus, in the case that the kindergarten hires more teachers, they would have to spend about $132,000 to $165,000 per annum just on salaries. This would increase the burden on the taxpayers. (Morse, 2008) This point is also further supported by research conducted previously. (Martinez, Stuber, and Snider, 2006; Hugland, N. A. ; Guilderland Central School District Early Childhood Advisory Committee, 2008) The third disadvantage of full-day kindergarten is that it requires more staff and staff aides. Many articles stating the disadvantages of full day support this point. For example, in one article, it states that when there are half day sessions, one teacher can teach two sessions: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. However, if it is a full-day session, it requires more teachers to teach. They would also need more teacher aides. In the case where the kindergarten does not want to hire more teachers, they would expand each class and add in more teacher aides to balance the teacher-child ratio. In a study conducted at the Guilderland central school district, it also states that they would require more teachers to teach and balance the teacher-child ratio. (Early Childhood Advisory Committee, 2008). Besides these, there are a few more disadvantages to full day kindergartens. They include having more time at school and less time for ‘kids to be kids’. (Circele, 2009; Brower, 2013). It also includes teaching children academic and skills before they are ready for it. (Haglund, N. A. ; Morse, 2008) One of the articles found went on to explain that the kindergarten may teach too advanced skills for children instead of teaching them minor skills which are important. In summary, even though full-day seems like a good option for everyone, it does have its disadvantages. Benefits of Half Day Kindergartens Likewise, half-day school has its benefits. Firstly, half day kindergarten programs are less stressful. According to Walsh (2013), children would feel relaxed while trying to adjust to the structured classroom environment. Furthermore, they are able to make good transitions from kindergarten to first grade. Another source states that half-day programs are viewed as providing continuity and systematic experience with less probability of stress than full-day programs. (Rothenberg, 2009) Secondly, the children also receive the same quality of education as those in full day preschools or kindergartens. (Ast, 2010;Rothernberg, 2009) The children go through similar experiences but just that one is longer and the other is shorter. These show that there are other programs besides full day kindergartens which young chidren can benefit from. Conclusion In the context of Singapore, there isn’t much of an issue about half day versus full day kindergarten. This is because Singapore has mainly focused on half day kindergartens. Some of the reasons as to why that might be the case is similar to the disadvantages stated above. Just like in some parts of Canada and US, Singapore has limited space to set up full-day kindergarten and it requires more sources, equipment and etc. Singapore’s space is already limited in space and it requires more space for other more important things thus, it can’t be used just for kindergartens. Statistics have shown that 15% of Singapore’s land has been located for housing, 17% for recreational and community needs. The rest of the land is used for commerce, industry, infrastructure, utilities and transport and reservoirs, defense facilities and cemetery and undeveloped land. (Yearbook of Statistics Singapore, department of Statistics Singapore[online], 2012) This shows that there isn’t sufficient space to build more kindergartens or expand it. If Singapore was to expand or make kindergartens full day, it would require more teachers or teacher aides. There is also a lack in kindergarten teachers now. Recently, along the roads, many jobs offers for preschool teachers were noticed. This is also supported by a Strait Times article on 20 July 2012. It stated that there is already a shortage of teachers. (Vadaketh, 2012)Thus, if full day kindergartens were established, there would not be enough teachers. Depending on these reasons, I believe that full day kindergarten programs are not applicable really in Singapore. However, if you look at Singapore’s context carefully, full day kindergarten programs are somewhat similar to childcare programmes in Singapore. In this context, Singaporeans can choose what kind of schooling programs they want to send their child to. The kindergarten programmes are standardized by the Ministry of Education (MOE) to be 3 hours per session. (MOE,2013) As for Childcare, it is a full day program and is also available for half day on Saturdays. The two main factors determining which programme they would send their child to would be whether they are working and the cost of the programme. Parents of children these days are usually working adults. They do not have time to take care of their children because they are working. Thus, they would rather send them to childcares because it is more convenient and safe. If they were working and they send their child to half day kindergartens, they have to make other arrangements for their child so that the child would not be left alone. While full day kindergartens may be more convenient for working adults, half day schools (kindergartens) are cheaper. According to the list of kindergartens found on the Investmentfriend. com forum, the pricing ranges from as low as $80 to $500. However, the costs of childcare centres are about $700 and above, depending on the childcare. Thus, some parents might not be able to afford childcare and would send their child to half day kindergartens. Thus, all in all I believe that the choice of schooling depends on each family and individual if childcare was seen as an full day kindergarten program. References Clark, P. (2013). Recent research on all-day kindergarten | education. com. Retrieved from http://www. education. com/reference/article/Ref_Recent_Research_All/? Lamphere, M. (2009). Full day kindergarten. Retrieved from http://www. slideshare. net/lamph1ml/full-day-kindergarten Haglund, J. (n. d. ). Full-day kindergarten advantages disadvantages | early childhood. Retrieved from http://ec. dpi. wi. gov/ec_ecadflpg Morse, J. (2008). The disadvantages of all-day kindergarten yahoo! voices voice. yahoo. com. Retrieved from http://voices. yahoo. com/the-disadvantages-all-day-kindergarten-1337569. html? cat=25 Placek,C. (2012). No full daykindergarten for all in dist. 203 dailyherald. com. Retrieved from http://www. dailyherald. com/article/20121105/news/711059666/ Cuthbertson , R. , Herald, C. (2012). School promise under threat. Retrieved from http://www2. canada. com/calgaryherald/news/story. html? id=c1b76975-1366-45e4-9bc2d33d7a3ab1b6p=1 Brower, C. (2013). The cons of full-day kindergarten | ehow. com. Retrieved from http://www. ehow. com/info_8660784_cons-full-day-kindergarten-programs. html Guilderland Central School District Early Childhood Advisory Committee. (2009). Report on full-day kindergarten. Retrieved from http://www. guilderlandschools. org/district/boe/PDFs/reports/FDKPPT110508. pdf Ast, A. (2010). Half day vs full day kindergarten: Is there really a difference? yahoo! voices voices. yahoo. com. Retrieved from http://voices. yahoo. com/half-day-vs-full-day-kindergarten-there-really-6839874. html? cat=25 Walsh, K. (2013). Pros cons of half day kindergarten | ehow. com. Retrieved from http://www. ehow. com/info_8502607_pros-cons-halfday-kindergarten. html Kindergarten fees list. (2011). Retrieved from http://investmentfriend. com/forum/showthread. php/25-Kindergarten-Fees-List Vadaketh, S. T. (2012). Tackling preschool challenges in Singapore. The StraitTimes. Retrieved from http://ifonlysingaporeans. blogspot. sg/2012/07/tackling-preschool-challenges-in. html MOE. (2013). Ministry of education, Singapore education system: Pre-school Education. Retrieved from http://www. moe. gov. sg/education/preschool/.

Hybrid Cars Essay -- Gasoline Electric Hybrid Automobiles

Want to buy a hybrid car? Consider the facts. You may be correct in thinking that you should buy a hybrid car or SUV, but are you thinking you need it for the right reasons? Kevin Ransom’s article â€Å"Reasons to buy a hybrid – or not† updated on CNN’s website in January 28, discusses many aspects consumers should consider when thinking about buying a hybrid vehicle. He makes good points, but he needs some better ones to convince me. Ransom is making an argument with plenty of statistics for buying a hybrid and trying at the same time to give you somewhat of a counterargument against buying a hybrid. He never takes a clear bias, but leaves many questions out in the open. One example of this is his lack of comparing a Prius with anything. Also he claims that hybrids are â€Å"definitely one of the waves of the future. Does he mean they are a link to the future with ten times better innovations coming in the near future? This link needs to become cost effective if he thinks this is moving forward. He tells us that one school of thought is that it could take years for a consumer to break even on the amount saved in fuel costs. This is definitely true considering if the price difference between base models of a Toyota Civic and a Civic Hybrid being $18,710 and $22,600 respectively. That is a difference of $3,890 with the only major standard equipment difference being a navigation screen most users opt out from getting in the first place! Also, the base model Ford Escape and base Escape Hybrid are priced at $20,140 and $27,445 respectively. That is a whopping difference of $7,305. We will come back to the issue of cost, but now we will move on to the environment and how it is affected. Ransom’s first major point of interest is the fact t... ... cost of replacement will fall onto the customer. The costs of replacement the battery packs range from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the model. This piece of information would be very important to include in Ransom’s article if he is trying to compare and contrast benefits of having a hybrid. Because the article appeared in a journalistic setting, the author is trying to appeal to a general audience by using language that is to formal or informal. The genre is an opinionated article with statistics that he uses trying to sway readers and influence their thoughts In Conclusion, if Ransom is trying to persuade the general public that is a good idea to buy a hybrid at this time, he is going to need to use more conclusive evidence that proves it is worth the setbacks. Works Cited Ransom, Kevin. http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/01/28/buy.hybrid/index.html

Proposal Plan Essay

The purpose for the organization Riordan Manufacturing is to stay put in a dynamic, self-motivated and energetic business environment. Riordan Manufacturing is a successful business looking to progress overall presentation and place the company for potential expansion. In order for this to follow through, a total rewards program needs to be created. The incentives and compensation plan, must connect with the goals of the organization. A solid rewards program will build motivation in the work place. As the text states, † the notions that rewards are means to motivate employees assuming that the rewards are distributed fairly. Rewards seem to be part of many different perspectives in motivation.† (Shani & Chandler, 2009, p. 8) The most important part are the employees in this organization, and sadly the motivation is not up to par. Employees who lack motivation, insinuates that employees are not receiving proper rewards. Instead of management focusing on only one specific part of a department, they should rather work together towards a solid vision for the business. Presently, there is room for opportunity, to actually analyze the Human Resource Management system and see what are the problems which are leading employees to show lack of motivation. (Riordan Manufacturing, p.2) Through various research, employees and outside sources, especially Human Capital Consulting firms, believe that financial compensation is lower than market value. Employees are also not comprehending how pay intertwines with job performance. 2003 to 2004 surveys show that employees think that pay connects to seniority. (Chen & Hsieh, 2006, p.13) Adding to standard compensation, individual rewards are not well connected to performance. For example, departments like IT and R&D focus the sales force and rarely see no return. The lack of proper positioning for financial compensation and work performance is causing confusion and affecting the motivational problems. Riordan Manufacturing needs to acknowledge that employees views need to be considered. Hence why the distance in understanding between the employees and the business needs to be fixed. Alterations to financial compensation can be expensive. The consultant from Human Capital Consulting the reward and compensation system needs to be fully reformed. The total cost of the reward system alterations are about $175,000. Since the business has been dealing with sales declining an investment of that sort would put the organization at a high risk. (Gross, 1994, p.1). Even though it has to deal with that expense the organization has the chance to compete better in the market and lessen the risk of losing employees to other businesses due to financial compensation formats. This problem can be resolved if the management team at Riordan Manufacturing takes into consideration the cause of external competition. Key objectives to consider are to make certain that the pay is enough to attract and sustain employees. If employees do not see that their pay is competitive compared to what other organizations are giving for the same type of work, then that might cause for the employee to leave. Even though employee motivation and financial compensation are viewed as big problems for Riordan, the business ability to form attraction and support career enhancement has been weakening. The problems can be caused by the lack of Human Resource Management in the business strategic human capital management, with a failure by leadership to form a successful culture that aids the business objectives. As the business sets itself straight and alters its strategy, it will be vital to effectively train employees and make certain that they are set for the challenges that come their way. Sadly, motivation issues are harming the business and may affect the strategic changes. Examples of the weak culture and employee development are seen in the Research & Development and IT parts of the organization. Each section contributes to the success of the business but receives rarely any recognition, whether it is pay or just an overall recognition. Riordan Manufacturing has the chance to brace the culture and form a complete employee development system that supports the enterprises vision and goals for the future. To add to this the business has the ability to explore other areas aside from the financial compensation to augment employee motivation and job satisfaction. Executing a career development system will not be enough for long-term enhancements. Management at Riordan Manufacturing will need to center on building situations that practice career development. (Mason, 2000, pg. 22) Employees at Riordan Manufacturing have different interests. These interest can include financial compensation, career enhancement or development, strong and effective communication and of course support from the management team. Employees have the right to be rewarded fairly and be acknowledged for their efforts and hard work to the organization. To add to this, employees have the right to be included in the organizations culture instead of being part of teams that are divided up. This usually leads to a lack of direction. Employees crave cooperation, a challenging working environment and dedication. That’s why effective end state goals would be to make certain that employee motivation is being measured effectively. Also, form career development plans and spot out important achievements within the business. Not only employee motivation should be worked on, but also set up a comprehensive rewards system. The reward system will give employees the chance to take charge of their reward as well as form a spot to market benefits that pertain to Riordan Manufacturing employees. An internal web application should be created by HR. (Donavan, 2005, pg12) The system will center on benefits administration, cross-function team goal management, and incentive rewards tracking systems. Employees will have the option of reviewing their benefits and make alterations on their time. Also, managers will be able to appraise the improvement and donations made by cross-functional teams. Sales statistics will also be part of the reward system to keep track of sales performance. Riordan Manufacturing needs to restructure its employee compensation program. This means, that the organization needs to first acknowledge that employee motivation is low. From there, increase it, by rewarding employees for a job well done. Acknowledging them in front of their employees, and even bonuses will be nice. Flexible schedule is so important. Basically, re-evaluating everything to make certain that employees are feeling valued. References Chen, H.M., Hsieh, Y.H. (2006). Key Trends of the Total Reward System in the 21st Century. Retrieved January 5, 2013 from, http://cbr.sagepub.com/cgi/reprint/38/6/64 Donavan, D. (2005). Don’t bar bosses from extra perks. Employee Benefits; p9-9, 1/4p, 1c. Retrieved from EBSCOhost Database. 18382022 Gross, S.E., Paul, B.N. (1994). Missing links?. Across the Board; Vol. 31 Issue 2. Retrieved January 15, 2013 from, EBSCOhost Database. 9411170727 Mason, J. (2000). Getting Paid For Giving Advice. Financial Planning; Vol. 30 Issue 6. Retrieved January 11, 2013 from EBSCOhost Database. 3182580 Riordan Manufacturing. Retrieved January 3, 2013, from http://riordan- manufacturing.ciiio.com/ Shani, A.B. R., Chandler, D., & Coget, J. (2009). Behavior In Organizations: An Experiential Approach (9th ed.). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database.

The Criminal Environment Changes After The Terrorist...

Abstract As the criminal environment changes after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 the U.S. government had to adapt to those changes. And one of the recommended changes was for law enforcement agencies to adapt intelligence-led policing (ILP) to their policing framework. The implementation of will require organizational restructuring and the development of new policies to incorporate the ILP model. Therefore, the success of this implementation depends on everyone in the organization from top to bottom. Everyone has to know their new roles and responsibilities and be able to accomplish them. In this paper, the focus will be on three stakeholders: the manager, intelligence analyst, and the patrol officer. Their roles will be†¦show more content†¦And the suggested approach to achieve that is for law enforcement agencies to adopt the Intelligence-led policing framework. ILP definition Ratcliffe defined ILP as a â€Å"business model and managerial philosophy where data analysis and crime intelligence are pivotal to an objective, decision†making framework that facilitates crime and problem reduction, disruption and prevention through both strategic management and effective enforcement strategies that target prolific and serious offenders.† ILP emphasizes the importance of intelligence and intelligence analysis and their role in influencing decision-makers to make effective strategic, operational, and tactical decisions regarding the agency’s priorities. Each agency is in a different criminal environment, has its own priorities, different sizes, and different resource availability. And that’s why ILP is a great business model, because it can be implemented in varying methods depending on these differences. But, regardless of the different implementations certain elements are required for the implementation to be successful. [Ø §Ã˜ ±Ã˜ ¨Ã˜ · Ø ¨Ã™Å Ã™â€  Ø §Ã™â€žÃ˜ ³Ã™Æ'Ø ³Ã˜ ³Ã™ Ã™â€ž Ø §Ã™â€¦Ã˜ ¨Ã™â€žÃ™â€¦Ã™â€ Ã˜ ªÃ™Å Ã˜ ´Ã™â€  Ùˆ Ø §Ã™â€ž 3-I model] 3-i model Models are used to conceptualize the analysis process and fit it into the wider conceptual framework of policing. Ratcliffe’s 3-i model lists three important components (interpret, influence, impact) that represent a true implementation of ILP. And for these

The Festering Odor Of Sulfuric Acid - 1711 Words

Upon entering the village of DePue, IL, one may ponder about the festering odor of sulfuric acid in the air that clashes with the scenic view of a serene lake surrounded by wooded land. The main street of DePue is lined with locally owned businesses, along with abandoned, crumbling buildings. The community members of this village may either smile and wave at a passer-by, or glare at you with an off-putting facial expression. Despite the confusing impression a non-resident or visitor might form, DePue has an interesting history. DePue is home to about 1,800 residents whom are devoted to preserving the traditions that this community has to offer. I am quite familiar with the village of Depue, because my grandparents have lived here for nearly 50 years. My grandfather, Walter Ivan, used to own a barber shop on the main street for nearly 35 years, until he passed away in February of this year. He was well-known in this community, and was recognized by his fellow community members for hi s generous personality and contagious laughter. My grandfather executed willingness to learn Spanish, in order to better communicate with the mainly Hispanic community members, as well as learn about their culture. He also was a member of the Depue Booster Club and the Depue Men’s Club. He strongly believed in being an active member of Depue, and always encouraged me to do the same in my hometown. My grandmother, Dorothy Ivan, is an active member of the church in Depue, and is always

Essay about Cognitive Development of Children - 1241 Words

Piagets phase concept explains the cognitive development of children. Cognitive development implies transformation in the cognitive procedure and skills. In Piaget’s vision, initial cognitive development involves processes based upon measures and afterward proceeds into changes in the cerebral operations. Schemas; a schema clarifies both the cerebral and physical actions occupied in comprehending plus knowing. Schemas are sorts of information that help us to explain and understand the world. In Piagets vision, a schema includes both a group of understanding and the procedure of gaining that knowledge. As practice occurs, this new information is used to adapt, add to, or change formerly presented schemas. For example, a child may have a†¦show more content†¦As children progress through the phases of cognitive development, it is significant to keep a balance between applying previous knowledge (assimilation) and changing behavior to account for new knowledge (accommodat ion). Equilibration helps explain how children are adept to shift from 1 stage of theory into the next. The 1st stage of Piaget’s concept survives from birth to roughly age 2 and is centered on the infant attempting to make sense of the world. During the sensor motor stage, an infant’s wisdom of the world is restricted to their sensory observations and motor activities. Behaviors are restricted to trouble-free motor reactions produced by sensory stimuli. Children use skills and abilities they were born with, such as looking, sucking, grasping, and listening, to learn more about the natural environment. The sensor motor stage can be separated into 6 separate substages that are distinguished by the growth of a new skill. Throughout this substage, the child appreciates the atmosphere entirely through inborn reflexes such as sucking and looking. This substage involves coordinating sensation and new schemas. For example, a child may perhaps such his or her thumb by accident and then later intentionally repeat the action. These actions are repeated because the infant finds the m pleasurable. During this substage, theShow MoreRelatedThe Cognitive Development Of Children1679 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout this research paper the topic that will be discussed is the Cognitive Development in children in the age group around 2-6. The topics that will be covered in this research paper are the physical growths and dangers, Jean Paiget and his views on cognitive development, friendships in the age groups 2-6, and cognitive changes. â€Å"Cognitive Psychology is the theory of human development that focuses on the development of thinking and thoughts that shape people s attitudes, beliefs, and behaviorsRead MoreThe Cognitive Development Of Children1269 Words   |  6 PagesThere are many different things that shape the cognitive development of children. 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The Case Study Of Barbies Success Story free essay sample

CONSUMER BEHAVIOR case by aaa fmg19d BARBIE’S SUCCESS STORY Friday 12 August 2011 THE CASE The case examines the evolution of the Barbie doll over the years from its launch in 1959. It explores the product development strategies adopted by Mattel for Barbie and the reasons for the success of Barbie. The case also explores changes in Barbies image along with the changes in American society. The criticism leveled against Barbie by feminists has also been described. The case also examines the challenges that Barbie could face in the future with the launch of Disney Princess. Issues addressed Gain insights into the challenges faced by traditional playthings, such as dolls, in the Internet age. Friday 12 August 2011 Question 1 Analysts observed that Barbie, the icon of American culture, reflected changes in American society. Analyze the changes in Barbie’s image over the years. Friday 12 August 2011 Friday 12 August 2011 Friday 12 August 2011 Friday 12 August 2011 Consumer behavior brand equity model Friday 12 August 2011 Location †¢ †¢ †¢ Barbie’s Global Shift: Many branches in the USA. Manufacturing pre 1950s took place in Japan. Manufacturing post 1950s in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico and Thailand. Location GNP per capita % annual % children aged US$ (UK=21,410) growth in GNP 10-14 who work Comment China Indonesia Malaysia Mexico Thailand Friday 12 August 2011 750 174 3670 578 2160 6. 4 4. 7 4. 0 0. 9 5. 2 12 10 3 7 9 Known internationally for its disregard for human rights. Huge economic potential. Politically unstable, losing a long term president and civil war in late 90s. Slower economic growth after rapid growth of up to 10% in late 1990s. Joined NAFTA in the late ’90s, creating a tariff-free market with the USA. No. of children working has dropped recently – government laws are now phasing it out. Minimum wage approx. ?80/month. Reasons behind Barbie’s Global Shift Most of Mattel’s sales are in the USA. Wage costs in the USA are amongst the highest in the World. To make Barbies in the USA would reduce profits significantly. Mattel now make the bulk of their toys in China. The company have ‘Principles’ that apply to all parties that manufacture, assemble or distribute any products bearing their logo. This means that no one under the age of 16 can be employed and if local law requires a higher minimum age, it will comply. It was the first company to utilize external independent monitoring (as well as an internal monitoring program) to ensure the welfare of it’s staff. Friday 12 August 2011 Question 2 Analysts attributed Barbie’s success to the Mattel’s innovative product development. They pointed out that Mattel’s product d eve l o p m e n t r e f l e c t e d changing cultural patterns in American society. Analyze the role played by product development in Barbie’s success. Friday 12 August 2011 Question 3 According to analysts technological innovations a n d t h e ava i l a b i l i t y o f various other forms of entertainment were turning yo u n g g i r l s away f r o m traditional playthings such as dolls. In this scenario, discuss the future of Barbie. Do you think Barbie will be able to retain its dominance? Justify your answer. Friday 12 August 2011 The Future? Barbie is Mattel’s biggest selling product. If the company is to survive it needs to move with current trends. These recent articles suggest that the battle may be being lost. Mattel also needs to consider more modern ways of shopping. Toys R Us and Walmart account for 33% of sales, but the company is reaching customers in new ways, including catalogue and online sales. Friday 12 August 2011 Future strategy As a subsequent product strategy, it has been publicized that Mattel and Digital Domain are working together again on a new CD-ROM title to be launched next March: Barbie Cool Looks Fashion Designer CD-ROM ®. Some new extensions on the Barbie paraphernalia are also supporting Mattels continued growth through core brands: electronic commerce and foreign market tailored product development, among others. As part of the new trend in electronic commerce, and targeting mostly the collectibles market, Mattels website Barbie. com makes an interesting range of products available. On the site it is possible to access a special shoppe with some items that can be bought exclusively through the Internet, from a catalogue of the current models and future editions. Targeting mainly the collectors market, it is also a place for customers to be made aware of Mattels new creations in the Barbie product line. Friday 12 August 2011 In the traditional doll segment, the next maneuver will be to reinforce international markets. This new approach was determined by a study conducted by Boston Consulting Group in which key markets and product areas for growth are defined. The strategy includes the development of special products for target markets, rather than simply adapting U. S. products to them. â€Å"Barbie alone has potential additional sales of $2 billion†, stated Boston Consulting Group study. â€Å"The greatest opportunity exists outside the US. † -said Jill Barad, Mattel’s Chief Executive. â€Å" Only 3% of the worlds kids are in the US. In order to increase Barbies presence in Japanese and European markets, culturally suitable friends are being planned for Barbie: Ingrid in Germany and Collete in France are examples. The ultimate goal is to boost the number of dolls owned by each child. As a complementary strategy to maintain Barbies dominance in the market, Mattel has been working on an actualization of the doll. In recent years, the bulk of the discussion has been concerned with Mattels intention to redesign Barbies body, making it look more appropriate to the new womens look. Friday 12 August 2011 Thank you Friday 12 August 2011