Reflection 2

As I mentioned in my previous reflection, I had to submit the first report submission which was about the Solar Technology; I started working on the second submission and I finished it and uploaded it to my Blog.

The last thing I did it was writing an essay about a problem that the UAE faced it and what were the causes of this problem and to give solutions for it. Plus doing a citation and references using website (www.easybib.com) for the essay. Moreover, we've vocabulary quizzes and they were quite easy to me.

Overall, the course was terrific and I am happy with my progress over the course of the semester. I enjoyed this course. Mr. Hedley Butterfield was clear, organized and made learning for this course really interesting and I learned a lot from him and from this course. In addition, this course has enhanced my research skills and ability of doing projects. I truly enjoy this course.

Problem & Solution

Car Accidents in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is a well known and well reputed country around the globe. However, there will definitely be some problems and in this report I will highlight what I see as the main problem in the UAE. It's road traffic accidents, and how can we overcome this problem? Road accidents are increasingly being recognized as a growing public problem in the UAE. The increase in population density is one of the most important reasons for the high number of vehicles, leading to an increase in expansion of roads to accommodate the huge number of vehicles (Bener A, D Crundall, 2005).

The UAE has experienced recent huge rapid economic growth, and an associated increase in road construction and number of vehicles. These factors have combined with lack of road safety awareness to produce a high number of road accidents which presently constitutes the second highest cause of death in the UAE. It has also shown the casualty and death rates in the UAE and in other Gulf countries are much higher than in more developed countries. The major causes of road accidents during 2006 were careless driving and excessive speeding. Overall, the behavior of the road user clearly represents an important risk factor. However, age, education, training, experience, way of life, and emotional status, are contributing factors (Car Accidents in the UAE, 2007 &  Hassane Sofoh H, Abdullah Seif Abdullah, 2011)

The discovery of oil in the UAE in the last century has rapidly led to changes in many aspects of life in the UAE, including advances in wealth, technology and the availability of western products, including vehicles as a means of transportation. The problem of road accidents according to the research including 166 persons held in March, 2011 has shown the percentage of road accidents is 86% which is very bad. The government is doing a lot to make this percentage decrease, but every year this percentage is increasing instead of decreasing. Why? ( Hassane Sofoh H, Abdullah Seif Abdullah, 2011).

According to the news about 37% of all car accident deaths involve the group 18-27 years old (Car Accidents in the UAE, 2007). It’s a big problem facing young people today and they are the most unsafe group of drivers on the road. They endanger themselves and others, therefore parents need to take greater responsibility for instilling road safety awareness in their children. How should parents do this?

First of all, to show them how big a responsibility it is to drive, because their life and others depend on how well they drive.  Secondly, to learn to respect the driving rules. Some young people already have good driving skills and good knowledge of the rules, so there are no excuses. But other new learners take longer to be happy with the rules and will be more stressed. So the question is how to reduce their fear or nervousness? Improved theory training.

Last but not least respecting the driving laws is the most important point.  For example here in the UAE most young people are not aware of  the importance of wearing a seat belt.  Parents should explain that it is not only safer, but it also shows that they follow the regulations of the traffic laws. Besides that, using cell phones is prohibited. Furthermore, smoking and driving when they are tired is unsafe. If there are passengers in the car, they must still concentrate on driving.  Finally in order to be good drivers they must obey the legislation and regulations which have been issued in order to protect human lives.

602 Words

Bibliography:

·         Bener A, D Crundall. "Road Traffic Accidents in the United Arab Emirates Compared to Western Countries." Advances in Transportation Studies an International Journal. 15 Apr. 2005. Web. 07 May 2011. <http://www.salimandsalimah.org/documents/RTAsinUAEcompared.pdf>.

·         Hassane  Sofoh H,  Abdullah Seif Abdullah. "Exploring the most prevalent social problems in the United Arab Emirates. “ INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL Of ACADEMIC RESEARCH”.  N.p., 2 Mar. 2011. Web. 5 June 2011. <www.ijar.lit.az/pdf/10/2011(10-93).pdf>.

·         http://uaecommunity.blogspot.com/2007/03/car-accidents-in-uae_7558.html, Car Accidents in the UAE, 2007.

Reflection 1

Firstly, in this course our instructor Mr. Hedley Butterfield taught us about references citations and bibliography. I didn’t have any idea about the bibliography and citations and what the dissimilarity between them is.

When I did the first project which is the first research task, it was about summarizing an article from a magazine and creating the references using easybib.com. I have learned a lot from this website and it was very helpful and I have a clear idea about how to create different references using different sources like articles, magazines, books. etc.  

While I’m doing the second research task which was about the comparison between the Bugatti Veyron & the Porsche 911 Turbo, I didn't only learned how to create the reference, also, I’ve learned and gained lots of useful information about these two cars.

Finally, I am working on the third project which talks about the technology in my major area (subject related). 

LSEC N100 Subject Related Research Report Final Submmission

Solar Technology

Introduction

Solar Technology is based on using the solar energy which is actually the energy that is received by the earth from the sun.  This energy is in the form of solar radiation, which makes the production of solar electricity possible.  It is also referred to as a green energy, because it is natural and renewable energy which helps to reduce our current dependency on fossil fuels. For a long time, fossil fuel products were a major cause of the earth pollution and may also be a contributor to climate change (Vermass, Wim. 2007). So, it was clearly shown during the past years that making the switch to natural and renewable energy sources would improve the quality of the environment and the air we breathe.

History

Solar energy has been used by humans for thousands of years and the discovery of solar energy happened in 1839 when the French physicist Edmond Becquerel first showed photoelectric activity. Edmond had found that electrical current in certain materials could be increased when exposed to light. Then in 1905, we gained an understanding of Edmonds' work when the famous physicist Albert Einstein clearly described the photoelectric effect and the principle on which it is based. Later in 1921, Einstein received the Nobel Prize for his theories on the photoelectric effect.

In the mid 1950’s solar cells for practical use were made available when AT&T Labs first developed 6% efficient silicon Solar cells. Today researchers have developed cells with more than 20% efficiencies, which means that out of the total energy that hits the surface of a solar cell about 20% is converted into usable electricity (The History of Solar Power).

The first long-term practical application of solar cells was in satellite systems.  In 1958 the Vanguard 1 was launched into space and  it was the first orbiting vehicle to be powered by solar energy. Moreover, Silicon Solar cells provided the electrical power to the satellite until 1964 when the system was shut down. The sun provides endless nonpolluting energy to the satellite power systems and demand for solar cells has risen as a result of the telecommunications revolution and need for satellites like Vanguard 1. (Wikipedia).

Current Uses Of Solar Technology

Today, there are practical uses of solar energy such as water, industry, heat, transportation and small electronic products. Many developing countries are pumping water into distant areas by using solar technology. Also it is often used to power TV and radio stations that send out signals. It is also used to power lighthouses, buoys and aircraft warning lights on buildings and other structures. Solar energy is used to heat homes and many people use it to heat their water supply and swimming pools. Furthermore, solar energy has been used to power public transportation vehicles such as cars and buses and even more in traffic signals. In addition, some smaller products that require little energy for power, such as calculators and watches frequently use solar energy (Wikipedia).

Future Uses Of Solar Technology

As the number of people who desire for a cleaner environment grows, so does the solar industry. The uses of solar energy are increasing nowadays as more distributors enter the market and new technologies continue to offer more choice and new products. We might even see the new and unimagined products in our lifetime. Cars might soon be powered by new fuel cells that create electricity through solar energy. Also roofing is capturing the sun's rays and turning them into electricity etc (Carl E.Schoder,2011,p.25-29). The future of using solar energy to replace traditional energy methods is bright; it could be the main source of energy in the world. We can all look forward to using the free solar power in the future. Till now, there is lots of research that indicate the possible usage of solar energy for a better green world.

Impact Of Solar Technology

Switching to solar helps protect our beautiful country and delicate environment, and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. The solar energy systems are getting so popular around the world; however it is an advance technology which introduced something new, that is to solve the problem of fossil fuel dependency and related problems of using them. Solar technology is going to introduce a different kind of business that offers the best solutions to all people where confidence and trust is considered the company's major value.  They are going to either reduce their electric bills or forget about them.  The solar energy technology is focusing on providing solutions for the country as the country's major source of power is the fossil fuel (The economics of solar power, 2008).

Conclusion

To sum up, solar energy is a clean pollution free and renewable source of energy. Solar energy is both cheap and environmentally friendly. Many countries around the world have taken initiatives to use solar power as a stable source of power that contributes to the national grid. In Addition, there are many benefits of using solar energy systems but only a small percentage of the global population is aware of it.  The key to success is to popularize the use of solar energy as a means of sustainable energy. One of the factors that will limit the success of a solar energy franchise is the high initial cost of setting up solar power generation (Wikipedia). The solution is by educating public about the massive benefits that result from solar power once the system is installed. For example using solar energy system will reduce electricity bills and reduce the harm on the environment. In my point of view, the solar energy is the best renewable source; if all people think to go to use solar instead of other alternatives it will benefit them because it's very clean, easy to use and low-cost energy.

965 (Words)

Bibliography

·        "Solar energy - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia." Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation Inc, n.d. Web. 21 Mar. 2011. <en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_energy>.

·        Country. "Solar power - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia." Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation Inc, n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2011. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_power>.

·        Schoder, Carl E, "Futurist; Jan/Feb2011, Vol. 45 Issue 1, P25-29, 5p, 1 Diagram, 1 Chart." Business Source Premier. Jan.-Feb. 2011. Web. 2 Apr. 2001. <http://0-web.ebscohost.com.library.hct.ac.ae/ehost/detail?sid=0b3e53bc-f112-4fd4-8930-cce7dc7f813d%40sessionmgr112&vid=3&hid=105&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=buh&AN=55664941>.

·         http://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraftDisplay.do?id=1958-002B , (Vanguard 1).

·         http://photoscience.la.asu.edu/photosyn/education/photointro.html , (Vermass,Wim. 2007).   

·         http://library.thinkquest.org/17658/sol/solhistoryht.html (The History of Solar Power).

·         Lorenz, Peter, Dickon Pinner, Thomas Seitz, Diana Farrell, and Jaana K. Remes. "The Economics of Solar Power." Business Source Premier. 2008. Web. 02 Apr. 2011. <http://0-web.ebscohost.com.library.hct.ac.ae/ehost/detail?sid=3606a9d0-695c-45e7-9ce8-0784ea86f4d2%40sessionmgr4&vid=2&hid=14&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=buh&AN=34884133>.

Compare and Contrast: Bugatti Veyron Vs Porsche 911 turbo

Nowadays car companies are challenging to produce the fast and best sport cars and trying to win the competition. However, lots of people are concerned in buying a sport and fast car consistent with speed, power and shape. The Porsche 911 Turbo and the Bugatti Veyron are two of the most popular super sport cars on the production market today. In this report I am going to compare the two cars and discuss the differences and similarities between them. In addition, which car is better and I will give my point of view about which one I prefer with reasons.

The Porsche 911 Turbo and the Bugatti Veyron have many similar things. The similarities about those two cars; they are both German sport supercars and both of them have very good road holding. Also, both of them have a strong and powerful engine and the engine is placed in the back in both cars. Moreover, both of them are coupe cars which only have two seats and two doors because they are supercars. As well, they have a nice and attractive shape which people like.

Although there are many similarities, there are also several differences between the two cars. For example the prices for both are very high. The Porsche 911 Turbo is $137,360-$140,780, but the Bugatti Veyron is way more; it costs about $1,980,000. Also, there are big differences between the two cars, like the top speed of the Bugatti Veyron is 253.2mph and it can get from 0 to 60/mph in 2.5 seconds while the maximum speed for the Porsche 911 Turbo is 192/mph and it takes 3.6 seconds to reach 60/mph. The weight of the Bugatti Veyron is 4,350 lbs. while the weight of the Porsche 911 Turbo is just 3,650-3,750 lbs. Moreover, The Porsche 911 Turbo engine has 500-hp which produces 516-pound feet torque but the Bugatti Veyron has 1001hp, and produces 922-pound feet torque. (Bovingdon 2010, p.64)&(Auto Tech, Popular Science, p.71)

The interesting information that I found about these two cars are the Bugatti Veyron can do 253mph and it can get from the start to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds while the maximum speed for Porsche 911 Turbo is 192mph and it takes 3.6 seconds to reach to 60 mph. There is also another point that interests me in the Bugatti Veyron which is that it is simply the fastest car in the world with complete comfort. Also the body of the Porsche 911 Turbo is one of the best safety bodies in the world. These two cars are the best and fastest supercars in the world and everyone wants to own one. (Reynolds 2007, p158)

To sum up, we know the similarities and differences between these two supercars. Personally, I like the Porsche 911 Turbo because it's cheaper than the Bugatti. Also, as we know, the Bugatti is a very fast car and in our country there is no long highway to reach the speed; we know also the speed is limited in our country.

(509) words

References:

·         Bovingdon, Jethro. "Heat-seeking missiles: Bugatti meets Lambo on the open roads of oil-rich Qatar." Motor Trend Sept. 2010: 56+. Gale Student Resources In Context. Web. 17 Mar. 2011, http://0-ic.galegroup.com.library.hct.ac.ae/ic/suic/MagazinesDetailsPage/MagazinesDetailsWindow?displayGroupName=Magazines&prodId=SUIC&action=e&windowstate=normal&catId=&documentId=GALE|A234720578&mode=view.

·         Renolds, Kim. "Topless Turbo: the 192-mph tanning booth." Motor Trend Sept. 2007: 158. Gale Student Resources In Context. Web.17Mar.2011, http://0-ic.galegroup.com.library.hct.ac.ae/ic/suic/MagazinesDetailsPage/MagazinesDetailsWindow?displayGroupName=Magazines&prodId=SUIC&action=e&windowstate=normal&catId=&documentId=GALE|A167884769&mode=view.

·         Adams, Eric, Joe Brown, and Dan Lienert. "Auto Tech." Popular Science Dec. 2006: 71. Gale Student Resources In Context. Web. 17 Mar. 2011, http://0-ic.galegroup.com.library.hct.ac.ae/ic/suic/MagazinesDetailsPage/MagazinesDetailsWindow?displayGroupName=Magazines&prodId=SUIC&action=e&windowstate=normal&catId=&documentId=GALE%7CA155047014&mode=view&userGroupName=971hctnet&jsid=45de541536ef78f77380420d31e0d2bf.

Empty Rooms

The author investigates the case of emotional cheating between married couples. There are various reasons such as revenge, boredom and the need to break free. A survey showed that 14% of UAE nationals and expatriater cheated on their partners; 19% of men betrayed their wives. But, only 6% of women do. As reported in the article there are other reasons for this problem as Dr. AlRifai, a psychiatrist, said; the most important cause is people's religious weakness. Also, he adds that the media had shown movies and drama which showed emotional betrayal as a normal act which reflects negatively on people's beliefs.

Other causes like partner's revenge, age, cultual and an intellectual difference sometimes creates gaps between them. The case becomes more serious when the husband is older than his wife and this emotional cheating destroys the family. Emotional dishonesty has many effects which influence and harm children emotionally. This fact increases in developed countries because materialistic values increase and as this type of development rises, values decrease.

Finally, as Dr. Ghubash, professor of sociology, said; in this study marriage provides psychological stability and any betrayal undermines it. Also, she included emotional and intellectual suitability as very important for couples. In addition, she added that maintaining strong Islamic values will protect families from betrayals. However, we should not disregard the awareness given by the institutions of society before marriage so they can deal with any issues associated to suitability of partners to avoid emotional cheating.

(AlDanhani, Khalid. "Empty Rooms." 999 Issue: 480, Dec. 2010: 23-26. In print)

(247) Words

Errors in English Among Arabic Speakers

      Errors in English Among Arabic Speakers: Analysis and Remedy

Kharma and Hajjaj (1989) describe characteristics of conditional usage in writing by learners whose first language is Arabic. The Type 1 conditional (If + present + future) was the next most common form they encountered. They state that it generally does not pose a problem for Arab learners (Kharma and Hajjaj, p.138). This correlates with my experience in the UAE where I have found upper elementary and lower intermediate learners quickly demonstrate an ability to conceptualize and use the Type 1 conditional.

Bibliography:

Kharma, N., & Hajjajj, A. (1989). Errors in English Among Arabic Speakers: Analysis and Remedy. Essex: Longman. pp. 137 - 142

(1) Who did the original research?          Kharma, N & Hajjajj, A.

(2) What was the name of the book?       Errors in English Among Arabic Speaker: Analysis and Remedy.

(3) Who was the publisher?                    Longman

(4) Where was the book published?       Essex

(5) When was the book published?        1985    

(6) What format has been used?             MLA