Category: Profession

Introduction

Michael Mahoney explores position of computer engineering between disciplinary and professional domains. He starts by giving a detailed history of persistent instability in computer engineering. Mahoney also utilizes historical approach to explore trajectory and origin of computer engineering.

However, he focuses his research on findings from the United States. He specifically tackles computer engineering as a domain of professional and disciplinary activity. In this regard, he tries to explore what counts as practice and knowledge in computer engineering. He also tries to define a computer engineer with respect to profession and discipline. Furthermore, he looks into timelines, locations, groups, and actors in computer engineering.

Mahoney explores sociotechnical boundaries that have continued to separate computer engineering from its adjacent fields. These fields include computer science and electrical engineering, among others. This paper will review Mahoney’s dissertation to explore position of computer engineering between discipline and profession (Mahoney, 2006).

Use of Historical Context in Computer Engineering

Mahoney looks at industrial sphere and professional societies from which computer engineering originate. He uses various academic sources ranging from primary to secondary sources with an aim of striking establishing position of computer engineering.

He includes variety of documents such as curriculum reports, conference proceedings, journal articles, and trade magazines, among others to achieve a credible outcome. He begins by describing pre-historic events on computer engineering and early historical events. Chapter two to chapter four covers years between 1940 and 1960.

Here, Mahoney finds that computer engineering gained its distinct identity as a partially distinct professional through professional societies and industries. Through this, it is observable that computer engineering was mostly professional given overwhelming support it received from professional societies and from industrial fields.

Throughout the second chapter, Mahoney accounts for emergence of computer engineering. He begins with emergence of electrical engineering to that of computer engineering. He also defines boundaries that emerged around computer engineering (Mahoney, 2006).

Similarly, Mahoney looks at historical context of computer engineering between 1960 and 1990. Here, Mahoney reveals extent of change as it occurred in the field of computer engineering. For instance, he documents that computer engineering took a distinct disciplinary identity and a partially distinctive sociotechnical settlement identity.

Apart from dominance of professional societies, academic context also emerged in this period. This showed that computer-engineering field was translating from a highly professional domain into a disciplinary domain. This period reveals debate on computer engineering’s position of persistent instability. These instabilities are discussed in depth with special attention given to domains of computer engineering (Mahoney, 2006).

Mahoney reviews extensively on recent developments associated with computer engineering in educational arena. These are aimed at highlighting continued instabilities within disciplinary domain of computing. Also, he provides basis for renewed call for establishment of a distinct professional and disciplinary identity of computer engineering as a field. In this regard, he calls for a review of historical context of software/hardware co-design movement.

He also agrees that historical development in field of computer engineering has involved both social and technical negotiation (sociotechnical context) to achieve development. Of great concern was on how to define responsibilities of a computer engineer and a computer scientist. It was quite challenging to establish a frontier between science and engineering, software and hardware and theory and design (Mahoney, 2006).

Defining such a frontier was significant in revealing important insights on past, present and future of computing. Mahoney tries to analysis these difficulties to define computer engineering. In essence, cause for concern is whether to categorize computer engineering as a branch of engineering (which makes it a professional domain) or categorize it as an independent discipline.

These conflicting questions have continually contributed to persistent instability. Besides, Mahoney considers Paul Edward’s work (The Closed World) inspirational in his analysis of professional and disciplinary development, which focuses beyond sociotechnical factors.

However, he departs from Edward’s theory when he considers that computer engineering is a significant facet of professional and disciplinary development. This diversion is caused by Edward’s belief that computer engineering is constructed from a discourse of sociotechnical elements. Mahoney claims that a profession must have capability of bringing heterogeneous elements into alignment in order to establish stability (Mahoney, 2006).

Methodology

Mahoney utilizes research papers and documents from texts and persons with close links to the field of computer engineering to conduct his research. This is important in ensuring relevancy on topic of discussion. It is also necessary in verifying credibility of sources used in developing this dissertation.

In essence, Mahoney’s goal of drawing information that emphasizes views of computer engineers is achieved. However, he avoids being monolithic by bringing views from various standpoints within the field of computer engineering. This is important in minimizing biased outcomes or lenient results.

In essence, Mahoney ensures that his dissertation is not infiltrated with biased views. That is, he integrates multiplicity of viewing platforms that have been contributed in this field over decades. However, given his objective of the unbiased outcome, Mahoney has also integrated information from adjacent areas. Nonetheless, he emphasizes on views of computer engineers on that information. This is important in bringing up credible results based on related stakeholders (Mahoney, 2006).

However, it should also be noted that Mahoney confines his research to development of computer engineering in the United States. In this sense, outcome is more related to factors in that country than in other parts of the world. In essence, his research is denied a global perspective it needs.

However, it is also necessary to note that this scope of research is increasingly easy to manage since it covers a small area of development as compared to a large scope. However, this restricts his research to be distinct to America. In alluding to this, Mahoney agrees that he would consider studying people’s perspectives on computer engineering in other parts of the world. Also, Mahoney defends his approach in research by establishing credibility of his resources (Mahoney, 2006).

Mahoney concurs that debate on sociotechnical boundaries has been in existence before. He agrees that it will continue to give rise to numerous discussions with far-reaching complications. He gives an in-depth account of transition from engineers, through computing, to computer engineering.

He gives a detailed account of historical negotiations that occurred in historical timelines of computer engineering. He also refers to various sociotechnical settlements that have so far been reached concerning computer engineering. In this regard, he includes various talks and mediation that took place in order to achieve present predicaments.

However, he still alludes to the fact that computer engineering has continued to experience persistent instability. He adds that there is amplified turbulence due to increasing calls for redefining discipline of computer engineering (Mahoney, 2006).

Mahoney also talks of overwhelming response from various scholars and agencies to bridge gap between computer science and computer engineering. In this regard, he talks of Computer Society’s move to influence computer education. It describes steps that have been taken to develop a curriculum in computer science and computer engineering.

Furthermore, it has tried to contribute to integration of computer science in engineering fields like electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and civil engineering, among others. In this regard, it has worked to support reform of curricular in electrical engineering training. Still, agencies such as ACM, among others have been forefront in ensuring hybridization of software and hardware engineering. Engineers have also taken steps to refine CSE education.

Mahoney revisits all these developments in detail with a view to striking a balance between computer engineering as a domain of profession or discipline. Consequently, Mahoney discusses relationship between software and hardware engineering in an inclusive manner.

He argues that developments observed in computer field as a whole are constantly changing direction in which computer engineering as a domain takes. In essence, emergence of fields such as informatics, computer science, and computing, among others raise debate in categorization of computer engineering (Mahoney, 2006).

Persistent instability in Computer Engineering

Mahoney also looks into divergent pathways of computing curricula and co-design. He recounts how computer engineering was embraced as (CSE) computer science and engineering as a unified intellectual discipline. This culminated in drafting of curriculum for computer engineering.

However, this report dedicated computer engineering as a domain of disciplinary and professional distinct. Also, it was noted that scope of computing had expanded so much that it could not be contained as a single discipline. This led to five new curricula in computing namely information Systems (CCIS), Information technology (CCIT), Computer Science (CCCS), Software Engineering (CCSE), and Computer Engineering.

Still, as late as in 2004, computer engineering was considered a distinct professional and disciplinary domain. Proponents of computer engineering as a discipline argued that it evolved from discipline soft computer science and electrical engineering.

Also, since computer engineering was also divided into other programs such as Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Systems Engineering, they supported the fact that computer engineering was an independent discipline.

They also argue that since computer engineering was drawn from computer science, it evolved from body of knowledge, which was considered a discipline (Mahoney, 2006).

However, proponents of computer engineering as a professional domain argue that computer engineers have that ability to design computer systems (hardware and software), possess breadth of knowledge in both engineering sciences and mathematics, and are prepared for professional practice in engineering. In essence, they argue that these characteristics place computer engineers as both disciplinary and professional domains.

However, Mahoney notes that recent studies have seen both computer scientists and computer engineers working side by side despite arguments concerning their domains. Mahoney believes that one reason for this is a continued blurring of boundaries between software and hardware.

Mahoney explores the historical context of software-hardware boundary debate. He realizes that both are intertwined like social and technical cultures. However, he believes that further research on boundary between hardware and software would raise thorny questions that surround engineering and science (Mahoney, 2006).

Conclusion

Mahoney reveals major concerns in computer engineering. This includes its history of persistent instability, which has transpired between 1951 and 2006. From chapter two, he explains professional domain of computer engineering. From chapter six, he explores disciplinary domain of computer engineering.

He goes on to relate this debate to studies on software and hardware. Finally, he acknowledges that boundary between engineering and science is getting close because of blurring of frontier between software and hardware. In essence, computer engineering is a distinct disciplinary and professional domain.

Reference

Mahoney, M. (2006). Between Discipline and Profession: A History of Persistent Instability in the Field of Computer Engineering, circa 1951-2006. (Dissertation). Retrieved from ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. (UMI Number: DP19901)

Introduction

Mechanical engineering is a complex discipline that requires the knowledge from various spheres and its efficient utilization with the purpose of design, development, and assessment of devices. Professionals who work in this area are to be ready to work in office settings and deal with the problems with the equipment (What does a mechanical engineer do, 2016). Their job is hard and time-consuming, which means that it required a decent education.

Taking into consideration the complicity of the work, it is critical to define if two years of technical studies (Diploma) is enough to prepare a mechanical engineering employee. The solution of this problem will allow to see whether the current educational programs are appropriate or they require improvement. It will also help professionals and students to make a right decision for their careers. It is critical, as people’s future and country’s development can be affected adversely.

This paper is aimed to prove that even though two years of technical studies (Diploma) is enough to work in the sphere of Mechanical engineering as a technician, it is not enough to prepare an efficient mechanical engineering employee and further education is required. This claim will be proved when answering such questions:

• Whether mechanical engineering is a complex discipline?
• What is the difference between mechanical engineers and mechanical engineering technician?
• What opportunities and duties do mechanical engineers and technicians have?
• Whether education obtained by technicians provides enough knowledge to become mechanical engineers?

Literature Review

Mechanical engineering is the oldest engineering discipline that includes various sub-disciplines. People who work in this sphere are efficient in many other areas such as physics or manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical systems. It deals with researchers, innovations, complex analyses and constant development. Engineering technology, in this perspective, is more limited. It deals with routine operations, manufacturing, evaluation, distribution and sales (Mechanical engineering & mechanical engineering technology, 2008). In order to become professionals in this spheres individuals mainly take college-level programs.

Many people believe that there is no difference between them and tend to choose the program that seems to be easier and less time-consuming. Still, it is critical to realize that mechanical engineers interface with other disciplines and often need to continue their education, receiving new degrees while mechanical engineering technicians have different entry points. Both professions require studying during two or four years but with various focuses (Sharma, 2011). It is impossible to substitute them because mechanical engineering needs more theoretical and scientific knowledge that is not provided in the framework of the programs for technicians.

Even though the majority of the scientists are sure that technicians’ education is not good enough to prepare an efficient mechanical engineer, the American Society for Mechanical Engineers state that “jobs obtained by graduates of both engineering and engineering technology programs are often similar” (RIT, 2016). In this way, it does not really matter what kind of program one chooses; the outcomes will be the same.

It turns out that mechanical engineers and technicians require a different scope of knowledge and different educational programs. Still, at the same time, it does not matter what kind of education they receive, as the jobs do not differ greatly (Handy, French, Corum, & Rodriguez, 2007). Such contradiction cannot be neglected and requires more thorough investigation. The problem can be solved with the enhancement of engineering technology degree completion (Mulski, 2016). Danielson and Kirkpatrick (2012) support such decision and believe that improvement of the education will place technical studies (Diploma) almost on the same level with mechanical engineering courses. Thus, it would be advantageous to find out how the issue is seen by the scientists and professionals who work in this sphere. Comparing their views and personal experiences, a conclusion can be made.

Methodology

In order to find out whether technical studies (Diploma) that last for two years are enough to prepare an efficient professional who can work in the sphere of mechanical engineering, a quantitative research was conducted. It consisted of two parts. First of all, the information related to the topic was received with the help of the literature review. It allowed to see how scientists treat the issue in the theoretical perspective. Then, the survey was conducted to find out the views of people who work and study in this sphere to receive information based on personal experiences and practice.

The survey was used to gain the information needed for the research. It was assessed with the help of statistical analysis. The questions were designed so that people’s attitudes towards mechanical engineering and technical education were revealed. The survey consisted of four sections with various options of the answer, which ensured validity. Participants defined their names, ages, and majors to make the findings more reliable.

The research population included 30 people (engineers, students, instructors, and individuals with experience in the sphere). A convenience sample allowed to select appropriate participants from the volunteers.

Findings & Implications

According to the survey, the sample mainly believes that technical studies are part of the mechanical engineering department. The sample does not agree that technical diploma equals a mechanical engineering bachelor and considers that technician and mechanical engineer are different. 60% emphasized that mechanical engineering students do not have better knowledge than technical diploma students.

Experienced individuals tend to believe that a technical diploma has the same career path as mechanical engineering while students mainly disagree with this statement. 23% claimed that studying technical diploma is not easier even though industrial companies prefer to hire mechanical engineering students, who have more opportunities. A mechanical engineering course is considered to be more advantageous as it allows to get a higher salary, better career future and receive office job. Still, studying technical Diploma course requires fewer fees and years of education, and a chance to have overtime payment.

Thus, a mechanical engineering course is mainly preferred because it provides more chances to get a well-paid job in the office. Still, some experienced professionals believe that there are not so many differences in practice. People do not really focus on the education when they select a course. They are more concerned about the way chosen profession will influence their lives (whether they will be able to get a good job and have a wide range of opportunities). The fact that the sample does not consider that mechanical engineering students have better knowledge proves that technicians and engineers should not be compared as they have various focuses and need to know different information, which requires appropriate learning programs.

Conclusion

Thus, professionals believe that two years of technical studies (Diploma) in mechanical engineering is not enough to prepare a mechanical engineering employee as mechanical engineers require more knowledge, which allows them to have more opportunities in future. They separate mechanical engineering and technical education, pointing that they are not equal.

People who want to become efficient mechanical engineering employees should study mechanical engineering course even though they have already had technical Diploma course. It is critical to define what profession they want to get and choose a program that fits it perfectly.

References

Danielson, S., & Kirkpatrick, A. (2012). Mechanical engineering technology: ASME vision 2030’s call for the future. Journal of Engineering Technology, 29(2), 42-48.

Handy, R., French, M., Corum, C., & Rodriguez, M. (2007). The near-term outsourcing of traditional BS mechanical engineering technology (MET) graduate employment in the United States. Journal of STEM Education: Innovations and Research, 8(1/2), 5-10.

Mechanical engineering & mechanical engineering technology. (2008). Web.

Mulski, R. (2016). Improving mechanical engineering technology degree completion at Delaware Technical Community College (Order No. 10055788). Web.

RIT. (2016). Engineering technology or engineering? Web.

Sharma, A. (2011). Which path will you take? Web.

Software Testing Skills and Mindset

Software testing is an integral part of the software development process. Without testing software prior to its application and promotion to the market, it is very likely to be filled with various bugs and malfunctions. Receiving an incomplete product would upset the customers and damage the company’s name. There are many examples of poorly tested software causing massive negative feedback and loss of profit. Some of the recent examples involve the release of Rome 2 – Total War and Star Wars Battlefront 2 computer games, which came under fire for numerous bugs and crashes that were missed by the software testing team due to various internal issues and project constraints (Gault & Maiberg, 2017). The profession of a software tester is paramount to the programming industry, as it allows for spotting and fixing issues that were missed during the product creation stage.

Prior to watching the video about software testing, I assumed that the most valued skill in software testing was the ability to methodically check and perform many basic and redundant testing sequences in order to spot any potential flaws that might occur when performing basic functions. My reasoning behind this assumption was that the majority of programming errors could be spotted this way, whereas more complicated and hidden errors would not be visible to the naked eye and would only be revealed after a series of reported user complaints. However, this assumption was incorrect. The video made me realize that spotting basic functionality errors is not that difficult and does not require any exceptional skills and dedication. The most important skills in a software testing are the ability to critically think and analyze the situation in order to spot hidden and complex programming errors, and communication skills in order to properly relay and explain these findings to the developers and customers (EuroSTAR, 2012).

Top Five Assumptions in Systems Test Plans

Although every system test plan is individually fitted to a specific product or software, there are always assumptions that must be made in order for the system to operate efficiently. The majority of the assumptions regarding a particular project are outlined during the project planning phase (Merkow & Raghavan, 2010). However, there are several assumptions that are considered universal and can be largely applied to any systems test plans. These assumptions are as follows (Jorgensen, 2016):

• Testing will be conducted within the implementation timeframes outlined by the testers and approved by the customers.
• The test team will be provided with all the tools necessary for conducting quality systems tests specific to the software in question.
• The configurations of testing hardware and the software will be similar to those present in the production environment.
• The test team will be provided with an acceptable environment in which the testing will be conducted.
• The test team will be provided with all the requirements necessary for the completion of the project, which includes business requirements, system requirements, and data requirements.

These basic assumptions are used as a foundation, upon which the majority of the testing projects are being based.

Challenging the Assumptions

Although the five basic assumptions are theoretically applicable to any project, the realities of the market indicate that some assumptions cannot be met due to a series of events prior to or during the project that lies outside of the customers’ or test team’s control. Depending on the situation, some of the assumptions will not be met. This tends to have a negative effect on the quality of the software testing process.

In order to demonstrate this, we can once more re-assess the blunder that Rome 2: Total War was on release due to a series of errors and poor test runs on the part of the Creative Assembly. The first assumption on the list was that tests are to be conducted within the implementation timeframes outlined by the testers and approved by the customers. However, the core reason behind the number of bugs and glitches in the game was tied to the pressure by Sega on the Creative Assembly to release the game earlier (Grayson, 2013). Thus, the implementation timeframes were based solely on the needs of the customers and not on the realistic expectations of the development and testing teams. As a result, the product was unfinished upon release. This situation happens in projects that are urgent and have severe time constraints. It affects product testing in a negative way.

Another example of basic assumptions not being met can be found in the day-to-day work of testing and programming industries. The last assumption on the list states that the test team is to be provided with all the requirements necessary for the completion of the project, which includes business requirements, system requirements, and data requirements. However, as it often happens, the customers do not have a clear vision of what their software is expected to do. Therefore, a situation occurs where the requirements are not clear, which makes formulating software-specific assumptions harder. Without clear requirements, it is impossible to assess the presence or absence of certain functions that may later be needed by the end-users of the product, making it impossible for the test team to locate these errors (Stafford, 2014). In order to ensure quality, the test team must have a clear vision of what the end product is supposed to do as well as the requirements for the system and the quality of the provided data.

References

EuroSTAR. (2012). What is the most important skill a software tester should have? [Video file]. Web.

Gault, M., & Maiberg, E. (2017).‘Star Wars Battlefront II’ is everything that’s wrong with big budget games. Web.

Grayson, N. (2013).Et tu, CA? – Rome II devs apologize for issues.Web.

Jorgensen, P. C. (2016). Software testing: A craftsman’s approach. New York, Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press.

Merkow, M. S., & Raghavan, L. (2010). Secure and resilient software development. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press.

Stafford, W. (2014). The importance of requirements gathering for software projects. Web.

Text for the general public

Keeping in consideration the fact that not all the people are well educated to understand the nuances of mechanical engineering, the text of this paragraph has been kept as moderate as possible. Simple language has been used, and the sentences have been kept short. The examples mentioned in the text have been taken from everyday life that people are aware of. The text is as follows:

Each one of us is probably familiar with the word ‘mechanic.’ We all know that he is the one who repairs our faulty implements, vehicles, electronic items, etc. So we know that a mechanic is a person who repairs machines. Similarly, mechanical engineering also deals with machines. But it is not only for repairing purposes. Machines are created with the help of mechanical engineering. From the smallest things (such as toys, door latches, etc.) to the biggest things (such as space ships, airplanes, trains, etc.) are all wonders of mechanical engineering.

So basically, mechanical engineering can be defined as a stream of engineering that deals with anything and everything that moves and is made by humankind. Mechanical engineering can be found in all walks of life like refrigeration, manufacturing, energy production and conversion, vehicles, aerospace, medical equipment, etc.

The history of mechanical engineering can be traced back to early Greece and Chinese civilizations. During that era, mechanical engineering was involved in numerous things such as pumps, engines, clocks, etc. But mechanical engineering became a separate field with the advent of the industrial revolution in the world.

To become a mechanical engineer, a student has to obtain a degree BSc in mechanical engineering. The usual duration of the course is four years, after which the student becomes a mechanical engineer. If it is feasible for the student, he/she can do further specialized studies in a field of his/her choice. Else, jobs are available for graduate mechanical engineers as well. Most of the companies engaged in manufacturing require mechanical engineers. So mechanical engineering is a great field to pursue.

Text for elementary-aged children

It is commonly understood that the participation of children in commercial fairs is not much, but even though the number is less, this group of visitors is the most enthusiastic and eager to learn. After all, they are our future engineers, astronauts, doctors, etc. So keeping this into consideration, the following paragraphs have been written in a manner to enable the children to understand the concept of mechanical engineering in a playful manner.

The language has been kept very simple and the examples included in the text relate to their childhood and their fantasies. It is quite possible that they get impressed and inspired by what they see, and their future is nurtured here. Following is the text:

While at leisure, there might be several questions popping up in your minds. Why is it that only children have to go to school? Why do our parents work? If elders don’t go to school, then why do teachers come to school? Why is my father an engineer, and my friend’s father is a doctor? Well, children, the answer is very simple. There is a time for everything. Now is the time for you to study well so that when you grow up, you also become an engineer or a doctor. And as far as grownups doing different professions are concerned, it is a person’s choice of what he/she wants to become in life. He/she has to study hard to achieve that aim. Today, when you see the wonders of mechanical engineering, it is quite possible that one day you too will be successful mechanical engineers.

Mechanical engineering is a science that makes things move. Your toys, such as cars, trucks, catapults, building bots, ballistics, etc. are all wonders of mechanical engineering. Have you ever thought about how does a doll dance when you wind the key? Well, there’s a spring coil inside the doll that gets tightened when you wind the key. When you release the key, the spring starts rewinding, and since the spring is attached to the doll, it also moves in a dancing manner.

It was a small example. There are many more complicated machines (such as heavy machinery, airplanes, ships, power projects, etc.) that you can learn if you choose to become a mechanical engineer. Even the kitchen equipment, the air conditioners, the washing machines at your homes work on the principles of mechanical engineering.

Text for graduates/professionals

Graduates and professionals who want to change their profession and want to pursue careers in mechanical engineering are encouraged to do so. Considering the level of their education, the language of the following paragraphs has been kept scientific and the examples quoted are from complicated fields. But care has been taken that it is understood by the audience of this group. The text is as follows:

Mechanical engineering is a field of engineering that deals with various principles of science to examine, plan, create, and maintain different mechanical systems. A successful mechanical engineer has to be thorough with a wide range of concepts such as technicalities, kinematics, thermodynamics, power, etc. All these principles and concepts are put to use by mechanical engineers while designing heavy equipment such as aircraft, ships, vehicles, power plants, medical equipment, etc. another important requirement for being successful in mechanical engineering is teamwork. A single mechanical engineer cannot do wonders single-handedly. He/she has to work as a team.

Since mechanical engineering principles are crucial for practically everything that is made by humankind, it is the vastest and diverse field of engineering. Moreover, with the incessant inventions around the world, the proper update is a must.

Mechanical engineering needs certain abilities and skills that cannot be nurtured at once. Such skills can be attained through proper education and guidance. Students should enroll in specific programs in their schools. They should be proficient in mathematics and science. The art of conversation and communication is also an important factor because only then he/she will be able to perform as a team. Students can augment their knowledge by attending science fairs.

The content of the mechanical engineering course might differ from university to university, but the principles are the same. Some mechanical engineers prefer specializing in some particular fields such as aeronautical engineering, automotive engineering, etc. It is a good thing because recruiters of such fields will prefer the specialists. Doing a management course in addition to mechanical engineering can prove to be a shot in the arm. Knowing design software such as CAD, CAM, FMEA proves to be an added advantage.

Introduction

A system analyst is a specialist in the field of formulation of the requirements for information and software. The profession of a system analyst in the modern labor market is one of the most demand due to the rapid development of information technology. A systems analyst must know the basics of programming, software documentation, database theory, the basics of information security and have general knowledge in the field of management.

The Region

I live in Seattle; the city is large and provides good opportunities for career growth. Big companies developing new technologies are based in Seattle: Amazon is one of the biggest (Sadq et al., 2018). Regarding economic development, Seattle entered the top most considerable cities in the United States, ranking 12th (Cotton, 2019). Despite the pandemic, Seattle has maintained its position as one of the most economically strong and rapidly growing cities. Thus, my region offers good possibilities to start a career as a computer science graduate.

Research Systems Analysts’ Positions

Several companies in Seattle offer systems analyst jobs, but almost all are aimed at more experienced applicants. There are not many positions for beginners in this field; jobs in related areas, such as business analytics and management, are mainly offered. This seems strange to me as I expected more vacancies, given that many companies in Seattle need such specialists for business development.

Required Qualifications

The main activities involve collecting, analyzing, and documenting software requirements in technical language. In addition, accompanying communication with customers and the project team, studying the subject area, participation in the design of solutions, and verification of the implemented functionality for compliance with the requirements is expected. Required hard skills include skills in developing technical documentation, work experience with various DBMS, and confident knowledge of SQL (Ziprecruiter, 2022). It is necessary to be able to design data models, have knowledge of UML, BPMN notations, various methods of system integration, and understand REST API design principles (Ziprecruiter, 2022). From the employee, it is required to have SOAP experience in understanding the features of JSON/XML data exchange formats (Ziprecruiter, 2022). The necessary soft skills include communication skills, the ability to find a common language with both development and business, analytical thinking, working in conditions of lack of information, and adaptability to changes.

We are developing some of the mentioned skills during the course, but most requirements are not covered. It seems that the system analyst is not a narrow specialist and does a huge part of the work in the company. Even though my field of study is much broader, I feel I will not have enough skills to work immediately after graduation. Most likely, all the required skills develop gradually during the process; however, for the career start, it seems unjustified.

Salaries

It is difficult to determine the exact amount offered for a systems analyst position. For a beginner position, the amount offered varies from $50 to $130 per hour; remote workers receive slightly less. This level generally corresponds to my expectations from the average annual salary. However, according to the Glassdoor website (2022), the specialist’s average wage per year is $94,000, which is somewhat less than I would like to receive. However, lower wages are now associated with increased competition in the IT industry. Computer technology is developing rapidly, and specialists are willing to work even for smaller amounts to stay in a promising area.

Expectations

Before researching the jobs offered in Seattle, I assumed that the job market should be better. The number of vacancies does not meet my expectations; moreover, most are only suitable for people with more than three years of experience. There are few vacancies for beginners, most of them for related fields, which are already very far from programming and computer science. Salary expectations also correspond to the positions of experienced specialists; I would like to earn a little more. Of course, the data varies from company to company, but it seems that there are already so many specialists in the labor market that employers are not ready to pay more. I also expected a more significant overlap between the skills covered in the course and the system analyst position; these are quite different areas.

Considerations

Even though I have the required soft skills, it will take me a lot of time and hard work to master the complex skills for a systems analyst position. It seems to me that this is serious and very responsible work that does not leave much room for creativity. As a future computer scientist, I would like more creative work related to new developments. The position of systems analyst does not seem to offer such an option. Most likely, I would not want to work as a systems analyst. However, it would be a good experience for a beginner career path. Perhaps I will choose this profession as a reliable start and a way to learn new things. In such a case, I would prefer to work remotely to get more career choices and find the best working conditions.

Conclusion

My expectations from the system analyst profession turned out to be too high and differed from the actual state of affairs in the market. This kind of work is not quite suitable for me because I do not have all the required competencies, and I would like a more creative job. However, being a systems analyst is an excellent job for beginners who want to learn and develop valuable skills during work.

References

Cotton, J. S. (2019).Seattle. Weigl Publishers.

Glassdoor. (2022).System analyst job in Seattle, WA.

Ziprecruiter. (2022). RevOps, Senior business systems analyst.

Sadq, Z. M., Sabir, H. N., & Saeed, V. S. H. (2018). Analyzing the Amazon success strategies.Journal of Process Management and New Technologies, 6(4).

In the delivery of social services, the parties involved can be divided into either social workers or volunteers; the main differences that the two have is their way of approach to the subject.

Social workers are trained on different areas of handling mankind and situations as well on the best way to approach an issue, when they are on the field; they portray high levels of integrity and intellectualism. On the other hand most volunteers work from their personality, they feel they want to assist an ailing society thus they engage in the activity, they may have undergone training or not.

The main conflict that might be seen between volunteers and professional social workers is the approach that either takes; volunteers might have the advantage of being closer to a society especially if he or she happens to have come from the particular society that he is offering services. Because of the closeness, communities are more likely to trust him than social worker coming from a different area.

The danger comes that in case the approach or decisions taken by the volunteers are not the best, then the society is likely to suffer substandard decisions challenging social works ideology (Clayton & Williams, 2004)

When social workers (professionals) are on the field, they should not be closely supervised; this will offer them a chance to exercise their professionalism and handling situations the way they come. When working with different communities and people of diverse cultures, professionals needs to be flexible and willing to adjust according to the needs of the community that they are serving.

When professionals are left without close monitoring and dictatorship on how they need to handle situations, then they are likely to be motivated in their works and work for the benefit of the society and their employing organization as a whole.

Saying that social workers should be left to work independently does not in any way mean that they should be left to conduct their businesses without a central control; what the phrase means is that they should be given some freedom to practice their professionalism.

People generally work better when they are shown that they are trusted to operate and conduct a certain task on behalf of the government or their employer, making them free will then facilitate working hand.

In current era of Aids epidemics mostly in developing countries, the task and the roles that professional social workers undertake has taken a wider approach, they are used to educate, sometimes offer medication, advise, and create effective rooms where the affected and infected can get refuge.

The goal has made the professionals play the role of community nurses and their advice and connection with communities around their working territory has been used by governments to pass information to the communities.

On the other hand, the professionals in developing countries are used as government advisers on programs that are needed to be implemented in society level to facilitate economic growth of such places (Gerald, 2010).

The widened role played by social workers (professionals), is likely to change the perception that communities and the government had held for the profession; the profession will be taken seriously by all parties involved and in the future there is likelihood of having for young people engaging in the community based work as a career.

References

Clayton, M.,& Williams, A.(2004). Social justice. New York: Wiley-Blackwell.

Gerald, C. (2010). Issues and Ethics in the Helping Professions. New Jersey: Cengage learning.

Hypothesis

In these modern days, acquired knowledge for professional purposes has replaced the core values and mission of social work in industrialized countries. The belief that the society has a moral obligation to cater for social needs of poor people has reduced considerably.

Goal

To establish the reasons behind shifting priorities from social objectives to professional social work

Recommendations

As a result of professionalizing social work, there should be a will to improve conditions of poor people in the society. The need to eradicate extreme poverty should not be individualized or regarded as philanthropic. Instead, it should be regarded as a need to undertake social reforms. The reforms must involve people in all classes of society.

There is need for social workers to spend more time in analyzing moral ambiguities. Social benefits should be evenly distributed in the society while skills and knowledge are improved through scientific means. In her article, Bisman says “if we wish to improve the conditions of the poor we must adopt scientific measures” (Bisman, 2004, p. 113). This will solve some of the social problems.

Clear objectives ought to be developed to guide professionals of social sciences in maintaining basic moral values. It can be done by both individual and collective moral responsibilities and basic values. Other professionals in law and philosophy should be involved in building moral base.

Consequences

Consequences may include men and women losing their human dignity. Professionalizing social work increases the need for expertise and applied formal knowledge for social interests. It may also lead to loss of moral values through development of skills and knowledge without considering the resulting moral degradation.

“Those who are financially able may buy their way out of collective responsibility, paying less into the pool of public funds yet benefiting more from public services” (Bisman, 2004, p. 117). This may lead to social unrest.

There is no use denying the fact that the role of a human service professional becomes more and more significant in modern society. It happens due to the combination of such factors as the increased demand for services provided by these specialists and the general improvement of the quality of life of people in the majority of states. That is why, trying to make their life easier or protect themselves, citizens address human services professionals who provide help for them in various spheres of social life. However, it should be said that very often these very professionals face a challenge that has a great impact on their functioning.

Analyzing the work of this sort of specialists, it is vital to outline several aspects that are very important for the given sphere. First of all, one should remember the fact that the work of a human service professional is aimed at the protection of a persons interests, feelings, and dignity (American Counseling Association, 2005). That is why, a specialist should act following a certain code of ethics accepted in the given sphere (Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, 2000). Secondly, the functioning of all professionals is regulated by the government which means that very often they might meet challenges created by certain limits at the state level (National Organization for Human Services, n.d.). This very fact is one of the most important aspects of the work of human service professionals.

Besides, having mentioned this sort of challenge, it is important to analyze one of them to show the great importance of the given issue. The character of this job implies close cooperation with a person, which means that the sphere of ethics becomes very important here. Moreover, there is a great number of various regulations that try to control the given sphere. However, they also limit a professional. For example, in the USA and the state of Georgia, the law guarantees personal privacy (Chapter 2 – Persons and their rights, 2014), besides, in the course of their work advocates very often face the situation when this regulation introduces a great number of obstacles and problems which decrease the level of the efficiency of the given specialists.

Resting on these facts, it is possible to say that not all laws or regulations introduced by the government promote the functioning of these professionals. However, the main aim of these laws is also to protect people from various manipulations. That is why one could admit the dilemma that exists in the given sphere. Sometimes, human service professionals might suffer from existing laws and be unable to solve a certain problem (Carey, 2007). Thus, there is a need for the creation of a new approach, which could allow human service professionals to act more confidently. It can help them to overcome various obstacles in their complicated job.

With this in mind, it is possible to make a certain conclusion. Nowadays the government gives a great deal of attention to the protection of people and their interests, creating the laws and regulations that control the given sphere. Unfortunately, human service professionals can also suffer from these limits as they can introduce some challenges to their work. Under these conditions, the necessity of the creation of the more flexible approach becomes obvious (Healy & Meagher, 2004), as it could help people to destroy some unnecessary limits and make the functioning of human service specialists more efficient which, in its turn, can increase peoples satisfaction with the existing government.

References

Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. (2000). Code of ethics. Web.

American Counseling Association. (2005). ACA code of ethics. Web.

Carey, M. (2007). Some ethical dilemmas for agency social workers. Ethics & Social Welfare, 1(3), 342–347. Web.

Chapter 2 – Persons and their rights. (2014). Web.

Healy, K., & Meagher, G. (2004). The professionalization of social work: Collaborative approaches for achieving professional recognition. British Journal of Social Work, 34(2), 243–260. Web.

National Organization for Human Services. (n.d.). Web.

Introduction: Background information

The yellow wallpaper

Author: Charlotte Perkins Gilman

Early work of American feminist literature- illustration of the attitudes of society towards physical and mental health of women in the 19th century (Gilman, 2008, p. 1).

Published in The New England Magazine in 1892

The short story illustrates the effects on the narrator health brought about by confinement, leading to development of psychosis. Her obsession with the color of the wallpaper in the locked room (Gilman, 2008, p. 16-20).

Narrator believes she is one of the women creeping behind the wallpaper patterns thereby becoming accustomed with the yellow wallpaper (Gilman, 2008, p. 21-26).

If These Walls Could Talk

Television movie broadcasted by the home box office

Movie interested in following the plight and experiences of three women on matters pertaining to abortion particularly on different times-1952, 1974 and 1996 (Internet movie database, 2010, para. 3).

First and second segments co written by Nancy Savoca in 1952 and 1974 and 1996

Television series directed b y Anne Heche in 1996

1952-Claire Donnely

1974-Barbara Barrows

1996-Christine Cullen

Spring sale at bendel’s

Painting, drawing and graphic arts in the 20th century in the United States

Artistic paintings carried out by Florine Stetthelmer in 1921.

Humorous presentation of the disorderly world in the fashion arena especially in new York affluent (Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2010, para. 4).

The artwork presents pictorials that are reminiscent of the baroque churches with remnants of the painted German rococo interiors (Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2010, para. 3).

Instrumental in guiding the abstraction of life in the later years of 20th century

Thesis statement

The paper will look into the role of feminism, literary and non-literary works by women, experiences that women passed through and their implications to their health taking into account their contribution to the current medical and nursing practice when compared to those times.

Objective analysis

Yellow wallpaper

Short story told by first person perspective on the subordination of women in their marriages to an extent of making decisions for them.

Summary of the work (Gilman, 2008, p. 1-26):

• narrator descent into the world of insanity
• medical intervention(Rest-cure) advocated by her husband
• Confinement to a vacation room
• Visit by the family members
• obsession by a yellow wallpaper pattern
• hatred radiated from the room
• Narrator presupposition of presence of many creeping women

Spring Sale at Bendel’s

• The painting depicts the humorous look of the disorderly fashion arena among the elite in New York.
• Techniques: fantastic art using oil on canvas background that depicts humor in explaining the fashion industry among the upper class.

Elements of artistic composition

• Picture area: 50×40 inches on canvas helps in determination of objects during the display
• Depth: the artist has created three dimensional effect that ensures viewing of interior components of the fashion outlet thereby bringing the feminine theme
• Line: the art allows the viewer to take a clear view from the bottom left corner to the focal point inside the outlet where the theme is more evident
• Value: a mixture of lightness and darkness brought about by the flowery colors depicts feminism in an appropriate way (Art in Canada inc, 2010, para. 8-12)

If These Walls Could Talk

• The movie examines the abortion issue taking the audience through three stories set in different times-50s, 70s and 90s.
• The setting that strives to provide a historical perspective on abortion by dwelling on different timelines makes it bring the femininity in different perspectives

Elements of composition

• Area: the movie creates a feminine atmosphere through the setting in a home
• Depth: motion enhances the understanding of the theme and the plot of the movie
• Line: the viewer follows the action from the left corner inwards with the main focal point at the centre. The introduction of events follows similar trend
• Value: a mixture of lightness and darkness brought about by the flowery colors depicts feminism in an appropriate way (Art in Canada inc, 2010, para. 8-12).

Subjective analysis

The yellow wallpaper

Story narrated on first person detailing the journey to madness caused by confinement to a rest room as part of treatment, obsession with the yellow paper leading to events culminating in her return to her home. Her act of stripping the wallpaper reflected her willingness to free herself from the segregation

Mood: sad and very emotive taking into account the events surrounding the life of the narrator during the two weeks of rest cure. Although exaggerated, sadness, pity and compassion for the lady are evident in the story.

Themes

• The short story brings out the subordination of women in marriage setup through their disregard of their opinions
• Self expression-important since it help relieve anxieties and fears caused by the compulsory silence and overly idleness brought by the resting cure
• Negative effects of the resting cures in terms of depression occasioned by the cruel course of the treatment utilized. The abuse of authority or the increasing tendency in the homes and hospitals by the husbands and doctors respectively
• Basing the story on its historical context, the narration and the situation in the rest room guided or helped bring out the theme, mood and interpretations of the story.

Spring Sale at Bendel’s

• Florine utilizes humor to depict the disorderliness exhibited by the elite in new York with regard to fashion industry. Femininity is widely evident through the application of bright colors and the occasional jewel-like palette. The presence of two men(manager and entrance) depicts subordination of women in the upper class where the men are required to work.
• The artist uses wit and humor to bring out the negative side of the upper class in New York.
• Obsession with fashion trends especially when the New York elite leap table to snatch sumptuous fabrics and twisting to assess the glamorous effects of the fabrics

Mood: joyful mood depicted by humor caused by disorderly among the elite women

Theme: femininity is evident taking into account the choice of color, flowers, jewel like palette and frenzy occasioned by the women

Subordination brought out with the supervisory and ownership role placed on the sales manager who controls the women

Interpretations on themes and mood was guided by the presentation of the many and bright colors, setting of the paintings (fashion outlet) and the behaviour of the women while undertaking the shopping

If These Walls Could Talk

The television movie depicts the popular views of the society on abortion in the different duration of time as presented by the women experiences that take place in the various vignettes.

Mood: sad taking into consideration the tragedies that befall the women who commit abortion and the pain during the process.

Theme: femininity due to the explanations and the scenes depicting women characters and the day to day life activities.

Dangers and dilemmas encountered by women and young ladies when procuring abortion whether in legally or illegally and the consequences of such measures on their later life

Subordination of women in the sense that they feel compelled to undertake a very risk procedure in order to avoid failure in life occasioned by acrimony in their unions or disagreement in their relationship or involvement in illicit relationships.

Interpretations:

Interpretations received much influence from the candid scenes surrounding the conspiracy to carry out an abortion and the dilemmas faced by the mothers and young ladies when they accidentally fall pregnant.

Similarities:

• All the 3 works delved on feminine matters particularly those regarding problems and day to day activities encountered by women during their life.
• Visual aids and art elements used to enhance development of themes
• Themes such as subordination and femininity are present in the three works especially when faced with dilemmas and shortcomings in life.
• Directing, narration and painting was carried out by the women
• The settings are overly simplistic in nature thereby allowing the passage of message and theme easily
• Conflict between opposite gender occurs

Differences:

• The movie and literary work concentrate on social evils encountered by women in life while the painting presents a kind of luxurious scramble among the New York elite.
• The movie and the literary work elicits sympathy and sadness occasioned by a process that inflicts pain on the women in contrast with the painting where joyous mood prevail.
• Painting exhibits all the elements in the art composition, unlike in the other two works where little or total failure of utilization of them occurs
• Although insubordination forms the major theme in the works, the painting fails to give a clear link between the woman and man in that society

Enhancement of understanding of the themes by the similarities and differences:

• Similarities are imperative in demonstrating the transformation of certain ideas or issues over time while providing reasons for their occurrence.
• Simplicity offered by the art forms is useful in communication of themes while eliciting necessary emotions among the audience or viewers.
• Utilization of humor and satire in the works helps create better way of understanding the evils or dilemmas facing a certain segment of the population while controlling too much emotional attachment
• Directing, narration and painting was carried out by the women helps in bringing the issues at center stage through ensuring that the women give their side of the story
• Conflict or interaction between the genders imperative in the development of the themes. For instance, femininity and insubordination are easily explained when the conflict develops in the plot
• Use of visual aids and elements of art form that bring out contrast help in communicating the themes to the audience

Reflection on objective analysis

Use of contrast particularly of colors is useful in expression deep feelings and emotions that symbolize the life of a person. Simplicity of a setting endears audience and helps in passage of the intended message. Human beings are social beings who will always consult, need company and comfort from others. Simplicity of settings is important to nursing and medical profession since its helps in improving communication between patient and doctor while ensuring effective passage of health information. Knowledge of humanities is crucial in integration of socially acceptable measures to help bolster the utilization of healthcare services

Insubordination and the lack of social expression has helped in understanding the behaviour of people particularly when faced with challenges. Expression of positive and negative feelings and attitudes is mainly achieved through utilization of art forms such as paintings and narrations (Janaro & Altshuler, 2009, p. 32). Social evils in the society can be easily be managed or prevented by the same society through investment on mitigation and control measures. Acrimony in most relationships and unions are overly caused by extreme cases of feminism and subordination propagated by either gender. Knowledge on the themes is vital in explaining the genesis and development on medical conditions.

Femininity and lack of social expression can be useful in explaining health seeking behaviour and the course of treatment of some forms of conditions and diseases. The sad and emotive moods depicted in the artistic forms representing social evils against women should serve as a wake-up call for action against the social evils. Social expression is a useful tool in the diagnosis of medical conditions and hence doctors and nurses must master to understand their patients explanations.

Reflection on relationship among the works

Narration and expression done by the affected individuals brings out the human state more effectively since it allows use of nonverbal communication. Conflict between the genders has become a major cause of medical conditions and diseases such as stress and depression. Incorporation of satire and humor enhances the passage of information without arousing bad feelings in affected individuals while also boosting the applicability of the knowledge gained. Subordination and femininity has played a major role in perpetuating some medical conditions.

Humanities important in enhancing the understanding of the link between social factors and development of diseases in humans (Janaro & Altshuler, 2009, p. 39). Regular incorporation of visual arts and other forms can bolster the war against diseases especially in the medical and nursing profession.

Conclusion

The yellow wallpaper offers similar themes as in the movie “if these walls could talk” and the painting “Spring Sale at Bendel’s. The three forms of art bring into light the social evils affecting the society and in particular women. Women experiences in the hands of men (subordination) has resulted in the development of social evils that have grave consequences to them, for instance abortion. The utilization of the four elements of artistic composition ensures the non-literary forms serve their purpose of presenting the intended information while enhancing the development of themes and moods.

Objective analysis of the three works led to the formation of the following themes; femininity and subordination. Subordination cuts across the three works and is mainly driven by the conflict between the opposite genders Subjective analysis helps the reader and the audience to consolidate the main points thereby bringing out the various forms of social evils encountered by women and discussing their relevance to the nursing and medical profession (Janaro & Altshuler, 2009, p. 32). The similarities and differences in the three works are imperative in the understanding of relationship between the themes and the moods.

Social expression is a useful tool in the diagnosis of medical conditions and hence doctors and nurses must master to understand their patients explanations. Knowledge on the themes is vital in explaining the genesis and development on medical conditions. Knowledge of humanities is crucial in integration of socially acceptable measures to help bolster the utilization of healthcare services (Sporre, 2009, p. 18). Humanities important in enhancing the understanding of the link between social factors and development of diseases in humans. Regular incorporation of visual arts and other forms can bolster the war against diseases especially in the medical and nursing profession (Sporre, 2009, p. 14).

References

1. Art in Canada Inc. (2010). Canadian Art. Web.
2. Gilman, C.P. (2008). The Yellow Wall paper. Washington, D.C: Forgotten book limited.
3. Internet movie database. (2010) If These Walls Could Talk (1996) (TV). Web.
4. Janaro, R.P. and Altshuler, T.C. (2009). The art of being human. 9th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
5. Philadelphia Museum of Art. (2010). Modern and Contemporary Art: Spring Sale at Bendel’s. Web.
6. Sporre, D. J. (2009). Perceiving the arts: An introduction to the humanities. 9th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Most helpers face a wide variety of customers in their employment, and the primary purpose of a helper is to understand how to create contact with persons whose behavior differs from those who want aid and want to be helped. Often, when things do not go as planned in sessions, it is simply a mismatch – whether there are personality or philosophic issues. Occasionally, clients may make things rather tough deliberately or by mistake. The therapy may become unpleasant if a client does not want to be there, is argumentative, or pushes the therapist’s boundaries.

I find the most challenging clients to be those that come involuntary and demonstrate resistance to treatment. Involuntary clients are those who have been coerced into therapy (Conerly et al., 2021). It is a primary responsibility of a helper to convince customers that they require assistance, and how the helper approach such consumers will influence the degree to which they will be cooperative (Conerly et al., 2021). The therapeutic objective with these individuals is to motivate the client to improve.

Another category of challenging clients in treatment is those that disobey boundaries. Empathetic therapists may find it challenging to establish limits with needy or hostile clients (Conerly et al., 2021). These clients contact the helper between sessions, throughout the night, or via social media. Their incorrect acts generate apprehension and tension even if they have no malicious intentions. In these situations, if established ethical boundaries have been crossed, it is recommended to be forceful about ethical commitments as a therapist and politely explain them to the client.

In my opinion, these choices reflect my hesitance to work with people that may become hostile. It is possible that due to miscommunication specific clients may act in a negative manner towards helper and become agitated towards violence. Nevertheless, when clients are difficult to handle or help, it is crucial to demonstrate empathy, remain calm, and attempt to understand the cause of their anger, which may help de-escalate them and get treatment back on track. Regardless of who the client is or what category they fit into, listening with respect will go a long way in establishing connection. When a helper establishes proper understanding with the clients, it may transform tough clients into individuals with whom they can collaborate to achieve their objectives.

Reference

Conerly, T. R., Holmes, K., & Tamang, A. L. (2021). Introduction to sociology 3E. OpenStax, Rice University.