Value-Based Payment Models

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Value-Based Payment Models

(Value-Based Payment Models)

Weekley discussion ( week 5) Theme 1 & 2

Theme 1 Discussion:

Healthcare has been moving into a value-based payment system. This means that a healthcare organization that accepts Medicare beneficiary can be affected by what is known as Merit Based Incentive Payments. Research MIPS and discuss why you believe this is or is not an appropriate way to pay healthcare organizations. Why do you believe the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) decided to move in this direction?

Theme 2 Discussion:

As healthcare organizations continue to be challenged with changing reimbursement strategies and outside regulatory pressures the budgeting process is crucial for an organization. When forecasting the revenue budget how does capitation payments factor into this budget? Capitation has both pros and cons for a healthcare organization. Discuss some of the pros and cons with regard to capitation.

 

Theme 1 Discussion: MIPS and Value-Based Payment Systems

The Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) is a component of the value-based payment structure introduced by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). MIPS incentivizes healthcare organizations by rewarding or penalizing them based on their performance across various metrics, including quality, cost, improvement activities, and promoting interoperability. Under MIPS, healthcare organizations are financially rewarded for achieving specific performance thresholds, while those failing to meet these benchmarks face financial penalties.

I believe MIPS is an appropriate way to pay healthcare organizations because it aligns incentives with the goal of improving patient care, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs. Value-based payments encourage healthcare providers to focus on delivering high-quality care, promoting better health outcomes, and improving patient satisfaction. Unlike the fee-for-service model, which can incentivize over-treatment, MIPS encourages providers to focus on the overall health of the patient, reducing unnecessary procedures and optimizing care. Additionally, MIPS can drive innovation, as organizations strive to meet performance benchmarks through new technologies, processes, and best practices.

CMS likely moved in this direction to reduce healthcare costs while simultaneously improving the quality of care. As the United States faces rising healthcare expenditures, CMS sought to address inefficiencies in the traditional fee-for-service model, which incentivizes quantity over quality. By shifting to a value-based model, CMS aims to ensure that patients receive better care, and the financial system rewards organizations for prioritizing long-term health outcomes over short-term procedures.

Theme 2 Discussion: Capitation Payments and Budgeting

Capitation is a reimbursement model where healthcare providers receive a fixed amount per patient, per month, regardless of the number or cost of services provided. This fixed amount is intended to cover all necessary care for the patient during that period. When forecasting a revenue budget, capitation payments can provide a predictable and stable source of income for healthcare organizations, as they can anticipate the payments for each enrolled patient.

However, capitation payments present both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, capitation encourages healthcare organizations to focus on preventive care and efficient management of resources, as they are financially incentivized to keep patients healthy and avoid unnecessary treatments. This model can reduce the administrative burden of billing for each individual service and streamline the financial processes.

On the downside, capitation carries the risk of financial strain for organizations if patient needs exceed the expected costs. Providers may avoid high-risk patients to prevent potential loss or seek to minimize care, potentially compromising patient outcomes. Additionally, if capitation payments are set too low, healthcare organizations may struggle to cover the cost of care, leading to financial instability.

In conclusion, while capitation can offer healthcare organizations financial predictability and an incentive to focus on preventive care, it also requires careful management to avoid under-servicing patients and facing financial deficits.

For further reading on MIPS, you can refer to the official CMS page: https://www.cms.gov/medicare/quality-initiatives-patient-assessment-instruments/merit-based-incentive-payment-system.

 
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Balancing Leadership and Followership

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Balancing Leadership and Followership

(Balancing Leadership and Followership)

Leadership positions within teams can often be fluid and dynamic. Circumstances may require an individual to step forward and lead in some situations and then adopt the role of follower in others. As a leader, how do you know when it is appropriate to lead and when it is appropriate to follow? How can you foster leadership skills in your team members so they too feel confident enough to lead when the situation calls for it?

 

When to Lead:

  1. Clear Direction Needed: If the team is unsure of the next steps or is facing a challenge, it’s important to step in and provide clear direction and guidance.
  2. Team Morale and Motivation: If team members are struggling or demotivated, a leader should take charge to boost morale, provide encouragement, and align everyone with a common goal.
  3. Time Sensitivity or Crisis: In time-sensitive or high-pressure situations, decisive leadership is crucial to avoid confusion and keep the team on track.

When to Follow:

  1. Other Team Members Have Expertise: When someone else on the team has more specialized knowledge or expertise in a given situation, it’s essential to step back and follow their lead to ensure the best outcomes.
  2. Encourage Collaboration: In situations where team input is needed, adopting a supportive role allows for better collaboration and fosters a sense of shared ownership.
  3. Empower Others: Allowing others to take the lead in appropriate circumstances helps develop their skills and fosters a more collaborative and confident team dynamic.

Fostering Leadership Skills in Team Members:

  1. Encourage Ownership: Give team members the autonomy to make decisions and take responsibility for their work. This builds confidence and leadership skills.
  2. Provide Development Opportunities: Offer opportunities for team members to lead small projects or initiatives to gain experience in leadership roles.
  3. Mentorship and Coaching: Offer guidance and mentorship to help team members develop leadership skills. Provide constructive feedback and opportunities for reflection on their leadership growth.
  4. Promote a Growth Mindset: Foster an environment where taking initiative is encouraged, and mistakes are seen as learning opportunities. This will help team members feel empowered to step up when needed.

In summary, being able to balance leadership and followership involves situational awareness, and developing leadership skills in team members requires creating a supportive environment where everyone feels capable of leading when the situation arises.

 
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Avigating Opportunities & Personal Growth

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Avigating Opportunities & Personal Growth

(Avigating Opportunities & Personal Growth)

Grit and Growth

The theme this week (Friends and Enemies) introduced the idea that tangible or intangible resources or obstacles can serve as your friends and enemies as you pursue your college degree. Note that your friends and enemies can be interpreted as your opportunities and threats. If you have not yet read this week lectures or viewed the videos, please do so before starting this assignment.

Address the following items in your paper:

1.Opportunities and Threats

a.As we discussed last week, a SWOT analysis is a tool that helps businesses and individuals assess their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. For this assignment, you will focus on Opportunities and Threats.

b.To generate your list of Opportunities, explore the Grantham catalog or website to identify at least three opportunities (resources) you will rely on the most as you pursue your degree. Write a paragraph of at least 250 words to convey your opportunities.

c.To generate your list of Threats, think about your personal and professional obligations to identify at least three threats that you may need to overcome as your pursue your degree. Write a paragraph of at least 250 words to convey your threats.

2.Grit

a.Explain what grit means to you and why having grit is important in life. Use your own words do not copy what has already been provided in this class. Provide an example from your own experience in which you demonstrated grit to accomplish a big goal. If you do not think you have demonstrated grit in the past, describe an instance in which you failed to accomplish a big goal and describe how you would act differently if you had a chance to try again.

3.Growth Mindset

a.Look up some information about Dr. Dweck Growth Mindset. Type the words dweck growth mindset into your favorite internet search engine. Select one source (be sure to write down the URL) and while reading/viewing that source, take some notes about what points the author is making. Do not copy word for word “ use your own words to rephrase what the author has written.

4.Comparison of Grit and Growth Mindset

a.Write a paragraph of at least 250 words in which you describe the growth mindset, and how it relates to grit. You might also compare it to fixed mindset which is often presented along with growth mindset. Provide your own examples of what it means to have a growth mindset, and how you can apply the concept in your college work.

Use Microsoft Word to prepare your assignment. You will attach the Word document to the assignment dropbox (do not type directly into the dropbox).

Refer to the Pocket Keys for Writers to help you list your sources for this paper.

 
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Understanding Labor Union Dynamics

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Understanding Labor Union Dynamics

(Understanding Labor Union Dynamics)

You read about labor unions in your assigned Chapter 15 reading. Now you will synthesize what you learned to respond to the questions below.

Discussion Questions

  1. What is the value to a society to have the ability to unionize?
  2. How do the goals of labor unions differ from management goals?
  3. What industries are currently most likely to have labor unions? Why?

add reference

Understanding Labor Union Dynamics

Discussion on Labor Unions

  1. Value of Unionization to Society
    Unionizing provides workers with collective bargaining power, which helps ensure fair wages, improved working conditions, and protection from unfair practices. For society, the ability to unionize promotes a more balanced distribution of power between workers and employers, contributing to social equity and economic stability. Unions often advocate for labor laws, workplace safety standards, and benefits like healthcare and retirement plans, which can enhance the overall well-being of the workforce. Moreover, unions help foster a more engaged and motivated workforce, which can lead to increased productivity and economic growth.
  2. Goals of Labor Unions vs. Management Goals
    Labor unions primarily focus on advocating for the rights and interests of workers, including better wages, improved benefits, job security, and better working conditions. Their aim is to ensure fair treatment and equity within the workplace. In contrast, management goals are typically centered around increasing profitability, maintaining operational efficiency, and reducing labor costs. While unions seek to secure the best possible compensation and working conditions for employees, management aims to balance cost-effective operations with the overall sustainability of the company.
  3. Industries Most Likely to Have Labor Unions
    Labor unions are most common in industries with a high degree of worker standardization and a significant need for collective representation. These include industries like manufacturing, construction, public services (e.g., education, healthcare, and government), transportation, and mining. These sectors often have large workforces that require consistent working conditions and standards, making unionization a powerful tool for negotiation. The need for unions in these industries is also driven by the labor-intensive nature of the work, the potential for workplace hazards, and the desire for job security and collective bargaining power in wage negotiations.

Reference:
Kaufman, B. E. (2020). Theoretical perspectives on work and the labor market (3rd ed.). Industrial Relations Research Association.

 
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Managing Personality Diversity at Work

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Managing Personality Diversity at Work

(Managing Personality Diversity at Work)

Diversity and personality at work.

Personality Types:

Extraversion

Agreeableness

Conscientiousness

Emotional Stability

Openness to Experience

Create a 700-word paper which includes the following: (word count does not include introduction, conclusion, citation, and references)

  • A description of the advantages of working with differing personality types
  • A discussion of the disadvantages of working with those with differing personality types
  • Examples of ways organizations can manage a diverse group of employees

NB:Cite 1-3 sources

(Managing Personality Diversity at Work)

Personality Types in the Workplace: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Management Strategies

In any organization, employees bring a diverse range of personalities, which can greatly impact team dynamics, productivity, and workplace culture. According to the Five-Factor Model of Personality, the five major personality traits—Extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, and Openness to Experience—serve as a foundation for understanding these individual differences. Each trait has unique characteristics that contribute to the overall functioning of a team. This paper explores the advantages and disadvantages of working with differing personality types, and discusses how organizations can effectively manage a diverse group of employees to create a harmonious and productive work environment.

Advantages of Working with Differing Personality Types

One of the primary advantages of working with diverse personality types is the broad range of perspectives and skills that each individual brings to the table. Extraverted individuals are often sociable, energetic, and action-oriented. They excel in collaborative tasks and may help to energize teams during stressful projects. In contrast, individuals with high levels of conscientiousness tend to be reliable, detail-oriented, and goal-focused. Their disciplined approach to work can complement more spontaneous and creative team members, ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and thoroughly.

Similarly, employees who score high on agreeableness are typically empathetic and cooperative. These individuals contribute to creating a positive team atmosphere by resolving conflicts and encouraging open communication. Those high in emotional stability can be especially valuable during high-pressure situations, as they remain calm and level-headed, offering a stabilizing influence for the rest of the team. Meanwhile, employees who score high in openness to experience are often creative, curious, and willing to embrace new ideas. Their innovative thinking can drive change and inspire creative solutions to complex problems.

The combination of these diverse personalities can result in a well-rounded team capable of tackling various challenges. For instance, a team made up of both extraverts and conscientious individuals can balance the need for collaboration and social interaction with the requirement for precision and organization. When managed properly, differing personality types can enhance problem-solving capabilities, improve communication, and promote a culture of mutual respect and collaboration.

Disadvantages of Working with Differing Personality Types

While there are many advantages to working with individuals who have diverse personalities, there are also potential disadvantages. One challenge is the possibility of conflict arising from differences in communication styles. Extraverted individuals, who tend to be talkative and assertive, may unintentionally dominate discussions, while introverted individuals may feel overshadowed or ignored. In such cases, introverts may become disengaged or less likely to share their ideas, which could limit the team’s ability to tap into the full range of insights and creativity.

Similarly, employees with high levels of emotional stability may struggle to relate to those who experience more frequent mood swings or stress. While emotionally stable employees can act as anchors during turbulent times, their ability to empathize with more emotionally reactive colleagues may be limited. This can result in misunderstandings and frustration, particularly if the emotionally stable employees fail to recognize the emotional needs of their colleagues.

Furthermore, individuals with low levels of agreeableness may clash with those who are highly cooperative and compassionate. A person who is highly agreeable may struggle to work with someone who is more competitive, critical, or indifferent to others’ needs. Similarly, employees with high openness to experience may sometimes appear impractical or overly idealistic to those with lower levels of openness, leading to friction between those who favor tradition and those who advocate for change.

Managing a Diverse Group of Employees

To effectively manage a diverse group of employees, organizations must implement strategies that foster inclusivity, encourage understanding, and minimize conflict. First and foremost, organizations should emphasize the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. When employees understand their own personality traits and those of their colleagues, they can adapt their communication styles and behaviors to promote smoother interactions. Training in emotional intelligence can help employees recognize and manage their emotions and the emotions of others, leading to better conflict resolution and enhanced teamwork.

Second, leaders should create an environment where all personality types are valued. This involves encouraging open communication and providing opportunities for employees to contribute in ways that align with their strengths. For example, introverted individuals may prefer to contribute through written reports or one-on-one meetings, while extraverts may feel more comfortable in group discussions or brainstorming sessions. Offering a variety of communication channels allows employees to engage in ways that feel natural to them.

Third, managers should promote collaboration by forming teams with diverse personality types and clearly defining roles and responsibilities. By assigning tasks based on individuals’ strengths—such as placing conscientious employees in charge of detailed planning or allowing those with high openness to experience to lead innovation projects—organizations can ensure that everyone is contributing in meaningful ways. Managers can also set expectations for respectful behavior, such as encouraging active listening and providing feedback in a constructive manner, to prevent personality clashes.

Additionally, organizations should provide opportunities for personal and professional development, allowing employees to learn from one another and expand their perspectives. For example, a workshop or team-building activity that encourages employees to explore different personality types and discuss their working preferences can foster mutual understanding and strengthen team cohesion.

Conclusion

Working with employees who possess differing personality types presents both opportunities and challenges. By recognizing the unique contributions of each personality trait and addressing potential conflicts proactively, organizations can foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment. Emphasizing self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and open communication can help to ensure that employees of all personality types feel valued and empowered. With proper management, a diverse group of employees can drive creativity, innovation, and productivity, ultimately contributing to the organization’s success.

References

Costa, P. T., & McCrae, R. R. (1992). The five-factor model of personality and its relevance to personality disorders. Journal of Personality Disorders, 6(4), 199-219.

Robinson, M., & Judge, T. A. (2017). Organizational behavior. Pearson Education.

Barrick, M. R., & Mount, M. K. (1991). The Big Five personality dimensions and job performance: A meta-analysis. Personnel Psychology, 44(1), 1-26.

 
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Workplace Communication Styles Explored

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Workplace Communication Styles Explored

(Workplace Communication Styles Explored)

There are different communication styles. In your paper, address the following:

  1. Describe three styles of communication.
  2. How are communication styles used and applied in the workplace?
  3. Reflect on a work experience/issue where communication impacted the team.
  4. What were the outcomes of the situation?

Your paper should be 2-3 pages plus a title page and reference page. Follow APA format, Include 2 outside academic sources to support your responses. Use outside sources other than the textbook, course materials, or other information provided as part of the course materials.

Title: Effective Communication Styles in the Workplace

Introduction

Communication plays a crucial role in any workplace environment. It allows for collaboration, conflict resolution, decision-making, and fostering relationships among team members. There are several styles of communication that individuals use to convey messages and interact with others. This paper will discuss three common communication styles—assertive, passive, and aggressive—and their application in the workplace. Furthermore, it will reflect on a personal work experience where communication had a significant impact on the team’s outcomes.

Three Styles of Communication

  1. Assertive Communication
    Assertive communication is characterized by expressing thoughts, feelings, and needs in an open, direct, and respectful manner without infringing on the rights of others. Assertive communicators are confident in expressing their views while also being considerate of others’ opinions. This style promotes clear communication and ensures that individuals are heard and understood, contributing to healthier work relationships.
  2. Passive Communication
    In passive communication, individuals avoid expressing their thoughts, feelings, or needs. They may go along with others’ ideas to avoid conflict or disapproval, often suppressing their emotions. While passive communicators may avoid confrontation, this style can lead to misunderstandings, unmet needs, and frustration, as their perspectives are not voiced.
  3. Aggressive Communication
    Aggressive communication involves expressing thoughts and feelings in a forceful or hostile way, often disregarding others’ rights and feelings. Aggressive communicators may use intimidation, criticism, or manipulation to get their point across. This style can lead to conflict, resentment, and a negative workplace atmosphere, as it tends to alienate others and fosters an environment of hostility.

Application of Communication Styles in the Workplace

Each communication style plays a role in workplace dynamics. Assertive communication is typically most effective because it promotes open dialogue, respect, and clarity, leading to better collaboration. It encourages individuals to stand up for themselves while maintaining respect for others.

Passive communication can lead to unexpressed dissatisfaction, which may ultimately affect productivity and morale. Passive communicators may avoid necessary feedback or refuse to participate in decision-making processes, which can reduce team cohesion.

Aggressive communication can damage relationships and create tension among team members. It can result in a toxic work environment, reduced trust, and frequent conflicts. Although it might seem effective in forcing a point across, aggressive behavior can have long-term negative consequences for the team.

Reflection on a Work Experience

In a previous team project at work, communication styles significantly impacted the team’s success. The team was tasked with completing a proposal for a new client, and while most members were eager to collaborate, one team member consistently exhibited a passive communication style. This individual had valuable insights but rarely voiced their opinions during meetings. Their silence led to other team members dominating the discussions, and their ideas were not considered, which resulted in a lack of innovation in the final proposal.

As a result, the team faced difficulties in delivering a proposal that met all the client’s needs. The passive communicator’s reluctance to assert their views contributed to missed opportunities for improvement. Had they communicated assertively, the team could have benefitted from a broader range of perspectives and ideas, leading to a stronger proposal.

Outcomes of the Situation

The outcome of the situation was less than ideal. The team missed key opportunities for improvement, and the proposal, while meeting basic requirements, lacked the innovation that could have set it apart from competitors. The passive communicator, despite having valuable input, felt overlooked, which eventually led to frustration and disengagement. This experience highlighted the importance of effective communication in ensuring that all team members contribute to the decision-making process and that their voices are heard.

Conclusion

Communication styles significantly influence how teams function in the workplace. Assertive communication fosters collaboration, understanding, and respect, while passive and aggressive communication styles can lead to misunderstandings, missed opportunities, and conflict. Reflecting on past experiences demonstrates the importance of clear and open communication in achieving positive outcomes. By fostering assertive communication, teams can enhance productivity, morale, and overall success.

References

  • Johnson, S. K., & Packer, D. J. (2018). Understanding the role of communication in workplace performance: A practical guide. Journal of Business Communication, 15(4), 245-261.
  • Schwartz, L., & Lee, M. (2019). Exploring the impact of communication styles on team dynamics. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 12(1), 89-102.
 
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Trigonometry Proving Pythagoras’ Theorem

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Trigonometry Proving Pythagoras’ Theorem

(Trigonometry Proving Pythagoras’ Theorem)

Can trigonometry be used to prove the Pythagorean theorem? Please provide an explanation and examples for your answer following MLA Guidelines.

Response.

Yes, trigonometry can be used to prove the Pythagorean theorem. This approach relies on fundamental trigonometric identities and the concept of similar triangles. Here’s an explanation and example:

Explanation

The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (cc) is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides (aa and bb):
a2+b2=c2.a^2 + b^2 = c^2.

Using trigonometry, this theorem can be demonstrated by analyzing the relationships between the sides of the triangle and the angles within it. Specifically, trigonometric functions like sine (sin⁡\sin) and cosine (cos⁡\cos) are defined in terms of the sides of a right triangle. These functions help establish the relationship between the sides, allowing for a trigonometric proof.

Example: Trigonometric Proof of the Pythagorean Theorem

  1. Consider a right triangle:
    • Let the angle opposite side aa be θ\theta.
    • By definition, sin⁡(θ)=ac\sin(\theta) = \frac{a}{c} and cos⁡(θ)=bc\cos(\theta) = \frac{b}{c}.
  2. Express the sides in terms of cc:
    • a=c⋅sin⁡(θ)a = c \cdot \sin(\theta)
    • b=c⋅cos⁡(θ)b = c \cdot \cos(\theta)
  3. Square both equations:
    • a2=c2⋅sin⁡2(θ)a^2 = c^2 \cdot \sin^2(\theta)
    • b2=c2⋅cos⁡2(θ)b^2 = c^2 \cdot \cos^2(\theta)
  4. Add the equations together:a2+b2=c2⋅sin⁡2(θ)+c2⋅cos⁡2(θ)a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \cdot \sin^2(\theta) + c^2 \cdot \cos^2(\theta)
  5. Factor out c2c^2:a2+b2=c2(sin⁡2(θ)+cos⁡2(θ))a^2 + b^2 = c^2 (\sin^2(\theta) + \cos^2(\theta))
  6. Use the Pythagorean identity (sin⁡2(θ)+cos⁡2(θ)=1\sin^2(\theta) + \cos^2(\theta) = 1):a2+b2=c2⋅1a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \cdot 1
  7. Simplify:a2+b2=c2a^2 + b^2 = c^2

This completes the trigonometric proof of the Pythagorean theorem.

Works Cited

Burton, David M. Elementary Number Theory. 7th ed., McGraw-Hill, 2011.
Simmons, George F. Precalculus Mathematics in a Nutshell: Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry. 3rd ed., W.W. Norton & Company, 2003.

 
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Net Neutrality: Impacts & Insights

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Net Neutrality: Impacts & Insights

(Net Neutrality: Impacts & Insights)

Management information systems 42

Read four (4) academically reviewed articles on Net Neutrality and complete the following activities:

1. Summarize all four (4) articles in 300 words or more. Please use your own words. No copy-and-paste

2. Base on your article review and the assigned reading, discuss how net neutrality will affect data networks and the availability of information to businesses. Do you believe net neutrality will lead to IT efficiency? Why or why not?

Note:-

Read and respond to at least two (2) of your classmates’ posts. In your response to your classmates, consider comparing your articles to those of your classmates. Below are additional suggestions on how to respond to your classmates’ discussions:

· Ask a probing question, substantiated with additional background information, evidence or research.

· Share an insight from having read your colleagues’ postings, synthesizing the information to provide new perspectives.

· Offer and support an alternative perspective using readings from the classroom or from your own research.

· Validate an idea with your own experience and additional research.

· Make a suggestion based on additional evidence drawn from readings or after synthesizing multiple postings.

· Expand on your colleagues’ postings by providing additional insights or contrasting perspectives based on readings and evidence.

Reply to Topic 1:-(Net Neutrality: Impacts & Insights)

In the last couple decades, there has been a surge of distance education course/program offerings. These developments have been possible because both distance learning educators and learners have maintained a relatively equal access to the Internet. Many educators will agree that online learning provides access to flexible opportunities to learners who otherwise would not be able to advance their education (Graham, 2006). The Pew Research Center recently published a report that the findings suggest access to the Internet have positive influence to lifelong learning. They found that American adults who have access to technology tools are more likely to become lifelong learners and those adults rely on the Internet to access educational opportunities (Pew Research Center, 2016). They also found that adults who have both broadband and smartphone connections to the Internet are more likely to engage in personal and job-related learning activities to advance in their career than adults who have one mode of connection to the Internet.

The purpose of this study was to introduce net neutrality and its potential impact to online learning. We believe that if net neutrality is not in place, both distance learning educators and learners may find difficulty in engaging with online materials depending on where they live, personal finances, and what features they are willing to bundle into their cable services. Net neutrality regulatory decisions has significant influence on how US residents can access the Internet (Ganley & Allgrove, 2006). We chose to engage in this research because for the most part distance education scholars have taken net neutrality for granted and have not investigated its implications to online learning. When net neutrality is not maintained, university administrators, staff, and faculty will not be able to ensure that their students will have equitable access to learning experiences in online courses. Instead, student access to online educational opportunities can be differentiated by how much they are able to pay a private cable or phone company and whether they live in a highly-populated city area or in less-populated rural area.

Our research question was: How do the complexities involved in the net neutrality debate in the United States affect public access to online information and services, and what implications does this hold for online learning? To address our question, we approached our research from a collective perspective, relying on Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) through activity systems analysis. We engaged in a qualitative investigation of US public documents and explored the effects of net neutrality and public digital access. Most documents we examined were from fields outside of education because the ongoing discussions have been taking place in areas such as economics, information science, law, and policy-making (see Choi & Kim, 2010; Krämer, Wiewiorra, & Wenhardt, 2013; Powell & Cooper, 2011; Reinard & Ortz, 2005). The goal of our analysis was to better understand the net neutrality regulatory and public debates and find how it is relevant to the future of distance education.

While there may not be abundant discussions in the current scholarly literature about net neutrality and its relevance to distance education, as researchers and practitioners we believe that net neutrality is a critical topic that need further examination by distance education researchers and practitioners. When we examined the literature to find commonly identified barriers for students taking advantage of distance education opportunities, we found that there were several conversations about learner skills, costs, and retention (e.g., Muilenburg & Berge, 2005; Simpson, 2013; Taplin, Kerr, & Brown, 2013). In one of the few publications we found that discussed net neutrality and its implications to distance education Brumfield (2010) examined factors that brought challenges to students in university environments. She found that online students felt most isolated from their learning community when they did not have access to library materials and they experienced difficulties with their Internet connection. This finding suggests that when online students have differentiated access to the Internet, they are likely to not be able to develop a sense of community and become less engaged with their learning experiences. In another article, McKee (2011) concluded that university educators and students need more information about Internet related policies to better understand their freedom to access information and be better prepared to take action when necessary. As a faculty in English, McKee provided suggestions on how net neutrality can be integrated into the undergraduate curriculum related to rhetoric and primary and secondary research.

Net Neutrality is a timely topic to investigate because at the time of writing this article, media outlets are speculating that with a Republican president and majority in both houses of Congress, the regulations that promote net neutrality and digital equality put into place by the previous administration would be altered.

Reply to 2nd topic:-(Net Neutrality: Impacts & Insights)

Net neutrality is a simple idea, but because it is present at the intersection of highly technical internet architecture and equally complex principles of the laws of administrative, it has become a very notoriously cute principle. Net Neutrality has sociocultural implication as it affects everyone from corporate ecosystem to education sector as well. According to Netflix CEO Reed Hastings, the principles of Net Neutrality will be enforced by powerful market forces than that of regulations. He believes the more the regulation the more things will become worse in recent future.

Major Players in Net Neutrality

FCC along with FTC(Federal Trade Commission) is the main US regulatory body which appoints commission members and Congress and is solely responsible for making decisions. FCC’s 2015 open internet order which gave the internet users strongest protection possible.

Other big players in Net Neutrality are businesses like Google, Netflix, Facebook and other infrastructure providers like engineering groups, ISPs and companies which are the true backbone of the internet.

The social implications of Net Neutrality are quite high as people feel that these big business companies will start charging more from people for using their favourite internet websites and usage. Another set of people thinks that their content will be oppressed by these companies to promote the content of their companies from which they earn money. Like we have seen with the cases of Facebook, Google who are being warned of not promoting a certain content only. The true information that needs to be provided to the information seeker will be altered if these companies are given free hand and are not guided by any regulations from the government.

These regulations are always used in the past as well to protect the rights of the common people, to maintain the perfect competition among the corporates as well on the digital platform as well. Because giving undue advantage to certain companies will be rise to monopoly which is neither helpful to the consumers as well as to the new startups who are always required for the future opportunities.

Net Neutrality is having a bad impact on data networks because of companies like Verizon, AT & T, Comcast can make good profits by charging extra money for certain websites or fast browsing of certain content by using fast lane structures for them.

In case of IT efficiency, Net neutrality is also having a bad impact because an excess of data used by companies like YouTube and Netflix are slowing down the overall efficiency of the Internet and charging the highest bandwidth users will lead to a better connection availability. Also, it will help them to protect piracy and illegal downloading of content media as well

 
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Custom vs.Standard Threat Mitigation

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Custom vs.Standard Threat Mitigation

(Custom vs.Standard Threat Mitigation)

Discussion and writing assignment 1

Discussion:

Q) Make an argument for or against custom threat mitigation approaches versus standard threat mitigation approaches.

NOTE: This discussion should be at least 350 words.

Writing Assignment:

Q) Relative to STRIDE, which aspect (i.e. Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, etc) can be effectively addressed using the “wait and see” approach and yet still not expose a system to more risk.

NOTE: Should be at least 350 words | Must follow APA guidelines | Citations and References | Plagiarism free

Discussion: Custom Threat Mitigation vs. Standard Threat Mitigation Approaches

Argument for Custom Threat Mitigation Approaches

Custom threat mitigation approaches are increasingly critical in today’s complex and dynamic cybersecurity landscape. These approaches allow organizations to tailor their security strategies to their specific risks, needs, and resources. Custom threat mitigation is especially beneficial when dealing with unique or emerging threats that may not be effectively mitigated by standard approaches.

One of the primary advantages of custom approaches is that they provide a more precise defense against specific vulnerabilities. For example, if an organization deals with a particular type of data that is highly targeted by adversaries (e.g., intellectual property or sensitive financial data), a custom approach can integrate specialized encryption, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring tailored to protect that data. This level of specificity allows organizations to stay ahead of adversaries who might exploit unknown or less commonly targeted attack vectors.

Moreover, custom mitigation strategies consider the unique operational environment and technology stack of an organization. For instance, a large enterprise with a vast network of interconnected devices may need a more granular approach to threat detection and response than a small business with limited digital infrastructure. A custom solution can incorporate context-specific threat intelligence and adapt over time based on ongoing risk assessments.

However, while custom mitigation approaches can be highly effective, they come with challenges. They typically require more resources in terms of time, expertise, and budget. Custom solutions also have a higher risk of becoming outdated if not regularly updated to adapt to the constantly changing threat landscape. Despite these challenges, the flexibility and adaptability of custom approaches are crucial in maintaining a robust defense against sophisticated and targeted cyber threats.

Argument Against Custom Threat Mitigation Approaches

On the other hand, standard threat mitigation approaches, such as firewall configuration, intrusion detection systems, and standard encryption protocols, have their advantages. They are generally more cost-effective and easier to implement across a broad range of organizations. Standard approaches often come with established best practices and can be updated regularly by vendors, reducing the burden on internal teams. For many organizations, especially small to mid-sized businesses, these solutions provide a solid defense without the need for expensive customization.

In conclusion, while custom approaches offer more precise protection tailored to an organization’s needs, standard mitigation strategies should not be overlooked. For most organizations, a hybrid approach that combines the benefits of both standard and custom mitigation strategies can strike the best balance between comprehensive coverage and resource efficiency.

(Custom vs.Standard Threat Mitigation)

Writing Assignment: STRIDE and the “Wait and See” Approach

The STRIDE model is a widely used framework for identifying potential security threats in software systems. STRIDE stands for Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information Disclosure, Denial of Service (DoS), and Elevation of Privilege. Each of these categories highlights a different type of threat that can compromise the security of a system. While many of these threats require immediate action, there are certain aspects of STRIDE that may be addressed with a “wait and see” approach without significantly exposing the system to further risk.

One of the aspects of STRIDE that can often be mitigated using a “wait and see” approach is Repudiation. Repudiation refers to situations where a user denies performing an action or transaction, even though evidence exists to the contrary. In some cases, organizations might choose to wait and gather more evidence or perform a deeper analysis of system logs before implementing specific repudiation defenses.

In systems that already have logging mechanisms in place, a “wait and see” approach allows administrators to review logs to detect irregularities or inconsistencies that could indicate repudiation attempts. Rather than implementing an immediate response (e.g., locking down access or alerting all stakeholders), waiting for a more detailed understanding can avoid unnecessary actions that might disrupt system functionality or cause false alarms. For example, an initial review of logs might not reveal conclusive evidence of repudiation, so further investigation may be warranted.

This approach works particularly well when combined with a robust logging and auditing system, as it ensures that there is sufficient evidence available to either confirm or dismiss repudiation claims. Furthermore, this strategy allows for the identification of patterns that could signal the likelihood of a repudiation attack, such as repeated failed login attempts or suspicious activities by privileged users.

However, while the “wait and see” approach can be effective for repudiation, it’s essential to apply caution and continually monitor the system. A delay in response could potentially lead to loss of evidence or increased risk of further malicious actions if the attacker modifies or deletes logs. Therefore, this approach is most effective when the system has secure logging mechanisms, and when any potential signs of repudiation are still within an acceptable window for investigation and response.

In conclusion, the “wait and see” approach can be used effectively for addressing repudiation threats in systems with strong logging and auditing practices. It allows organizations to avoid hasty decisions and to take measured actions based on thorough analysis, thus reducing the risk of exposing the system to more harm.

 
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Impact of Interest Rates

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Impact of Interest Rates

Impact of Interest Rates

One of the most important topics presented in this course is the time value of money. Part of the time value of money calculation concerns the use of an interest rate, often referred to as a discount rate. This basic concept applies to all areas of financial planning.

Using the readings of this module and the Argosy University online library resources, respond to the following:

  • How does the current market rate of interest impact time value of money calculations?
  • How can this aspect alter your current spending, savings, and budgeting patterns?
  • How have you previously used the time value of money in your own personal financial planning and/or will plan to use it in the future?

Support your statements with examples and scholarly references.

Write your initial response in 200 words. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.

By the due date assigned, post your response to the appropriate Discussion Area. Through the end of the module, review and comment on at least two peers’ responses. Consider the following:

  • Compare and contrast your experiences with those of your peers’.
  • Identify any points you had not previously thought about or with which you disagree.

(Impact of Interest Rates)

The current market rate of interest significantly impacts time value of money (TVM) calculations, as it determines the present value and future value of money. A higher interest rate increases the future value of investments, making them grow more over time. Conversely, a lower interest rate results in a lower future value, as there is less potential for money to grow. In terms of borrowing, a higher interest rate makes loans more expensive over time, affecting both the amount borrowed and the repayment schedule.

This aspect of interest rates also influences personal financial behaviors. For instance, in a high-interest rate environment, I might be more inclined to save and invest rather than borrow, as the returns on savings and investments could outweigh the cost of borrowing. On the other hand, in a low-interest rate environment, borrowing may become more attractive, while saving might yield lower returns.

In my personal financial planning, I have applied TVM concepts when making decisions about long-term savings and investments. For example, I have used an online investment calculator to determine the future value of monthly contributions, taking into account the current interest rate. In the future, I plan to apply TVM principles to assess the viability of investment opportunities and savings goals.

References

Brigham, E. F., & Ehrhardt, M. C. (2020). Financial management: Theory & practice (16th ed.). Cengage Learning.

 
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