Whether you were spellbound by the cinematic world of ‘Harry Potter’ or terrified by the eerie corridors of ‘The Shining,’ you’ve likely experienced the unique thrill of watching a movie adaptation of a beloved novel.
If you’ve ever read the book before watching the film, you know the mixed emotions it can evoke. As avid readers, it’s natural to have a strong connection to the stories we’ve envisioned in our minds, which can make us feel like insiders when it comes to adaptations.
But the question remains: Are books superior to their cinematic counterparts, or does each medium offer its own set of advantages and limitations? Today, we’re journeying through the realms of literature and cinema to explore the history of book-to-movie adaptations and uncover the merits and pitfalls of each.
Before the invention of the moving picture, novels reigned supreme. Reading a written narrative gave us the freedom to create cinematic experiences in our minds. Sure, the settings and characters manifested differently from reader to reader, but that was the beauty of reading literature.
Then, in the late 1800s, the ability to turn photographs into moving pictures became a reality, and film was born, albeit on a shorter and simpler scale. Small video clips focused on everyday occurrences, such as people walking down the street. But as the technology of the Cinématographe improved, so too did the quality of film-making.
By 1899, Georges Méliès released the first book-to-film adaptation of the story ‘Cinderella,’ based on the fairytale by Charles Perrault. While there wasn’t any dialogue in the film (that wouldn’t happen until 1927), the production was nearly six minutes long and featured a full cast, multiple sets, and background music to set the tone. This adaptation proved that it was possible to recreate a story using a different medium than its original.
Fast forward to the Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1930s and ‘40s. Major studios began realizing the commercial potential of turning popular novels into films. Thus, classic adaptations of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and ‘Gone With the Wind’ became iconic films of the time.
While the success of a film adaptation is subjective, ‘Gone With the Wind’ is largely considered a successful adaptation for a few notable reasons:
As the decades wore on, more notable books became movies, including:
In recent times, filmmakers have infused classic texts with contemporary flair. The 1999 film ’10 Things I Hate About You,’ derived from Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew,’ modernized the storyline for a younger audience. Director Gil Junger’s approach allowed for the enjoyment of Shakespeare’s plot while making his themes more relatable for a modern audience.
Now, it’s time to address the elephant in the room: If you’re a dedicated fan of franchises like Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, or any self-contained book or novel series, do the movie adaptations of books ever match the expectations and emotional connections you’ve developed with the characters through reading?
Below, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both mediums.
There are plenty of advantages to films and novels, including the following examples:
Novels
Films
Alas, with every pro, there is often a con. Below, we list a few disadvantages of films and novels:
Novels
Films
Fuel your love for dissecting book-to-movie adaptations at UTPB. Our online Bachelor of Arts in English program opens a world of captivating literature courses, perfect for your annotating and analytical prowess. Dive deeper with our elective course, ‘Films as Literature,’ which explores the fascinating crossover between films and literary works and delves into the rich history of cinema.
Ready to unravel the magic of storytelling in both print and on-screen? Apply now and let your passion thrive at UTPB!
Sources:
https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/pickford-early-history-motion-pictures/
https://www.moma.org/collection/terms/film/experimentation-with-sound
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Gone-with-the-Wind-film-by-Fleming
Are you determined to make a difference in the world? If so, The University of Texas Permian Basin has an online program that can equip you to make your mark on countless lives. Our programs will prepare you to launch a career in a life-changing field, enable you to advance within an existing career, or lay the groundwork for further education and commensurate career opportunities.
For some, making a difference in the world means becoming a more impactful educator or nurse. It can also mean serving the public in a variety of roles, including:
Let’s look at a few online UT Permian Basin programs and some careers in which you can make a genuine difference.
As with all bachelor’s degrees, this program begins with a diverse selection of general education courses, providing you with foundational knowledge that will benefit you throughout your life. As you progress through our program, you’ll explore American politics at all levels, judicial politics, and the independent and interdependent functioning of government agencies.
How you can make a difference with this degree:
If you use your political science degree as a foundation for law school, as many students do, you can help ensure criminals are no longer able to threaten society and innocent victims receive the restitution they’re due. Continue with an education master’s degree after completing this program and you can cultivate the basic skills needed to excel in generations of students, including those who may have differing needs.
Providing perspective on both theoretical and applied aspects of psychology, this bachelor’s degree program will help you develop highly valued professional skills, including written and verbal communication, research, analytical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
How you can make a difference with this degree:
If you want to give extra support and guidance to those who need it most, this degree can provide a catalyst for careers in counseling, social work, and psychology. Minimum degree requirements may vary.
Get an introduction to our criminal justice system that can lead to careers in the field. You’ll delve into all topics related to law enforcement, courts, and corrections, including criminal behavior, juvenile delinquency, terrorism, drugs, and the role of police in society. We use a multi-disciplinary approach that includes classes from other departments closely linked with the criminal justice profession.
How you can make a difference with this degree:
As a police officer, you can protect the public from criminal acts and establish strong relationships between law enforcement and the community. As a parole officer, you have the equally important job of making sure that parolees find gainful employment, avoid drugs and reoffences, and otherwise stay on the straight and narrow.
Built on a research-based curriculum, this program is ideal for experienced criminal justice professionals who aspire to lead an agency. With the advanced knowledge of a graduate degree, you can also experience greater advancement and earning potential. Many students finish this program in as little as 12 months. A bachelor’s degree is required.
How you can make a difference with this degree:
As a first-line supervisor in law enforcement, corrections, or other areas of criminal justice, you can ensure your agency operates ethically, lead the charge for criminal justice reform from within the system, and safeguard your agency and its personnel.
This degree can empower you to launch a career or advance within an existing role in the nonprofit or public sector. Through our flexible program, you’ll discover how to contend with the complexities of nonprofit and public sector organizations while keeping them mission-focused. Many students finish this program in as little as 12 months. A bachelor’s degree is required.
How you can make a difference with this degree:
Working in public sector management jobs, you can advocate for the needs of the people you serve, ensuring they have access to resources like cleaner water, wider roads, or safer schools. As a nonprofit professional, you can bring greater awareness and support to a variety of social causes, charities, the arts, and other organizations and activities that enrich our lives.
There are countless ways to make a difference in the world. With 40+ online degrees and certificates, UTPB is here to help you. Consider these programs, the difference they can make in your professional prospects, and the difference you can make in the lives of others. Then take the next step!
Once the New Year’s celebrations wind down and the post-midnight fatigue fades away, the reality of your New Year’s resolution sets in. You’ve declared your goals to friends and family, and there’s no turning back.
We’ve all been there: committing to healthier eating, more exercise, or mastering the guitar. Yet, our enthusiasm often wanes by the end of January, and making it even to February feels like a triumph.
How can you ensure you follow through on your resolutions and goals? It boils down to understanding effective goal setting and implementing strategies to maintain your momentum. With these insights and a solid plan, success can be a year-round affair, not just a fleeting January endeavor.
What better time to announce the ways you plan to change for the better than the start of a shiny new year? January allows you to start fresh so you can accomplish all of the goals that didn’t quite make the to-do list last year.
So why is it so hard to follow through on those goals? It all comes down to the five key principles of successful goal setting.
How committed are you to achieving your goal? If an obstacle gets in your way, are you willing to overcome it? Multiple factors can affect your level of commitment, including how badly you want to achieve your objective and whether you believe you can do it.
Is your goal specific and measurable? For example, deciding to “lose weight” isn’t a clear resolution. If your stated ambition poses more questions than answers, it may be more effective to create a goal that’s clear and concise.
Instead, you could say, “I want to lose 10 pounds by April and will do so by eating 2,000 calories a day that are split between 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein, and 30% fat.” That goal is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timebound (SMART).
If your usual annual reading range is 10 to 15 books, aiming to read just 15 isn’t particularly challenging. The key question is: What motivates you to achieve this goal?
Setting more challenging targets enhances your self-satisfaction and propels you to overcome obstacles on your journey. Try opting for a challenging number, like 25 or 30 books, to motivate you to go the extra mile. Trust us, you’ll feel a bigger sense of achievement when you complete your goal.
Goldilocks knew what she wanted. A bed that wasn’t too hard or too soft; one that was just right. Similarly, the resolution you create shouldn’t be too easy or difficult. It should be realistic, manageable, and on par with your current skill level. This ensures that your goals are challenging enough to motivate you without being so difficult that you become discouraged.
Whether you’re providing your own feedback via a daily journal or a friend or family member is offering their insights every week, feedback allows you to monitor your journey, stay motivated, and hold yourself accountable for advancing toward your goal.
Now that you have a better grasp on how to create an achievable goal, let’s review some strategies that can help you follow through on that New Year’s resolution.
Forming habits is a process that typically takes several weeks, and in some cases even longer. However, consistency is key. So, stick to your resolution, and over time, it’s likely to become second nature.
Consider this: If your objective is to read 25 books by the end of the year, begin by dedicating 10 minutes a day to reading. As this becomes more manageable, gradually increase the time you spend reading. This progressive approach can significantly contribute to the achievement of your goal.
Staying consistent with a New Year’s resolution isn’t as easy on day 30 as it was on day one. That’s why it’s important to reward yourself for your hard work along the way.
Suppose your resolution involves working out three times a week. In that case, you might treat yourself every week you accomplish this goal, whether it’s indulging in a new pair of running shoes or granting yourself an extra hour of sleep on the weekend. Recognizing and celebrating these milestones can be a powerful motivator in sustaining your dedication to your resolutions.
What better way to hold yourself accountable than by involving others in your goals? Shout those resolutions from the rooftop for all to hear, or at the very least, text your friends and ask them to hold you accountable for completing your agreed-upon objectives each week.
From progress-tracking apps to old fashioned pen-and-paper logs, keeping tabs on your progress not only helps you stay on course but also provides a mini sense of accomplishment each time you record a new milestone. Don’t forget to celebrate these small victories on your journey towards achieving your ultimate goal.
Setting goals is the easy part. The real challenge lies in committing to and achieving them. If you’re prepared to turn your professional aspirations into reality, it’s time to take the next step.
At UTPB, we understand the complexities of balancing a full-time job, taking care of family commitments, and pursuing an education. That’s why we’re excited to offer our 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program. Designed to accommodate your busy life, our program offers a diverse range of courses that allow you to choose classes that align with your interests, all while completing them on your schedule.
Apply now and take the first step toward making your New Year’s resolution a tangible achievement. Your future self will thank you for your commitment to your professional growth and success.
Sources:
https://positivepsychology.com/goal-setting/#key
Many college students prefer online learning because, with the exception of weekly deadlines, they’re free to complete coursework at their own pace.
Want to visit a future module and complete coursework ahead of time, or rewatch last week’s lecture to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter? With remote learning, you can.
Self-paced online learning is a blessing for students with the motivation to stay on track, but motivation can wax and wane, especially when deadlines loom. That’s why we’re here to share some tips to help college students—and in particular online students—manage their time.
Turn on a study music mix and brew your favorite caffeine-infused beverage because we’ve got work to do!
Time management comes down to one simple problem: There’re 168 hours in a week. Let’s say you work 40 hours a week and sleep eight hours a night. That leaves 72 hours.
Full-time students take at least four classes (12 credit hours) each semester. (Students in our accelerated graduate programs are considered full-time if they’re enrolled in 6 or more credit hours.) One credit hour typically translates to about three hours of work per week.
Students taking 3 credit hours will spend about 9 hours a week studying and completing assignments, while students taking 12 credit hours will spend as much as 36 hours on coursework. Any remaining time is devoted to family, friends, and hobbies.
Making the most of this limited amount of time can be challenging for even the most detail-oriented among us, but it’s possible. More importantly, it’s worth it.
The most important thing you can do to manage your time in college is to make a weekly schedule. You can buy a planner, maybe one with an assortment of tabs and artwork on the front, but there are plenty of free online templates that will do nicely. Once you have your weekly planner, fill it with all your planned daily activities. Try to account for every hour. Then block out time for coursework.
Many online students wait until the weekend to dive into their studies and coursework, but we don’t recommend it. Students are prone to burnout, especially if they work full time, unless they devote at least one day a week to rest and relaxation.
Try to spend one or two hours on coursework every weeknight. That way, when Sunday night rolls around, you won’t be hunched over your keyboard, frantically trying to finish an assignment before the clock strikes 12.
Technology has revolutionized learning, and our online programs are only one example. Here are some apps we recommend to help you better manage your time.
Many online courses, including ours, are delivered through Canvas. The Canvas Student app includes everything you need to know about your courses, including a calendar. If, however, you need a little more help keeping track of your schedule, apps like Any.do, Remember the Milk, and 2Do can be lifesavers.
Schedules are critical for time management, but nothing’s as satisfying as knocking items off a to-do list. Evernote, TikTik, and Todoist are just a few of the task-managing apps available that can help you stay on top of assignments and their due dates.
Tuning out the world and getting down to studying isn’t always easy, especially when that cell phone looks so much more appealing than reading about mitosis. Fortunately, there are productivity apps and extensions available like Stayfocused, Forest, and RescueTime that can help keep you on course.
Sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day to get to everything you want, and that’s okay. There’s always tomorrow! What’s important is to prioritize your assignments by importance and deadlines.
Start small. Complete one task, then another. Soon, what seemed like an impossible undertaking will be broken down into a series of doable tasks. Before you know it, you’ll be wondering why you were so stressed in the first place.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers numerous online undergraduate and graduate programs—over 40 in total—for students interested in an alternative to traditional learning.
Modern and flexible, our online programs are designed with students’ needs in mind. Students have the freedom to complete coursework on their own schedule and the support of our expert faculty and attentive advisors, who are considerate of the challenges students face when they’re up against the clock.
If you’re interested in learning more about online learning at UT Permian Basin online, check out our Program and Course catalog. Among our programs, you’re sure to find the one that meets your academic, personal, and professional needs.
Apply to one of our online programs when you’re ready to start. We promise that when it’s time to start your first day of class, you’ll have the resources you need to manage your time effectively.
Sources:
https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/full-time-vs-part-time-student/
They’ve been championed as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cars. But as more rechargeable electric vehicles (EVs) hit the road, how will the U.S. power grid—already strained due to record high temperatures and other factors—be able to meet the demand?
Here, we’ll discuss what’s happening with the power grid right now, what obstacles still need to be removed, and potential risks and benefits associated with the transition from gas-powered vehicles to EVs.
By 2030, Bloomberg predicts more than 50% of new cars purchased in the United States will be EVs. Heightened use of electric power in general is also expected, in applications including heating, cooling, and today’s computer-driven industries, which require electricity-hungry semiconductor chips. This will necessitate large-scale and expensive upgrades to our national power grid.
The United States has only recently put extensive resources into upgrading our energy infrastructure. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, passed in 2021, dedicates more than $20 billion to upgrading our power grid. Portions of these funds are currently being allocated to:
These endeavors are both costly and complex. A study ordered by the California Public Utilities Commission projects that it will cost their state $50 billion to upgrade its grid to power the number of EVs it hopes to have on its roads by 2035. High-voltage transmission lines, which can effectively deliver power from a variety of sources to all corners of the country, must span myriad cities, counties, and states, and those areas fall under the authority of many different utility companies and regulatory agencies. Permitting can sometimes take more than 10 years.
Failing to prepare for the projected 18% increase in U.S. electricity demand by 2030—driven in part by the growing number of EVs—could have serious consequences.
As during the fuel crisis of 1973-1974, which saw nationwide gasoline shortages and long lines at the filling station, we could see similar situations at charging stations, with no end in sight.
So, what would happen if shortages became the norm? They could show up as power outages or blackouts, which wouldn’t just bring EVs to a halt: It could disrupt countless aspects of daily life.
There is some hope on the horizon for California, which is leading the way nationally on EVs despite an expensive road ahead. They’re working toward tripling their electric grid capacity ahead of their 2035 targets and producing significant energy through renewable sources. They’ve also forecast that EVs will only total about 4% of their energy demand in 2035 and therefore not place a major strain on resources.
The technology-focused publication Wired shared an interesting perspective: that EVs might not be a drain on the power grid but a boon to it and to energy consumers. Here’s why:
The need for workers to install the power lines that connect electric vehicle charging stations to the power grid, as just one example, will also lead to expanded job opportunities for those in that field. So, while the challenges of transitioning our power grid to accommodate EVs and our other needs are considerable, they may not be insurmountable and are certainly offset by some of the advantages that will likely result.
Curious about how electric vehicles will impact the U.S. power grid—or if the grid is even ready? Below, we answer some of the most common questions people are asking about EVs, electricity demand, and the challenges and opportunities ahead.
With our longtime ties to the energy industry, The University of Texas Permian Basin is uniquely positioned to provide programs built around the latest developments in the field. Our AACSB-accredited College of Business empowers you to complete these career-enhancing credentials from practically anywhere in the world, 24/7, on your own schedule:
Online Master of Business Administration with Certificate in Energy Business (36-45 credits)
Online Master of Science in Energy Business (30 credits)
Online Graduate Certificate in Energy Business (12 credits)
Prepare for a rewarding career in a dynamic field. The power is in your hands! Get program details and apply today!
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/29/climate/gm-electric-cars-power-grid.html
https://www.cnbc.com/video/2023/07/01/why-the-us-power-grid-is-underprepared-for-the-ev-revolution.html
The headlines are alarming: “America’s power grid at risk of buckling this winter” “The U.S. power grid isn’t ready for climate change” “Nation at risk of winter blackouts as power grid remains under strain” While there is legitimate reason for concern about the viability of our national power grid, there are some glimmers of hope…
Efficient use of the planet’s resources is a way that individuals and industry can contribute to a sustainable future. By focusing our efforts on energy efficiency, we can reduce pollution, preserve our finite natural resources, and save money. Myriad technologies and practices are fueling more responsible energy use for businesses and consumers alike. Let’s review…
Social responsibility is a virtue that we can demonstrate through our buying habits and living practices and through an awareness of how these behaviors affect others around us. In the petroleum industry, which has a global footprint and the power to impact many economies and ecosystems, social responsibility takes on monumental importance. Companies in this…
Whether we’re aware of it or not, semantics is something we all use in our daily lives. It involves grasping the meaning of words, expressing emotions, and resolving ambiguous statements others make. For example, when your professor says your contributions to today’s discussion were “interesting,” you may wonder whether she was complimenting your input or implying that it needed improvement (hopefully the former).
It makes sense, then, that different forms of AI, like chatbots and virtual assistants, could also benefit from using semantics. After all, if it helps us, it may also aid them in understanding what people are asking so they’re able to provide the most accurate answers. That’s where natural language processing (NLP) comes in. But what is NLP?
Today, we’re breaking down the concepts of semantics and NLP and elaborating on some of the semantics techniques that natural language processing incorporates across various AI formats.
In the most basic sense, semantics refers to the study of words. To dig a little deeper, semantics scholars analyze the relationship between words and their intended meanings within a given context.
Take the phrase we used earlier: “dig a little deeper.” In a literal sense, it refers to digging farther into the ground. But we know that in this instance it’s being used as an idiomatic expression. In this context, the phrase carries the figurative meaning of going beyond the surface level to find an answer.
With semantics on our side, we can more easily interpret the meaning of words and sentences to find the most logical meaning—and respond accordingly.
Picture yourself asking a question to the chatbot on your favorite streaming platform. Since computers don’t think as humans do, how is the chatbot able to use semantics to convey the meaning of your words? Enter natural language processing, a branch of computer science that enables computers to understand spoken words and text more like humans do.
NLP uses different types of computational linguistics modeling, including:
The more examples of sentences and phrases NLP-driven programs see, the better they become at understanding the meaning behind the words. Below, we examine some of the various techniques NLP uses to better understand the semantics behind the words an AI is processing—and what’s actually being said.
As we mentioned above, words often have more than one meaning. With word sense disambiguation, computers can figure out the correct meaning of a word or phrase in a sentence. For example, the word “bear” has two meanings. It could reference a large furry mammal, or it might mean to carry the weight of something. NLP uses semantics to determine the proper meaning of the word in the context of the sentence.
Words can carry either positive or negative emotional connotations. Let’s look at the word “bold” as an example. When we say, “Your style is so bold and confident,” it has a positive meaning. However, the statement, “It was bold of you to assume we liked that type of style” has a more negative meaning. NLP-driven programs that use sentiment analysis can recognize and understand the emotional meanings of different words and phrases so that the AI can respond accordingly.
One of the main reasons people use virtual assistants and chatbots is to find answers to their questions. Question-answering systems use semantics to understand what a question is asking so that they can retrieve and relay the correct information.
Natural language understanding (NLU) allows computers to understand human language similarly to the way we do. Unlike NLP, which breaks down language into a machine-readable format, NLU helps machines understand the human language better by using semantics to comprehend the meaning of sentences. In essence, it equates to teaching computers to interpret what humans say so they can understand the full meaning and respond appropriately.
Sure, you use semantics subconsciously throughout the day, but with an English degree, you can dive deeper into the world of words to analyze word and sentence meaning, ambiguity, synonymy, antonymy, and more. If the idea of becoming a linguist or computational linguist (someone who works at the intersection of linguistics and computer science) piques your interest, consider earning your BA or MA in English at UTPB.
Both of our programs are entirely online and offer an array of benefits:
Of course, you don’t need to be an aspiring linguist to be the perfect fit for our program. Graduates with degrees in English have plenty of career opportunities:
Take the first step to achieving the career of your dreams and apply today!
Sources:
https://lhncbc.nlm.nih.gov/ii/areas/word-sense-disambiguation.html
https://www.ibm.com/topics/natural-language-processing
https://monkeylearn.com/sentiment-analysis/
When you live in one country your entire life—or even for just a few years—you begin to feel accustomed to how its justice system works. In the United States, for example, there are two types of legal cases: criminal and civil.
In addition, all defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty and have the right to a fair trial. Many Americans consider these and other core principles of our legal system fundamental—so much so that they often assume every country operates the same way … but that’s not always the case.
So, how do legal systems abroad contrast with the American justice system?
In this article, we’ll explore:
There are two main types of legal systems used around the world: civil and common law. Below, we discuss the biggest distinctions between the two along with the geographical regions where they’re used.
Civil law has its origins in ancient Rome, dating back to 450 B.C. Originally, it consisted of a general code of laws for its citizens based on past traditions.
Today, the concept of civil law involves a written constitution with specific codes and statutes that protect people’s rights and duties. Many countries in Central and South America, as well as most of Central and Eastern Europe and some East Asian countries, follow the civil law system.
The biggest difference between civil and common law revolves around how each system crafts and carries out its laws. Civil law relies on written statutes created by the lawmakers of a country. In other words, the people who work for the government make the rules, and the people of the country follow those guidelines.
Common law began as a British tradition dating back to the 12th century. Unlike civil law, this legal system embraces precedent rather than statutes. A precedent is an example set by previous court decisions. So, as new cases are introduced, judges defer to past cases to help inform and make their future decisions.
For example, let’s say your friend is suing her neighbor for roof damages caused by the house fire next door. The judge on your friend’s case may look at the resolutions in similar past cases to determine how to make a fair ruling.
Since its inception, common law has spread to North America (including the U.S.) and many other former British colonies, including Hong Kong, India, New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Apart from being rooted in either civil or common law, there are a few other differences between the American justice system and those of other countries.
This approach is often used in common law countries, like the U.S., Canada, and Australia. It consists of using two opposing legal parties, the prosecution and the defense, to present a case in front of a judge (and possible jury).
In an adversarial system, each attorney is responsible for gathering evidence and presenting those findings to the judge. The judge’s role is neutral, ensuring that the defendant is given a fair trial.
In contrast, the inquisitorial system is frequently used in civil law countries like Spain, Germany, and many others around the world. The judge uses a more hands-on approach in investigating each case to help uncover the truth.
Unlike the adversarial system, judges also gather evidence, question witnesses, and complete many other responsibilities that are normally left to lawyers in the United States.
More than 70% of the world’s countries have discontinued capital punishment. Whether a country permits the death penalty goes beyond civil and common law.
Some countries that fall under each legal system maintain that capital punishment is a method of punishment that deters other people from committing similar crimes. Other countries, however, consider it a violation of human rights, especially when there’s no guarantee that the accused individual was guilty of the crime.
While many of the United States’ allies have abolished the death penalty, some states within the U.S. still allow capital punishment for crimes of a serious nature, like murder or genocide. Some of the other countries that also enforce capital punishment include:
If you’re interested in deepening your understanding of our justice system and gaining a skillset that’ll help you earn a leadership role in the field of criminal justice, The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online MS in Criminal Justice Administration program offers all of the courses to set those goals in motion.
Not only is the program entirely online, making it more accessible as you continue your current role and complete your courses, but it’s also ranked #5 in the nation for Best Law Enforcement Administration Graduate Programs—and it can be completed in as little as one year.
In addition to your required courses, you can choose from exciting elective courses that align with your interests and career goals, such as:
Browse our course list to see all our available classes. When you’re ready to take the next step, apply to start the next chapter in your career in criminal justice.
Sources:
https://ppp.worldbank.org/public-private-partnership/legislation-regulation/framework-assessment/legal-systems/common-vs-civil-law
https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba-cms-dotorg/products/inv/book/417398552/chptr1_1620816_trialadvocacy.pdf
https://blogs.loc.gov/law/2015/07/the-civil-law-system-global-legal-collection-highlights
https://deathpenaltyinfo.org/policy-issues/international
Women represent about half of the U.S. population, but women in law enforcement make up only 13%: around 96,000 nationwide. This gap matters, especially given the impact women have on policing. Research into gender in policing shows that women officers are viewed by communities as more honest, compassionate, and trustworthy. When it comes to public…
Over 6,900 cyberattacks happen every second against Microsoft users alone. While it’s clear from that staggering number that criminals have gone digital, law enforcement is fighting back with new tools, training, and tactics. The challenge? Digital crimes don’t happen in plain sight. They’re hidden in code, encrypted networks, and anonymous online spaces. For National Cybersecurity…
We all want safer communities, right? Crime prevention can benefit our communities in countless ways, and stopping recidivism—repeat offenses—is a crucial part of that. But how do we get there? Restorative justice programs are helping people and neighborhoods heal while easing the strain on our overburdened criminal justice system. Let’s look at what these programs…
Many of us enjoy a good book, and while we can usually identify what we like about it—interesting characters, an intriguing plot, the setting, etc.—we don’t always think more deeply about how those specific qualities connect with us. We certainly do feel them, however, and those evoked emotions are just one area in which psychology and literature meet. Here we’ll discuss that intersection further with a couple of examples from the writer’s perspective and a couple from the reader’s perspective.
As a writer creates a character, they consider that character’s motivations, emotions, past experiences, and other psychological factors that will drive their actions throughout the narrative. This aids in making a character believable and relatable to the reader. By giving them a distinctive personality, habits, and quirks, the writer also makes them a multidimensional character—more like an actual human being. Though one-dimensional characters can serve a purpose in a story, a multidimensional character is much more interesting to the reader.
Through their stories and characters, writers often endeavor to elicit thoughts and emotions from their readers that inspire action or inspire a change in mindset that leads to action, such as:
Psychology and literature intersect in a very dramatic way in first-person stories. These give readers perhaps the most comprehensive view of the inner workings of the protagonist’s mind, though since we only know what they tell us, we must consider that they may be unreliable narrators. The first-person voice facilitates readers’ empathy and identification with characters, even unlikable ones:
Richard III, the eponymous character of the William Shakespeare play, is one example. He is physically deformed from birth, and this garners some sympathy from the reader, but his true flaw is a murderous lust for power that leads him to order the death of his two young nephews and others who might stand in his way.
Alex, the sociopathic main character of the Anthony Burgess novel “A Clockwork Orange,” leads us through his gang activities—beatings, rapes, and robberies—his eventual imprisonment, his ostensible rehabilitation through aversion therapy, and the aftermath. Yet he possesses a certain charm and sophistication that almost makes him a sympathetic character.
Reading can help sharpen the mind, stave off dementia, reduce stress, and increase our ability to think critically and empathetically—all while sparking the imagination and providing a temporary escape from everyday concerns. As stated in the peer-reviewed medical journal The Lancet, “attentive immersion in great literature can help relieve, restore, and reinvigorate the troubled mind—and can play a part in relieving stress and anxiety, as well as other troubled states of mind.”
This is supported to the extent that a practice called “creative bibliotherapy,” or the reading of literature in a guided or group setting, is being used to promote prosocial behavior and minimize aggression, depression, and anxiety among participants.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers two enriching online degree programs that will give the literature lover in you a deeper appreciation of the art form.
Online Bachelor of Arts in English
If you’re just getting started on your college journey—whether you’re looking at some degrees or have already earned a few credits but haven’t declared a major—this program provides a clear path forward. Our BA in English equips you with valuable skills that will benefit you throughout all your personal and professional endeavors. As you complete your degree, you’ll:
If you want to learn more about how psychology and literature connect, or even psychology as a stand-alone subject, these BA in English courses may interest you:
Online Master of Arts in English
If you already have a bachelor’s degree or are in the process of completing one, this program will enable you to further cultivate your appreciation for the English language and culture. You’ll enjoy unique opportunities, including the ability to:
If you want to learn more about psychology in a literary context and beyond, these MA in English courses may interest you:
Get more program details and apply today!
Sources:
https://www.today.com/life/inspiration/benefits-of-reading-rcna61735 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6370723/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8993009/
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2015-29712-006
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-exactly-creative-bibliotherapy-anne-vize
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(16)00337-8/fulltext
When you click “send” on a text message, your message turns into data and passes from a nearby cell tower to your mobile network’s short message service center (SMSC). The SMSC finds the intended recipient and sends your message to the closest cell tower. Finally, your message arrives.
Communication, including verbal and written communication, has become one of the most highly valued skills by employers. However, “communication” is often confused with “communications,” which is an entirely different area of study.
We’re here to define these terms and explain why communication is such an important skill for professionals of all experience levels. After all, the last thing you want is for your resume to be “left on read.”
Communication is the passing of information from one person to another. This process can take any form, from a symbol to a message to an idea. An impassioned speech, a string of emojis, or a student’s term paper—all are valid forms of communication. Anyone who’s received a wink from an admirer will tell you how a single gesture can often carry more meaning than a manifesto.
If you want to get granular, communication can be broken down into three components: a message, sender, and receiver.
Right now, we’re sending a message in the form of an online article to a receiver (that’s you). This entire exchange is an example of communication, but there’s more to it than that. Communication implies our intention to impart information; your motive to absorb information; and the existence of people, places, things, and ideas that are the subject matter of the message. All these elements are essential to our understanding of communication.
“Communication” and “communications” were initially synonymous. Over time, communications came to refer to the various ways to send a communication, including the transmitted message or the channel used to send it, such as a fiber optic cable.
An email to a coworker or a text to a friend? That’s communications. The meaning conveyed by the messages you send? That’s communication.
Consider how communications have changed over time. Historically, messages were written on parchment and delivered on foot, by horseback, or via carrier pigeons, which are still in use today. Then came the telegram, radio, and television. Today’s technology allows for almost instantaneous transmission of messages across the globe. In fact, you’re likely reading this on a supercomputer that can fit in the palm of your hand.
The rapid development of information and communication technology has forever changed society, including how we work. About one-third of U.S. workers capable of working from home now do so, assisted by messaging apps like Slack and Microsoft Teams. Education has also undergone a facelift, and college students are now able to study from anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection (hint, hint, nudge, nudge).
Communication is among the most highly sought-after skills in today’s job market, and the reason is clear. Many employees can be trained on the job, but employers aren’t looking to invest in someone who can’t collaborate with teammates, build positive relationships, or express their ideas. They’re looking for people who can communicate effectively, whether speaking with customers, sending an email, or leading a team.
We’ve all encountered someone with charisma: a “social butterfly” who quiets a room whenever they clear their throat to speak. Although their talents seem innate, they share the same fundamental communication skills as everyone else. What sets these social butterflies apart is not their gift for gab but rather their ability to harness and refine these skills.
Speaking, active listening, and empathy: You already possess the communication skills you need to succeed in your career, you need only hone them. The University of Texas Permian Basin can help.
UT Permian Basin offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Communication program with comprehensive instruction that provides you with skills highly sought-after in virtually any industry, including broadcasting, marketing, and education.
No online communication program would be complete without an engaging learning experience accessible on mobile devices. Courses in this online bachelor’s degree program are offered through Canvas, a web-based learning management system. Within Canvas, students can watch lectures, submit assignments, and participate in discussions—everything you need in an undergraduate program, all in one place.
Core courses like Introduction to Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, and Rhetoric in Western Thought will build up your verbal and written communication skills. You can also tailor your degree to your specific interests by choosing from one of our specialty tracks:
Ready to get started? Apply now and get ready to pursue an online Bachelor of Arts in Communication.
Sources:
https://simpletexting.com/sms-marketing/how-texting-works/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-communication-communications-subhamoy-das/
https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=AY7VCgAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT2&dq=communication+vs+communications&ots=ccCYZS5XUj&sig=aGGQ1yQj4qnPhijl6agqdc2z8JQ#v=onepage&q&f=false
https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=PlKgBAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=communication+vs+communications&ots=n4JDmHEJMR&sig=mIiORqn7fOO3CQPSF-GcmwlS2-I#v=onepage&q&f=false
In the United States, more than 41 million people speak Spanish as their first language. It’s also the most studied language in the country, with 70% of K-12 students choosing Spanish to fulfill their foreign language requirement.
But where did this widely spoken language originate, and how did it grow into the global phenomenon it is today? In this article, we’ll explore the history of Spanish language, including its history, evolution, and cultural significance—along with where you can sharpen your own Spanish fluency and appreciation for Spanish-speaking cultures.
The Spanish language emerged from the Iberian Peninsula, the section of the European continent occupied by modern day Spain, Portugal, and the southernmost part of France. Like other Romance languages, Spanish traces its roots to Rome—not for its “romantic” qualities, but because it evolved from Latin.
Specifically, it developed from Vulgar Latin, the spoken form used by common people, rather than Classical Latin, the formal version seen in the works of Virgil, Ovid, and Cicero. The modern form of Spanish can be traced to the northern coastal region of Spain in the ninth century.
In the centuries after the modern Spanish language developed, it spread to the Americas and elsewhere through exploration, colonization, immigration, and religious missions. It continued to develop into different dialects, with Castilian being the variety most spoken today.
Spanish is now spoken in at least 20 countries on four continents, here listed by largest number of speakers to smallest:
As of 2023, the world is home to an estimated 360 million Spanish speakers, with more than a third of native speakers living in Mexico and only about 12% living in Spain.
Where did the Spanish language originate?
The Spanish language originated in the Iberian Peninsula, which is modern-day Spain, Portugal, and the southernmost part of France. It developed from Vulgar Latin, the spoken form of Latin used by common people, and its modern form can be traced to the northern coastal region of Spain in the ninth century.
How did Spanish become an international language?
In the centuries after its development, Spanish spread to the Americas and other parts of the world through exploration, colonization, immigration, and religious missions.
How many countries speak Spanish today?
Spanish is spoken in at least 20 countries across four continents: North America, South America, Europe, and Africa.
How many Spanish speakers are there in the world?
As of 2023, there are an estimated 360 million Spanish speakers worldwide.
Why are Romance languages called ‘Romance languages’?
Romance languages are named for their connection to Rome, not for their ‘romantic’ qualities, as they evolved from Latin.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an online graduate-level course dedicated to the history of the Spanish language. If you’d like to learn more, History of the Spanish Language (SPAN 6321) was designed with you in mind. While we’ve provided a condensed history of the language, this 3-credit, eight-week course offers a fascinating, detailed look at the evolution of the Spanish language from its Latin roots to its present-day form through an examination of literary texts.
Spanish fluency can help you qualify for a wide variety of roles, and the international reach of the language brings with it the potential for employment in many countries around the world. Through an exploration of culture, literature, linguistics, and teaching language methodology, UT Permian Basin’s graduate Spanish programs help you develop the linguistic proficiency to achieve your professional and personal goals. You can access these programs from anywhere, 24/7, and complete them according to your own schedule.
Online Master of Arts in Spanish
Taught entirely in Spanish, this 30-credit program prepares you for doctoral studies, if you choose that route, and confers a degree that will enable you to compete for advancement. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that master’s degree holders enjoy 16% higher median earnings than those who have a bachelor’s degree alone.
Online Graduate Certificate in Spanish
Not looking for a master’s degree? This 12-credit program is the perfect way to quickly improve your Spanish fluency and add a new credential to your resume.
We also have an undergraduate certificate specifically for first responders who want to improve their communication skills for use in emergency situations. Learn more.
“Spanish” has many meanings: It’s a language with many dialects. It’s a variety of rich cultures. It’s a nationality. Discover the broader story and see what a mastery of the language can mean for your future.
Get full program details and apply today!
Sources:
https://www.berlitz.com/blog/most-spoken-languages-world
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Spanish-language
https://www.worldatlas.com/peninsulas/iberian-peninsula.html
https://www.thoughtco.com/why-late-latin-was-called-vulgar-119475
https://www.statista.com/statistics/991020/number-native-spanish-speakers-country-worldwide
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