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Harnessing the Power of Technology in Teaching

Rebecca Samuel · April 10, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Technology in education improves collaboration. It can create greater connections between student and educator."

Some students today have yet to see a traditional chalkboard as these have been replaced with digital whiteboards, and classrooms have a surplus of iPads, laptops and projectors. Technology has altered life as we know it in myriad ways, and the classroom looks very different from 100—or even 20—years ago.

Does this advancement benefit your students, or does it detract from their learning?

Technology allows for greater student engagement – It can help encourage active participation in your classroom, even more so with each student having access to personal devices. Devices such as laptops, tablets, or other types of technology can help turn slightly dull topics into interactive and fun activities. Many children – and even adults – learn better through play, and an interactive online quiz or game to reinforce learning might work a lot faster than traditional worksheets.

Technology in the classroom allows for different learning styles. Each child is different, and it can be challenging to adjust a learning plan to bring out the best in every student. Fortunately, technology can help you modify your lessons. Students may prefer to showcase their research via an infographic for example, instead of via a written report. The various possible approaches when utilizing technology in lesson design will allow an educator to create more tailored approaches so that no child is left behind.

Technology in education improves collaboration. Some students who find it difficult to work together in person might be whizzes at the keyboard, and will be able to shine when they are allowed to collaborate online instead. Tomorrow’s world will continue to integrate technology into the workplace and as more and more people are beginning to work from home, online collaboration skills harnessing various software will become invaluable.

Technology can create greater connections between student and educator. The shy students who seldom speak up in a classroom or fear asking questions in front of their peers will find it easier to connect with their educators online. Students also have the option to email their teachers during the week if they are really struggling, an option that was unheard of 30 odd years ago.

Technology continues to evolve in the realm of teaching and learning and while some may argue that it has taken human connection away, it is also indisputable that it has made leaps and bounds in personalising learning for students, and easing the burden on educators where it concerns their ability to reach out effectively to each and every child.

7 Ways for Students to Increase Their Focus

Rebecca Samuel · April 7, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"We often struggle to pay attention, but when presented with a task that we perceive to be difficult, we are more prone to giving up before truly attempting it."

Everyone struggles with their attention span at some point. External factors such as exhaustion from a packed schedule, lack of exercise or a disagreement with a loved one can be the cause of a loss of focus. Conversely, even oversleeping and too much Netflix or screen time can contribute to a wandering mind.

1. Have ‘Focus Breaks’

You can use a timer or an app on your phone that reminds you to take breaks, or even have someone in your house pop by at a preset time with a drink (or cookies). 15 to 20 minutes is an ideal length of time for a break, but make sure you walk away from the screen or your study area and take a real break. What you do during your break is entirely up to you, but I would recommend having a stretch, looking out at some greenery, getting a hot drink or even lying down and closing your eyes. Some apps that might help: TomatoTimer, Time Out and Eyecare 20 20 20.

2. Adjust Your Study Time Frame

We are all unique individuals with our own ideal timings built for focus. You can try the famous Pomodoro Technique, which encourages people to work with the time they have rather than work against it. In the Pomodoro Technique, you will choose a task and allocate the total time you need for it. Set your timer to 25 minutes, work furiously and then take a 5 minute break. That’s it, you will have completed ‘1 Pomodoro’. After completing 4 sets of Pomodoros, you can give yourself a 20 to 30 minute break. Adjust this method as you see fit for yourself, and you will start to see improvements in your focus!

3. Include Exercise in Your Day

A lack of movement does generally contribute to lethargy, especially if you are on HBL. Even an activity as simple as stretching first thing in the morning will get your blood flowing and freshen up your mind for tasks in the day. If you are not a morning person, try some night cycling or an evening walk (with permission of course) and you will find your sleep greatly improved and your mind ready and set to concentrate the next morning.

4. Play Memory Games

That’s right! You are actually encouraged to play games in this instance. Memory games have been proven to build focus and to force you to concentrate. Some simple games only take 5 minutes to play and the increased attention you are forced to give in order to jog your memory will help you when you need to memorise dates or formulas. There are plenty of apps available but if you want to try a simple web-based site, you can go to: Memozor.

5. Reflect and Alternate Tasks

Reflect on a timetable after you have gone through the day or week. Were you more distracted on a Monday after the weekend and would prefer to focus on revising Math that day? Were you energized after a workout on a Thursday and felt like concentrating on History and Chemistry? Does writing out an English essay on a Friday feel like a drag? Alternate and move your timetable around as you see fit. There is no need to stick to or force yourself to a set schedule if it is not working out for you. Try writing down how you feel after each day e.g. ‘Today I took 2 hours to try just one sum, and I felt drained as I couldn’t get the answer’ or ‘Doing Biology revision on a Wednesday afternoon is great as it is just after Biology lessons in the morning’.

6. Remove Distractions

Photo by Howard Bouchevereau on Unsplash

People on a diet often remove all snacks and unhealthy foods from their fridges and cupboards, so that they aren’t tempted to eat them. Similarly, your study area should be distraction free. Place your phone outside your room if it is a source of distraction (and make sure you don’t have any apps on your laptop with friends messaging). Remove any clutter such as a gaming laptop or anything else that is a usual source of distraction.

7. Break Down Your Task

A lack of focus often stems from a task being perceived as too difficult or impossible at the beginning. Try breaking the task down into small steps and bite sized chunks, and then concentrate on finishing only that little chunk for the day. Make a checklist of the little chunks and then tick them off when you’re done. You will find a deep sense of satisfaction from being able to tick off the little bits and when the entire task is finally done, you can give yourself a clap on the back for being both organised and for a job well done!

School Breaks: 5 Ways for Students to Thrive

Rebecca Samuel · April 7, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"You can become so preoccupied with school and life that many things fall by the wayside. When you think about it, vacation is a great time to get those tasks completed and set yourself ahead of the game once the break is over."

The holiday season is a time for relaxation and enjoyment, but it can also be a great opportunity for students to get ahead and prepare for the upcoming school year. Here are some ways that students can spend their holidays productively:

1. Catch Up on Classwork and Homework

The holiday break provides a great opportunity for students to catch up on any assignments that they may have fallen behind on during the semester. This will help them start the new year on a strong footing and avoid the stress of trying to catch up once classes resume.

2. Set Goals for the Upcoming Semester

The holidays can also be a good time for students to reflect on their progress and set goals for the upcoming semester. This could include setting specific academic goals, such as improving grades in a particular subject, as well as personal goals, such as getting more involved in extracurricular activities or making new friends.

3. Get a Head Start on Next Semester’s Classes

Students can use the holiday break to preview the material that will be covered in their classes next semester. This could involve reviewing old notes and textbooks, or even doing some extra reading on topics that will be covered in the upcoming classes.

4. Take Care of Practical Matters

The holidays can also be a good time for students to take care of practical matters, such as organising their schedules, buying textbooks, and making travel arrangements for the new semester. Getting these things out of the way early can help students start the new year off on the right foot.

5. Relax and Recharge

Finally, it’s important for students to take some time to relax and recharge during the holiday break. This could involve spending time with family and friends, engaging in hobbies and interests, or simply taking some time to unwind and de-stress.

Overall, the holiday break provides a great opportunity for students to catch up, set goals, and prepare for the upcoming semester. By using this time productively, students can start the new year off on the right foot and set themselves up for success.

Is It Safe for Teenagers to Consume Caffeine?

Nadya Sharfina · April 6, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Caffeine consumption in teenagers has been linked to sleep disruptions, impaired school performance and social issues."

Many teenagers consume coffee to get through the rigour of school, extra-curricular activities, tuition and revision, but they may want to reconsider. Coffee can be hazardous to a teenager’s health and development, especially when over consumed. Caffeine consumption in teenagers has been linked to sleep disruptions, impaired school performance and social issues. It can also increase stress levels and lead to physical health problems such as obesity and insulin resistance.

Sugar is a major reason why some beverages are unhealthy, but caffeine should not be missed. We have explored why it is not safe or healthy for teenagers to consume caffeine from coffee or energy drinks, and what parents could do instead.

The Hazards of Caffeine Consumption

Caffeine is a stimulant and can have a powerful effect on the body, making teenagers feel more alert and energetic. This may seem like a good thing, but it could lead to physical and mental health problems down the line.

The overconsumption of coffee can cause a wide range of physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms. These may include:

Headaches
Nausea
Vomiting
Irritability
Tremors or shakes

Difficulty concentrating and focusing
Increased heart rate and blood pressure

Convulsions or seizures
Mood swings
Impulsivity.
Dehydration due to frequent urination

Caffeine is known to reduce the quality of deep sleep during the night which could lead to chronic sleep deprivation. This disruption affects children’s cognitive functioning and emotional regulation in addition to their physical growth. Studies have linked the overconsumption of coffee in children to anxiety and depression due to its impact on sleep.

The Dangers of Sugary Drinks

Any caffeinated beverages marketed to kids come loaded with sugar. This makes them even more hazardous than coffee alone because consuming too much sugar can lead to serious health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Parents should be aware of the sugar content in caffeinated drinks their children consume and try to limit their sugar intake as much as possible.

It is also crucial for parents to remember that energy drinks can be hazardous because they often contain more caffeine than coffee, plus large amounts of sugar. Not only does this combination provide an extra-strong boost of energy, it can also put kids at risk for serious health consequences if consumed in excess. For these reasons, parents should discourage their children from drinking energy drinks and give them options for healthier alternatives instead.

Alternatives to Coffee

If you want to give your kids a boost of energy without relying on caffeine, there are other alternatives you can explore. To keep your kids energised and healthy, you can offer them natural sources of caffeine such as:

Herbal teas. Peppermint and chamomile have calming effects, while green tea is packed with antioxidants that can help boost energy levels naturally.
Hot Chocolate: Hot chocolate made from cocoa powder is a delicious alternative to coffee. Cocoa beans have caffeine, and a large cup of hot cocoa has as much as 25mg of it.

Non-caffeinated beverages which you could try include:

Smoothies
Fruit juices

Kombucha
Coconut Water

Kefir
Lemon water

These contain many natural sugars that can provide energy without relying on caffeine, sugar-filled sodas, and energy drinks. Of course, it is still important to watch out for added sugars in these beverages and ensure they don’t exceed their daily recommended limit. Otherwise, these are healthier choices than caffeinated products.

Educating Your Kids About Healthy Choices

It is important to educate your children on the importance of making healthy choices when it comes to their diet. Parents should begin by teaching their kids the effects that caffeine can have on their bodies and the risks associated with consuming too much.

Monitoring how many times per week they consume coffee is a good way to make sure kids don’t suffer from any of the health risks. Talk to a nutritionist if you need help understanding the best diet for your kids. Read 6 Tips for Your Kids to Have a Healthy School Year and Smart Food Choices for Kids’ During Exams.

Parents can also model positive behaviour by avoiding sugary drinks and setting an example for their children to follow. By taking the time to educate our children and set a positive example, you will be helping to ensure that your kids lead healthy lives.

How to Get Your Kids Excited About the New School Year

Nadya Sharfina · April 6, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"The new school year is a great time for parents to help their children get off on the right foot."

The start of the school year brings mixed emotions for children and parents alike. For kids, it means saying goodbye to holidays spent playing with friends and embracing the structure that comes with returning to class. They are eager to return, but also concerned about their health and school safety and the outbreak’s impact on their academic progress. For parents, it is a time to prepare their children for success in the coming months, from organising study schedules to arranging for tuition and enrichment classes.

Parents want to give their children the best start possible in school. They want their children to be excited and ready to learn and grow. Here are some tips on ensuring your child has a positive outlook about starting their new school year and being motivated to succeed!

Get Your Child on a Sleep Schedule

Holiday season often means later bedtimes and unstructured days with plenty of opportunities to form unhealthy habits. All that has to change when school is starting. Sleep is important for concentration and memory, it can also help your child’s mood. Your child should get at least 7-9 hours of sleep if they are between 13 and 18 years old and 8-11 hours of sleep if they are younger. Begin their new sleep routine a week or two before school starts to adjust not only their sleep schedule mentally but physically as well. Their body’s internal clock needs to be reset so that they can wake up early for school feeling refreshed.

Create a Morning Routine

Establishing a routine takes time, but it can help your child adjust back to the school year. Help them set an alarm clock, practice getting dressed on their own, and make sure they eat breakfast. Doing this every day will eventually become second nature for your children and help them transition into their new school schedule.

Pack Necessary School Supplies

A few days before school starts, make a list of items your child will need to bring with them. Stock up on pencils and notebooks that they will use throughout the year. If there are any special items that their primary school or secondary school requires, make sure to add them to the list too. Items like calculators for older children, protractors, and rulers are essential for an efficient school year.

Talk About Exciting Aspects of School

With the right attitude, a school can be an exciting place to learn and grow. Help your child focus on the positive aspects of going back to school such as seeing their friends, making new ones, and learning new things. You can also talk about expectations for the upcoming year, like academic goals or extra-curricular activities they would like to join.

Discuss What Your Child Will Be Learning

Talking about exciting topics and activities that can be explored in school can get your child excited about the new school year. Make sure they know their upcoming syllabus, what is being taught in each subject, and how it relates to the real world. Even discussing the career paths associated with specific subjects can get your child interested and motivated to learn.

Set Goals Together for the Upcoming Year

Goals can be a great motivation for your child, so sit down and talk about what they would like to accomplish in the upcoming school year. These could include academic goals such as improving their grades, joining clubs, and volunteering. You can also set goals with them that have nothing to do with school, such as spending more quality time together.

Find Time to Bond with Your Child

School can be a stressful and busy time, so make sure you find the time to bond with your child even if it is just 20 minutes after school. Talk about their day and what they learned, ask them how they are feeling, or engage in fun activities with them. This is a great way to keep your child engaged and motivated to learn new things.

Celebrate Their Successes Throughout the Year

Make sure to celebrate your child’s successes throughout the school year. Whether it is getting 100% on a spelling test or acing their science project, praise your child and let them know they are doing great. A positive attitude will go a long way in helping your child stay motivated and excited about learning.

Check-in with Your Kids Regularly

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Keep in touch with your child’s teacher to ensure that your child is on track and making progress. This also helps you to stay updated on any changes or updates involving their classes and/or school life. Check-in with your children regularly and ask them how they are doing, what they are learning, and if there is anything you can do to help.

Encourage Healthy Habits

Healthy habits such as getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep will help your child focus in school. Encourage them to stay organised and take study breaks when needed. Helping them learn good time management skills can also be beneficial, especially in high school where they may have multiple assignments due on the same day.

By following these tips, you can make sure your child is set up for success in the upcoming school year. With a positive attitude and plenty of support from parents, children can get excited and motivated to start their school year!

5 Ways to Take Better Notes in Class

Rebecca Samuel · April 4, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Note-taking could happen on plain, boring pieces of foolscap paper too, with pages and pages of scribbled ballpoint pen inked notes, sometimes organized, sometimes wildly illegible to anyone except yourself."

Note-taking for students generally conjures up cute little notebooks, pages inked with a rainbow of colours – and more. Notes are also covered with doodles because that’s the time when you have to make it seem like you’re listening to the teacher and writing things down, when in reality, you’re kind of bored or tired and have lost track of your teacher’s voice already, forcing you to take a doodle break before getting back into the mix.

Note-taking could happen on plain, boring pieces of foolscap paper too, with pages and pages of scribbled ballpoint pen inked notes, sometimes organized, sometimes wildly illegible to anyone except yourself. For me, this form of note-taking often occurs when I am truly in the zone, capturing the essence of almost everything the teacher is saying. No doodles adorn these pages – there isn’t time – and these notes are often handed around to lazier, sleepier fellow classmates, to copy or digest as they see fit.

Few students know it at the time, but note-taking is actually therapeutic. You are producing your understanding of what your teacher is imparting, creating a little bit of art out of it and using colours to create something aesthetically pleasing. Research into colour therapy has even resulted in recommended colours for note-taking. Try using yellow when you know you’re taking down something that needs to be remembered and memorized, and use blue to draw your focus to something.

As the therapeutic nature of note-taking intertwines with technological advancements, students can now enhance their academic pursuits by utilizing a variety of innovative apps designed to optimize their note-taking experience. Technology has made headway into the world of note-taking, and some tools are just absolute must-haves for the trendy student. Here are 5 great apps that will help you to ace note-taking.

Goodnotes

Goodnotes is great for writing as smoothly and colouring as quickly as you would on paper, but the truly fantastic bit to me, is the search function, which allows you to hunt down a handwritten note! Also, you no longer have to print out notes uploaded into SLS by your teacher. Import it into Goodnotes and go ahead and annotate virtually right on the document itself! Get rid of your bulky files and random loose notes from who knows when, Goodnotes folders keeps them all organized.

Ginger Labs

As a serial doodler, Notability is a ton of fun for me. Being able to add in photos is a cute function as well. Try using it for group projects as a collaboration tool, and if you’re lazy to type in comments, you can use the audio tool to verbally convey your thoughts and ideas.

Inspiration Maps

This one is for the mind mappers. Some people think and work better with maps and Inspiration Maps’ beautiful interface is the perfect app for them. Concept maps, cause and effect diagrams, process flows, family trees and just about any kind of mind map is possible. What I find enticing is that unlike paper, where a mistake involves scribbling out or starting over, with Inspiration Maps I can simply drag and drop to organize and categorize concepts and ideas as many times as I want.

OneNote

OneNote is a great note taking tool that allows for easy revision with highlighting and ink notations. Organization is made straightforward across notebooks, sections and pages while coloured tags are available for reminders or for categorizing your notes. You can also record voice notes and upload videos. Sharing notes with desperate friends the night before the exam is made easy with this app.

LiquidText

LiquidText is a phenomenal app that has already created waves in the medical, legal and business worlds. While it has all the usual features which allow you to take notes, annotate and organize, it also draws relationships between notes and ideas, so that you will not forget, say, a foundational concept while learning a new one. A little pinch on the screen shows up connections with everything else the idea could possibly be connected to. It almost – I daresay – works like (some of) our brains!

Technology is here to help, but for many of us, a hybrid of note-taking on paper and on an app might be the solution. While keeping our notes organized is an invaluable function of note-taking apps, there is a deep sense of satisfaction to be derived from handwritten notes as well. Check out hand-written note-taking instagrammers like @studyfel, @studyrella and @studyscript for inspiration! Meanwhile, you do you.