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Study: Idea sharing increases online learner engagement

A new study finds that prompting students to share course ideas in a discussion forum increases video consumption and assessment completion rates. The 'idea advantage' outperforms identity sharing, with students performing 30% better on key metrics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateJul 14, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Astronomy educators awarded $2.8M to inspire minority youth to pursue STEM careers

Researchers at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian are using a $2.8 million grant to test their theory that astronomy can be an early gateway to attract youth to STEM fields. The program, YouthAstroNet, has already shown positive results in increasing interest and confidence among students from underrepresented groups.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·DateMay 12, 2021

Low achieving students benefit most from COVID-19 online switch

A study by Flinders University found that online learning positively impacted overall student performance, especially for lower-achieving students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The best results were achieved with high-quality teachers preparing content for rural and city students, regardless of location.

SourceFlinders University·JournalChina Economic Review·DateMay 5, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New approaches for teaching science remotely arise from the COVID-19 crisis

A new paper explores effective methods for teaching science remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, including experiential hands-on activities, interactive labs, and environmental science research projects. These approaches enhanced student engagement, collaboration, and learning outcomes, despite the challenges of remote instruction.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Microbiology and Biology Education·DateApr 27, 2021

How to gain a sense of well-being, free and online

Researchers at Johns Hopkins and Yale found that free online courses teaching principles of positive psychology can enrich lives, reporting greater mental health benefits than a comparable course without exercises.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 14, 2021

UOC to provide teachers in Europe with training to improve online teaching

The UOC is involved in the ECOLHE project, which aims to create conditions for sharing best practices in online teaching across Europe. The project will provide recommendations for policymakers and academic bodies on how to build a European higher education area based on independent quality guarantees.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·DateApr 14, 2021

NYU Tandon announces 2021 S&K scholarship recipients

The NYU Tandon School of Engineering has awarded the 2021 S&K Scholarships to four outstanding NYU Cyber Fellows, including women and underrepresented group members. The scholarships will provide an additional $500 tuition scholarship towards each course for the entire Cyber Fellows program.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateMar 31, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Pandemic lockdowns boost, democratize online education

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 38% increase in new users and a 6% increase in engagement among existing users of DataCamp's platform. This shift in behavior was observed across all demographic groups, suggesting that online learning can provide an accessible environment for learning new skills.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 22, 2021

New pandemic medicine course helped MCG adapt during COVID-19

MCG faculty adapted traditional curriculum to provide an online Pandemic Medicine Elective, covering topics from SARS-CoV-2 to professional responsibility. Students logged over 6,000 service hours through projects like mask delivery and contact tracing.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMedical Science Educator·DateMar 18, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

UNIST student startups grabbing the world's attention!

UNIST-based student startups have garnered international recognition for their groundbreaking achievements in the smart healthcare sector and online education. The companies have won significant awards, including KRW 150 million in prize money, and have attracted substantial investments, generating over 71.4 billion KRW in revenues.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateMar 16, 2021

University students with special educational needs highlight the benefits of e-assessment

A study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that students with disabilities accept e-authentication systems but express concerns about technical issues. Key factors influencing acceptance include student familiarity with technology, additional effort required, and perceived intrusiveness.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalInternational Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education·DateMar 3, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

In era of online learning, new testing method aims to reduce cheating

Researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed a new testing strategy that effectively reduces collusion among students taking online tests. The 'distanced online testing' approach estimates each student's competence levels and assigns questions at varying times, reducing the incentive for students to receive help.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·Journalnpj Science of Learning·DateMar 1, 2021

Online courses reinforce inequalities

A study by Université de Genève found that online courses deepen inequalities between high-potential and struggling students by 5%. The research suggests that different behaviour patterns, such as preferring face-to-face classes or streaming, contribute to these disparities.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·DateJan 19, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

How to talk about death and dying

A new study by palliative care specialists found that participants in an online course could use more pleasant words to express their feelings about death. The course aimed to change perspectives on death and dying, enabling better planning for end-of-life care.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 6, 2021

The use of videos in education could improve student pass rates

A study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that videos increase academic success and student satisfaction. Students prefer video formats featuring professors, and short, well-planned videos are most effective.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalMultimedia Tools and Applications·DateNov 9, 2020

Community immersion as distance learning

Researchers at Penn Nursing transitioned a community health education course to distance learning, maintaining student engagement and community partnerships. The remote experience modeled adapting to population needs in real-time.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalPedagogy in Health Promotion·DateNov 2, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

AI teachers must be effective and communicate well to be accepted, new study finds

Researchers at the University of Central Florida found that students are more likely to accept an AI teaching assistant if it is effective and easy to communicate with. The study suggests that designing AI teachers to facilitate positive learning experiences requires understanding how students relate to these systems.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Interaction·DateOct 30, 2020

Five key factors for improving team learning in distance education

The redesigned course overcomes obstacles of collaborative learning online, including teacher confidence, student resistance, and plagiarism. The five key elements - student-focused and active, structured in phases, multi-format, 360 assessment, and proactive online professor - improve student satisfaction and teamwork skills.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalAmerican Journal of Distance Education·DateOct 21, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Engaging undergrads remotely with an escape room game

A new study introduces a virtual escape room game that mimics cooperative learning, allowing undergraduate students to solve chemistry problems and 'escape' a chocolate factory theme. The game promotes effective collaboration and provides an engaging alternative to traditional lab activities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·DateAug 12, 2020

Stanford experts recommend strict, costly approaches for reopening schools

The American Academy of Pediatrics and Stanford experts recommend a three-pronged testing approach, including symptomatic testing, pooled testing, and frequent testing in high-risk households. Schools should also implement strict COVID-19 prevention measures, such as enhanced disinfection, hand sanitizers, and protective equipment.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 11, 2020

Nonprofit expert awarded for excellence in online teaching

Karabi Bezboruah, associate professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, has won the 2020 USDLA International Excellence in Teaching/Training Award. She was recognized for her innovative approach to teaching and training, including incorporating experiential projects into her online courses.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 5, 2020

Grant will help new e-learning program enhance cancer care

An innovative e-learning programme will educate and empower nurses to improve cancer care in non-specialist settings. The Cancer Nursing Careers programme, funded by a grant from Health Education England, is available free of charge to nurses across the UK.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateJul 31, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Editorial: COVID-19 pandemic likely to result in lasting changes to medical school curricula

The COVID-19 pandemic will lead to a shift towards more flexible and adaptable medical school curricula, incorporating online education and new topics such as telemedicine and health equity. Accrediting agencies must adapt to these changes to ensure students are prepared for future pandemics and complex medical scenarios.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 5, 2020

Initial motivation, a key factor for learning in massive open online courses

Researchers from the University of Seville found that initial motivation is related to individual differences in drop-out probability and satisfaction with the learning experience. The study suggests designing personalized learning plans based on a good initial diagnosis of students' learning intentions and motivational profiles.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalEducational Technology Research and Development·DateApr 28, 2020

STEM students learn as well online as in classrooms

A study by Cornell University found that STEM students learned equally well in online courses as they did in traditional classroom settings, with significant cost savings. The research, which tracked over 300 students in Russia, showed that online courses can deliver the same learning outcomes at a fraction of the cost.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Online education platforms could scale high-quality STEM education for universities

A multi-site study found that online and blended instruction produced similar learning outcomes to traditional in-person classes, with students scoring higher on course assignments but reporting slightly lower satisfaction. The study also showed significant cost savings, with blended instruction lowering costs by 15-19% and fully onlin...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 2020

An experimental study demonstrates the effectiveness of online learning

An experimental study found that high-quality online courses can achieve the same learning outcomes as traditional classes, with cost savings ranging from 15-81%. However, student satisfaction was slightly lower for online students due to lack of experience and relevant skills in an online environment.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 2020

National online education platforms could make STEM degrees more affordable, Russia-based study shows

A Russia-based study found that national online education platforms can significantly lower instruction costs for STEM courses, allowing resource-constrained universities to enroll more students. The study also discovered that blended instruction formats offer the greatest cost savings of 19.2% for one course and 15.4% for another.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 2020

Chemistry education goes online

Experts emphasize the importance of using accessible technology, maintaining short lecture lengths, and adapting exams to online platforms. Online instructors also share strategies for building rapport with students from a distance, including regular email communication and conversational teaching styles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateApr 1, 2020

UW research expands bilingual language program for babies

A new study by UW's Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences found that bilingual teaching led to sustained English-language comprehension and vocabulary-building in infants, regardless of socioeconomic background. Online training enabled the replication of the research-based method globally.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateJan 23, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Shin receives funding to strengthen English-language education in Uzbekistan

Dr. Joan Kang Shin will collaborate with American Councils to provide professional development for English-speaking teachers in Uzbekistan, aiming to improve English language education and incorporate it into public curricula. The project will involve baseline assessments, training programs, and follow-up evaluations.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateDec 6, 2019

New NSF-Boeing awards aim to improve online learning for today's workforce

The NSF-Boeing partnership aims to provide new educational opportunities for workers in STEM fields through online learning platforms. The five-year program will focus on building key STEM skills and exploring the effectiveness of online courseware, ultimately creating tools for current and future employees.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateSep 19, 2019

The Lancet Planetary Health: Despite growing burden of diet-related disease, medical education does not equip students to provide high quality nutritional care to patients

A systematic review of 24 studies finds that medical education lacks nutrition knowledge and skills, leading to inadequate care for patients. Researchers call for improved nutrition education integration into the curriculum, benchmarking of nutrition knowledge, and increased funding for innovative initiatives.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateSep 18, 2019
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Internet communities can teach amateurs to build personalized governments

A study on Minecraft communities reveals that amateur gamers develop essential leadership and governance skills, creating effective self-governance systems. The research demonstrates the transferability of these skills to real-world environments, highlighting the potential for internet communities to shape healthier democracy.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 11, 2019

The effects of the Internet on learning in higher education

Researchers investigating the effects of Internet-based learning on university students, finding mixed results in acquiring domain-specific knowledge and difficulties with critical thinking. The study also highlights the role of algorithms in shaping online learning environments.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateMay 27, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Brain activity of Spanish Popular Party voters triggered by rivals

Researchers found that messages about corruption from the rival party have a greater impact on Spanish Popular Party voters' brains, triggering areas related to risk, disappointment, and rejection. This biased rejection affects PP voters more intensely, regardless of whether the message is positive or negative.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalPolitical Psychology·DateMay 16, 2019