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Low-cost intervention boosts undergraduate interest in computer science

A recent study found that an online growth mindset intervention increased interest in computer science among undergraduates, with no direct impact on performance. The intervention led to a positive, indirect effect on students' final grades, highlighting the value of fostering a growth mindset in computer science education.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateMay 6, 2019

Greener neighborhoods may be good for children's brains

Research suggests that living in greener neighborhoods can positively impact children's cognitive functioning, particularly in spatial working memory and mathematics performance. A study of 4758 English children found a strong association between neighborhood greenspace and improved spatial working memory.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·DateSep 6, 2018

Robot learning improves student engagement

A study at Michigan State University found that online students using robot-learning technology feel more engaged and connected to instructors and fellow students in the classroom. The innovative system uses robots with video screens controlled by remote users, allowing for individualized interactions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalOnline Learning·DateDec 1, 2017

Metacognition training boosts gen chem exam scores

University of Utah researchers found that metacognition training improved general chemistry exam scores for lower-performing students. On average, these students raised their final exam scores by 4%, with the strongest improvement seen in the bottom quartile, who scored a full letter grade better.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·DateOct 20, 2017

What is STEM education?

Research reveals eight mental models used by teachers to construct STEM-based lesson plans, highlighting the need for better understanding of STEM education's value and online classroom design. Implementing teacher leadership techniques in digital classrooms also improves communication patterns.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalJournal of Science Teacher Education·DateOct 3, 2017

Geeking out in the golden years

A recent study by Philip Guo of older adults learning computer programming reveals a diverse range of motivations, including personal enrichment and connecting with younger family members. Despite frustrations with bad pedagogy and lack of real-world relevance, most respondents were eager to learn and saw the value in digital literacy.

Internet data could boost conservation

Researchers used internet data to track public interest in conservation over time, finding sudden spikes linked to media coverage and seasonal events. The study suggests harnessing these peaks to aid protection efforts, using methods that are relatively cheap and produce huge sample sizes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiological Conservation·DateDec 16, 2016

Numenta brings brain theory to machine learning

Researchers at Numenta compared their biologically-derived HTM sequence memory to traditional machine learning algorithms, demonstrating comparable prediction accuracy. The new paper highlights the algorithm's properties, including continuous online learning and robustness to sensor noise, making it ideal for streaming data applications.

SourceKrause Taylor Associates·JournalNeural Computation·DateNov 14, 2016

New method measures nicotine delivery from e-cigarettes

A new study evaluates a method for measuring nicotine delivery from e-cigarettes and finds that later-generation e-cigarettes with 'atomizers' deliver nicotine more consistently than earlier ones. The consistency of nicotine delivery from these atomizers is comparable to nicotine inhalers and tobacco cigarettes.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateMar 22, 2016

BMJ best practice now with CME/CPD tracking tool

BMJ Best Practice features a continuing medical education (CME/CPD) tracking tool, allowing doctors to earn credits while using the platform as part of their working day. The new tool collates time spent learning and enables users to reflect on their impact on practice, supporting appraisal and revalidation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 10, 2016

Children know best whether an allergy spray works for them

A recent study found that children aged 6-11 with seasonal allergic rhinitis reported significant symptom improvement after using MP-AzeFlu, while caregivers struggled to accurately assess symptoms. The study highlights the importance of pediatric symptom assessment in determining treatment efficacy.

SourceWiley·JournalPediatric Allergy and Immunology·DateMar 7, 2016