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Computers teach each other Pac-Man

A team of researchers from Washington State University developed a novel approach to teaching computers new skills, mimicking the interaction between a human teacher and student. The method involves giving action advice to help students learn complex games like Pac-Man and StarCraft.

SourceWashington State University·JournalConnection Science·DateApr 1, 2014

Retention leads to discipline problems in other kids

A Duke University-led study of nearly 80,000 middle-schoolers found that students who repeat a grade contribute to a disruptive environment, leading to increased suspensions and discipline problems. The study suggests that supporting older and retained students through tutoring and peer mentoring can improve the entire school climate.

SourceDuke University·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·DateFeb 28, 2014

Citizenship education goes digital

A Baylor University study found that online games like iCivics significantly improved civics knowledge scores among primary and middle school students. The study showed the most significant gains in younger students, with grades 5 and 8 students scoring nearly five points higher on civics tests.

SourceBaylor University·JournalThe Journal of Social Studies Research·DateFeb 14, 2014

Divorce rate cut in half for newlyweds who discussed 5 relationship movies

A study involving 174 couples found that discussing five relationship movies over a month can reduce the three-year divorce rate for newlyweds in half. The inexpensive and fun movie-and-talk approach was found to be as effective as other more intensive therapist-led methods, with only an 11% divorce rate after three years.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateJan 31, 2014

Passing bowls family-style teaches day-care kids to respond to hunger cues, fights obesity

A University of Illinois study found that family-style meals help children develop healthy eating habits and recognize their body's hunger cues. The research suggests that Head Start centers are in better compliance with nutrition guidelines than other child-care centers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJan 13, 2014

'Hip-hop' students unfairly targeted, study finds

A two-year study by Michigan State University's Muhammad Khalifa found that hip-hop students are unfairly targeted and disciplined more harshly than their peers. The research highlights the need for schools to adopt a more inclusive approach, allowing students to express themselves without fear of retribution.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMulticultural Learning and Teaching·DateJan 10, 2014

Different types of teacher-child interactions support children's development in different areas

A new study analyzed data on 1,400 preschoolers and 325 teachers to understand the impact of different types of teacher-child interactions. The research found that responsive teaching, cognitive facilitation, and structured classroom environment were crucial for supporting children's academic progress and social development.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateNov 21, 2013

'Don't get sick in July'

Researchers found that high-risk patients at teaching hospitals face a significant increase in mortality risk during July, when trainees take on new roles. The study suggests that intensifying oversight on high-risk cases and having more experienced doctors care for these patients can help mitigate this risk.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCirculation·DateNov 6, 2013

Study gives Catholic schools poor marks

Catholic schools do not offer superior academic performance compared to public schools, according to a national study led by Michigan State University. The study found that math scores for Catholic students dropped between kindergarten and eighth grade, while public school students showed slight improvements.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Urban Economics·DateOct 31, 2013

New analysis of US elementary school mathematics finds half-century of problematic 'strands' structure

A new analysis by Liping Ma reveals that the 'strands' structure in US elementary school mathematics has significantly weakened its effectiveness, with instability and discontinuity in curricular content and instruction. The structure was introduced in the 1960s as a replacement for traditional school arithmetic, but has persisted desp...

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·JournalNotices of the American Mathematical Society·DateOct 11, 2013

Researchers find what's missing in teen health programs

Researchers found that adding a mental health component to school-based lifestyle programs for teens can lead to improved grades, lower obesity rates, and reduced substance use. The program, called COPE, emphasizes cognitive behavioral skills building and was found to sustain positive outcomes for six months.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 10, 2013

The 'woman who understood Newton'

Laura Bassi was a renowned physicist in the 18th century, making groundbreaking contributions to experimental physics through conversation, demonstration, experimentation, and explanation. Her work and legacy were recognized with numerous professorships and academy memberships, despite facing controversy and restrictions on her career.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateAug 28, 2013