Add BrightSurf on Google Email

What should be the role of computer games in education?

A new study discourages a sweeping transformation of conventional education to replace traditional curricula with game-based instruction. Instead, researchers recommend adding promising features to games, such as explanatory feedback and pregame activities, to enhance learning outcomes. Game features that improve student performance in...

SourceSAGE·JournalPolicy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences·DateJan 12, 2016

The way you sound affects your mood

Researchers created an audio platform that modifies voices to sound happier, sadder or more fearful, and found participants' emotional state changed accordingly. The study suggests people don't always control their own voice to match emotions, but listen to it to gauge feelings.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2016

New research: 'Flipped' classrooms improve physics education

Researchers at Concordia University found that students can improve their thinking and learning with Reflective Writing and interactive activities. Flipping the classroom on its head allows students to explore concepts before class and collaborate with peers, leading to better understanding and approach to learning.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPhysical Review·DateDec 15, 2015
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Uni successful in £350k bid to measure students' 'learning gain'

The University of Huddersfield is conducting a £350,000 research project to measure 'learning gain', defined as improvement in knowledge, skills, and employability. The project will survey hundreds of undergraduates who participate in additional activities beyond their course curriculum.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateNov 18, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Student scientists, dusty data, and dirty discoveries

Undergraduate and graduate students in Arizona and Michigan used open-access data to discover the influence of soil composition on microbial life. The students, part of a revolutionary virtual class, used social media and online forums to collaborate and analyze large-scale datasets.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 4, 2015

Mental maps: Route-learning changes brain tissue

Carnegie Mellon researchers find that practicing route-learning leads to structural brain changes in the hippocampus and improves functional connectivity between brain areas. This study establishes a critical link between spatial learning and brain alterations, providing new insights into the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive maps.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNeuroImage·DateOct 27, 2015

Scholars challenge colleges to reform STEM learning

A group of Michigan State University scholars argue that colleges need to transform their introductory science courses, focusing on core ideas and scientific practices. They suggest adopting strategies from K-12 schools to improve learning in STEM fields during the first two years of college.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Math story time at home bolsters achievement in school

New research from the University of Chicago shows that adding math talk to story time at home can significantly improve children's math achievement. Using an iPad app called Bedtime Math, parents and children can engage in high-quality math interactions, even infrequent use was beneficial.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 2015

Researchers make 5 recommendations for standardized test designers

Standardized test designers should use tests as tools to promote learning, provide feedback, and encourage self-assessment to enhance student outcomes. The researchers recommend adapting tests to students' ability levels and ensuring they encourage critical thinking and application of knowledge.

SourceSAGE·JournalPolicy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences·DateOct 1, 2015
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.

Making mini-makers

Students from Drexel and KAIST will collaborate on nanofabrication and energy storage projects using latest materials and instrumentation. The FIRST Nano2 Co-op Center aims to foster global partnerships in 21st-century technological challenges.

SourceDrexel University·DateSep 17, 2015

Learning is not a spectator sport

A study by Carnegie Mellon University's Simon Initiative shows that MOOCs are ineffective and that interactive approaches improve learning outcomes. Students who completed combined courses with OLI learned 66% on a final exam, compared to 57% for those in MOOC-only courses.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateSep 14, 2015

EARTH -- Geology for everyone: Making the field accessible

The geosciences are becoming more inclusive, thanks to initiatives like the first fully accessible field trip in 2014. Researchers found that focusing on students' abilities rather than challenges can create a rewarding experience for all. The American Geosciences Institute is promoting this approach through its efforts.

SourceAmerican Geosciences Institute·DateAug 24, 2015

NIMBioS receives NSF grant to assess student learning in mathematics

The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) has been awarded a two-year NSF grant to create the Quantitative Biology Concept Inventory (QBCI), an instrument to assess learning comprehension and skill development in college-level math courses with real-world examples versus abstract methods. The project ai...

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·DateAug 24, 2015

Passion for your job? If not, it's attainable

Researchers at University of Michigan examined two mindsets: fit theory and develop theory. They found that both are equally effective in achieving vocational well-being, with differing motivations. People with the fit theory prioritize initial enjoyment, while those with the develop theory focus on cultivating passion over time.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 21, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Prescription for medical students: A day at the art museum?

A study found that medical students who visited an art museum with people with dementia showed improved attitudes towards the disease. The experience helped students understand how patients and caregivers maintain relationships despite diagnosis.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 29, 2015
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.

NYU nursing and medical students learn teamwork with virtual teammates

Researchers at NYU develop a virtual IPE curriculum that improves collaboration and care delivery among nursing and medical students. The study finds that virtual learning is an effective and efficient tool for IPE, with no disadvantages over blended-learning approaches.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Interprofessional Care·DateJul 21, 2015

Study: Learning categorical information gives children a feeling of deja vu

Children learn general facts about broad categories effortlessly and may struggle to recognize when they learn something new. This 'knew-it-all-along' illusion suggests that kids' minds absorb information about categories more readily than specifics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJul 8, 2015

Up, up and away, in the name of science education

Researchers propose high-altitude balloons as a tool for science education, enabling students to conduct experiments in near-vacuum environments. This technology offers opportunities for hands-on learning, creativity, and enthusiasm, while also advancing scientific knowledge.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Learning Technology·DateJun 29, 2015
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.

Video game could transform middle school students' online learning

The $3.1 million project, supported by the US Department of Education, aims to develop an educational video game that engages students in learning about water systems and practicing scientific argumentation. Teachers can monitor progress and intervene to support individual needs, using data to adjust the course of the game.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateMay 14, 2015

America's best teachers get creative

A new study by Michigan State University scholars found that exceptional teachers incorporate their personal interests into the curriculum to create interactive and effective learning experiences. The research suggests that teachers should be encouraged to take creative risks and bring diverse perspectives to the classroom.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·DateMay 5, 2015
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.

Genres in writing: A new path to English language learning

A new approach to English language learning using multiple genres leads to improved student gains, according to a Boston College study. Genres in Writing breaks from traditional essay formats and teaches students to write across various genres, such as persuasive, expository, and historical.

SourceBoston College·DateApr 20, 2015

A scientific look at the art of teacher talk

A new study finds that teachers' conversational art of instruction can measurably influence literacy skills. Measured, positive feedback is shown to improve student performance, while talking around standardized test questions and failing to cultivate class-wide discussions have a negative effect.

SourceBoston College·DateApr 16, 2015

Element of surprise helps babies learn

Infants learn more about surprising objects than predictable ones by harnessing core information they're born with. They test hypotheses about the object's behavior, indicating a deeper attempt to learn about unexpected aspects of the world.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2015
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Majority of new pediatricians satisfied with first jobs

A majority of new general pediatricians are satisfied with their first job, with lifestyle and family considerations being the most important factor. The study found that over 80% of new pediatricians were very satisfied with their first jobs, with many wanting to spend more time in patient care and less in administrative tasks.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 23, 2015

Training the next generation of power engineers

The College of Engineering & Computer Science educates students on complex power engineering topics through modernized courses and hands-on experiments. Students learn to work as a team and develop essential skills in open-minded lifelong learning, making them attractive candidates for the smart grid workforce.

SourceSyracuse University·DateJan 15, 2015

New test measures doctors' ability to deliver patient-centered care

Researchers at the University of Missouri School of Medicine have developed a credible tool to assess medical students' ability to deliver patient-centered care. The Patient-centered Care - Objective Structured Clinical Exam (PCC-OSCE) evaluates behaviors such as effective communication, empathy, and active listening.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMedical Teacher·DateDec 29, 2014
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.

Research shows E.B. White was right in 'Charlotte's Web'

A new study reveals that Charlotte the spider embodies more intellectual traits of humility than Wilbur the pig, showcasing the importance of love for learning in humble individuals. The study found two clusters of traits: social humility and intellectual humility.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateDec 18, 2014

Personality outsmarts intelligence at school

Research at Griffith University found that personality is more important than intelligence for achieving academic success. Conscientiousness and Openness are key personality factors influencing academic performance.

SourceGriffith University·JournalLearning and Individual Differences·DateDec 16, 2014

Anyone who is good at German learns English better

Research by University of Zurich linguist Simone Pfenninger found that students with strong German language skills tend to excel in English, even if they start learning the latter at a later age. In contrast, early foreign language learning can sometimes hinder L1 development in the short term.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalInternational Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism·DateDec 10, 2014
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.

Why don't more minority students seek STEM careers? Ask them

A new study from Brown University reveals that minority students in STEM fields face unique challenges, including a need for social justice components and work-life balance guidance. The research gathered input from 50 underrepresented minority students to identify key themes that could improve their STEM training and career pursuits.

SourceBrown University·DateDec 1, 2014
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.

Cadavers beat computers for learning anatomy

A recent study published in Anatomical Sciences Education reveals that cadaver-based instruction is more effective than computer simulation in teaching anatomy. Students who learned on cadavers scored up to 16% higher on identification and 11% higher on explanation compared to those who used digital technologies.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAnatomical Sciences Education·DateOct 16, 2014

More physical activity improved school performance

A study by the Sahlgrenska Academy found that two hours of extra physical activity per week can improve school performance in twelve-year-olds. The results showed a larger proportion of students from schools with extra physical activity achieved national learning goals in all subjects compared to control groups.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of School Health·DateOct 14, 2014
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

$2.3 million NSF grant will fund MU study of math learning outcomes

The University of Missouri will receive a $2.3 million NSF grant to study the impact of elementary mathematics specialists on student learning outcomes. The research aims to improve math instruction by exploring the effectiveness of assigning specialist teachers to specific classrooms.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateOct 14, 2014

Trying to fool a kindergartner? Not so fast

A study published in PLOS ONE found that by age five, children are more likely to believe accurate but hesitant speakers over confident liars. This development in critical thinking is crucial for effective learning and evaluation of information.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 8, 2014

Are leaders born or made? New study shows how leadership develops

Researchers at the University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences conducted a new study on leadership development. The study found that leadership development progresses in three stages: readiness, willingness, and ability. Students who develop these skills can become effective leaders. Leadership i...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Leadership Education·DateOct 6, 2014
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

How curiosity changes the brain to enhance learning

Research reveals that curiosity activates brain regions involved in learning and memory, leading to improved retention of information. Curiosity also recruits the reward system and interactions between the hippocampus and reward circuit enhance learning, suggesting new approaches for treating memory disorders.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateOct 2, 2014

Video games could dramatically streamline educational research

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a novel method for educational research using computational modeling with video games. This approach allows computers to learn student behavior and think like students, making it possible to test multiple interventions before classroom implementation.

SourceWashington State University·JournalComputers & Education·DateSep 18, 2014

Latino children make greatest gains in N.C. pre-K

Research on North Carolina's pre-kindergarten program reveals that dual-language learners, especially those with lower English proficiency, make significant academic progress. The study found that focusing on classroom quality and incorporating home language strategies can maximize gains for these children.

SourceFrank Porter Graham Child Development Institute·JournalEarly Childhood Research Quarterly·DateAug 25, 2014
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.