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Rethinking reading

A recent study published in Developmental Psychology found that variation in words, rather than similarity, may help early readers learn the rules of phonics more effectively. The study showed that students exposed to varied practice outperformed those with similar word lists, particularly among struggling learners.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateNov 1, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A lesson in sleep learning

A Weizmann Institute study found that people can learn new information while sleeping and retain it unconsciously, modifying their waking behavior. The research used a type of conditioning involving tones and odors presented during sleep, leading to responses similar to those experienced when awake.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 26, 2012

Better student preparation needed for university maths

A new study by University of Manchester researchers found that university maths students lack awareness of the importance of mathematical content and struggle to apply math in practice. Schools and colleges are not adequately preparing students for the transition to university learning practices.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateAug 1, 2012

The science of training and development in organizations: What really matters, what really works

Research reveals that human resource executives should view training as a holistic process, considering factors like job analysis, employee motivation, and structured guidance. Effective training programs also incorporate empirically tested insights into learning, such as repetition, error handling, and behavioral role modeling.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateJun 13, 2012
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.

University of Houston professor receives Fulbright award

Marta Fairclough, associate professor at University of Houston, receives Fulbright grant to study Croatian as a heritage language in Croatia. The six-month project aims to document her own learning experience and shed light on the importance of teaching heritage languages.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJun 5, 2012

Stanford professors propose 'lecture-less' medical school classes

Two Stanford University professors propose a new approach to teaching that replaces traditional lectures with short online videos, allowing students to learn at their own pace. The flipped-classroom model has shown promising results in improving student reviews and class attendance.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 2, 2012

US students need new way of learning science

A group of scientists and educators has proposed a new approach to teaching science in US schools, emphasizing eight fundamental concepts and the practice of inquiry. The 8+1 Science concept aims to help students understand how scientific laws and principles apply across different disciplines.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Getting in rhythm helps children grasp fractions, study finds

Researchers at San Francisco State University found that a music-based curriculum can significantly improve fraction understanding in third-grade students. The program, known as Academic Music, uses rhythm and gestures to introduce fractions, resulting in a 50% increase in test scores compared to traditional math instruction.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalEducational Studies in Mathematics·DateMar 22, 2012

Checking off symptoms online affects our perceptions of risk

A new study found that the order in which symptoms are presented online significantly affects perceived risk of illness, with unchecked boxes offering reassurance. Researchers suggest grouping common and mild symptoms at the top of lists to encourage early health screenings.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 16, 2012

New computers respond to students' emotions, boredom

The new technology, AutoTutor and Affective AutoTutor, can gauge students' emotional states and adjust strategies to help them overcome frustration and boredom. Tested on over 1,000 students, the system produces significant learning gains, outperforming even expert human tutors.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalACM Transactions on Intelligent Systems and Technology·DateMar 2, 2012
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.

SFU scientists seek teaching excitement at AAAS

Simon Fraser University faculty members are attending the American Association for the Advancement of Science conference to share their teaching experiences and learn about innovative methods for engaging students in science education. They aim to bring new approaches back to their programs to benefit students, with a focus on active l...

SourceSimon Fraser University·DateFeb 3, 2012

ONline-learning must synch or sink, researcher says

A University of Alberta researcher found that online undergraduate classes using text-based formats lack reflective engagement and facilitate communication lacking in joy, passion, flavour and urgency. Kanuka recommends integrating audio-visual technologies to better support students and create a more engaging community of learners.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Computing in Higher Education·DateJan 27, 2012
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Plugged into learning: Computers help students advance

A 40-year retrospective analysis by Concordia University researchers found that technology has a small to moderate positive impact on both learning and attitude. The study suggests that technology works best when students are encouraged to think critically and communicate effectively.

SourceConcordia University·JournalReview of Educational Research·DateJan 16, 2012

School pupils learn about practical philosophy

Taking part in philosophical dialogue sessions improved children's listening skills, respect for others, and ability to consider alternative perspectives. The Community of Philosophical Inquiry approach also helped them analyze problems and make informed decisions.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·DateJan 5, 2012
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.

Evolutionary practices in schools can benefit at-risk students

A school program based on evolutionary principles helped at-risk high schoolers succeed, with improvements in performance, attendance, and social behavior. The program's design features, including positive group identity and consensus decision-making, were successful in creating a conducive learning environment.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 20, 2011

Policy reforms 'demoralizing' teaching profession, scholar argues

Doris Santoro argues that rigid curricula and high-stakes testing undermine a teacher's ability to respond to students' needs. The author emphasizes the distinction between burnout and demoralization, highlighting the need for policymakers to promote quality teaching.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalAmerican Journal of Education·DateNov 15, 2011

Focus on testing hurts students in high school health classes

Students in health classes with a mastery focus reported better responses regarding sexual advances and safe sex habits, including lower intentions of having sex and improved navigation of sexual situations. In contrast, extrinsic-focused classrooms showed no improvement or even negative effects on these measures.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateNov 15, 2011

National Academy of Sciences awards Gamedesk $225,000 grant to develop science-based interactive game for classrooms

The National Academy of Sciences has awarded a $225,000 grant to GameDesk to develop an interactive game that engages students physically and mentally in difficult science topics. The Science in Motion project aims to create educational geoscience games that support students' comprehension of cause-and-effect relationships.

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateNov 1, 2011
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Curiosity doesn't kill the student

A new study published in Perspectives in Psychological Science reveals that curiosity plays a significant role in academic success, with personality traits like curiosity being as important as intelligence. Conscientiousness is also found to be a key factor, suggesting that teaching methods can inspire curiosity and motivation.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateOct 27, 2011

CHEST 2011: Embargoed studies highlight new simulation education research

Research suggests that emotional distress during simulation education can impair medical students' learning, leading to increased cognitive load and decreased pass rates. Simulation training programs, such as ACLS resident simulation training, have also been found not to impact real patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2011

Learning from our mistakes is hardwired, study suggests

A groundbreaking study by Michigan State University researchers found that people who believe they can learn from their mistakes exhibit distinct brain activity compared to those who do not. This difference may be used to tailor training programs to individuals' learning styles and abilities.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 3, 2011
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.

How your brain reacts to mistakes depends on your mindset

A new study published in Psychological Science found that individuals with a growth mindset exhibit different brain activity when making mistakes, leading to better post-error adjustments. Those who believe intelligence is fixed show reduced brain activity and difficulty bouncing back from errors.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 30, 2011

NIH to fund development of K-12 neuroscience education programs

The NIH will provide funding for eight innovative neuroscience education programs aimed at increasing science literacy and interest among K-12 students. These programs, led by investigators across the US, will use creative strategies such as touch tablet technology and interactive learning centers to engage students in neuroscience.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·DateSep 27, 2011

Size matters: Length of songbirds’ playlists linked to brain region proportions

A study by Cornell University researchers found that songbirds' ability to learn and remember songs is linked to the size and proportion of their brain regions. The research suggests that species with larger higher brain areas relative to lower areas can learn dozens or hundreds of different notes.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2011

Primary schoolchildren can be great tutors

A trial of peer tutoring in Scotland's primary schools found that children as young as seven to eight years old can benefit from a twenty-minute weekly session. The boost to school pupils' attainment provided by peer tutoring was equivalent to about three months progress in both maths and reading.

SourceDurham University·JournalSchool Effectiveness and School Improvement·DateSep 13, 2011
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.

Student complaints of lackluster learning? The key to quelling boredom is within, grasshopper

According to University of Alberta researcher Lia Daniels, students can overcome boredom by using internal strategies such as re-appraising, critiquing, or evading their classes. The re-appraisers are the most resourceful group, while criticsizers may bring about effective change with the right communication from teachers. Parents and ...

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalLearning and Individual Differences·DateSep 1, 2011

2-year-old children understand complex grammar

Researchers found that 2-year-olds can identify correct images with complex verb sentences, suggesting infants know more about language structure than they can articulate. This study reveals the beginnings of grammar acquisition start earlier than previously thought and demonstrate children use grammar to understand new words.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCognitive Science·DateAug 23, 2011
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.

Four-year-olds know that being right is not enough

A new study found that four-year-olds can differentiate between individuals who provide accurate information due to independent knowledge and those who rely on external help. This skill allows children to seek out trustworthy sources, enabling more effective learning.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 18, 2011

Light switch: U.Va. study finds increased light may moderate fearful reactions

A University of Virginia study found that intense light enhances fear or anxiety in mice, while dimmer light reduces it. The researchers discovered that the visual pathway responsible for this behavior is in the rods and cones, which can be used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2011
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.

Schoolchildren can also learn complex subject matters on their own

Researchers at TUM found that schoolchildren can master complex math topics on their own, without significant differences in performance between weaker and stronger students. The study, which involved 1600 8th-grade students, suggests that child-led learning can be an effective option for teachers to offer varied lesson formats.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateAug 8, 2011

Does Chinese chocolate taste better than Swiss? Depends on when you find out

A study found that consumers prefer Chinese chocolate over Swiss when informed about its origin after tasting, contrary to expectations. The preference reversed when participants were told the country of origin before consuming the chocolate, suggesting a strong association between Switzerland and high-quality chocolate.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 14, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

MU psychology study finds key early skills for later math learning

A long-term study found that students who understand numbers and low-level arithmetic in first grade have better success in learning mathematics through fifth grade. The researchers identified understanding the number line and basic facts as critical beginning-of-school math skills.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJul 11, 2011

Grant funds science career days for Philadelphia public school students

The Academy of Natural Sciences will host two science career days for 800 6th-8th grade students and their teachers, providing hands-on learning experiences with local scientists. The event aims to showcase various STEM career opportunities and help teachers integrate math and science into their curriculum.

SourceAcademy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University·DateJun 10, 2011

Revamped college science course improves student performance -- in spite of cuts

A revised college science course design improved overall student performance and narrowed the achievement gap for educationally disadvantaged students. The highly structured format, which includes daily practice with problem-solving and data analysis, reduced the gap by 45%, according to research published in Science.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

Penn research overturns theory on how children learn their first words

A team of Penn psychologists overturned the long-standing associative word learning theory, finding that children learn their first words through moments of insight rather than gradual exposure. Experiments involving short video segments showed that repeated exposure did not improve accuracy, and early informative vignettes were crucia...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2011

Inconsistent math curricula hurting US students, study finds

A study found significant differences in math curricula across US states and school districts, placing some students at a disadvantage. The research, published in the American Journal of Education, suggests that less demanding curricula can lead to poor outcomes despite controlling for socio-economic status.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalAmerican Journal of Education·DateMay 2, 2011
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.

Movement + academics = success

A daily physical activity program that incorporated classroom lessons resulted in improved test scores for students at an elementary school. The percentage of students reaching their goal score increased from 55% to 68.5% after the program was initiated.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateMay 1, 2011

Alcohol, mood and me (not you)

A new study uses long-term data to discover that the relationship between mood and alcohol use varies greatly among individuals. Adolescents with behavioral problems tend to drink more regardless of their mood, while those without behavioral issues exhibit a stronger link between depression and increased drinking when feeling down.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateApr 28, 2011

How beliefs shape effort and learning

A study published in Psychological Science found that individuals with different theories of intelligence evaluate their own learning differently. Entity theorists tend to disengage when faced with challenges, while incremental theorists believe more time and effort can lead to better results.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 15, 2011
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Creative, online learning tool helps students tackle real-world problems

ThinkSpace, a computer interface developed at Iowa State University, is helping students tackle real-world problems in the horticulture classroom. The platform leverages the classroom experience into something students can use at work, making connections between theoretical knowledge and practical applications.

SourceIowa State University·DateApr 11, 2011

Science 101: Different teaching fosters better comprehension

Concordia University's Calvin Kalman found that incorporating reflective writing into introductory science courses enhances students' conceptual understanding. Students who practiced reflective writing reported better grasp of key concepts and improved retention rates in the field.

SourceConcordia University·JournalScience & Education·DateApr 5, 2011
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Student confidence correlated with academic performance

Research at Kansas State University found that student confidence levels correlate with academic achievement, particularly when targeted learning objectives are used. Students' reported confidence improved significantly over the course period and was positively correlated with their academic performance.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 4, 2011

As we sleep, speedy brain waves boost our ability to learn

Researchers found that bursts of brain waves known as 'sleep spindles' may network between key brain regions to clear a path to learning. This networking helps shift fact-based memories from the hippocampus to the prefrontal cortex, freeing up storage space for new data.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 8, 2011

University of Miami awarded Howard Hughes Medical Institute experiment grant

The University of Miami has received a grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to design and assess an innovative competency-based premedical curriculum. The new curriculum will focus on integrating basic science concepts with clinical cases to teach students critical thinking skills and prepare them for future medical practice.

SourceUniversity of Miami·DateFeb 28, 2011