The Career Compass Coalition
Guiding and paving a path for high school students to explore career paths and achieve collegiate success.
Issue 01
Chaos to Control: Time Management Techniques
“As students, we all know the struggle of managing our time. Juggling assignments, extracurriculars, and family and social activities can be a nightmare...”
Issue 02
Understanding Learning Styles and
Their Impact on Classroom
Teaching
“In today’s diverse classrooms, students have different ways of processing and retaining information. Understanding and accommodating various learning styles can significantly...”
https://thecareercompasscoalition.org/
Issue 03
The Future of Learning: The Pros and Cons of AI in Education
“In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has begun making its way into classrooms around the world, transforming the landscape of education. As a result of this...”
Issue 04
What are the best techniques for studying?
“Studying effectively requires a strategic approach that maximizes learning and retention. There are techniques that students can use, mainly categorized into...”
Issue 05
Dismantling the Department of Education: What You Need to Know
“The Department of Education, America’s education system, is facing changes under the current administration...”
https://thecareercompasscoalition.org/
Issue 06
Stress to Success; Prioritizing Well-Being During College Admissions
“For the past few months, high school seniors have been swept up in the whirlwind of college applications...”
Issue 07
The Digital Divide - Technology in Modern Classrooms
“Technology is everywhere we look; from entertainment, to writing notes in class, and even this article you are reading right now...”
Issue 08
A Look Into 5 of the Most Unique College Courses in
America
“Going to college is often hailed as a formative experience for a multitude of reasons: it’s often the most transformative period of people’s lives, shaping their career, interests, and most importantly, freedom...”
https://thecareercompasscoalition.org/
Issue 09
AI transforms medical education, a threat or a tool?
“Artificial intelligence is reshaping medical education, offering efficient and innovative learning experiences. Tools like generative AI, machine learning models, and virtual simulations are ”
Issue 10
The Ethical Use of AI in Academics
“Artificial Intelligence is becoming more and more integrated into our society day by day. It is not only a part of our world in fields like technology or sciences, it has become...”
Issue 11
Lawsuit Accuses University of California of Racial Discrimination in Admissions
“In February 2025, a lawsuit was filed against the University of California (UC), accusing the system of racial discrimination in its admissions process. The group Students Against Racial Discrimination claims that...”
https://thecareercompasscoalition.org/
Issue 13
Focusing on Students' Wellbeing
“Students from around the world understand the complexities surrounding the word “wellbeing.” This word further sparkes contrast within the perspective of...”
Issue 12
How the Battle For Your Focus Shapes Markets and
Society
“In today’s digital world, attention has become one of the most valuable commodities. Companies, advertisers, and content creators compete for...”
Issue 14
The Role of Technology in Personalized Learning
“The role of technology in personalized learning has become increasingly important in reshaping modern education. As classrooms become more diverse...”
https://thecareercompasscoalition.org/
Chaos to Control: Time Management Techniques
Journalist: Caylyn
D.
As students, we all know the struggle of managing our time Juggling assignments, extracurriculars, and family and social activities can be a nightmare, to say the least It can be hard to find ways to find the balance, but there are a lot of different ways to get everything done!
Firstly, one of my favorite methods is the Pomodoro Technique The Pomodoro Technique was invented by Francesco Cirillo, who used a kitchen timer to break up his work. First, set a timer for 25 minutes Work on any given task during this time, and once your timer goes off, take a 5-minute break Repeat this process four times, then take a 25-minute break, and repeat this process until you get your task(s) done! This technique is helpful in implementing necessary breaks and preventing burnout.
Another habit that can be very useful is using a planner! A lot of people depend on their brains to remember things they need to get done and end up forgetting important things. Writing down tasks
Lastly, it’s important to address distractions in your environment when you're trying to get things done. Setting your phone on Do Not Disturb and setting it away can help you to truly focus on the task at hand. Even relocating completely, like going to a local library or someplace similar, can really allow you to concentrate and get your work done
There are a lot of different time management techniques out there. They’re all different and target different areas and obstacles preventing you from managing your time correctly. Ultimately, it’s important to do your own research and find out what works for you. when you get them serves as a physical reminder to prevent your tasks from slipping from your mind!
Understanding Learning Styles and Their Impact on Classroom Teaching
Journalist: Jahnavi G
In today’s diverse classrooms, students have different ways of processing and retaining information. Understanding and accommodating various learning styles can significantly enhance student engagement, comprehension, and overall academic success. By implementing tailored instructional strategies, educators can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.
The Different Learning Styles
Learning styles refer to the preferred ways individuals absorb and understand new information The most commonly recognized learning styles include:
1. Visual Learners – These students grasp concepts best through images, charts, diagrams, and written instructions. Incorporating infographics, mind maps, and color-coded notes can enhance their learning experience.
2. Auditory Learners – They retain information best through listening. Strategies such as lectures, group discussions, podcasts, and verbal explanations help reinforce key concepts.
3 Kinesthetic (Tactile) Learners – These students learn by doing Hands-on activities, experiments, role-playing, and physical movement in lessons can improve their understanding
4. Reading/Writing Learners – Prefer text-based information. Encouraging note-taking, journaling, reading assignments, and written exercises benefits these learners.
5. Social (Interpersonal) Learners – They thrive in group settings. Collaborative projects, peer teaching, and classroom discussions work well for them
6 Solitary (Intrapersonal) Learners – Prefer independent study and self-reflection Providing self-paced assignments and goal-setting exercises supports their learning
The Impact of Learning Styles on Teaching
Recognizing different learning styles allows educators to implement varied teaching strategies, leading to:
Differentiated Instruction – Using a combination of teaching methods, such as visual aids, storytelling, hands-on activities, and discussions, ensures that all students can engage effectively.
Improved Student Engagement – When lessons align with students’ learning preferences, they are more likely to stay motivated and actively participate in class Enhanced Retention and Understanding – Tailoring instruction helps students process and retain information more efficiently.
Diverse Assessment Methods – Offering multiple forms of assessment, including written tests, oral presentations, and project-based evaluations, ensures a fair evaluation of students' abilities
Understanding and adapting to different learning styles fosters an inclusive and effective classroom environment. By implementing diverse teaching strategies, educators can ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed. Integrating technology further enhances this approach, making learning more accessible and engaging for everyone By embracing these differences, teachers can create a supportive and dynamic educational experience for all learners.
The Future of Learning: The Pros and Cons of AI in Education
Journalist: Heritier I.
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has begun making its way into classrooms around the world, transforming the landscape of education.
As a result of this, AI has significantly improved accessibility for students breaking barriers they may have previously faced Artificial intelligence has empowered learners by offering them access to higher-quality educational resources, which are available to all, irrespective of their economic circumstances or geographical location.
Additionally, AI serves as a quick and accurate information source for most students in their education.AI ensures that every student, regardless of their background, can engage with invaluable learning materials and opportunities that were once out of reach
Although AI has revolutionized education and transformed the way concepts are taught in the classroom, it also in a sense diminished the enthusiasm for the pursuit of knowledge the hard way, as information provided by AI is merely a click away.
A significant issue that arises from the integration of AI in education is the growing reliance on technology As schools and universities increasingly utilize AI-driven tools for various functions such as teaching, assessing students, and managing administrative tasks, there is a potential risk of becoming overly dependent on these systems
This over-reliance could lead to substantial disruptions should there be technical failures or cyber-attacks. Additionally, it raises concerns about students’ ability to develop essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as they may become too reliant on AI to provide them with answers and solutions rather than engaging deeply with the material themselves
In conclusion, while the integration of AI in education presents numerous advantages, it is crucial to approach its implementation with caution By maintaining this balance, we can harness the benefits of AI while preparing students for a future that values critical engagement and resilience.
What are the best techniques for studying?
Journalist: Yonghao J
The Best Techniques for Studying
Studying effectively requires a strategic approach that maximizes learning and retention. There are techniques that students can use, mainly categorized into active and passive techniques. While passive techniques involve more traditional and less interactive methods, active techniques engage students in a way that enhances understanding and long-term recall
1) Active Techniques
Active study techniques demand participation, critical thinking, and engagement with the material. These methods have been shown to improve comprehension and retention significantly.
Self-Testing and Retrieval Practice (Also Known as Active Recall)
One of the most effective study techniques is self-testing This involves recalling information from memory without looking at notes or textbooks. Flashcards, practice quizzes, and summarizing key concepts from memory help strengthen neural connections, making it easier to retrieve information during exams
2. Feynman Technique
This technique involves explaining a concept in simple terms as if teaching it to someone else. By doing so, students identify gaps in their understanding and reinforce their knowledge. Interleaving Practice
Instead of studying one topic at a time, interleaving involves mixing different subjects or types of problems within a study session. This enhances adaptability and problem-solving skills by requiring students to switch between concepts.
4 Elaborative Interrogation
This technique involves asking oneself “why” and “how” questions about the material By making connections between ideas, students develop a deeper understanding rather than just memorizing facts
Active Note-Taking (Cornell Method, Mind Maps, Annotations)
Writing down key concepts in an organized manner, using methods like the Cornell system or mind maps, helps structure information and improves recall.
2) Passive Techniques
Passive studying methods involve receiving information with minimal interaction While these techniques can be useful as supplementary methods, relying on them exclusively may not be as effective as active learning strategies.
1.
Reading and Highlighting
Many students rely on reading textbooks and highlighting important sections.
However, this method alone does not ensure retention. To make it more effective, students should combine it with active recall or summarization.
2.
Listening to Lectures or Audiobooks
Listening to lectures, podcasts, or audiobooks can be beneficial, especially when revising or multitasking. However, students should take notes or engage in discussions afterward to reinforce the material.
3 Rewriting Notes
Simply rewriting notes without processing the information is a passive method
To enhance its effectiveness, students should summarize the material in their own words or create visual diagrams
4. Watching Educational Videos
Videos can be a useful way to absorb information, especially for visual learners. However, without interaction such as taking notes, pausing to answer questions, or discussing the content students may not retain much information.
Conclusion
Both active and passive study techniques play a role in effective learning However, active techniques, which involve retrieval practice, self-explanation, and problem-solving, tend to be more effective for long-term retention. Passive techniques can serve as a foundation but should be supplemented with active engagement to maximize understanding. The best approach
to studying combines multiple methods to suit individual learning styles and subject requirements.
Dismantling the Department of Education: What You Need to Know
Journalist: Nevaeh M.
The Department of Education, America’s education system, is facing changes under the current administration. President Trump's proposal to dismantle the department has stirred a mix of controversy and support from people all across America. This bold move aims to streamline federal involvement in education, but pushes further questions about student support and civil right protection
The Administrations Vision
The proposed plan includes closing parts or all of the Department of Education. President Trump has expressed a desire to eliminate the department, shifting its responsibilities to other federal agencies Linda McMahon, the nominee for education secretary and former CEO of sports company WWE©, has been tasked with leading this effort. During her confirmation hearing, McMahon highlighted her commitment to making the department more efficient, which may involve transferring programs to other agencies.
Impact on Federal Education Programs
The Department of Education’s budget makes up around 21% of total education spending in the country. One significant concern is the potential impact on federal student loans and college aid These programs help provide essential financial support to millions of students yearly The administration's proposal includes scaling down the department, with actions such as canceling contracts related to education statistics and research. These changes could disrupt the flow of financial aid and access to educational resources.
Civil Rights and Equal Access
The Department of Education plays a crucial role in enforcing the rights of students with disabilities, combating discrimination, and promoting inclusive education practices. There is a risk that vulnerable student populations might face increased barriers to quality education. The administration's proposal has sparked concerns among educators and advocacy groups about the continuity and effectiveness of these protections Ensuring that any redistributed responsibilities do not compromise the progress made in educational equity will be paramount. The potential
dissolution of the department raises questions about how these critical functions will be maintained and whether new mechanisms will be sufficient to address the needs of all students.
So What's Next?
The administration's plan to dismantle the D.O.E. will require congressional approval, and there is no telling if it will be successful or not The proposal has sparked a national debate about the role of the federal government in education, the balance of efficiency versus accessibility, and the long-term effects on students and educators.
As the discussion continues, stakeholders from all corners of the education landscape will need to weigh in, ensuring that any changes serve the best interests of American students The future of federal education is in flux, and the decisions made today will shape the educational opportunities and experiences of generations to come.
Stress to Success; Prioritizing Well-Being During College Admissions
Journalist: Krisha M.
For the past few months, high school seniors have been swept up in the whirlwind of college applications- writing letters of recommendation, preparing for interviews, and crafting personal statements Soon, these students will see their efforts come to fruition as college decisions begin pouring in. However, this period of time can be anxiety-inducing, especially as students experience the added pressure of social media comparisons Teenagers must prioritize their well-being and mental health during this stressful period.
The first idea to consider is whether a school will be the right fit for a student Certain teenagers may idolize a certain school, making it their ultimate goal to attend it Although having strong goals and ambition is valuable, this mindset can be damaging It’s essential to prioritize a school’s “fit” rather than its prestige or rankings. Factors like cost, location, class size, campus
life, academic support, and more all affect people differently, so students must focus on the colleges that benefit their personal needs the most. So, getting rejected from a dream university may be a blessing in disguise, leading students to a college that better aligns with their requirements
High school seniors should also think about their well-being during this period. It’s easy to get carried away with demeaning thoughts and negative self-talk, but practicing self-care, avoiding unhealthy comparisons, and maintaining a positive mindset are some of the best ways to make this journey more manageable. Most importantly, these teenagers should focus on being present and having fun! These are the last few months of high school, and now that the prospect of college applications is no longer looming overhead, students are free to fully enjoy themselves.
Overall, college admissions is a stressful time, but they do not determine a student’s worth or level of success. Certain schools will fit specific students’ needs better, but it might not always be the one they desire However, self-care and realizing that a rejection is not the end of the road fosters happiness and a positive mindset. Keeping things in perspective and being present can help turn this nerve-wracking journey of college admissions into a more enjoyable, carefree one, allowing students to better prepare themselves for the future.
The Digital Divide - Technology in Modern Classrooms
Journalist: Anushika D
Technology is everywhere we look; from entertainment, to writing notes in class, and even this article you are reading right now. Could you imagine how different your life would be without it? For around 1 3 billion students worldwide, a world without the internet is all they have ever
known This staggering statistic highlights an important concern in modern education - the digital divide and its impacts on the deliverance of modern education around the world
Understanding the digital divide
The “Digital Divide” refers to the contrast in educational and career opportunities caused by the uneven distribution of technologies globally. The primary concerns are often about the availability of adequate internet connections and devices for usage, which can impede the development of modern skills and access to current/updates news. Although there are various
factors contributing to this issue, the three main causes identified across most platforms seem to be socioeconomic factors (eg race, the level of income in a household, the standard of living in their nation, etc), gender and geographical location.
This is due to the attached infrustratural and financial constraints (or discrimination) that individuals subjected to these causes experience, making it difficult to afford or simply access any kinds of technology
Why is technology important in education?
There are a range of reasons technology has become vital in modern day education, with some of the main reasons being:
- Builds important skills: One of the key benefits of incorporating technology into classrooms is that it builds familiarity and employable skills with digital devices, which can help better prepare students for their careers in a world dependent on technology
-
Customised learning: It is also an incredibly useful tool for teachers, as they are able to better customise their lessons (through the wide range of creative sources now available online for almost every subject/individual concept) to best meet their student’s needs and promote engaged learning.
Some places also recommend implementing offline or stored energy solutions, to target areas with unreliable electrical connections.
2 Promoting NGO efforts:
Charities
and other non-profit organisations aimed at bridging this educational divide can work personally with communities and source the correct resources/materials needed to improve local connectivity, or with effective outreach efforts even provide digital devices, accelerating the efforts to empower communities.
3. Urging for improved governmental policies:
Considering the influence authorative bodies have over resource allocation, urging for policies and initiaves that expand the availability for technologies amongst wider communities (eg. subsidising electricity/internet connections in low-income areas) may be a powerful step towards equitable access
As the world of technology develops step by step everyday, we must try and ensure that everyone moves forward together, for a more inclusive and efficient future.
A Look Into 5 of the Most Unique College Courses in America
Journalist: Swara S.
Going to college is often hailed as a formative experience for a multitude of reasons: it’s often the most transformative period of people’s lives, shaping their career, interests, and most importantly, freedom. While the cliché of newfound independence often pertains to freedom found in students’ personal undertakings, this can also extend to their academic pursuits as well. Albeit the gen ed requirements each university upholds as part of students’ majors, there are thousands of unique university classes nationwide that seek to satisfy students’ thirst for knowledge in various niches
1 Taylor Swift and Her World
Amidst Taylor Swift’s 2023 surge in popularity, dozens of courses dedicated to Swift’s vast literary repertoire cropped up in universities such as Northeastern and ASU. Most notably, Harvard University in Cambridge, MA offers the course “Taylor Swift and Her World,” dedicated to exploring the literary merits of her songwriting, and how this talent interacts with her pop
stardom. The course, with about 300 undergraduate students, is one of the most popular classes on campus.
Not all classes are as new as the ones studying popular celebrities;
Pennsylvania State University has been offering an ice cream short course for almost 130 years The class is only offered annually, and it justifiably has a waiting list spanning about a decade. Students can expect to learn the basics of ice cream composition, flavoring techniques, and safety standards in the ice cream manufacturing industry.
Following the trend of courses rooted in pop culture trends, Skidmore College in Saratoga, NY offers a seminar class studying the socio-political influences of Korean pop culture. Not only does it cover K-pop music, but it also delves into Korean cuisine, art, and literature so students gain a holistic understanding of Korean culture and how it impacts mainstream media. Offered by the college’s anthropology department, the course studies nation branding strategies, cultural imperialism, and counterculture through the lens of Korean media
3 K-Pop Seminar
2. Ice Cream Manufacturing
Korean popular culture has entered mainstream media in a variety of ways, including through film and music The K-pop Seminar at Skidmore College seeks to examine these influences to better understand how nation branding influences popular culture as a whole Image credit: The Times
4. Surviving a Zombie Apocalypse
Going beyond traditional formats of a college class, Michigan State University offers a multimedia experience-based course investigating human behavior and psychological instincts when surviving zombie apocalypses. The course is taught by professors working in psychology and others who are trained in visual arts, helping students learn about human behavior in times of catastrophe from a multitude of perspectives
5. How to Stage a Revolution
In a similar vein regarding catastrophic events, Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers a unique historical course examining revolutions across the world. Students investigate both failed and successful revolutions through the lens of music, literature, and even film to gain a better understanding of socio-political causes of revolution and the patterns between them
AI transforms medical education, a threat or a tool?
Journalist: Ana Julia S.
Artificial intelligence is reshaping medical education, offering efficient and innovative learning experiences. Tools like generative AI, machine learning models, and virtual simulations are revolutionizing how medical students learn, providing opportunities for practice in realistic, lowrisk environments. Harvard Medical School highlights how these technologies enable dynamic, interactive simulations, improving clinical reasoning and decision-making without real-world consequences
AI also empowers students with personalized education, allowing students to learn at their own pace. Adaptive platforms can adjust content based on performance, addressing individual strengths and weaknesses. This ensures students receive the support they need to succeed while bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical practice.
As healthcare becomes more data-driven, AI is essential in clinical decision-making. It helps analyze medical data, predict outcomes, and support evidence-based practices. The Association of American Medical Colleges stresses that integrating AI into curricula is essential
for preparing students for the evolving role of technology in patient care. However, caution is needed, as AI must remain under human oversight to ensure ethical practices.
Harvard Medicine, 2024.
Despite its potential, AI in medical education involves plenty of challenges. Issues such as bias, data privacy, and equity must be addressed with urgency. AI systems could perpetuate biases if not carefully managed, and ensuring equal access to these tools is crucial for avoiding disparities in medical education
While AI presents immense potential to transform medical education, it is crucial to approach its integration thoughtfully By enhancing learning experiences, offering personalized education, and supporting clinical decision-making, AI plays an essential role in shaping the future of healthcare
However, addressing challenges like bias, data privacy, and equity must be a priority to ensure fair and ethical use of these technologies. With careful oversight, AI can revolutionize medical education, preparing future healthcare professionals for an increasingly data-driven world while maintaining high standards of patient care.
The Ethical Use of AI in Academics
Journalist: Nicia W.
Artificial Intelligence is becoming more and more integrated into our society day by day
It is not only a part of our world in fields like technology or sciences, it has become a part of education and one that is unavoidable, at that Artificial Intelligence cannot simply be rejected from our world, as harmful as it can be It is a tool that can be misused just like any other, however it is not inherently harmful. Artificial Intelligence can be incorporated into your educational life, it is only a matter of doing so ethically and efficiently.
The common mistake students make when utilizing artificial intelligence programs like ChatGPT or Google Gemini is that they allow the AI to become the student rather than using AI as a tool. AI was invented to be an instrument to advance humans, not become human. It is a device created to help and instead, it is being abused and taken advantage of This causes artificial intelligence to be used unethically in education and allows students to undeservingly get ahead. In other words, how would you feel if your competition for the highest grade was Google after studying tirelessly to learn as much as a human physically could? While AI can be a useful
tool and one that is undeniably integrated into our evolving society, it is important to maintain academic integrity if you should choose to use AI.
You can uphold academic honor by using AI as it was intended, as an instrument for assistance. This means instead of prompting ChatGPT to write your essay for you, you can prompt it to grade what you’ve written and adapt your work based on its feedback. Instead of snapping a picture of your math homework and having the answer served to you, you can take a picture of your work and have AI explain where you went wrong Your work should be human-produced and mildly reviewed by AI rather than AI-produced and hardly reviewed by humans. You should be fostering responsible and positive AI usage, as well as fact-checking or thinking about what the AI has to say. AI is not the all-knowing force it is perceived to be and often makes mistakes. It is your job as a human to use it responsibly and maintain academic integrity
As tempting as it can be to type a quick prompt into ChatGPT and have your homework done within thirty seconds, it can end up doing more harm than good. Aside from academic consequences like having your work nulled, being placed on academic probation, or even facing suspension, a reliance on AI can also cause a cognitive decline in users Studies by Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University show that over-reliance on AI can result in impaired critical thinking skills. The brain is a muscle that needs to be exercised just like any other and the rule of “Use it or lose it” rings true to your mind too. The less you allow your brain to engage with the necessary skills for analytical thought, the harder it becomes to do so when necessary It’s for these reasons that it's in your best interest to fight the temptation and do your schoolwork manually However difficult it may be, the gratification that comes with completion is incomparable
Lawsuit Accuses University of California of Racial Discrimination in Admissions
Journalist: Chinedu A.
In February 2025, a lawsuit was filed against the University of California (UC), accusing the system of racial discrimination in its admissions process. The group Students Against Racial Discrimination claims that UC's "holistic" admissions policy, which considers factors beyond academic performance, unfairly favors Black and Latino students over Asian American and white applicants. The lawsuit argues that this practice violates the 14th Amendment, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and California’s Proposition 209, which prohibits race-based admissions decisions UC officials have rejected the allegations, stating that race is not a factor in admissions decisions and that race and ethnicity data are only collected for statistical purposes They maintain that the university complies with legal requirements and does not give preference based on race or ethnicity in evaluating applicants. The case arises in the wake of the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that prohibited race-based college admissions, compelling universities to reassess their policies
The lawsuit could have significant implications for UC’s admissions policies and may influence other institutions nationwide. If the court rules in favor of the plaintiffs, UC might be required to revise its admissions process to eliminate any consideration of race. The outcome of this case is being closely watched by higher education leaders and advocates for diversity, as it could set a precedent for how universities handle race in admissions moving forward.
The Economics of Attention: How the Battle For Your Focus Shapes Markets and Society
Journalist: Ali A.
In today’s digital world, attention has become one of the most valuable commodities Companies, advertisers, and content creators compete for our focus, shaping economies and influencing society. This "attention economy" impacts consumer behavior, media consumption, and even mental health. As technology advances, understanding how businesses monetize attention and how individuals can manage their focus is more critical than ever
Herbert Simon, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, first identified attention as a scarce resource, stating, “A wealth of information creates a poverty of attention” (Simon 40). In a digital landscape flooded with content, businesses use algorithms, targeted ads, and persuasive design to capture and retain user focus. Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube generate revenue by maximizing screen time, selling user attention to advertisers. This model, known as surveillance capitalism, enables companies to collect data and personalize content,
further reinforcing user engagement (Zuboff).
The competition for attention has reshaped industries Streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ release entire seasons at once, encouraging binge-watching, while news outlets craft sensational headlines to increase clicks. Even education has adapted, with platforms like Duolingo and Coursera incorporating a technique called interactive engagement to retain its users However, the reliance on attention-driven revenue models raises ethical concerns Studies show that excessive digital engagement can lead to shorter attention spans and increased anxiety, prompting debates over corporate responsibility and overall consumer well-being (Carr).
The societal effects of the attention economy extend beyond individual habits Political campaigns, misinformation, and online activism thrive in environments designed to maximize engagement. Social media algorithms often prioritize controversial or emotionally charged content, influencing public opinion and deepening ideological divides Experts suggest that media literacy and digital well-being initiatives are essential to counteract these effects, emphasizing the need for regulation and user awareness (Tufekci).
The economics of attention shape not only markets but also social interactions, education, and political landscapes. As businesses refine their tactics to capture focus, individuals must develop strategies to manage their attention wisely. Awareness of persuasive digital techniques, mindful media consumption, and policy discussions on ethical advertising can help create a more balanced and informed society
Focusing on Students' Wellbeing
Journalist:
Sofia C.
Students from around the world understand the complexities surrounding the word “wellbeing.” This word further sparkes contrast within the perspective of the youth and students, compared to, the older generation believes that “If you're not bleeding or crippled then, you’re fine ” Overall strengthening, the stark differences between the two from a difference in environmental factors and experience with social-norms.
Generally, “student well-being” is depicted as prioritizing the emotional or social health of the students rather than their physical being This idealistic notion is what every child yearns for adults to not only acknowledge but take into account through action Ultimately, when everyone, especially adults, began to realize the negative psychological damage on children, that included, depression, anxiety, etc was an effect of not being socially aware of students' “mental” wellness.
This caused the term “students wellbeing” not only to encompass physical health but in addition, mental health as well.
Socially, for children and/or students is one of the most challenging aspects of becoming an “adult” in the first place, because of how it forces them to expose themselves to others who are, more or less, the same as them. This should sound simple, but unfortunately, it’s not easy to speak with another person your age from just the basic emotion of fear or shame from others, who can see who you truly are.
Moreover, children who have been affected by COVID-19 struggle with socially-emersifying themselves with others from being away from people for so long
According to, “Edutopia”, by Cathleen Beachboard, it states, “Communication helps with coping and healing. Teachers can create spaces even remotely where every student can check-in. Communication allows teachers to gain insight on student safety concerns, feedback, and traumas[1].” This all comes to show the crucial importance of socialization with students to students, but also students to teachers This matters because it emphasizes the need for adults to recognize the value of “students wellbeing” not only being external but also internal
Additionally, this “new belief” needs a practice/ ritual to make the faith stay strong, as it is in today's society This could be illustrated through regular mindfulness practices to detox students' overwhelming anxiety for not only their education but also their futures in general. For example, teachers could try incorporating relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation into their classroom lessons, so everyone can focus better on what matters, the present and how we
can improve our current selves, instead of, thinking about how to rush a conclusion to what are lives must be like in the future.
To add on, if students are regularly checked in on by counsellors, teachers, and parents their overall social and mental needs will be more positive at school and outside of school. When their individual concerns are met with extensive answers in discussion, it makes them feel heard, and genuinely confident in what their opinions are This will heavily influence their school work by providing them with the best motivation to work hard, which is a general appreciation for their efforts. Because, when the student is given a validated response to their personal inquiries, it establishes a process of wanting to communicate with others.
In summary, it is imperative for teachers to fixate on “student’s well-being”, because it helps the students improve their academic performances, also allowing them to feel proud of themselves it increases their self-esteem, and reduces the occurrence of bad behavior because they would feel heard and appreciated for speaking to someone about how they feel, especially when it’s a teacher who cares about how you feel, which in turn makes the students wellbeing overall well-rounded and seen
The Role of Technology in Personalized Learning
Journalist: Navya M.
The role of technology in personalized learning has become increasingly important in reshaping modern education. As classrooms become more diverse, with students having varying learning styles, speeds, and preferences, traditional teaching methods often struggle to meet the individual needs of every student Personalized learning aims to address this gap by tailoring educational experiences to the unique needs of each learner. Technology plays a crucial role in this by offering tools that allow for customization, flexibility, and adaptability. With the help of learning management systems, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, educators can better understand students’ strengths, weaknesses, and progress, allowing them to adjust instruction accordingly
One of the key aspects of personalized learning through technology is the use of adaptive learning platforms. These platforms use algorithms to assess a student's current knowledge level and learning pace, then adjust the material presented to match their needs. For example, a student struggling with a particular concept can be provided with extra resources or practice problems until mastery is achieved, while another student who excels can move ahead to more advanced
content. This individualized approach ensures that all students remain engaged and challenged without feeling overwhelmed or bored. Moreover, technology allows students to have more control over their learning experience, offering options for them to learn at their own pace and according to their preferred style, whether that be through videos, interactive simulations, or text-based content
In addition to fostering individualized learning paths, technology also enables real-time feedback and data-driven insights. Teachers can monitor student progress instantaneously, identifying areas where students are excelling or struggling. This allows for quicker interventions, ensuring that no student falls behind. Moreover, the data collected through digital platforms can inform long-term instructional strategies, helping educators make evidence-based decisions on how to improve teaching practices and personalize learning even further The integration of technology also encourages collaboration and communication, as students can interact with peers and instructors through online discussions, group projects, and forums, all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Furthermore, technology has the potential to make learning more inclusive. For students with disabilities, assistive technologies can offer customized support, such as text-to-speech software, voice recognition, or interactive tools designed for various learning needs. These advancements help create a more accessible learning environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, can thrive. Technology's ability to offer a wide range of learning tools ensures that every student, regardless of background or ability, has an opportunity to succeed in ways that traditional methods may not be able to provide
In conclusion, technology is an invaluable resource in the pursuit of personalized learning By enabling adaptive learning environments, real-time assessments, and inclusive educational tools, it helps create a more engaging, effective, and tailored learning experience for all students. As technology continues to evolve, its potential to transform education and support individualized learning paths will only grow, helping educators and students navigate the complexities of modern education with greater success
