By making so much information so accessible, social media has drastically changed the way we consume information and form opinions in the modern era. The danger, however, is that social media creates an “echo chamber” that filters the information people receive so that it largely supports their existing opinions.
A recent study published in PNAS examines this phenomenon and finds that social-media users show marked focus in the types of news that interests them. These social-media participants tend to develop strong and well-defined communities around the news outlets they support, and they tend to make connections with like-minded people regardless of the geographic distance between them.
Since we all use technology to learn, communicate, and create every day outside of classrooms, our students need opportunities to practice while they are still in our schools. Whether you are a parent or a teacher, look for a few key opportunities for your learners to use technology as an integral part of their educational…
Is your kid getting straight A’s on homework lately? You might want to switch off Alexa. Last week, New Jersey mom Yerelyn Cueva, 24, posted a short clip on Twitter of her son doing his math homework at their kitchen table. In the 11-second video, 6-year-old Jariel asks, “Alexa, what’s 5 minus 3?” The…
Until you know how to focus, you’ll never be able to think clearly, solve problems, make decisions, or remember things. Being focused is important but staying on a task is becoming harder and harder. A symphony of notifications can draw you out of whatever you’re doing at a moment’s notice. Source: How to Focus and Maximize…
Successful people don’t grow by accident, they grow by design. When you schedule personal development time on purpose, you are making time to design the life you want. You are essentially who you create yourself to be. Once you embrace the “growth” habit, you will improve your way of life. Source: Scheduling Just 15 Minutes…
New research by scientists at Michigan State University suggests that laptops do not enhance classroom learning, and in fact students would be better off leaving their laptops in the dorm during class. Although computer use during class may create the illusion of enhanced engagement with course content, it more often reflects engagement with social media, YouTube videos,…
Phishing attacks are increasing in number and evolving in variety (newer methods include spear phishing and CEO fraud), putting at risk millions of users worldwide – actually, everyone with an email account. Why are they so popular among fraudsters and why are they so successful? Source: 6 reasons why phishing is so popular and successful –…