Category: Education

Finals week is one of the most stressful times for college students. As a parent, watching your child navigate the pressures of studying for multiple exams, completing assignments, and managing their time is hard. However, you can support your college student during this crucial time in many ways.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips from Dennis Bonnen on supporting your college student during finals week. By following these tips, you can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety your student may be feeling and provide them with the support they need to thrive during this challenging time.

Encourage Self-Care

Encouraging self-care is one of the ways to support your college student during finals week. Finals week is considered a busy time for students. It is a time when students neglect their physical and mental health to study more. However, taking care of oneself is crucial during this time. Encourage your student to take breaks, get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise. The result of self-care includes reducing stress and anxiety and increasing overall well-being.

Offer Emotional Support

Finals week can be a time of heightened emotions for students. They may feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed, or even depressed. As a parent, offering emotional support during this time is essential. Listen to your student’s concerns and offer words of encouragement. Say encouraging words, including “You believe in them” and “You’re proud of their hard work.” You can also send care packages or small gifts to show your support and boost their spirits.

Help with Time Management

Managing time is crucial during finals week. Your student may have multiple exams, papers, and projects due simultaneously, together with studying for the final exams. As a result, prioritizing and managing their time is effectively challenging. Offer to help your student create a study schedule or to-do list to help them stay organized and focused. You can also help them break assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks.

Provide Distraction-free Environment

Studying in a noisy or distracting environment can make it difficult for students to focus and retain information. Provide a distraction-free environment for learning. With the proliferation of technology and social media, finding a quiet and focused space to study can be challenging. If your student lives at home, ensure a quiet area to do their review. If they live in a dorm or apartment, suggest they check in the library or find a quiet coffee shop nearby.

Offer to Proofread Paper

Writing papers can be a time-consuming and challenging task for students. Offer to proofread your student’s papers for grammar and spelling errors. You can also offer suggestions for improvement and provide feedback on the content of their papers.

Provide Health Snacks and Meals

Eating healthy can help students feel more energized and focused during finals week. Provide your student with healthy snacks and meals to help them stay nourished and focused. You can also offer to cook them a meal or bring them food from their favorite restaurant.

Celebrate When it’s Over

When finals week is over, it’s important to celebrate your student’s hard work and accomplishments. Plan a special dinner or outing to celebrate their success. Remind them that you appreciate their hard work.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, supporting your college student during finals week can be a challenging but rewarding experience. You can support your student during this critical time by encouraging self-care, offering emotional support, helping with time management, providing a distraction-free environment, offering to proofread papers, providing healthy snacks and meals, and celebrating their success.

By following these tips from Dennis Bonnen, you can help your student succeed academically and emotionally during finals week and beyond.

The technology world is changing. And to be part of this, you must invest in learning new programming languages. The programming language has shown exponential growth, which will continue. Because of the growth of programming languages, there is no age limit for learning. You can master any new language as per the demand of the market.

These days, programming languages are in huge demand, and investing in such languages will definitely drive growth. This results in a high demand for IT jobs as well. Thus, there is a need for skilled programmers who can help build unique websites, software, and much more.

In 2023, the technology will take on a new shape and continue to expand. With the help of developers and programming languages, you can build software that can significantly change the technological world.

Today we will discuss some of the popular programming languages.  So let’s begin.

Invest in the leading top 10 programming languages in 2023

1. Javascript

You may have heard about JavaScript. It is a high-level programming language that has given growth to the technology world. It is an interpreted client-side programming language commonly used to create interactive web pages and user interfaces.

JavaScript is a versatile language developed by Brendan Eich in 1995. It supports a variety of programming paradigms, such as procedural programming and object-oriented programming. It has extensive libraries and frameworks.

Let us explore some of its outstanding features, as it is one of the most promising languages for kids and adults.

• JavaScript runs on web browsers, servers, and even mobile devices.
• It has a well-organized codebase.
• JavaScript is an event-driven language.
• Java Platform has greater control of the browser.
• Top companies like Microsoft, Uber, PayPal, Google, and Walmart use Javascript as their programming language.

2. Python

Python is the best programming language. In the year 1991, Python was born by Guido van Rossum. Python is an open-source programming language with effortless integration with web services, GUI-based desktop applications, and user-friendly data structures. Python is used to develop 2D imaging and 3D animation and to create popular video games.

Therefore, learning this programming language can bring success and growth. So, let us look at its outstanding features:

• It is easy to learn and code for new beginners.
• Python has extensive libraries and frameworks that support a applications.
• Python is an interpreted language.
• Python can run on Windows, macOS, Linux, and many more.
• Top companies like Intel, Facebook, and Netflix use Python.

3. C/C++

C is the mother of all programming languages. It is powerful and is the language for games, system programming, graphics, and enterprise applications. C was developed in the 1970s by Dennis Ritchie, and later, C++ was developed by Bjarne Stroustrup in the 1980s. Both languages are compiled and can convert into machine code.

Both offer features like:

• C++ is for competitive programmers.
• C/C++ is used to write low-level systems.
• Companies like Google apps, Microsoft, Apple, and MySQL Server use this programming language.

4. PHP

PHP is a popular server-side scripting language used for web development and developed by Rasmus Lerdorf in 1994. PHP was the first server-side language that allowed for integration with HTML. PHP is suitable for dynamic web pages, and because of its increasing trend, PHP developers are in high demand.

Some of its features are:

• It is easy, quick, and straightforward to learn.
• Highly protected to control threats and attacks.
• Faster than other scripting languages.
• Websites like Wikipedia and Yahoo run on PHP.

5. Java

Java is a self-supported platform that can run on different operating systems without modification. However, Java is a popular object-oriented programming language, and in 1995, Sun Microsystems (now Oracle Corporation) founded the JAVA programming language. Java is used in web development, mobile app development, enterprise software, and education to teach programming concepts.

Some of the significant features of Java are:

• It is the most secure language.
• It is an object-oriented programming language.
• JAVA can improve productivity, performance, and security.
• Companies like Flipkart, Instagram, Amazon, and Adobe use JAVA.

6. Swift

Swift is an open-source programming language that is easy to learn and use. However, it requires fewer coding skills and works well for mobile, desktop, and server-side programming.

It offers features like:

• Swift is easy to comprehend and maintain
• Speeds development process
• Enhanced performance
• Supports dynamic libraries
• Top companies such as Swift, Apple, Instagram, Uber, and Slack use Swift

7. Go

Golang is one of the most trustworthy and efficient programming languages. Go was designed by Google in 2007 to manage the challenges of modern software development. Go is often used for web development, network programming, and cloud infrastructure.

Some of the most prominent features of Go are:

• It has a simple and easy-to-read syntax.
• It has a large and active open-source community.
• It supports automation processes.
• Companies like Google, BBC, Medium, and Uber use Go as their programming language.

8. SQL

SQL is a structured query language used to store and manage databases. SQL allows developers to create, modify, and query databases. SQL is for small-scale desktop databases to large-scale enterprise-level systems.

Here are the key features of SQL that are essential to know.

• It can manage complex queries.
• It provides various commands to manipulate the data stored.
• SQL provides tools to regulate access to a database.
• Top companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook use SQL as their programming language.

9. Ruby

Ruby is another scripting language invented by Yukihiro Matsumoto in 1995 in Japan. Ruby is for web development, scripting, automation, data processing, and analysis. It is an open-source community and donates to libraries, frameworks, and tools.

Here are the features of Ruby.

• Ruby has a simple and elegant syntax.
• It is an object-oriented language.
• It allows for metaprogramming.
• Top companies like Airbnb, GitHub, and Shopify use Ruby as their programming language.

10. Kotlin

Kotlin is a modern, open-source programming language. It is primarily for applications ranging from mobile app development to server-side applications.

Here are some of the features of Kotlin:

• Kotlin has an elegant casting feature that allows for automatic casting.
• Kotlin has a large and active open-source community.
• Kotlin has a concise syntax that reduces the amount of boilerplate code.
• Top companies like Google, Uber, Pinterest, and AirBnb use Kotlin.

Provided by developersforhire.com

Conclusion

As technology advances, an IT professional must stay updated with the technology. Staying up-to-date with the most popular programming languages in 2023 is essential for driving growth.

All these languages mentioned above are the most promising and can provide excellent career options, so go ahead and select the best one for you.

Reading books to young children is good for developing a lifelong love of literature and promoting early literacy. Getting it right with books for kids enriches the experience for both parent and child. It marks the beginning of a long-term enthusiasm for reading. When selecting educational books for young children, consider your child’s interests.

You’ll also want to consider the age-appropriateness of the material and encourage your child to choose what to read to cultivate curiosity, engagement, and a deep love for fiction and educational books alike.

For those beginning to explore educational books, start with simple, memorable, and easy-to-understand stories. Books with bright illustrations and engaging characters capture a child’s attention. They keep them focused on the story and begin recognizing words as they associate. Here is how to choose the right books for early learning.

Select Books That Feature a Wide Range of Topics

Diversity allows children to learn more about various subjects from an early age. It promotes exploration and knowledge retention. When looking through titles, consider science, history, economy, and social studies topics. Additionally, consider the style and tone of the narration. For example, authors should write educational titles in a professional voice that encourages learning and exploration. Finally, consider the child’s abilities and interests to buy a book that best serves their educational needs.

Look for Age-appropriate Books

Finding the right books for early learning shapes children’s relationship with reading from a young age.

• Choose engaging books with content congruous to your child’s age and language.
• Select books that target their understanding level by looking at reviews online.
• Ask friends or educators to guide you to relevant books before buying and introducing them to your kids.

Remember that each book should have an important message for the child. It should teach them specific skills like counting and animal recognition or complex skills like empathy or sharing.

Look for Stories with Engaging Plot Lines

Ensure your child gets the most out of a reading experience by looking for stories with engaging plot lines, even if you’re selecting educational books and not fiction books per se. In addition, the child should connect with the characters and relate to the story’s objective.

To add a different dimension to the story, consider how interactive you’d like this reading experience to be. Look for books designed to encourage discussion or participation from your child during storytelling. For example, the educational books by Connor Boyack provide an essential foundation for young learners to explore more advanced topics later by encouraging them to debate the concepts, terms, and lessons they get while they follow the main character’s adventures.

These activities help young minds attach themselves to what they are exposed to.

Select Books with Simple Language

When choosing books for early learning, ensure their language is simple and easy for children to understand. Books with too many unfamiliar words can be intimidating.

The best option is to select ones that use everyday language that kids can easily comprehend. It is also helpful to consider a book’s tone of voice, as specific nuances may confuse younger readers. Finally, aim for educative books rather to stimulate and engage a child’s growing mind.

Choose Books with Colorful Images and Strong Illustrations

Colorful images and strong illustrations capture a young reader’s attention and imagination. To guarantee optimal learning, read with your child as they become familiar with the words on the page. Then, help your little learner understand the story the illustrations convey. As you choose books, use colored pictures and graphic images to guide your decisions. Remember that clear and vivid imagery supports the story and improves a child’s memory.

Guide Them to Books About Inspiring People in History

History may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you may think about engaging children. But when you focus on fascinating people in history, it can change a study of dates, facts, and events into an existing lesson about a person who achieved remarkable things, despite their challenges.  Everyone loves a great story and there are countless role models throughout history that made a dramatic difference in our world through commitment and perseverance.

The Bottom Line on Books

Finding the right books to use in early learning is a make-or-break situation. Ensure the books are age-appropriate and educational while also being enjoyable to foster a love of reading. Choose authors who craft thought-provoking stories while giving valuable insights into life lessons. Consider adventure tales featuring talking animals for nature lovers. Pick exciting fantasy books involving elements of science and technology. These books provide a comprehensive and entertaining education for children of all ages. They uniquely blend intrigue, wonder, drama, heartache, and redemption.

Watch this video and learn how libraries are more than just books these days…

Disability is diverse and includes persons from every race, gender, culture, age, geographic region, and socioeconomic status. Anyone can belong to this group, and the statistics increase with age. Persons with disabilities, especially children, are among the most neglected groups in society.The case is even worse with students, increasing their dropout risk.

Fortunately, education leaders can take certain measures to create more inclusive conditions for students with disabilities.

Challenges To The Inclusion Of Students With Disabilities

Inclusive education accommodates learners in a community or class regardless of their strengths or weaknesses and maximizes the students’ potential. It comprises strategies, processes, and activities promoting the right to equal education.

Safe Search Kids has partnered with Grafari and Calcularis to provide personalized learning apps for every child’s success.

• Grafari empowers children to master reading and spelling.
• Calcularis ignites an excitement for learning fundamental math skills.

Several challenges revolve around including students with disabilities; we break them down in this section.

Inadequate Teacher Training

Teachers are key in the implementation of inclusive learning. Unfortunately, most teachers lack training in teaching and handling children with disabilities. This lack of proper training, knowledge, and qualifications derails the inclusion of students with disabilities.

Inclusive education is essential for embracing diverse learners, including those who benefit from Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). Understanding the HCBS can play a crucial role in providing personalized educational experiences for students with developmental disabilities within community settings, thereby promoting a richer learning environment that accommodates all cognitive and social needs.

Societal Norms And Attitudes

Many people are still die-hards of old attitudes and resist accommodating students with disabilities. Certain cultures worsen the situation, resulting in discrimination and hindering education.

Lack Of Inclusive Teaching Methods

Incorporating inclusive teaching methods depends on financial support, which is lacking. According to UNESCO, 2009, the lack of funding hinders professional development, which is key to sustaining school specialists and teachers.

Lack Of Accessible Technology

Inclusive education relies on an environment that is friendly and accessible to a diverse population. The lack of accessible technology to create such environments will hinder the implementation of inclusive education with equality, dignity and without to discrimination or prejudice.

Curriculum

A rigid curriculum that does not accommodate different teaching methods or experimentation for students with disabilities is a setback to successful inclusion. Also, study plans with little or no recognition of different learning styles will prevent students with disabilities from benefiting from the school experience.

Socio-Economic Factors

Negative attitudes towards a person with disabilities caused by religious affiliations or culture can affect its inclusion in schools. Some believe that disability is a punishment and will isolate such members instead of helping them.

The lack of funding for disability programs to ensure school accommodation is also a concern. Most schools lack facilities, trained teachers, and educational materials.

How To Create A Culture Of Inclusion

According to several studies, students risk dropping out if they do not attain a sense of belonging within two months of joining the school. Creating a culture of inclusion is, therefore, necessary to keep such students in school in the following ways:

Develop Inclusive Classrooms

Creating a safe and welcoming educational experience for everyone implies paying attention to the physical facilities in terms of design and accessibility. This means taking into account individual differences in learning, socializing, and working.

Adopt Inclusive Teaching Methods and Materials

A school knowledgeable about the limitations that students with disabilities experience from external barriers is likely to adopt inclusive teaching methods and materials. For instance, students with learning disabilities may have processing disabilities that are solvable through information conveyance, such as testing procedures.

Create A Stand-Alone Disability Studies Department

A standalone disability studies department will accommodate students with disabilities in higher education settings. Such students will gain skills and knowledge customized for their practice at their workplace.

Embed Disability Inclusion Into Performance Review For All

A negative attitude of parents and teachers toward disabled students hinders the implementation of inclusion. Hence, having a full inclusion model encompassing disabilities in a performance review should be accepted for educators to limit such discrimination.

Ensure Accessible Technology

Educators should ensure classroom accessibility for students with disabilities as per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA compliance for websites, captioned videos, document remediation and transcription services in relaying information will keep disabled students in school. ADA requires captioning as a standard element for all video use in classes and that all new content is posted on the website for accessibility. ADA also requires accommodation for students with disabilities through inclusive classrooms.

Conclusion

A person’s situation in life is no one’s choice, and embracing disabled individuals in institutions rather than discriminating against them will change the attitude of society in the long run. Recognizing and overcoming the barriers of inclusive education will make every child comfortable in school for a better and healthier community.