Category: Reference & Education, College

ATLANTA (AP) – Georgia’s largest school district announced Tuesday that it won’t teach a new Advanced Placement course in African American Studies, saying the state Department of Education’s refusal to approve the course means its students would be cheated out of credit for the difficulty of the work.

The decision by the 183,000-student Gwinnett County district means political pressure on state Superintendent Richard Woods is unlikely to ease. Woods attempted to compromise last week by saying local districts could draw state money to teach the AP material by labeling it as a lower-level introductory course. That came a day after Woods said districts would have to teach the course using only local tax money.

“Withholding state approval for this AP course sends the message that the contributions and experiences of African Americans are not worthy of academic study at the same level as other approved AP courses,” Gwinnett County Superintendent Calvin Watts said in a statement.

A spokesperson for Woods didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment Tuesday evening.

The Atlanta, DeKalb County and Cobb County school districts have all said they are offering the course in some high schools. But Gwinnett County is maybe the most influential district in the state, with others often following the lead of a system that contains more than a tenth of all Georgia public school students.

Woods has faced a rally where Democrats attacked the elected Republican, as well as pointed questions from Gov. Brian Kemp. The Republican Kemp sent a letter asking why and how Woods arrived at his original decision to block state funding. Woods responded to Kemp Thursday, but still hasn’t fully explained his objections.

“My primary concern and consideration was whether it was more appropriate to adopt the AP course in its 440-page totality at the state level, or to use the existing African American Studies course code and keep the review, approval, adoption, and delivery of this curriculum closer to local students, educators, parents, and boards,” Woods wrote to Kemp.

All other AP courses are listed in the state catalog, state Department of Education spokesperson Meghan Frick said last week.

If districts teach the course under the introductory code, students won’t get the extra credit that an AP course carries when the Georgia Student Finance Commission calculates grades to determine whether a student is eligible for Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship. It also won’t count as a rigorous course. A student who keeps a B average in high school (https://lambangcapgiarenhat.com/) and takes at least four rigorous courses earns a full tuition scholarship to any Georgia public college or university.

“Gwinnett is working tirelessly to do right by their students,” state Rep. Jasmine Clark, a Lilburn Democrat who is Black and helped spearhead pushback against Woods. “As a parent of GCPS student, all I want for my child is to have the same opportunities as students taking other AP courses, should she choose to want to learn more about the contributions of her ancestors in a rigorous, college-level course.”

The Advanced Placement course drew national scrutiny in 2023 when Florida´s Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, preparing for his presidential run, said he would ban the course in his state because it pushed a political agenda. In June, South Carolina officials also refused to approve the course. South Carolina said individual districts could still offer it.

In Arkansas, state officials have said the course will count for credit in the coming school year. They denied such credit last year, but six schools taught the pilot course anyway.

Some individual districts around the country have also rejected the course.

In 2022, Georgia lawmakers passed a ban on teaching divisive racial concepts in schools, prohibiting claims that the U.S. is “fundamentally or systematically racist,” and mandating that no student “should feel discomfort, guilt, anguish, or any other form of psychological distress because of his or her race.”

So far, 18 states have passed such bans. It is unclear if Georgia´s law influenced Woods´ decision.

The College Board, a nonprofit testing entity, offers Advanced Placement courses across the academic spectrum. The courses are optional and taught at a college level. Students who score well on a final exam can usually earn college credit.

The College Board said 33 Georgia schools piloted the African American Studies course in the 2023-2024 academic year.

Excerpts from recent editorials in the United States and abroad:

July 26

The Washington Post on Biden’s SCOTUS reform plan

In an Oval Office speech on Wednesday, President Biden announced that he supports reforming the Supreme Court, “because this is critical to our democracy.” But how? There are reforms that would make the institution more politicized – and then there are reforms that would make it less politicized. Encouragingly, Mr. Biden apparently favors some that move in the right direction.

Before Mr. Biden withdrew his candidacy, The Post reported that he had two proposals in mind: First, establish an enforceable ethics code for the justices; second, subject them to term limits. Each idea presents constitutional issues. It is not clear if life tenure for members of the federal judiciary can be changed through ordinary legislation or would require constitutional amendment. Similarly, any effort by Congress to impose a binding ethics code on the Supreme Court could violate the separation of powers. For now, though, it´s enough to consider reform suggestions on their merits, which are real.

We have long supported Supreme Court term limits. In part, this is because they are preferable to a more radical alternative progressives have been trying to push on Mr. Biden since the beginning of his presidency: to increase the court´s size and “pack” it with ideologically friendly appointees. The origins of this movement lie in Democrats´ understandable ire over the recent history of appointments. Senate Republicans managed to solidify a GOP-appointed majority for the foreseeable future by refusing to consider one of President Barack Obama´s nominees months before the 2016 election, then fast-tracking President Donald Trump´s pick under similar circumstances in 2020. The court has frequently ruled the way Republicans wanted, on everything from abortion to federal regulation.

But packing the court would answer Republican politicization with Democratic politicization. The point is to make the judiciary less of a partisan playground. Term limits would help achieve that. One reason Supreme Court nomination battles are so intense is because the stakes are so high. People live a lot longer than they did when the Framers wrote life tenure for judges into the Constitution – to protect the courts against undue influence. Nowadays, a president elected to a single four-year term can influence the judiciary´s course for a generation.

An 18-year term for justices, however, would fit better with the periods their presidential and congressional counterparts serve. If terms on the court were staggered, coming open every four or so years, it would be rarer for a president to install a disproportionate number. Conversely, winning the presidency more often would – appropriately – mean more appointments for a more popular party over time. Justices would feel less pressure to time their retirements based on partisan control of the presidency or Senate. And senators would have less reason to vote against qualified nominees for fear that their choices could doom their legislative agendas for decades.

The idea of an ethics code arises from recent scandals over the failure of the court´s existing self-regulation system. Justice Clarence Thomas took luxury vacations funded by a high-dollar GOP donor without reporting them on financial disclosure forms; Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. was also reticent about his travel to an Alaskan fishing lodge on the dime of a hedge fund executive whose firm had business before the court. The involvement of Justice Thomas´s wife in “Stop the Steal” efforts after the 2020 election also raised eyebrows. Neither justice recused from arguably related proceedings, though eventually – begrudgingly – Justice Thomas, without admitting any ethical lapse, produced more forthcoming reports. (Justice Alito insisted in op-eds that he had disclosed everything the rules require.)

This debacle pointed to the need for greater clarity as to the types of gifts that require disclosure, as well as what fundraising activities are appropriate, which the court, belatedly, provided. What´s still lacking is an enforcement mechanism, which could be hard to design without intruding on the judicial branch´s independence. The president´s forthcoming proposal ought to contribute to that debate by suggesting not only a set of standards to which the court ought to be held but also a system for holding them to it that could pass constitutional muster. One possibility is to keep that system within the judicial branch, by giving the job to retired federal judges whom justices could at least consult regarding their ethical responsibilities.

Now that Mr. Biden is no longer a candidate, there is less chance that his proposals can be dismissed as an election-year gambit. Certainly, he should write them as if that´s true; members of the legislative and judicial branches should treat them in the same spirit, too.

ONLINE: website

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July 26

The New York Times on debates, transparency in the current election cycle

Vice President Kamala Harris, now the likely Democratic nominee, has the chance to encourage and embrace the kind of close examination that the public so far has had little opportunity to witness during the 2024 race.

Americans deserve a campaign that tests the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates; that highlights their differences and allows scrutiny of their plans; that motivates people to vote by giving them a clear account of how their choice in this election will affect their lives.

Americans deserve the opportunity to ask questions of those who are seeking to lead their government.

There are promising signs in the early days of Ms. Harris´s candidacy. She has bounced onto the campaign trail with a sense of joyful purpose, seizing the opening to reintroduce herself. She has begun to detail the dangers of a second Trump presidency and to delineate her differences with Donald Trump, while describing her vision for a country where people have the support they need to prosper.

But she needs to do more, and she needs to do it quickly. Ms. Harris ought to challenge Mr. Trump to a series of debates or town halls on subjects of national importance, such as the economy, foreign policy, health care and immigration. Mr. Trump claims that he is ready and willing to participate in debates once Democrats have officially selected a nominee. Americans would benefit from comparing the two candidates directly.

Both candidates need to start taking questions from reporters, too. Candidates have abundant opportunities to speak directly to voters, through social media and tightly controlled public appearances, without the mediation of journalists. Most voters, however, will never be able to speak directly with candidates. President Biden has rarely granted the news media permission to ask questions on behalf of the American people, and on the rare occasions he did, his team sometimes sent scripted questions. It left him poorly prepared for the campaign trail and for confronting his opponent. Mr. Trump, too, rarely takes questions. Ms. Harris has the chance to do better.

Engaging with voters is especially important for Ms. Harris because she would be the first major-party presidential candidate in modern times who did not pass through the state primary process, in which voters have a chance to take the measure of candidates and to ask questions about the issues that matter most to their communities.

Ms. Harris´s candidacy does not require legitimation. She is the clear choice of her party. An Ipsos poll this week found that 89 percent of Democrats supported her running as the party´s nominee. But addressing small crowds in small places and answering questions from local reporters are rituals during the primaries for a reason. Unlike large public rallies, they are occasions for encounters on equal footing, and they are an education for the candidate as much as for voters.

With debates and town halls, Ms. Harris would also have an opportunity to draw an even starker contrast with Mr. Trump. Presidential campaigns increasingly are conducted as performances before a sympathetic audience, one that is invited to watch and listen but not to question or respond. The false intimacy of social media gives the impression that candidates are more present than ever in the lives of their supporters, but those relationships are one-way streets. Candidates are seen by the electorate but they do not see; they are heard but they do not hear.

Mr. Trump, who speaks mostly about Mr. Trump, is an extreme example of this tendency – and it is a perfect embodiment of his politics. If Trump campaign officials were reluctant to have their candidate appear at large outside rallies in the wake of the assassination attempt against him, no one would question that fear. His campaign, however, continues to exist primarily as a series of long, winding speeches that offer no insight into how he would end the war in Ukraine or how he would solve the crisis at the border, two of the many goals he has promised to accomplish if re-elected. The former president has barely been pressed on important policy questions or offered any concrete plans.

Both candidates say they are running for office to help ordinary Americans. One way for Americans to judge those claims is by their campaigns. Good leaders speak, and they listen. They welcome scrutiny. They accept responsibility. Ms. Harris now has a chance to demonstrate that she will be the kind of leader who deserves the nation´s support.

ONLINE: website

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July 24

The Wall Street Journal says President Biden owed Americans an honest reason for ducking out of the 2024 election

President Biden explained his abrupt departure from the presidential campaign in a speech to the nation Wednesday evening . . . actually, no he didn´t. He delivered an address from the Oval Office saying it was time to “pass the torch to a new generation.” But why was he all-in for re-election five days ago but all-out now? He didn´t say.

Did he have some sudden health setback that forced the decision? Or was it a gradual recognition of his growing inability to do the job that finally took hold and he was forced to admit? Or, more likely, was he pushed from the race by fellow Democrats who had concluded that he was a sure loser to Donald Trump and had to go, or they would all say so in public? Mr. Biden explained nothing.

“The defense of democracy, which is at stake, I think is more important than any title,” he said, without saying why he could no longer do the defending. He could have reassured Americans that he is still capable of doing the job for another six months, while warning adversaries not to take advantage of his remaining lame-duck period in office.

Americans were left instead to infer the reasons as Mr. Biden said his accomplishments had earned him a second term but he would no longer seek it. His speech will do nothing to dispel the view that this was a coup by Democratic power brokers, and that he and they and his aides had been hiding the truth about his decline from the voters for months, if not years.

We wanted to give Mr. Biden the benefit of the doubt for making the right decision to withdraw, and a gracious farewell would have enhanced that decision. He owed the country more than the self-serving, non-campaign campaign speech he chose to deliver on Wednesday.

ONLINE: website

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July 25

The Los Angeles Times on abortion

Abortion opponents peddle various myths about the procedure to discredit it and demonize the people who provide or support it. Abortion is healthcare. The earlier it is available, the easier it is for people to make choices about their bodies that will affect the rest of their lives. But during election season, expect to hear some or all of these fallacies as Republicans who oppose abortion inaccurately discuss it.

Abortion can happen after birth

None are as ludicrous as the myth Donald Trump pitched in the presidential debate in June when he said Democrats “will take the life of a child in the eighth month, the ninth month, and even after birth – after birth.”

Of course, there is no such thing as abortion after birth. Killing a fetus that emerges alive is infanticide. Abortion involves ending a pregnancy when the fetus is still in the uterus.

In California, abortion is legal up to the point of the fetus´ viability to survive outside the uterus, which is around 24-25 weeks – or later if the abortion is necessary to protect the health or life of the pregnant person. The state is one of 20 where abortion is legal to the point of viability or a couple weeks less. In nine states and the District of Columbia, it is legal for any reason to have an abortion beyond that period.

“I think it´s exceedingly rare to do an abortion past 32 weeks even in states where there are no limits,” says Daniel Grossman, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at University of California, San Francisco and the director of the the research program, Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health.

In fact, only about 1% of abortions are performed past 21 weeks of gestation. When they do occur, they are usually done for severe fetal anomalies or to save a woman´s life, health or fertility.

Trump also falsely claimed that a former Democratic governor of Virginia said he was willing to “rip the baby out of the womb in the ninth month and kill the baby.” Not true. In fact, he said the opposite. In a 2019 interview, former Gov. Ralph Northam was asked about a Virginia state bill that would remove the requirement for three doctors to agree on whether an abortion was medically necessary in the third trimester. Northam, who is a pediatric neurologist, said that should be a decision left to the woman and her own doctor.

He then talked about a situation where a doctor induces labor to deliver a fetus with a severe health problem not expected to live. He said: “If a mother is in labor, I can tell you exactly what would happen – the infant would be delivered. The infant would be kept comfortable. The infant would be resuscitated if that´s what the mother and the family desired.” Keeping the baby comfortable without performing aggressive measures is sometimes referred to as perinatal hospice care.

Abortion is never necessary for emergency medical care

Yes, it is. If the amniotic sac ruptures prematurely, especially in the second trimester, that can lead to infection, sepsis, a possible hysterectomy or death. That´s why an abortion is often performed. (If the sac ruptures in the third trimester, labor can often be induced at some point.) A pregnant person who develops a condition where the placenta completely covers the cervix and begins to bleed heavily also may need an abortion.

These kinds of severe complications were at the heart of the case the Supreme Court heard this session on whether the state of Idaho´s extreme abortion law prevented pregnant women from getting the emergency care required in U.S. hospitals that receive federal funding. In Idaho, some women with severe pregnancy complications had to be airlifted to other states to have emergency abortions. The court decided it should not have granted review of the case but did restore a lower court´s order blocking the part of the law requiring women to be near death before getting an emergency abortion.

Medication abortion is dangerous to women

Medication abortion – the most common abortion procedure in the U.S. – is a two-drug regimen that has been prescribed in the United States since 2000. Serious complications occur in less than one-third of 1% of uses. That´s safer than taking Tylenol.

The Supreme Court recently dismissed a case from a group of antiabortion doctors and organizations contending that mifepristone, the first drug in the regimen, had not been studied carefully enough by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration – despite the drug being safely in use for two decades. The court said the doctors had no standing to bring the suit since not one of them could identify a case where a doctor was forced, against their conscience, to perform a surgical abortion to deal with complications from a medication abortion.

A majority of Americans support reproductive freedom and have voted to protect abortion access since the Supreme Court abolished that right in 2022. That hasn´t stopped Republicans from trying to use fear and falsehoods to justify their campaign to further whittle down abortion rights across the nation. In an election season filled with rhetoric, a woman´s ability to control her own body should not be obstructed by lies about what that means.

ONLINE: website

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July 25

The Philadelphia Daily News/Inquirer on the Trump shooter, mental health resources in schools

“He was bullied almost every day. He was just an outcast.” That observation by a former classmate of the 20-year-old man shot and killed by Secret Service agents after attempting to assassinate Donald Trump should have quelled all the loose talk spewed by the former president´s supporters to persuade voters that the tragic incident was politically motivated.

Profiles of Thomas Matthew Crooks thus far instead resemble those of other young mass shooters going as far back as the 1999 murders of 12 students and a teacher at Columbine High School in Colorado. Since 1980, the median age of a mass shooter in this country has dropped from 39 years old to 22. Most mass shooters of any age are also non-Hispanic white men.

Could Crooks have wanted to leave life in a blaze of glory? A Secret Service sharpshooter fatally shot him within moments after he wounded Trump and shot three other men, one of whom died.

The lack of evidence leading to a specific motive for Crooks may leave that question unanswered forever, but that hasn´t stopped unsubstantiated accusations that he was stirred to action by anti-Trump comments made by President Joe Biden and other Democrats. It´s true that Crooks donated $15 to a Democratic organization on the day Biden was inaugurated in 2021, but later that year he registered to vote as a Republican.

While the search for Crooks´ motivation continues, we should return to a topic that, like the need for better gun laws, our nation has yet to adequately address. America´s overburdened, underfunded mental health system still lacks enough resources to both help people before they become mass shooters and address the neglected needs of the general population.

Our high schools, in particular, where students spend as much as seven hours a day or more, need trained staff members who can provide appropriate counseling before a student hurts themself or others.

“He sat by himself, didn´t talk to anyone, didn´t even try to make conversation,” said another classmate of Crooks. ” He was an odd kid, but nothing about him seemed dangerous.” Figuring out which “odd kid” needs help requires more guidance counselors and advanced mental health professionals at our schools. Instead, many school boards have reduced those positions to save money.

The American School Counselor Association recommends at least one counselor for every 250 students, but only Vermont (186) and New Hampshire (208) meet those criteria. Both Pennsylvania (353) and New Jersey (337) fall under the national average of 444 students per counselor, but their schools also fail to meet the ASCA standard.

That means even when an overburdened school counselor notices a student has issues beyond bad grades or choosing a college, the demands of assisting dozens of other students may give them little time to intervene effectively. Even if time isn´t an issue, most guidance counselors are not specifically trained to help a student who exhibits behavior that may indicate they might commit a violent act.

The National Association of School Psychologists recommends schools have one psychologist on-site for every 500 students, but the national average is only one psychologist for every 1,127 students. In Pennsylvania, the average is one school psychologist for every 1,022 students. New Jersey averages one psychologist for every 663 students, but that doesn´t meet the NASP standard, either.

Most students who need help don´t become a danger to others, but many harm themselves, and some die by suicide. Students´ mental health was further impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which closed schools, limited children´s interaction with peers, chung chi (talking to) and increased their time on social media sites. U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared a mental health crisis among children in 2021 and issued another warning last year about social media´s adverse impact on young people.

School districts need more resources to intervene when they recognize a student needs mental health assistance. One avenue may be funding provided through a federal grant program that is part of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act signed into law last year by President Biden. It includes $1 billion to be competitively awarded to school districts implementing programs to “prevent and respond to acts of bullying, violence, and hate.”

Urgency, however, should also spur state and local governments and school boards to act beyond stringent security measures.

Schools not only need teachers, administrators, and support staff, they also need enough guidance counselors and mental health professionals on-site to help prevent a school from becoming the scene of an avoidable calamity.

ONLINE: website Roundup: United States

>The Role of Family and Home Environment

The family and home environment have a profound influence on a student’s learning and academic success. Various factors within the family and home setting can shape a child’s perception, cognitive capacity, and educational opportunities. Let’s explore some of these influential factors:

Family Size

The size of a family can impact a student’s learning experience. Larger families may have more diverse perspectives and opportunities for collaboration, while smaller families may provide individualized attention and resources.

Family Culture

Every family has its own unique culture, which includes values, traditions, and beliefs. This family culture has a significant impact on a student’s development and educational outlook, shaping their attitudes towards learning and academic achievement.

Socio-economic Status

The socio-economic status of a family can influence a student’s access to resources, educational opportunities, and support. Families with higher socio-economic status often have more resources for educational materials, extracurricular activities, and tutoring.

Occupation/Profession

The occupation or profession of parents can also play a role in a student’s educational experience. For example, parents in academic or teaching professions may have a greater understanding of the learning process and can provide valuable support to their children.

Parental Influences

Parents play a critical role in shaping a student’s educational journey. Their involvement, support, and expectations can significantly impact a student’s motivation, engagement, and academic performance.

Home Environment Factors

Aside from family-related factors, the physical environment of the home also contributes to a student’s learning. Consider the following home environmental factors:

Luminosity of Light: Adequate lighting in the home environment can enhance a student’s visibility and focus while studying. Natural light or well-lit areas can create an optimal learning environment.

Noise Intensity: A quiet environment allows for better concentration and cognitive processing. Excessive noise distractions can hinder a student’s ability to focus and retain information.

Greenery: Having plants or greenery in the home environment has been linked to improved cognitive function and overall well-being. The presence of nature elements can contribute to a calm and productive study atmosphere.

To summarize, family size, family culture, socio-economic status, occupation/profession, parental influences, and home environment factors all play significant roles in a student’s learning and academic success. Understanding and optimizing these factors can contribute to the creation of a conducive home environment that supports optimal educational outcomes.

Factor Impact on Learning

Family Size Diversity of perspectives and collaboration opportunities

Family Culture Shaping attitudes towards learning and academic achievement

Socio-economic Status Access to resources, educational opportunities, and support

Occupation/Profession Understanding of the learning process and valuable support

Parental Influences Motivation, engagement, and academic performance

Home Environment Factors

Luminosity of Light

Noise Intensity

Greenery

Classroom Visual Environmental Factors

The visual environment in a classroom has a significant impact on student performance. It encompasses various factors that can either enhance or hinder students’ learning experiences. Factors such as legibility, illumination, contrast, and color of the visual task all play a crucial role in creating an optimal learning environment.

One of the key visual factors is illuminance, which refers to the lighting conditions in the classroom. Adequate illuminance on the chalkboard and at students’ desks is essential for visibility and readability of learning materials. It ensures that students can clearly see and comprehend the information presented.

Another important visual factor is chalkboard contrast. A high contrast between the chalkboard and the writing makes it easier for students to read and understand the lesson content. This can be achieved by using dark-colored chalk on a light-colored board or vice versa.

The choice of appropriate light sources also contributes to the visual environment of the classroom. Natural daylight and well-designed artificial lighting systems can create an optimal learning environment. The right balance of lighting can help reduce eye strain, improve concentration, and enhance overall student performance.

Regular auditing and maintenance of the visual factors in the classroom environment are crucial for promoting student learning and academic success. Educators and administrators should assess the classroom lighting conditions, chalkboard contrast, and general visual elements to ensure they meet the necessary standards.

Improving the visual environment in classrooms can have a profound impact on student engagement, comprehension, and overall academic performance.

By creating a visually stimulating and supportive classroom environment, educators can optimize students’ ability to effectively engage with the learning materials and enhance their overall learning outcomes.

The Impact of Home Environment on Learning

The home environment plays a significant role in shaping a student’s learning outcomes and behavior. Several environmental factors within the home can directly impact a student’s academic performance and overall learning experience.

Family Dynamics and Support

The dynamics of the family and the level of support provided at home can greatly influence a student’s educational achievements. A supportive and nurturing family environment fosters motivation, confidence, and a sense of security in students, enabling them to thrive academically.

Conversely, a dysfunctional family dynamic or lack of support can have negative consequences on a student’s learning outcomes. Students who face challenges or lack emotional support at home may struggle academically.

Educational Expectations

The educational expectations set by parents or guardians also play a crucial role in a student’s academic success. When parents prioritize education and set high expectations for their children, it positively influences their attitude towards learning, dedication, and commitment to their studies.

Conversely, low or unrealistic expectations may demotivate students and hinder their academic progress.

Physical Surroundings

The physical surroundings within the home, such as lighting, noise levels, and cleanliness, can significantly impact a student’s ability to concentrate and focus on their studies. An environment with proper lighting, minimal distractions, and a clean and organized study space creates an atmosphere conducive to learning.

On the other hand, a cluttered environment, excessive noise, or inadequate lighting can disrupt a student’s concentration, leading to decreased productivity and learning outcomes.

Effective Classroom Management Strategies

Along with creating a positive and supportive home environment, implementing effective classroom management strategies can further enhance a student’s learning experience.

By providing clear expectations, establishing consistent routines, and maintaining an organized and stimulating classroom environment, teachers can optimize student engagement and focus.

Additionally, encouraging open communication, promoting a sense of belonging, and addressing individual student needs can foster a positive classroom atmosphere that supports student learning.

Environmental Factors Impact on Learning

Supportive family environment Enhances motivation, confidence, and academic success

Dysfunctional family dynamic Can lead to academic struggles and decreased educational attainment

High educational expectations Positive influence on a student’s attitude, dedication, and commitment to learning

Low or unrealistic educational expectations May demotivate students and hinder their academic progress

Proper lighting and minimal distractions Optimizes concentration and focus

Cluttered environment and excessive noise Disrupts concentration and decreases productivity

Creating a positive and supportive home environment, combined with effective classroom management strategies, empowers students to thrive academically by providing them with the necessary support, motivation, and conducive learning environment.

Managing Stress in the Learning Environment

Stress can have a profound impact on student learning and academic performance. When students experience chronic stress, their aptitude, immunity, concentration, and comprehension skills may decrease. The young brain is particularly susceptible to stress, leading students to respond by acting out or zoning out. Creating a stress-free learning environment is essential in promoting better learning outcomes and student well-being.

Implementing stress management strategies can help alleviate the negative effects of stress and create a conducive learning environment. Here are some effective techniques:

Establishing routines: Consistent routines provide structure and predictability, helping students feel more secure and less anxious.

Using visual aids and project-based learning: Visual aids and project-based learning engage students’ minds and reduce stress by promoting an interactive and hands-on approach to learning.

Building positive relationships with students: Fostering positive relationships with students creates a supportive and nurturing environment, reducing stress levels and enhancing learning.

Providing clear guidelines for success: Clear guidelines and expectations help students understand what is required of them, reducing uncertainty and stress.

Allowing reflection and retakes on assignments: Allowing students to reflect on their work and offering the opportunity for retakes can alleviate anxiety and promote a growth mindset.

By implementing these stress management strategies, educators can cultivate a stress-free classroom environment that enhances student well-being and academic performance.

Note: The image above emphasizes the importance of stress management in educational settings.

The Importance of Sleep in Learning

Sleep is a fundamental element in the learning process, with a significant impact on cognitive function. Adequate sleep strengthens memory processing, logical reasoning, comprehension, and fine motor skills. However, many students fall short of the recommended sleep duration, averaging only 6 hours per night when they actually need 9-13 hours.

Teaching students healthy sleep habits can promote optimal learning and cognitive function. Encouraging them to eliminate caffeine and sugar, reduce stimuli before bedtime, and create a suitable sleep environment are essential steps. By prioritizing sleep and establishing these habits, students can reap the benefits of improved learning outcomes and enhanced cognitive performance.

The Impact of Sleep on Cognitive Function

“A good night’s sleep is not just a luxury; it is essential for optimal brain function. During sleep, the brain consolidates information and forms new connections, improving memory, focus, and critical thinking skills.” – Dr. Rachel Rodriguez, Sleep and Learning Expert

Research has consistently demonstrated the vital role sleep plays in cognitive function. When individuals sleep, their brains engage in active processing, consolidating and storing information from the day. This process strengthens neural connections and enhances memory retrieval and retention. Moreover, sufficient sleep aids in logical reasoning, comprehension, and the ability to solve complex problems.

Promoting Healthy Sleep Habits in Students

It is crucial to educate students about the importance of healthy sleep habits and provide them with practical techniques to improve their sleep patterns:

Encourage students to establish a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.

Advise them to create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping their bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.

Suggest eliminating electronic devices before bedtime to reduce exposure to blue light, which can disrupt sleep patterns.

Teach relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help students unwind and prepare for restful sleep.

Highlight the negative effects of caffeine and sugary foods on sleep quality, encouraging students to limit intake, especially in the evening.

By instilling these healthy sleep habits in students, educators can support their overall well-being and enhance their ability to learn and perform academically.

The Power of Exercise for Brain Function

Exercise has a significant impact on brain function and learning. Incorporating physical activity into the learning environment can bring numerous benefits for students, improving their overall cognitive performance.

Engaging in regular exercise promotes better blood flow to the brain, which enhances concentration, engagement, and memory. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, chemicals that boost mood and reduce stress, creating a positive learning environment.

Research has shown that just 2 hours of vigorous exercise per day can have remarkable effects on brain function. It not only enhances cognitive abilities but also supports the immune system, helping students stay healthy and focused.

Benefits of Physical Activity for Students

Integrating movement-based activities into the classroom can result in various benefits for students:

Improved focus and concentration.

Enhanced memory and information retention.

Increased creativity and problem-solving skills.

Reduced stress levels and better emotional well-being.

Enhanced physical health and overall well-being.

By incorporating physical activity into the learning environment, students have an opportunity to engage both their bodies and minds, promoting holistic development and improved academic performance.

Incorporating Movement in the Classroom

There are several ways educators can incorporate movement and physical activity in the classroom:

Brain Breaks: Encourage short activity breaks throughout the day, such as stretching exercises or dance routines, to help students refresh their minds and release any pent-up energy.

Active Learning: Implement movement-based lessons, where students participate in hands-on activities or group exercises that require physical engagement.

Flexible Seating: Provide flexible seating options, such as bouncy balls or standing desks, to allow students to move while they work, promoting better focus and concentration.

Outdoor Lessons: Take advantage of outdoor spaces for lessons or activities, allowing students to explore, move, and learn in nature.

By incorporating movement into the learning environment, educators can create an interactive and engaging atmosphere that supports student learning and well-being.

Nutrition and its Effect on Learning

Nutrition plays a crucial role in student learning and academic performance. The foods that students consume can have a significant impact on their cognitive function, concentration, and memory. By promoting healthy eating habits and encouraging a nutritious diet in schools, educators can optimize the academic success of their students.

Processed and sugary foods can lead to inflammation in the body, which can result in decreased blood flow to the brain. This reduction in blood flow can impair a student’s ability to concentrate and retain information, ultimately affecting their academic performance.

On the other hand, consuming lean proteins, fiber, fresh fruits, vegetables, and staying hydrated can provide the necessary nutrients for optimal cognitive function. These foods supply the brain with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support brain health, memory, and focus.

By implementing healthy eating habits in schools and providing nutritious meal options, educators can foster an environment that promotes academic success. This can include incorporating more fruits and vegetables in school lunches, reducing the availability of sugary snacks and beverages, and educating students about the benefits of a balanced diet.

The link between nutrition and academic performance is undeniable. By prioritizing the promotion of a nutritious diet in schools, we can empower students to reach their full potential and excel academically.

Benefits of a Nutritious Diet

When students consume a balanced diet that is rich in essential nutrients, they experience a range of benefits that positively impact their learning and academic performance:

Improved Concentration: A nutritious diet provides the brain with the necessary nutrients to function optimally, leading to improved concentration and focus in the classroom.

Enhanced Memory: Certain foods, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and nuts, have been shown to support memory and cognitive function, allowing students to better retain and recall information.

Stabilized Energy Levels: Consuming balanced meals and snacks throughout the day helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes and promoting sustained focus and productivity.

Boosted Immune System: Proper nutrition supports a strong immune system, reducing the frequency of illness and absences, enabling students to consistently attend school and participate fully in their education.

Improved Mood and Well-being: A healthy diet can positively affect a student’s mood, reducing feelings of fatigue, irritability, and stress, ultimately creating a more positive and conducive learning environment.

Conclusion

The impact of the environment on education cannot be underestimated. Factors such as family dynamics, the home environment, classroom design, stress management, sleep, exercise, and nutrition all play a critical role in shaping a student’s learning experience and academic success.

Optimizing these environmental factors in educational settings is essential for creating a conducive learning environment. By recognizing the influence of family and home environment, educators can personalize support and interventions to meet the unique needs of students. Additionally, attention to classroom visual factors and the management of stress contribute to better learning outcomes.

Furthermore, prioritizing sleep and incorporating exercise into the learning environment enhance cognitive function and retention of knowledge. A nutritious diet also plays a crucial role in supporting students’ brain function and academic performance.

In conclusion, by effectively designing and optimizing the environmental factors in educational settings, educators can create a conducive learning environment that promotes engagement, focus, and academic success for all students.

FAQ

What are some of the environmental factors that can impact education?

Environmental factors that can impact education include family size, family culture, socio-economic status, occupation of parents, parental influences, physical environment in schools, social environment in educational settings, and psychological environment and learning outcomes.

How does the family and home environment affect a student’s learning?

The family and home environment can have a profound influence on a student’s learning and academic success. Factors such as family size, family culture, socio-economic status, occupation of parents, and parental influences all shape a child’s perception, cognitive capacity, and educational opportunities.

What role does the visual environment in classrooms play in student performance?

The visual environment in a classroom significantly impacts student performance. Factors such as legibility, illumination, contrast, and color of the visual task play a crucial role in creating an optimal learning environment. Adequate illuminance on the chalkboard and at students’ desks, proper chalkboard contrast, and appropriate light sources are essential for visibility in classrooms.

How does the home environment affect student behavior?

The home environment plays a significant role in shaping a student’s learning outcomes and behavior. Factors such as family dynamics, support, and educational expectations can impact a student’s academic performance. Additionally, the physical surroundings, including lighting, noise levels, and cleanliness, can influence a student’s focus and behavior in the classroom.

How can stress in the learning environment be managed?

Stress can have a profound impact on student learning and academic performance. To create a stress-free learning environment, strategies such as establishing routines, using visual aids and project-based learning, building positive relationships with students, providing clear guidelines for success, and allowing reflection and retakes on assignments can help alleviate stress and promote better learning outcomes.

Why is sleep important for learning?

Sleep plays a critical role in the learning process. Students require 9-13 hours of sleep per night, but many only average 6 hours. Sufficient sleep aids in learning, memory processing, logical reasoning, comprehension, and fine motor skills.

How does exercise impact learning?

Exercise has a significant impact on brain function and learning. Engaging in 2 hours of vigorous exercise per day can improve blood flow, concentration, engagement, memory, and immune system function. Integrating physical activity into the learning environment through brain breaks and movement-based lessons can enhance student focus, concentration, and overall cognitive performance.

How does nutrition affect learning?

Nutrition plays a crucial role in student learning and academic performance. Processed and THPT (lambangcapgiarenhat.com) sugary foods can cause inflammation, leading to decreased blood flow, concentration, and memory. Encouraging students to consume lean proteins, fiber, fresh fruits, vegetables, and stay hydrated can optimize their cognitive function and support academic success.

How can educators create a conducive learning environment?

By recognizing and addressing the various environmental factors, educators can create a conducive learning environment that supports optimal student outcomes. This includes considering factors such as the family and home environment, classroom visual environmental factors, stress management strategies, sleep, exercise, and nutrition.

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Author mvorganizing.orgPosted on 26 December 2023Categories Environmental Psychology, Psychology

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Researchers examined death records for US preteens aged eight to 12 from January 1, 2001, through December 31, 2022. 

They found that the rate rose from about 3.3 per 1million deaths in 2001 to more than nine per 1million in 2021, an increase of more than 170 percent.

Research suggests that a protracted, worsening mental health crisis among young people is leading to rises in suicides. The crisis has resulted in record high rates of hopelessness, depression, and anxiety.  

Using exisiting death record data, researchers found that rates of suicides per one million have increased by a rate of 1.7 per million over the past two decades

Researchers did not say explicitly why the rates of suicide among children is rising, but it coincides with a worsening mental health crisis in young people

The overall number of suicide deaths is still low. A total of 2,241 preteens died by suicide from 2001 to 2022. 

About 68 percent of them were boys age eight to 12. 

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Black preteens had the highest rates of suicide for both periods, whereas Hispanic preteens had the highest percentage increase.

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