Why Should You Introduce Technology in Education?

There has being a lot of talk regarding why educational organizations should introduce technology in classrooms. This year, New York City's Department of Education plans to increase its technology expenses to $542 million for setting up internet connections and giving wireless access to all the city schools.

There is absolutely no reason to believe that the 'brick and mortar' classrooms didn't help students get the kind of education they deserved. Prior to technology, students still learnt and came through tests with flying colors. However, technology has brought in some significant benefits that even the most vocal critic can't disagree with.

I will share with you some crucial points in support of implementing technology in educational organizations. Let's figure them out.

Expansion of Time and Place

In technology minus classrooms, students had a fixed time to meet their teachers and exchange ideas and notes. A normal class period would be around 40 to 45 minutes in duration. However, technology has erased the time and place constraint. Now, a student can easily chat and discuss with a teacher whenever he/she wants to. Skype, online forums, etc. have made it possible to connect with the school faculty, 24x7 at their convenience.

Depth of Understanding

You can expand your knowledge base about a specific subject or lesson via interactive simulation and illustrations. Using a projector, a teacher can now demonstrate and explain a topic far easily to a large group of learners than just sitting in the class and giving lectures.

Learning at Your Own Pace

You can readily access and download learning materials as and when needed. Technology has eliminated the physical barrier of collecting notes and coursework only from the campus library or from the teacher. Now, all you need is a computer with an internet connection to get the information from anywhere and at any time.

New Media for Self-expression

In traditional classrooms, students had to write every assignment and homework in notebooks to let the teacher review it. Using modern technology, students can create several online slide presentations, videos, and set up a website or blog to make their assignments or projects accessible to the teacher, 24x7.

Collaboration Online

Students can at anytime add, remove or edit information online. They don't need to carry textbooks to school, as e-books can easily be viewed and downloaded from the internet. Large chunks of coursework can be organized and stored in a computer database for future usage. Educational projects can be collaboratively done by small groups of students residing at different locations. Online tools such as the web, email, text messaging, etc. helps you to complete homework in conversation with your classmates, without anyone's physical presence.

Benefits of Using Open Source Technologies for Your Website

There are a number of benefits associated with Open Source technology. They include better web development results and a website price that is lower than traditional options. So at this point you may be saying, "Great, but what is Open Source technology?" We are glad you asked. The technology is made up of languages, software, and other elements that allow access to the items for free. In addition, the user may make changes, additions, and any improvements needed to create a personalized solution. This is done through an open licensing agreement that allows the developer to view all of the source code and edit it or improve it as needed. Unlike other programs or technologies that operate on a closed source code and limited license, Open Source is much more flexible.

Well, you have a basic understanding of what Open Source code is, but you may still be questioning the benefits it will have for your website project. Basically, web development requires the use of certain software. Some of this software is very expensive, and it creating specialized features necessitates hours of hard work, testing, and retooling. OS technology can reduce the overall website price because the web design professional will spend less money on expensive software that has to be recouped from clients. In addition, the time it takes to complete a site is much faster because Open Source technologies provide the ability to manipulate the code so the process is easier. In addition, Open Source is used by millions of programmers and developers. These individuals belong to communities where different codes are shared. It is possible that the feature your website needs has already been created by another developer. In some cases, there are costs associated with purchasing the code but it often much less that it would cost to create new.

Another benefit of Open Source technology is better security. This may seem contradictory since the code is visible to everyone, but that is exactly why it is more secure. The reason this is true is the number of individuals reviewing the code every day for potential problems. When an issue is uncovered, it is immediately addressed. This means fewer bugs and security risks which reduces the website price associated with operation. Web development of your site will incorporate the latest updates, so you will receive the best product possible. If your web designer has to purchase expensive upgrades, you will be less likely to benefit from the newest features or resources.

Of course you are excited about the possibility of reducing your website price through Open Source technology and that is a reality. However, you should remember that there are costs associated with Open Source options. They are considerably less than traditional methods, but you should compare the web development process with Open Source and with other options to determine the most cost effective path for your organization.

Finally, there are benefits beyond website price to be considered. Web development of a traditional site will typically include elements that are not fully owned by the business using them. This is due to licensing issues. However, with Open Source it is much easier to be the owner of your technology. For instance, if you purchase the ownership of your websites shopping cart, you could sell the technology to another company at some point. It is important to remember that Open Source may not be for every company, so it is vital that you do your research and discuss the options with your web development team. Then go with what makes sense for your situation.

Middle School Science Projects - Turning Non-Experiments Into the Real Thing

Middle school science projects almost always have to be done in the form of an experiment. The trouble for most students is that most of the time, projects that are on the internet or in books are either demonstrations or models. Since they don't follow the scientific method, neither of these meet the qualifications of the middle school science fair.

The good news is that many times, a model can be used in an experiment, and variables can be added to a demonstration, so that it can be one, too. Here are five examples of projects that are modified to become an experiment.

- How can you make a potato canon? - This is a fun activity, and it demonstrates how cool science can be, but it doesn't test anything. How can you turn it into an experiment? Vary the trajectory, and ask, "At which angle will a potato canon launch a potato the farthest?"

- What happens when seeds germinate? - This is a great lesson, but what are kids comparing? Turn it into an experiment by testing "At which temperature do seeds germinate the best?" Use different watt bulbs to vary the temperature.

- How do bones change when soaked in vinegar? - This is close to an experiment, but the project I saw didn't have a way to measure the change. The results of a true experiment must be measurable. Come up with a weigh to measure the amount of weight the bones can support before breaking, and you may just win your middle school science fair.

- How hot can a solar heater get? - First of all, finding the answer to this question may result in a fire! Make it an experiment by testing two different solar heater models. Construct two identical heaters, one with a glass front, and the other with a plexiglass front. Measure the temperature over several days, and see which one got the hottest.

- What happens when you mix chalk and lemon juice? - Studying acids and bases is fascinating, but there are no variables - so it's not an experiment. Change it up. Soak pieces of chalk in water, a basic solution, and an acid, and note the variance in the weight.

Remember, an experiment is a test of the relationship between two variables that have measurable results that can be replicated. It amazes me that reputable science publications will label any sort of science activity as an experiment. It doesn't matter that you're still in middle school type of project isn't right. You can do better than 'real' scientists! Turn a 'non-experiments' into middle school projects that will amaze judges, your teachers - and yourself!

Department of Education Student Financial Assistance Can Help

The internet continues to prove itself to be one of the most powerful and versatile resources that individuals can use. The search for money for education is no exception to this. The US Department of Education student financial assistance pages are an excellent example of this. You can access the Department of Education's page and begin planning your educational career now.

There are a number of significant benefits available to those that visit the US Department of Education student financial assistance pages. Among them is concise information about the federal aid that is available. This information will provide you with a basic understanding that prepares you to approach education funding. The US Department of Education student financial assistance goes well beyond the beginning of securing funding though. It provides information that will be useful for managing your education while in school and managing any remaining debt that you may have when you graduate. The result is a comprehensive resource for your entire educational career.

The fact is that no single site can supply you with all the information that may be useful to you. The US Department of Education's site provides links to other trusted sites to compliment the resources that it does have. In this way the pages work to provide you with more complete information about the topics that you need to know about. The information is not limited to generalities though. If you are ready to get to the details there is a seamless progression to that on the site.

On the US Department of Education student financial assistance pages you can find links that take you directly to the applications that you need to complete to secure financial aid. It removes the questions of what is next. If you need to apply for aid then you can click the apply for aid link and follow the step-by-step. It really is that simple. You do not need to pay for the information. The US Department of Education student financial assistance pages are free to access and the FAFSA is free to complete and submit. You can literally have an estimate of what you will receive in minutes.

It even provides resources that allow you to search for scholarships that are not government-based. All of this is designed to help you get the money that you need for the education that you want. If you are ready to begin your search into the world of money for education you may want to begin with the US Department of Education's website. The site offers information for students and financial aid professionals. If you work to help other secure financial the site may prove to be an invaluable resource for you as well.

Filing for financial aid as soon as possible is important. It can help you to secure as much funding as possible in some cases. It can also provide you with additional time to make corrections and seek other funding if necessary. From questions to the application, it is all awaiting you at the US Department of Education website now.

David has been writing articles for nearly 2 years. Come visit his latest website over at www.financialaideforsinglemothers.com [http://financialaideforsinglemothers.com/] which helps people find the best deals for financial aid for single mothers [http://financialaideforsinglemothers.com/] and information they are looking for when wanting to go back to school or college.

Science Kits For Kids - How to Choose the Right One

Science Kit Checklist - 3 Things to Consider when Buying a Science Kit

There's a science kit for just about any school subject you can think of: biology, geology, chemistry, and more. There are even kits for non-school related subjects such as forensic science. It's easy to become overwhelmed with so many choices available. Here's a checklist to keep handy when you need a science kit for your child.

The Checklist:

Make sure the experiments are safe and easy. Experiments shouldn't be too difficult. After all, you're not in a lab. You want to avoid any damage to your home or child. If the experiment seems too complicated for your child's level, pick something more suitable.

It's also a good idea to get a kit that includes all the supplies you need. The only exception is if the experiment requires simple everyday items, such as cardboard, construction paper, baking soda, or something similar.

Pick a fun kit. Nothing turns a child against learning faster than boredom. Most science kits made for kids contain humorous instructions that make reading fun. It's more like reading a comic than a science manual. The instructions should also be easy for most kids to follow, depending on their age.

The experiments should also be fun and interesting. Some popular experiments include building a volcano, creating a homemade robot, and making fruit batteries. A good experiment will be fun, but also teach the child and let them feel a sense of accomplishment.

Pick an age-appropriate kit. The recommended age range for the kit will be written on the box. For most kits, the recommended age range is from 9-years old and up. Of course, kits for younger kids will contain easier experiments than those for older kids. It might also be necessary for you to supervise your child, depending on their age.

Shopping for the Kit:

The Internet is the best place to shop for a science kit. You'll have access to a huge selection for different ages and subjects. You and your child can even sit down and pick the kit together. Your child will appreciate spending time with you, and being asked for their input

Accredited Online Education

In the world of educational programming for children, there are the old standbys, and then there are the new innovators. And both definitely have their place, teaching generations of children the ins and outs of basic science. Whether it's understanding the forces behind rain or the ecosystem of the pond in the backyard, science programming has always been one of the most captivating aspects of television's educational entertainment for youngsters. And as the world that we live in gets more and more wired and there are more things to learn about, it is nice to know that some of the basics are still there to enjoy on satellite TV.

Alongside your classic programs like "Sesame Street" which mention science from time to time, there are some new innovators out there in the field that are doing things in more exciting ways. Right now, the most anticipated program that teaches both science and technology to a younger generation is called "SciGirls," and it does a whole lot more than just let you know the wonders of the universe and your own backyard.

Before the program "SciGirls" started to air on PBS, the troubling fact about educational programming for children in the world of science is that most of it was more geared towards boys. And while there is nothing wrong with providing comprehensive overviews of science for both boys and girls, sometimes girls were not pictured as the frontrunners in the world of science. Even the big television hosts have typically been male, and the trouble with this approach to science-based education is that girls have sometimes been left behind.

But with "SciGirls" so popular on satellite TV, it's been incredible to see the ratings go sky-high. Another reason that this young nature show seems interesting is that it features more regular-seeming students, rather than television or movie actors who happen to be teenagers. This authenticity is really exciting because apparently your children are going to be more interested in seeing things with actual kids who are their peers or seem like their older siblings, rather than some from-the-script actor you might catch on a teen drama in a couple of years.

And the science on "SciGirls" is some of the most accurate and well-chosen in all of the world of satellite TV. With so much focus now on the latest technology or just jumping right to computers and other science/technology innovations, it is nice to see a show that manages to balance that sort of information with more of the classic science approaches. Whether you're learning about physics through figuring out how to get a gigantic puppet constructed for a parade or digging around in the local pond while finding out new and exciting facts about turtles, the girls of "SciGirls" are actually out there doing.

But there's more to this exciting new science and nature show than simply this. What really matters is that in a world where you're less likely to see a chemistry set as a present and more likely to have your child plopped down in front of an HDTV for hours, it's nice to know that there are still ways of inspiring children to put down the video games and do something more constructive for a change.

Unexplainable Store Review - Sound Science or New Age Mumbo-Jumbo?

The Unexplainable Store has become one of the leading sellers of brainwave entrainment audio recordings. While there is sound science (no pun intended!) behind the proposition that sound frequencies can affect mental states, the claims being made for what can be achieved with this technology are becoming quite far-fetched. In its attempts to appeal to a wide array of New Age interests, the Unexplainable Store risks subjugating science to mythology and outright superstition.

Scientific Means to Unscientific Ends?

The science behind audio brainwave entrainment is well established. Using either binaural beats, monaural beats, or the most effective method, isochronic tones, listeners of MP3 or CD recordings can encourage their brains to operate at the frequencies corresponding to different states of consciousness. In certain cases, there are clear benefits from doing this. For example, people who struggle to get a good night's sleep can benefit tremendously from inducing the Delta waves associated with deep, dreamless sleep - the state in which cellular repair takes place at a genetic level, and in which growth hormones are released. And Theta waves have been linked in numerous studies to enhanced learning, memory, and creativity. So far, so good.

If the Unexplainable Store limited itself strictly to products for which there is a strong, research-based rationale, we would have little reason to question the store's credibility. But the Unexplainable Store - as a commercial offshoot of a website focused on the paranormal - targets consumers with interests in psychic phenomena, UFOs, the spirit world, and a host of other "fringe" activities well beyond the purview of conventional science. And this inevitably sets up a tension between the store's claims to scientific underpinnings and its stated goals.

From Science to Mumbo-Jumbo?

A perfect example of this tension is provided by the store's recent marketing focus on the year 2012, and what some people think is going to happen in that year. We are told that this might be the end of civilization as we know it; that all the major religions have been predicting a final reckoning or major upheaval. Now, how this sort of end-times nonsense is supposed to be squared with the science of brainwave entrainment is beyond me. Clearly, we have left science very far behind. But that's not all. Wasn't the store paying any attention to the recent fuss about the "Rapture" that was predicted to occur early in 2011? Didn't they see how ridiculous these claims were? Why on earth would one want to risk a successful site's credibility by venturing down that same path?

More fundamentally, the tension between science and nonsense is omnipresent throughout the Unexplainable Store's product lineup. Most scientists would have a hard time finding any objective, verifiable truth in such activities as remote viewing, ESP, shaman consciousness, or past-life regression. Of course, one could retort that science is inherently limited in the exploration of the inner realms, since such highly subjective and personal experiences are not susceptible of testing in a laboratory setting. If I have a lucid dream one night that turns out to have accurate predictive value, I don't care that men in white coats can't duplicate my result in a college student on another continent.

The Limits of The Scientific Method

For professional scientists, phenomena that cannot be explained by science are automatically illegitimate. The existence of God is perhaps the best example: the world's leading atheists tend to be prominent scientists, who find divine intervention completely unnecessary in the evolution of life and consciousness. But for those of us who are not professional scientists, should we limit ourselves to beliefs and activities that only scientists would endorse? Is it O.K. for us to be unscientific?

I think the Unexplainable Store needs to make it clear that science has its uses and also has its limitations. Instead of a tension between science and the paranormal, we could say that we will gladly use science as far as it will take us, but we refuse to stop seeking truths and experiences beyond that point. The scientists will just have to catch up later!