Call for papers IJR June 2021

International Journal of Research  (IJR) (ISSN 2348-4868) is a Monthly peer reviewed Multi disciplinary journal that publish original and high-quality articles covering a wide range of topics in Engineering, dedicated to promoting high standards in the creation and dissemination of scientific knowledge. IJR is a multidisciplinary international journal accepts research and review papers in the field of Engineering and other fields on the basis of its originality, importance and interdisciplinary interest. Articles that simply replicate known knowledge or techniques and do not add anything new or unique to the science will normally be rejected. With its high standards of scientific quality, the Journal International Journal of Scientific Research and Review provides a meeting ground for researchers who investigate the newest problems related to Multidisciplinary fields.

Send papers for review to ijr@ijrjournal.com

         International Journal of Research is an open access journal, which means that all articles are available on the internet to all users immediately upon publication. Non-commercial use and distribution in any medium is permitted, provided the author and the journal are properly credited. Benefits of open access for authors include: free access for all users worldwide, authors retain copyright to their work, increased visibility and readership, rapid publication, no spatial constraints. Special issues dedicated to international conferences in the topics of the journal are brought out, as well. All submitted manuscripts are initially evaluated by the Editor and, if are found suitable, are sent for further consideration, to peer reviewers for an independent and anonymous expert review process.

Submission Topics for IJR journal

IJR Journal publishes original papers in various fields of Applied Science, Technology and Engineering, Management Science that cover, but are not limited to, the following areas: Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation and Control, Measurement and Metrology, Signal Processing,  Telecommunications, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering,  Materials Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology and Informatics, Data Engineering and Software Engineering, Biomedical Engineering and Medical Physics.

IJR – Benefits To Paper Publications:

Easy & Rapid paper publishing process.
Low publication fee to promote the research work
IJR is indexed in Google Scholar, Docstoc, ResearchGate, Scribd and many more.
IJR provides individual Soft Copy of Certificate of Publication to each Authors of paper.

How to Submit Papers

Send papers for review to ijr@ijrjournal.com

Link to access Current Issue of Journal https://ijrjournal.com/index.php/ijr

Importance of Training and Internship

Internships are a great way to apply the knowledge from the classroom to real-world experience. Learning is one thing, but taking those skills into the workforce and applying them is a great way to explore different career paths and specializations that suit individual interests. Having an internship gives you experience in the career field you want to pursue. Not only does this give individuals an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs, it also prepares them for what to expect in their field and increases confidence in their work. Having an internship benefits you in the working environment, and it also builds your professional network. There is a 1 in 16 chance of securing a job by connecting with people, so networking is critical. Internships provide a great environment to meet professionals in the career field you want to pursue, as well as other interns who have similar interests.

According to a 2016 National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) survey, more than 56 percent of graduating seniors reported taking part in at least one internship. Of those respondents, 56 percent were paid, while 44 percent were unpaid. Seventy-two percent of those unpaid internships were credit-bearing.
Professionalism. Internships can provide students with the soft skills needed in the workplace and in leadership positions. In a LinkedIn Skills Report (2018), 57% of people rated soft skills as being more important than technical skills. Skills, such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork can all be learned through an internship and utilized beyond that experience. Depending on your major, you may read about how organizations thrive and function in textbooks, hear from guest speakers who talk about organizational structures, or dive into case studies about workplace culture, but nothing compares to living the actual experience. Internships help students learn all about workplace culture, employee relations, and leadership structure, which should help them onboard in their first professional job with more ease than if they haven’t had professional experience.
Most organizations and jobs that you apply to following graduation want employees to have some sort of professional experience, even for entry-level jobs. In the event that you are a finalist for a position and haven’t had an internship experience but the other finalist has, you may lose out on a job opportunity, so make sure you at least have one internship on your resume before leaving college to give you a leg up on the competition. Not only will you be helping out the organization you intern with, but they’ll help you out too. While professors and teachers will prepare you for the theoretical side of your field and hands-on projects, internships provide opportunities for receiving feedback from someone who works in your desired field on a daily basis. This might seem common sense – you’re interning to learn skills, after all – but don’t forget to purposefully observe others in their job role to learn the ins and outs of different positions. Consider asking your supervisor if you can shadow them for a day, along with other people in your department. Ask to sit in on departmentwide meetings as well. Act like a sponge and soak up all the information you can during your internship – it will benefit you in the long run. While everyone probably wants to walk away from an internship feeling excited and passionate about the experience, there’s a silver-lining to be found if you didn’t enjoy the job: you’ll know what you don’t like. According to an article from monster.com, “figuring out what type of job you don’t want while you’re interning can help prevent you from accepting an ill-fitting job when you graduate.”

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

Digital Business Translation Solutions

We are certainly living in a digital world and despite the globalisation there is still the issue of languages when doing business with foreign companies, which can really limit you regarding new markets to enter. Fortunately, there are professional business translators who make up a global network of on-demand translation and once you register with this company, you have full access to more than 500 language pairs, with translation in a wide range of formats.

Specialised Industries

Certain industries require on-demand translation, such as:

  • Legal
  • Scientific
  • Technical
  • Finance 
  • Business
  • Marketing
  • Media

The leading provider of specialist business translation is a company called Global Citizens Translation and they can easily be found with a Google search. Once on their website, you can take a look at the many on-demand services they offer, along with the various formats, such as:

  • Video conferencing
  • Subtitles
  • Seminar and webinar translation
  • Face to face business meetings

Language Pairs

There are more than 500 language pairs that are supported by this provider and booking a translation job is very easy using the website. You enter in the details of the languages to translate, along with the format of the translation, a time and date, plus any relevant information that the provider might require. Here are a few great collaboration techniquesthat might be useful at some time in your life.

Translation Services

The services offered include the following:

  • Localised Translation – When you want to advertise your product in a foreign country, it is very important to have accurate translation that is culturally appropriate. Setting up a business in a foreign land involves website translation, brochure printing and other promotional materials, all of which need to be accurately translated.
  • Multi-Lingual Transcription Services – You might need audio or text added to promotional videos, which is something the team can handle with ease. When certain dialects are involved, it is essential to find professional translation that is certified.
  • Desktop Publishing – There are many occasions when you need impact with your visual content and you don’t want to lose anything in the language, which is why you should leave this to the professionals.
  • Proofreading – Once you have prepared a document in another language, it needs to be proofed to ensure there are no errors and if you would like a quote for a proofreading assignment, simply click on the link on the provider’s website.

Impressive Client List

If you are looking for a global business translation service, choose one with an impressive list of well-known names, as this is a good indication of their quality. People like Google and Microsoft, for example, are major players and they only work with efficient contractors and this is like a seal of approval.

Of course, your business might be small, but that’s OK because the global translation service caters for businesses big and small and if you would like a quote for a specific translation service, Google will help you to find the leading provider.

TIPS TO HIRE FLUTTER DEVELOPERS FOR YOUR STARTUP

Flutter is a rapidly advancing but relatively new app developmental framework and this makes it hard to find developers who have the required experience and expertise in using the framework. Many companies hire Flutter developers as there is a high demand for this framework that allows cross-platform app development and a feature-rich application with exceptional user experience capabilities. You can build apps from scratch or add to existing ones either for mobile, or web.  As a startup, it is integral to your success that you hire the right flutter developers for the development of mobile applications so in this article we will discuss factors to consider including skills and expertise the flutter developers for hire need to have.

Why to hire Flutter developers?

You need to consider why you want to hire flutter developers and not developers in other app development frameworks. Whether it is to save costs, scalability, or other features, you need to make sure flutter is the preferred option to achieve your business goals. You can also look for Flutter app development company.

Hire Freelancers or A Software Development Company

When you’ve decided how flutter fits into achieving your business goals as a startup, you need to decide where you want your talent pool of developers to come from. You can either hire freelancers, build an in-house team or outsource your software development. As a startup having an in-house team is more difficult so usually, startups choose between freelancers and outsourcing to a software development company. Both choices have their merits and downsides with freelancers being flexible and relatively cheaper, while software development companies tend to produce high-quality expertise and experience with good continued support and maintenance of your project. You outsource to companies within and outside the country with countries like Ukraine, India, and others being preferred options for outsourcing mobile app development.

It is also important to note that if you’re hiring a freelancer, or outsourcing a software development company, it is important to confirm their expertise by checking reviews and previous projects to be sure they have the necessary skills in developing mobile applications. 

Knowledge of programming languages and frameworks

Any flutter developer(s) you hire must be very knowledgeable in the development of native apps in Android and iOS.The framework has been around for less than 5 years so it is difficult to find those experienced for many years but being possessing existing Android development skills, knowledge of MVC architecture, Java or Kotlin, React Native, Xamarin, JavaScript, AngularJS and ReactJS will help adapt to flutter seamlessly. These are industry standard frameworks and fundamental skills which means knowledge and working experience in them is important. A flutter developer must be skilled in cross-platform application development so that you can reach a larger base.

App Design

User experience and user interface design are critical elements of any mobile application development. When hiring Flutter app developers, it is important to choose a team of developers that can make the front-end and back-end operations work seamlessly while following the correct guidelines. They’ll also be able to make maintenance of the application smoother by integrating automation processes for maintenance. The developers must create an app that appeals to the users in appearance while delivering a seamless user experience.

Costs

You have to consider the costs of developing the app. Before hiring a developer, you need to know the developer’s cost and how it fits into your budget. However, price should not make you settle for developers with no expertise as it will be a bad investment when your app lacks the quality to bring in a good return on investment. So, understand your budget, the industry average and hire expert developers that will get the job done within your range. 

Post-development Support and Maintenance

This is one of the advantages of hiring a software development company. There are several ways to hire Flutter developers as there are many talented freelancers and companies that provide these developers. services. You will be able to include post-development maintenance of the application in your contract which is important as the developers have more knowledge of your application and what works well with it. Activities such as testing, fixing of bugs, and general support will be available to you after the development and release of the app on different platforms

4 Best Kids Beginner Coding Languages

Like we communicate using different languages worldwide, computers also use languages to communicate with us, thanks to advanced technology. Coding programs allow us to convey instructions to robots and computers to communicate with us effectively. When you want your kid to learn how to code, you should ensure that they start at an early age. This will help them grasp the concepts involved while developing other essential life skills like problem-solving

How do we communicate with computers – the answer is coding!

Computers use coded language to receive, execute and communicate with humans. To understand and help the computers to interface with us, we write instructions that they obey and act upon. These instructions are called programming languages. 

When your kids learn how to use programming language from professional learning platforms like YaizY, they gain a lot of knowledge while sharpening other meaningful human skills. The company also provides STEM, innovation, entrepreneurship and design courses for kids too, so be sure to check their website out!

However, back to coding! Some of the best coding languages that can offer your kid the best programming foundation are:- Scratch, Java, Python, and Lua. But how do you choose which coding language to start off your kid in programming? Every language coding has its operating system, style, and the intended use, so it’s essential to choose wisely to help your child more effectively.

Here are the best coding languages for kids

1. Scratch

Scratch is an excellent foundational program language because it helps kids to understand most programming concepts. These concepts include variables, loops, functions, conditionals, and lists. The concepts provide the kids with an understanding of when and how to create a code for their algorithms.

2. Python

Python has a kid-friendly user interface and a unique, text-based coding language. It is easy to learn because it’s more readable and intuitive. This makes it a perfect tool that is suited for 6-year-olds and above. It’s a seamless resource that follows up more visual, block-based coding programs geared toward pre-reading audiences. Python is so popular because it impacts real skills for the future.

3. Java

Though it comes with a more complex-to-learn interface, it is one of the best foundational programming languages for kids. Once kids have learned how to code using Java, all the other programming languages will be more accessible for them to learn. Java coding system is also reliable since some of the best platforms hosting millions of users worldwide were programmed using Java.

Good examples of these platforms are Gmail, which was created by Google and Twitter, respectively.

4. Lua

Lua is a text-based language that is perfect for introducing kids to text-based coding. It’s easy to learn, use, and embed into applications. Some of the most popular games, like the Angry Birds game, are based on Lua. Additionally, Roblox Studio, which is another favorite kids’ coding platform, uses Lua.

Conclusion

Though there are countless programming languages that you can choose from when you want your kid to learn to program, the above four languages can significantly place your kids on a journey to success in computer programming. They have a kid-friendly interface that makes it easy to learn since they incorporate fun while learning.

Call for papers May 2021

We, at IJR, initiate a call for research paper in all areas of science, engineering and technology every month.

Send papers for publication to ijr@ijrjournal.com

The History Of Urban Planning 

Humankind has been on the constant journey of uplifting their standards of living. This species is known to carefully analyze its surroundings and bring about the required changes for maximum betterment.  

For an improved strategy that helps lead lifestyles, it is essential to pay extra attention to crucial aspects. One such significant section is urban planning. It is a process that requires examining and strategizing the proper use of elements like water, land, resources, and so forth.  

In simple terms, it is related to curating an infrastructure that is best suitable for a sustainable lifestyle. In this article, we will learn about urban planning and some of the essential segments of its history. 

What Do You Understand By Urban Planning?  

As mentioned above, urban planning is related to curating a fruitful infrastructure that clearly defines the vital resources available to humankind. Urban planning is both a technical as well as a political process that requires ample amounts of knowledge. 

The history of urban planning stretches to that of human existence. To carry out excellent urban planning, one requires appropriate information regarding engineering and architecture. Moreover, this field also needs adequate audience participation. Thus, it is essential to instill utmost discipline while dealing with urban planning. 

Pre-Classical Era 

The pre-classical era witnessed several cities being laid down according to a strategic plan. Many of these cities tended to develop organically over time. Some of the most prominent cities designed in this period were Harappan, Minoan, and Egyptian civilization. If we talk about the first recorded urban planning description, it goes back to The Epic of Gilgamesh. 

The streets of many cities known to humankind were built and laid out in the forms of rigid right angles and grid patterns. Some archaeological evidence also suggests that many houses were designed to shield from the noise and improve the standard of living. Additionally, most of the homes have their very own water well. This suggested the remains for sanitary purposes. Furthermore, some archaeologists also interpret that these cities had well-organized drainage systems as well as agricultural land. 

Medieval Europe  

The disintegration of the west Roman empire dates back to the 5th century. Since then, the general improvement is noted to have appeared in the 10th and 11 centuries. This time was interpreted as politically stable and economically beneficial. It was then when trade and craft flourished, and monetary benefits were revived in the economy. During this era, hundreds of towns were built. Moreover, many of the pre-existing towns were expanded. Without a doubt, these new towns have played a significant role in maintaining the geographical structures of Europe. 

The Era Of Industrialization 

The late 19th century saw a boost in the industrial sector. This was a result of the rapid population growth, business enterprises, frequent profits, and so forth. Giant cities developed during this era, and a subtle exhibition of luxury as well as poverty was observed. The growing status difference led to the rise of corruption as well as the poor sections of society like the slums, etc., saw a rise.  

The poor standards of living resulted in poverty, and that posed a threat to society. Since then, individuals have started to focus on the betterment of public health. This was followed by the creation of better and strategic plans for water supplies, sewage, and so forth. 

Soon, the first housing reform was enacted in the late century. However, the implementation was slow and steady as the government provided funding after a long gap. With housing improvement, new and erect structures were observed in the economy. These were more stable and improved standard of living. 

Progressive Era 

The progressive era saw the need for urban recreational planning. It was during the early 20th century structures like parks were built. These places were created with the motive of providing relief and peaceful places for relaxation. A little time later, numerous playgrounds started to emerge that facilitated a dedicated area for children as well as adults. Soon the separation of roads was also witnessed. There was a specific section for all the pedestrians as well as the vehicular traffic. This provided more structure as well as rigidity to the society.  

Benefits Of Urban Planning  

Urban planning plays a major role in the social-economic level as a political connection of the society. This type of planning requires the proper utilization of resources in order to extract maximum benefit from them. Below, we have mentioned a few benefits of urban planning, depicting its importance in today’s society. 

1. Connectivity  

Urban planning resulted in better connectivity of towns, cities, neighborhoods, and so forth. This resulted in enhanced land values of the well-connected cities. Furthermore, it also resulted in enhancing people’s safety as well as security. This is so because urban planning facilitated better surveillance and prominent health benefits. 

2. Adaptability  

The proper use of urban planning increased the capacity of buildings as well as neighborhoods and thus led to an adequate use of spaces. This, in turn, increased the adaptability of land resources. Therefore, urban planning resulted in more fruitful use of economic spaces like buildings. It promoted the diverse use of public spaces and encouraged individuals to utilize non-renewable resources for better living standards properly. 

3. User participation  

Improved urban planning boosted the public consultation process. It encouraged individuals to participate in urban design projects and give their opinions through numerous surveys and design workshops. Therefore, planning promoted user participation. This, in turn, boosted a proper fit between users as well as the urban design. The participants were encouraged to come out and give their opinion about the effective use of resources. This boosted the decision-making process and provided a sense of participants to the individuals. 

4. Better standards of living  

Urban planning directly affected the standards of living. Increased use of urban planning emphasized a more realistic approach in society. This led to the enhancement of economic spaces. Therefore, urban planning encouraged more audience participation in cultural as well as community activities. Better standards of living also meant several health benefits along with strategic use of the public space. Furthermore, urban planning also resulted in the enhanced personal safety of individuals. 

Conclusion  

Urban planning has played a significant role in the betterment of the standards of living. Additionally, urban planning has been a part of society for a very long time now. 

After carefully examining the various aspects of urban planning, we have briefly summarised the entire information in the above-mentioned article. We have talked about urban planning, its various elements, along some benefits. We trust that this article would be beneficial and provide you with adequate information related to urban planning. 

The Changing Spaces of Reading and Writing

Innovations in technology have changed the way in which society acts. As classical scholar and university librarian James O’Donnell points out in the 1999 radio broadcast “From Papyrus to Cyberspace,” one generation’s frontier becomes the next generation’s reality. One can assume that with each new frontier there are gains and losses. For example, the invention of the automobile sparked a transportation revolution, but with this improved accessibility we also implicitly accept thousands of car-related deaths each year. Advancements in writing technologies have unpredictable changes in human roles and geography. Printing presses led to the spread of unorthodox ideas across the world and new forms of democratization, while the shift from a primarily oral to literate society brought with it new lines of exclusion between those who could read and those who could not.

James Engell, Professor of English and Comparative Literature at Harvard, highlights the point that such revolutions of technology do not occur suddenly but are instead a gradual shift within societies. Just as manuscripts continued to be produced well after the invention of the printing press, it is common for information from the internet to be written down on paper. Thus the challenge with emerging digital technologies is not that such societal shifts are occurring, but finding the most effective way new technologies can be integrated with the way things are currently functioning. Learn more about the impact of the typewriter on literacy in my short documentary The Shift from Handwriting to Typewriting:

Full List of References and Media Content Sources

The shift from handwriting to digital text and their associated issues continue to plague educators as one-to-one devices become the norm in schools. My English Department meetings often consist of heated debates concerning whether students should complete their coursework on paper or digitally. The topic seems to polarise the teachers within the department and we cannot collectively decide on the “correct” answer.
“students who write out their notes on paper may actually learn more” (Mueller & Oppenheiner, 2014).
In 2012, scientists find that the brains of preliterate kids respond like a reader’s brain when they write their ABCs, but not when they type or trace the letters (Pauly, 2016). Another research team reports that college students who transcribed lectures on their laptops recalled more information than those who took notes by hand because the use of laptops results in shallower processing (Mueller & Oppenheimer, 2014). Across three experiments, researchers had students take notes in a classroom setting and then tested students on their memory for factual detail, their conceptual understanding of the material, and their ability to synthesize and generalize the information. The two types of note-takers performed equally well on questions that involved recalling facts, laptop note-takers performed significantly worse on the conceptual questions (Mueller & Oppenheimer, 2014). This research suggests that perhaps completing tasks on paper may be more beneficial for students.
However, sometimes the purpose of note taking is simply to collect information. During novel studies I often have my students take notes to record key quotations or details from the book we are reading under the categories of the elements of fiction (e.g. setting, characters, style, theme). When forced to write on paper, I find students’ notes quickly become disorganised and chaotic. Factor in that a novel study last several weeks – sometimes months – I find students’ paper notes become more of a hassle than helpful.
Instead of making the paper-or-digital choice for my high school students, I share research findings and we collaboratively discuss the benefits and advantages of each format. I then prompt them to make the choice for themselves and give them the opportunity to change formats if they feel they made the wrong choice. In Benedict Carey’s book “How We Learn: The Surprising Truth About When, Where and Why It Happens” he refocusses attention away from a mono-solution to the learning conundrum, by prompting learners to consider the task at hand:
“It’s not that there is a right and wrong way to learn. It’s that there are different strategies, each uniquely suited to capturing a particular type of information. A good hunter tailors the trap to the prey” (Carey, 2014, p. 44).
My vision for my students is for them to discover for themselves how they work best in a time where they are living and learning during this technological revolution. The following is a lesson to prompt a discussion surrounding the ambiguity of the paper of digital argument:
While reading and writing remains at the heart of education, emerging technologies will continue to alter the concept of literacy itself. As we continue to move from written text to digitized information, educators must adapt their didactic methods to coincide with modern technologies. The technologies of handwriting and typewriting need not exist in a binary relationship in our postmodernist culture. They can co-exist, offering us a multiplicity of ways to communicate where each is geared for its own different purpose.
References
Mueller, P. A. & Oppenheimer, D. M. (2014). The Pen Is Mightier Than the Keyboard: Advantages of Longhand Over Laptop Note Taking. Psychological Science, 25(6).
O’Donnell, J. & Engell, J. (1999). “From papyrus to cyberspace” [radio broadcasts]. Cambridge Forum.
Ong, W. J. (1982). Orality and literacy: The technologizing of the word. London: Methuen.
Pauly, M. (2016). A Brief History of Handwriting. Mother Jones, 41(5), 60.

Information Processing Theory and Impact on Learning

The Information Processing Theory is an approach to cognitive development that suggests a way in which humans process the information they receive. This theory contrasts a behaviourist that humans simply respond to stimuli. This theory suggests that information is processed in stages, much like the way in which a computer processes data (Orey 2002). Information enters the brain (or computer) through our senses (mouse/keyboard). Next, the information is processed in our working memory (processor/ram), where it is stored and recalled from specific areas of our long-term memory (hard drive). This recalled information can lead to an output response to the stimuli (monitor).
Turple, C. (2016).
Our sensory memory intakes information through seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting and touching. If we decide to pay attention to certain stimuli, it moves into our short-term memory, also known as our working memory as it is the place where we process information. In order for information to be stored in our long-term memory and formally learned, the information must be elaborated on through rehearsal to consolidate the new data.

Turple, C. (2016). Adapted from: Lutz, S. & Huitt, W. (2003).
We can then organize new information into existing knowledge sets (if information is similar to prior information) or create a completely new knowledge structure if the new information is unlike anything we have experienced before. Once information is stored in our long-term memory, we can later recall this knowledge back into our working memory to compare to incoming information or help elaborate on our knowledge experiences.
Many of these operations involve executive function to pay attention to new information, attend to rehearsal practices in the working memory and help consolidate information into our long-term memory. Unfortunately, new information can be lost at all stages of information processing.  If incoming stimulus is not paid attention to in our sensory memory, our brain does not notice the information. In our short-term memory, only a maximum of five stimulus can be used at once – if this information is not encoded within 15-30 seconds it will be lost altogether. In long-term memory retrieval, there are also chances of encoding failure during information consolidation if elaboration does not occur or the information cannot be properly organized in existing knowledge structures. Finally, information in long-term memory could be lost through a retrieval failure or “overridden” if new information contradicts something previously learned.
Watch my visual breakdown of the stages of the theory and applications to classroom practice:
When considering the stages of the Information Processing Theory, there are 5 easy steps teachers can take to support students in the acquisition of new information.
RECEPTION to ensure teachers gain students’ attention using an abrupt stimulus change to focus students’ sensory memory on the lesson. 
I like to use music or short video clips to gain students’ attention. Catchy songs such as this Information Literacy Song or the Literary Devices Rap work well.
RETRIEVAL educators should stimulate recall of prior learning and skills from students’ long-term memory into their working memory.
I like to use kinesthetic warmups that gets the students moving around and talking to peers other than their elbow partner. Simple activities work great such as having the students move around the room and when the music stops (often I use the songs above), I yell out a number. Students must form a group with that many people and answer a question about the content from the previous lesson. Scholastics’s Mind Up Curriculum books are full of such activities.
RECEIVE information transmitted by the teacher that should have distinctive features and suggest a meaningful organization of ideas for students. 
I started “branding” my lessons by using the same template and colour scheme for all lesson within a unit. For other skills such as the MYP Approaches to Learning, I always use the same cover slide. I have also started using less unconnected slides and utilising animations to put together the “pieces” of a slide. Finally, acronyms and step-by-step procedures have become the focus of my lessons. For example, when I was teaching my students about how to find reliable online sources, I began the lesson by playing the research song, played the kinesthetics warmup game, then introduce an acronym to help them remember the criteria for reliable websites:
RESPOND or experience the information for themselves to absorb knowledge into their preexisting knowledge sets by eliciting performance from students. 
Arguably the most important step in student learning! Students need to immediately do something with their new knowledge. When introducing the CRAP acronym for determining reliable resources, I had students decide whether example websites are reliable or not. One issue I often run into for this stage is running out of time when I have 30 minute class time blocks. What I have come to learn is it is better to break up the learning into smaller pieces where students have the opportunity to immediately respond to new knowledge, rather than using a whole block to introduce content and the following block as a work period.
REINFORCE by providing ongoing feedback to students and especially give them additional performance opportunities to apply the feedback. 
Encouraging students to make mistakes and learn from those “failures” is key. I try to give as many opportunities for students to experiment with new ideas by offering several chances to practice new skills. I aim to give my students individual verbal feedback once a week and written feedback every other week. Since I utilise Google for Education Apps Suite in my teaching, this is often done through the comments function. I have learned to create one ongoing template my students work in throughout a unit so all of my comments and their work is in one place. This way, it is easy for both myself and students to see their ongoing progress.
Turple, C. (2016).

More than anything, learning about the Information Processing Theory reminded me of the importance of lesson warm-ups and “hooking” students into a learning activity. The theory also offers a simple explanation of how memory may work and is something I have even taught my students to make them more away of their own learning behaviours.

References
Lutz, S., & Huitt, W. (2003). Information processing and memory: Theory and applications. Educational Psychology Interactive. Valdosta, GA: Valdosta State University. Retrieved from http://www.edpsycinteractive.org/papers/infoproc.pdf
Orey, M. (2002). Information Processing. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Information_processing

Faculty Development Program (FDP) hosted by Track2Training from June 10 to June 20, 2020

The Faculty Development Program (FDP) hosted by Track2Training from June 10 to June 20, 2020, was an intensive online event aimed at enhancing educators’ skills and competencies in various aspects of teaching and learning. This program was meticulously designed to provide comprehensive training and practical insights into contemporary educational practices. Below is a detailed breakdown of the program’s structure, components, and outcomes:


Program Overview

Event: Faculty Development Program
Dates: June 10 – June 20, 2020
Mode: Online
Organizer: Track2Training
Objective: To empower faculty members with modern teaching methodologies, technological tools, and innovative strategies to enhance educational delivery and engage students effectively.


Core Components

Curriculum and Content

  • The FDP encompassed a wide array of topics pertinent to modern educational practices.
  • Sessions focused on pedagogical innovations, assessment techniques, curriculum design, and the integration of technology in teaching.

Schedule and Structure

  • Spanning over 10 days, the program included daily sessions featuring lectures, workshops, and interactive discussions.
  • Each day was divided into multiple segments, including keynotes by industry experts, hands-on training sessions, and Q&A forums.

Learning Management System (LMS)

  • The program was delivered through a sophisticated LMS, offering easy access to resources, recorded sessions, and interactive tools.
  • Participants could utilize a dashboard to track their progress, submit assignments, and engage with peers and instructors.

Expert Speakers and Facilitators

  • The FDP showcased a diverse panel of distinguished speakers and facilitators from both academia and industry.
  • These experts provided insights into various educational trends, technological advancements, and effective teaching practices.

Interactive and Practical Approach

  • The sessions emphasized active learning through case studies, group activities, and role-playing exercises.
  • Participants were encouraged to share their experiences and apply new strategies in simulated classroom settings.

Assessment and Feedback

  • Regular assessments were conducted to evaluate participants’ understanding and application of the content.
  • Feedback mechanisms were in place to offer constructive criticism and guide participants towards improvement.

Detailed Session Breakdown

Days 1-2: Introduction to Modern Pedagogy

  • Overview of current trends in education.
  • Focus on student-centered learning.
  • Techniques for fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Days 3-4: Technology Integration in Teaching

  • Utilization of digital tools for effective teaching.
  • Introduction to e-learning platforms and virtual classrooms.
  • Best practices for creating engaging multimedia content.

Days 5-6: Curriculum Development and Assessment

  • Principles of curriculum design and alignment with learning outcomes.
  • Innovative assessment techniques for evaluating student performance.
  • Designing effective rubrics and feedback mechanisms.

Days 7-8: Enhancing Student Engagement

  • Strategies for motivating and engaging students.
  • Incorporation of gamification and interactive elements in lessons.
  • Understanding diverse learning styles and adapting teaching methods accordingly.

Day 9: Research and Innovation in Education

  • Encouragement of research-based teaching practices.
  • Exploration of opportunities for educational research and publication.
  • Introduction to grant writing and research funding opportunities.

Day 10: Reflection and Future Directions

  • Reflecting on learning outcomes and personal growth.
  • Development of action plans for implementing new strategies.
  • Networking and collaboration opportunities with fellow educators.

Outcomes and Benefits

  • Enhanced Skill Set: Participants acquired practical skills in curriculum development, technology integration, and student engagement.
  • Professional Development: The program significantly contributed to participants’ professional growth, enhancing their teaching effectiveness and career opportunities.
  • Networking Opportunities: Attendees had the chance to connect with peers, experts, and industry leaders, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
  • Certification: Participants received a certificate of completion, validating their participation and newly acquired competencies.

The Faculty Development Program conducted by Track2Training from June 10 to June 20, 2020, was a transformative initiative that provided educators with essential skills and knowledge to navigate the evolving educational landscape. Through a blend of theoretical insights and practical applications, the program addressed the challenges faced by modern educators and offered a platform for continuous learning and professional advancement.

What The Education System REALLY Exists For – Myth # 7

The Seven Myths of Highly Ineffective Education Systems – Myth # 7 of 7

Or

The Seven Myths That Make Education Difficult To Improve

See Myth # 6 of 7 here.

Myth # 7 – The education system exists to improve education

Systems tend to lead double lives – at a conceptual level they might be brilliant, with wonderfully competent and committed people leading them. Yet at the ground level, what is in operation may be entirely different. Thus despite terrific policy and capability at policy/decision-making levels in the health sector, what common people might be heard saying is: “It is better to pay through your nose at a private clinic, than to die for free at the government hospital.”

For the people, the ‘system’ comprises of those representatives they meet at the district, block, cluster and village level, and occasionally those at the state levels. To understand the situation, try asking a group of educational administrators about the finer aspects of TA-DA rules and how they apply them, and you will find they can animatedly discuss them for about two hours. But raise the issue of why children are not learning (which is actually their real responsibility) and you will get a different response… (It’s true, isn’t it?)

This is what tends to happen to any system  (or even organization) over time – ultimately it’s own nuances, requirements, procedures, structures and powers (or power) become its main concerns, with the reason for its very existence slowly dimming in the memory of its functionaries. Thus:

  • teachers/CRC-BRC must spend more time collecting data even at the cost of teaching or improving learning, or
  • every school must follow the given framework for its School Development Plan (because the need to compile the plans at the block level is more important than the need for it to be appropriate for that school), or
  • every HT must maintain records for the officials ‘above’ even if it means she will not have time to support her teachers in improving the classroom process.

It is as if children, teachers, HTs, SMCs all exist to feed the machinery ‘above’ which has to ‘control’ them, and ‘give’ them resources (from mid-day meals to teachers to textbooks to in-service training, from which often a ‘cut’ may be taken), ‘allow’ them to take decisions such as which would be the most convenient time for most children to attend school, ‘monitor’ the work of teachers, ‘test’ the learning of students, and ‘grant’ the privilege of education.

What the RTE implies is that it is those who get their salaries because of children who are the real ‘beneficiaries’ – which includes all the administrators, supervisors, inspectors, monitors, institutions, departments, ministries.  It is they who are accountable to children and teachers, or would be if they really existed for education.

As mentioned, give them enough time and systems end up existing more to perpetuate themselves – and the status quo within – rather than the purpose for which they are created. Try making a change in the way things are organised within a system and you might find it responds with a kind of ferocious energy it fails to display when similar urgency is required in its primary objective. For instance, if it were declared that an educationist rather than an IAS officer will head the Department of Education, you will get a lot more activity in the system (to prevent that) than if you declared (as is well known) that most children are failing to attain grade level learning across the country.

Finally, systems exist to preserve the hold of the powerful. Issues that affect the middle classes or those more privileged get inordinate attention in the system. Thus nursery school admissions in private schools in Delhi are a big issue, or the allocation for poor children in elite private schools is endlessly discussed, or the class 10 board exam being needed (by children from better off families)… but the death of a 100+ children in a mid-day-meal from a poor section of society, or the low levels of  service in deprived areas or chronically low learning levels despite much money being invested – fail to receive that kind of attention.

For those seeking to make a dent in the system, it would be healthier to have a more ‘aware’ notion of what the education system really exists for. The puny strategies we use to make things better are unlikely to serve as even pinpricks to the system.