Category Archives: Education

Author S. I. McDonald’s New Book The Atavist Effect: Rika’s Run

New York, NY, April 17, 2024 –– S. I. McDonald, a debut author and educator who currently resides in Alaska, has completed his new book, “The Atavist Effect: Rika’s Run”: a compelling speculative fiction story that explores how the world collapsed in the late twenty-first century, leading to the age of cold-steam and the maker cultures that put faith, family, and freedom against overwhelmingly powerful odds.

Born in the shadow of NASA’s Cape Canaveral in Florida, author S. I. McDonald raised his children in the shade of Kodiak Island’s rocket launch facility nicknamed the Other Cape. McDonald and his wife left the Lower 48 for an amazing adventure in Alaska. As an educator for three decades, responsible for educating Alaska’s children in remote communities from the Kodiak Archipelago to the shores of the Arctic Ocean, McDonald has been recognized nationally for prioritizing career technology and promoting place-based education. He spends his evenings writing and imagining a world where children and adults acquire the skills to build and sustain self-determined communities. With a doctorate in education and an imagination bigger than all the walls of a classroom could ever hold, McDonald is committed to writing books that broaden curiosities with the fantastic and ground the mind in the possible.

“Introducing the first book in a speculative fiction series called ‘The Atavist Effect: Rika’s Run,’ this sets the framework of an epic tale that starts with the actions of unlikely characters, whose pursuit of their faith, family, and freedom put them against distant, seemingly all-powerful forces. The story is told from the twenty-second century through the research of a maker’s apprentice trying to keep a seat in the qargi, the maker school. Like a complex puzzle, he pieces together old family stories to discover how a girl changed the events of the twenty-first century. On a stolen flying contraption and searching for her brother, Rika sowed the seeds of rebellion against technocratic globalists quietly seizing control and restricting people’s freedoms,” writes the author.

“The storyteller already knows that the world collapsed in the late twenty-first century; after all, it is a part of the curriculum in school. But the mystery is how it happened and how it all came back together. How do the choices of the previous generations impact the present? What is the right response when faced with difficult decisions against impossible odds?”

Author Reginald Jeffcoat’s New Book The Best Cellars List

Renton, WA, April 17, 2024 –Reginald Jeffcoat, a married father of seven presently living in Seattle, Washington, has completed his new book, “The Best Cellars List”: a compelling collection that keeps the pages turning until its final chapter.

“The Best Cellars List” is a compilation of short stories from the imagination of Reginald Jeffcoat. Though each story is fictional, every one of them is thoroughly laced with real people, places, and situations, making each story unique in its own right. As a full-time father and husband, this process took more than five years to complete. “The Best Cellars List” is a roller-coaster joyride through the mind of one of the best authors/storytellers of the twenty-first century, and Reggie hopes you have as much fun reading it as he did while writing it.

M.A. Cummings’s newly released America the Grammar

New York, NY, April 17, 2024 — The effective use of grammar in written and spoken form is a core factor in improving any person’s ability to communicate – and it’s essential to fixing what ails American public discourse, according to the author or a new book out now from Christian Faith Publishing.

In author M.A. Cummings’ new “America the Grammar: Improve Your Communication In Any Situation,” the author makes the point that the core of any person’s ability to make an argument lies in how well they can master and control their own words, and how those words fit together to make cogent, logical arguments. The failure of effective arguments are impacting how Americans debate the essential issues of the day.

“The problem is that our education system has failed to give students the skills to adequately convey a given message,” said Cummings, a sales and marketing executive from Littleton, Colorado. “That failure is leading to a whole host of issues that are impacting public life in America.”

Cummings argues that Americans, now absorbed by mobile technology and language-limiting social media, are not engaging in the full power of the “American language.”

“Challenging the modern medium people are using isn’t the point,” said Cummings. “It’s improving the message that matters. If you don’t know the language you cannot get your message across.”

The new book provides guideposts for the proper use of grammar because everyone eventually has to write and make arguments in long form and needs a modern resource to help.

“If a person does not know how to write and speak with the fully effective set of tools that our language gives us, their ability to engage in arguments diminishes and gives power to those who do,” said Cummings, a husband and father of three who wrote the book for his daughters to help arm them for the world they will inherit.

Cummings says that “America the Grammar: Improve Your Communication In Any Situation” is a modern upgrade to the classic grammar manual “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk and E.B. White which was first published in 1919.

“America the Grammar: Improve Your Communication In Any Situation” uses the same simple but powerful instruction on improving grammar and usage with modern updates and examples.

“I turned to American history and our nation’s great rhetorical tradition from our Judeo- Christian value system as examples to illustrate this book,” said Cummings.

“We have to learn to recapture our language because it is a necessary and powerful requirement to succeed,” said Cummings.

Author Jimmy Scott’s Book One Scarce Man Loosed In His Hands

New York, NY, April 17, 2024 — Jimmy Scott has completed his new book, “One Scarce Man: Loosed In His Hands”: a thought-provoking look at how one can find true happiness and fulfillment in life through a relationship with God, the source of spiritual abundance in a world of scarcity.

“Do you know, or can you think, of a type of person that is currently in short supply?” writes Jimmy. “If you can, then you can say that this type of person is scarce or exists only in limited quantities. Think about this. Are you experiencing some type of scarcity in your life today? Are you lacking purpose, love, hope, or peace, for example? If so, how will you find and have abundance in these areas instead?

“To find abundance, we must first discover where it comes from and from whom it comes. Does it come from big bank accounts or seeking luxurious lifestyles as many espouse today? No, an abundant life comes from being a scarce man or woman who seeks God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. In this book, you will discover what makes a scarce man or woman. Yes, the truth will set you free!”

What the future holds for students in 2024

By Ms. Indira Ramachandran, Principal At TAS, Pune

In 2023, we witnessed a transformation in the ever-evolving landscape of education with the integration of adaptive learning platforms and digital tools that allowed students to progress at their own pace. However, the year 2024 is expected to bring even more significant changes in this regard. As the world continues to rapidly evolve with technological advancements and globalization, the education sector is also facing significant changes. From practical learning to personalized education, the future of education in 2024 will undoubtedly be vastly different from what we know today.

There will be a greater emphasis on developing practical skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and communication in the education sector. These skills are not easily replaceable by machines and are essential for success in the future job market. By 2024, we can expect to see a shift towards incorporating these skills into the curriculum and providing students with opportunities to develop them.

To bridge the gap between education and the job market, there will be an increased collaboration between educational institutions and industry professionals. This will help students gain real-world experience and skills that are relevant to their chosen field of study. By 2024, we can expect to see more internships and partnerships with companies for hands-on learning opportunities.

The traditional one-size-fits-all approach to education is becoming obsolete, and we can expect to see a significant shift toward personalized learning. With the help of artificial intelligence and data analytics, educators will be able to customize learning experiences for each student based on their strengths, weaknesses, and interests. This will enable students to learn at their own pace and in a way that suits their learning style, leading to better academic performance and engagement. In addition to personalized learning, we can also expect to see a shift towards personalized assessment methods. Traditional exams may no longer be the sole measure of a student’s academic performance. Instead, educators will utilize various methods such as project-based assessments, portfolios, and continuous evaluation to assess student learning. This will provide a more comprehensive understanding of a student’s capabilities and progress. Imagine a future where students no longer have to conform to a one-size-fits-all curriculum. Instead, they will have access to personalized learning plans that adapt in real time based on their progress and areas that require more attention. This approach will not only foster a deeper understanding of the subject matter but also enhance engagement and motivation among students.

Thanks to advancements in technology, education will become more accessible to individuals from all backgrounds. With the rise of digital learning, students who were previously unable to attend traditional universities due to financial or geographical constraints will have the opportunity to get a quality education. This will also help bridge the education gap between developed and developing countries, leading to a more globally educated population. Immersive learning experiences, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), will become more accessible and widely used in 2024. These technologies provide students with the opportunity to explore realistic simulations, visit historical landmarks, or even travel to outer space without leaving the classroom. Immersive learning experiences not only make education more engaging but also enhance understanding and retention of complex concepts. Incorporating elements of gaming into the learning process, also known as gamification, is expected to gain more traction in the education sector by 2024. This method has already proven to be effective in engaging students and enhancing their learning experience. By incorporating game-like features into educational content, students will be more motivated to learn and retain information better.

In today’s fast-paced world, where skills become obsolete rapidly, continuous learning has become crucial for personal and professional growth. We can expect to see a significant emphasis on lifelong learning in the education sector. This means that education will not be limited to just the early years of life but will continue throughout one’s career through various courses, workshops, and learning opportunities.

The future of education in 2024 looks promising, however, with these changes also come challenges such as the need for effective regulation, ensuring equal access to education for all, and preparing students for an ever-changing job market. The future of education will require a shift in mindset and traditional educational paradigms. Embracing new pedagogical approaches, such as project-based learning, interdisciplinary studies, and student-centered approaches, will be essential to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Education systems must be agile and flexible to adapt to the changing needs of the workforce and society. While these challenges and concerns may seem daunting, they also provide an opportunity for growth and innovation. By addressing these issues proactively, stakeholders in education can shape a future where every student has access to quality education, and where learning is engaging, inclusive, and empowering. We are on the cusp of a transformative era. The advancements and innovations we have witnessed in the past year alone have set the stage for an educational landscape that is vastly different from what we have known in 2023.

Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence (IoE) hosts Information Session in Gurugram for Admissions for 2024-25

Gurugram, 17th April 2024: Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence (IoE) welcomed prospective students and their families to an information session in Gurugram. The gathering served as a platform for students and parents to engage with the academic leadership and faculty members, offering insights into admissions for the academic year 2024-25. The university is currently accepting applications to all programs across its four schools in Engineering, Natural Sciences, Management and Entrepreneurship, and Humanities and Social Sciences.

Dr. Rajeev Kumar Singh, Associate Professor and Associate Dean, Academics at Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence who moderated the session highlighted the diverse opportunities available at the university and new scholarships for deserving students.

While addressing the parents and students during the session, Dr. Singh, said, “Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence is a student-centric, multidisciplinary research university. Teaching at the university is continuously enriched by our faculty’s research work along with strong industry connections. The university’s Atal Incubation Centre is a cradle that nurtures startup ideas and handholds them till it fructifies. The learning environment is not only exceptional in the physical infrastructure but also in how the curriculum is planned. “

The session also shed light on the university’s robust research ecosystem, comprising 16 departments and 6 research centers emphasizing the university’s cutting-edge research endeavors. Professor Sanjeev Galande, Dean, School of Life Science; Professor Suneet Tuli, Dean of school of Engineering; Professor Rajat Kathuria, Dean, School of Humanities and Social Sciences; Dr. Debrati Basu, Associate professor, School of Humanities and Social Sciences; and Dr. Sanju Kalra, Assistant Professor, School of Management and Entrepreneurship answered queries during the interaction.

Presenting the diverse opportunities available to students, Dr. Kathuria emphasized the university’s curriculum is industry aligned.

A sizeable number of SNIoE graduates pursue higher education in top institutions in India and abroad, some securing direct entry to Ph.D. programs after completing their undergraduate degrees. This demonstrates the value of the university’s four-year undergraduate research degree, and its ability to nurture globally competitive talent.

Students have been placed at leading companies like Microsoft, Google, NXP, ServiceNow, etc, across various sectors, including technology, finance, consulting, and research, both nationally and internationally, showcasing the university’s commitment in creating successful career paths for its graduates.

Established in 2011, the university is spread across a 286-acre residential campus with over 3000 students and 250+ faculty. Beyond academics, the university encourages an inclusive social environment with over 50 student clubs and societies to pursue their passions, develop new skills, and build lifelong friendships. The University was awarded the ‘Institution of Eminence’ status in 2022.

Jackie Clyburn’s Newly Released I Can Tap Into Greatness

Newburgh, NY, April 16, 2024 — “I Can Tap Into Greatness”: an encouraging narrative that will help young readers find connection with God. “I Can Tap Into Greatness” is the creation of published author, Jackie Clyburn, a dedicated mother, grandmother, and educator.

Clyburn shares, “This book is inspired by God for all of God’s children. If you are like me or know someone who has felt nervous, sad, and angry or felt like you were going to explode or have even lost control at times, then you should know that God has placed in YOU everything needed to overcome these feelings.

“I have learned and I am still learning that in every situation and in every part of my life, I can and will tap into the greatness that God has placed in me, which is also in each of His children, His light—the Holy Spirit!

“Jesus speaks in John 14:17 and 26 (International Children’s Bible translation (ICB), The Helper is the Spirit of truth… He lives with you and he will be in you.

“But the Helper will teach you everything. He will cause you to remember all the things I told you. This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name.”

Pauline Drach’s New Book Pinky & Twinky

New York, NY, April 16, 2024 — Fulton Books author Pauline Drach, an executive, an artist, and a mother, among other things, has completed her most recent book, “Pinky & Twinky: The Untold Story of the Tooth Fairy Twins”: a charming story that follows a tooth fairy named Pinky who must discover why all the teeth the fairies are collecting are rotten, all while trying to figure out where her brother is.

Drach writes, “‘Pinky & Twinky: The Untold Story of the Tooth Fairy Twins’ is a tale of how courage and fear relate to going to the dentist. Pinky passes her test and becomes the tooth fairy, but her brother is afraid and runs away. Meanwhile, an evil wizard casts a spell on all the children, so the teeth the tooth fairy is collecting are rotten. Only healthy teeth can be turned into pixie dust to make fairies fly and grant wishes. Will Pinky the tooth fairy solve the riddle of why children’s teeth have cavities? Will she be able to save her home and all the fairies? Will she find her brother?”

Author J.D. Freeman Sr.’s New Book Use Your Words

Shreveport, LA, April 16, 2024 — J.D. Freeman Sr., a writer and professional photographer, has completed his new book, “Use Your Words”: a charming tale of a young girl who goes to visit the doctor’s office for her check-up, and learns the importance of using her words so that others will listen to her throughout the stages of her life.

Born in northern Louisiana, author J.D. Freeman Sr.’s desire to become an artist first began in 1989. After enrolling in a photography class, he observed that photography could provide a more lucrative income than art, and so worked as a professional photographer from 1998 to 2005. After he began writing in 1995, Freeman Sr. also started speaking to the youth in public schools as a motivational speaker.

“The reason for this book is to remind parents and guardians the importance of teaching children words while they are small,” writes Freeman Sr. “This will open doors later on in life for them. Remember, to equip a child with the best starts at home, not in school. Teaching a child words and how to use them builds character, confidence, and also awareness. Doing this will also help teachers when it comes to your child’s learning. Their listening skills will be better, and with better listening skills often comes a better understanding that often helps their growth in every way. So we must learn to take advantage of this opportunity in teaching our children for they won’t stay small forever.”

L. J. Good’s Newly Released The Fight

New York, NY, April 16, 2024 — “The Fight”: an uplifting juvenile fiction that presents young readers with valuable advice. “The Fight” is the creation of published author, L. J. Good, a dedicated wife, mother, and educator.

Good shares, “Franklin, the youngest eaglet, struggles to gain his strength. It is not until a supporter with a similar upbringing explains he has his own purpose to carry on. It takes just the right supporter to come along to change your mindset forever. It’s a fight within yourself.”