PASSAGE 1 ⇱
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has had a huge impact on education. Here are some examples from around the world.
A. Digital portfolio
To apply for a university or a job, students usually need to support their applications with a list of relevant qualifications and experience. Thanks to AI, they can now effortlessly do that online. A team from two famous universities in Singapore has invented an AI digital portfolio. This app collects data from the learning and working experience that students upload onto the app. Then the data is sorted into sets of skills which students can use for their job or university applications.
B. Educational chatbots
AI chatbots are being used in many schools and universities around the world. They can help keep students engaged in their learning by providing a more interactive experience. Students can seek support from AI chatbots during and after classes so that they can understand the lessons better. They can also create groups on chatbots to share ideas about projects and activities. Engaging with each other using conversational AI can help students create a better and friendlier learning environment.
C. Virtual reality
Schools in Hong Kong are bringing fascinating learning to the classroom through the power of virtual reality (VR). This new way of teaching helps students learn valuable skills, provides “hands-on” experiences when studying history or geography, and limits potential dangers of chemistry or physics experiments. Guided virtual tours transport students back in time to study the history of Hong Kong or take them to tropical forests to explore endangered species.
D. Personalised learning
Experts in Israel have created a technology platform to support personalised learning. It collects data from students about what they know and do not know, analyses performances using AI, then offers them suitable assignments. This app has served as the main distance-learning platform for many Israeli students who are preparing for advanced examinations in physics.
(Adapted from Global Success)
PASSAGE 2 ⇱
Peer influence, especially during the teenage years, plays a significant role in shaping behaviors, interests, and values. During adolescence, many young people start to seek independence from their families, and their social circles become increasingly important. This desire for independence often leads teenagers to rely more on their friends and peer groups for guidance, validation, and a sense of belonging.
Positive peer influence can have several benefits. For instance, if a teenager’s friends prioritize school and have healthy hobbies, this can encourage similar behaviors. Teenagers are more likely to take part in constructive activities like studying, sports, or volunteering if their friends value these pursuits. Such influence can boost self-esteem, foster social skills, and help teenagers make responsible choices.
However, peer influence is not always positive. Teens may feel pressured to engage in risky behaviors, like smoking, drinking alcohol, or skipping school, to fit in with certain groups. Sometimes, teenagers participate in activities they don’t fully agree with because they fear rejection or criticism. This pressure can lead them away from their values and family expectations, potentially causing conflicts and negative consequences.
To handle peer influence, teenagers need strong decision-making skills and self-awareness. Understanding what they value can help them resist negative pressure and choose friends who respect their boundaries. Additionally, support from family and positive role models can empower teenagers to make wise choices, even when they feel pressured by their peers.
Ultimately, peer influence is a powerful factor in teenage development. Whether positive or negative, it can shape a young person’s identity and life choices in meaningful ways. Therefore, it is essential for teenagers to be mindful of their social circles and to seek friendships that encourage growth and respect.
PASSAGE 3 ⇱
The rise of remote and online learning has fundamentally altered the educational landscape, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. What was once an alternative mode of instruction has now become an integral part of modern education. This shift has introduced both notable advantages and significant challenges for students, educators, and institutions.
One of the most evident benefits of online learning is its flexibility. Students can tailor their schedules, allowing them to learn at their own pace and from virtually any location. This is particularly advantageous for those juggling academic commitments with part-time jobs or personal responsibilities. Furthermore, remote learning enables access to educational resources globally, breaking down geographical barriers and fostering a more inclusive learning environment for individuals in remote or underserved areas. Digital platforms often provide a rich array of multimedia tools, making lessons more engaging and interactive.
However, the absence of physical interaction poses a serious challenge to the quality of education. Virtual classrooms can’t fully replicate the dynamic exchange of ideas that occurs in traditional settings, where face-to-face discussions and real-time feedback play a crucial role in deepening understanding. Many students struggle with a sense of isolation and the lack of personal connection with their peers and instructors, which can negatively affect motivation and engagement.
Additionally, remote learning heavily depends on access to technology. Reliable internet, up-to-date devices, and digital literacy are prerequisites, but not all students have these resources, exacerbating educational inequalities. Moreover, the self-directed nature of online learning requires students to develop strong time management and self-discipline skills, which can be difficult without proper guidance or structure.
Despite these obstacles, the long-term potential of online learning is undeniable. As technology continues to evolve, the future of education will likely become more hybrid, combining the best aspects of both remote and in-person learning.