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Word of the Day: lichen

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This word has appeared in 22 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year. Can you use it in a sentence?

Improving College Student Outcomes with Course Policies that Support Autonomy

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Improving College Student Outcomes with Course Policies that Support Autonomy

Cover image by Ulrich from Pixabay

By Megan Sumeracki

In today’s post, I want to share a cool, relatively new paper by Simon Cullen and Daniel Oppenheimer from Science Advances (1). The paper is titled, Choosing to Learn: The Importance of Student Autonomy in Higher Education. The methodology is neat, the results are interesting, and while this paper used a higher education sample, I think educators teaching other grade levels might be able to take something from this (even if not the exact intervention).

The authors (1) note that autonomy enhances student motivation and achievement, yet many policies that are frequently adopted and even recommended by university teaching and learning centers, like mandatory attendance, mandatory drafts, etc., can undermine feelings of autonomy. They went as far as to critically analyze 13 prominent centers for teaching and learning at well-known universities and found that there was very little, if any, discussion or recommendations related to student choice. Some even argued against meaningful student autonomy. The authors argue that autonomy may benefit college students.

The purpose of the studies in the paper was to test whether policies that support student autonomy improve student outcomes. They present two studies. One was a randomized controlled field study examining the effects of allowing students to choose whether their attendance was mandatory. The other was a multi-year cohort study examining the effects of allowing students to opt out of challenging, high-effort assessments.

Today, mandatory attendance.

Study 1: Mandatory vs. Optional Attendance

The Method

This study was a randomized controlled field study testing the effects of allowing students to choose whether to make their own attendance mandatory (i.e., part of their grade). The study was conducted with college students taking a large Gen-Ed Philosophy course at Carnegie Mellon University. Students in the course were enrolled in discussion sections taught by TAs (teaching assistants). Each TA had two discussion sections, one randomly assigned to have a mandatory attendance policy with the other having an optional-mandatory policy. The TAs did not know what the hypothesis for the study was.

In the mandatory attendance sections, the TAs told the students that attendance at recitations would count toward their final grade. They were permitted to miss up to three recitations, and if they missed only three sessions or fewer, they had 3% added to their final grade. If they missed more, they had 3% subtracted from their final grade.

In the optional-mandatory sections, the TAs told the students that they got to choose if you would like attendance at recitations to count toward their final grade. If they chose for it to count, then the policy was applied in the same way as the mandatory policy. They were permitted to miss up to three recitations, and if they missed only three sessions or fewer, they had 3% added to their final grade. If they missed more, they had 3% subtracted from their final grade.

Learning Technology Turkey Awards 2024

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Learning Technology Turkey Awards 2024

This is the category a lot of people zero in on. Is it totally subjective? Absolutely – it is based on my viewing of the system(s). In the past, SuccessFactors was a multi-winner, but not this year. The folks there seem to have had an issue with my award. Which wasn’t a factor here and although I had to go through another channel to see the system – thank you my source – I still think the system is underwhelming – but safe – for this year.

Our 15+ Skill Paths Prepare You for Cloud, Cyber, & IT Certifications 

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Our 15+ Skill Paths Prepare You for Cloud, Cyber, & IT Certifications 

Here’s an epic opportunity for anyone considering a career in cloud, cybersecurity, or IT:  We just added over 15 new skill paths to our catalog that are designed to prepare you for top industry-recognized certification exams.  

Certifications carry a lot of weight in these tech fields, because they validate your knowledge of specific skills and open the door to lucrative and rewarding careers. Surveys show that having industry certifications can increase job opportunities, salaries, and chances for bonuses and promotions. Not to mention, professional certifications tend to be more accessible to obtain than, say, a degree from a traditional four-year institution.  

Our test prep courses prepare you for some of the most popular certifications, including CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1), AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner CLF-C02, and Cisco Certified Network Associate 200-301. The best part? Test prep skill paths are fully included in your Codecademy subscription, so you can focus on learning the relevant skills without racking up additional costs.  

Read on to learn more about how to start working towards a certification in cybersecurity, cloud, or IT today.  

Who are these new skill paths for?  

If you’re interested in an IT, cybersecurity, or cloud career, you’re going to want to have certifications. In Skillsoft’s most recent IT Skills & Salary Report, 90% of leaders said they want to hire professionals with technical certifications. These skill paths are an excellent way to learn exactly what’s covered in certification exams, so you can feel confident and prepared when it’s time to sit for the real exam.  

The cool thing about IT, cloud, and cybersecurity certificates is that they help level the playing field in the competitive job market. Career changers or folks with unconventional educational backgrounds can earn certifications to signal to employers that they have the practical, hands-on skills needed to handle a specific domain.  

There’s also value in getting certified even if you’re in a non-technical or tech-adjacent role. Certifications can help you improve your cloud literacy, become self-sufficient with basic IT tasks  

There are no prerequisites for these courses, but you should have an idea of what you want to do or which certificate you’d like to pursue before jumping in. It also helps to have some basic programming knowledge, an understanding of automation, and strong soft skills. Read this blog to learn how to choose the right certification based on your goals and experience. 

What can you learn in the new skill paths? 

The skill paths are made up of video-based courses as well as bonus material like skill benchmarks that are designed to mimic actual certification exams. You’ll also find interactive projects in these skill paths, so you can test your knowledge and get hands-on experience applying concepts to real-world scenarios. For example, in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ skill path, you’ll complete relevant projects like manually installing Windows 10, creating and configuring a Linux virtual machine, and backing up and restoring a database. All of these features help you feel confident and prepared when it comes time to sit for a certification exam or tackle real-world challenges.  

Good to know: You can’t get certified through Codecademy courses alone, but they will provide you with a structured learning experience that prepares you for the exams. Since this is all included in your Codecademy Pro and Plus membership, you don’t have to pay extra for exam prep resources. (However, when you eventually sign up to take the certification exam itself through a credentialing organization, you’ll have to pay a fee that can cost a couple hundred dollars.)  

If you decide to take the next step and get certified, you have to purchase vouchers from vendors in order to take the official certification exam. Depending on the certification, it can cost hundreds of dollars simply to take the test. Our courses are the perfect opportunity to explore these domains before you commit the time and money to getting certified. 

Which skill path should I take first?  

Ultimately, choosing the right skill path and certification for you depends on your individual career goals. Take some time to research what these different careers entail before deciding. We have tons of resources on the blog that will educate you about these fields, for example, a guide to in-demand cybersecurity roles, a list of cloud careers and salaries, and a breakdown of the biggest misconceptions about working in IT.  

If you’re just getting started, check out this blog about how to choose a beginner-friendly industry certification and the skill paths that will get across the finish line. 

How to Choose the Right Industry Certification for Your Goals

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How to Choose the Right Industry Certification for Your Goals

Earning industry certifications is one of the most productive ways you can work towards a career in IT, cloud, or cybersecurity. Certifications validate your skills and experience, so you can expand your career opportunities, have better job security, and earn more money.  

With our new test prep skill paths, we’re making it easier for Codecademy learners to get ready to ace certification exams and break into this lucrative area of tech. There over 15 new test prep skill paths that ladder up to leading industry certifications, and they’re all included in your Codecademy membership.  

Not sure where to start? Like choosing a programming language, you should have an idea of what you’d like to do before selecting a certification or skill path. Ahead we’ll break down what you should look for in a certification, the best ones for beginners, and the skill paths to take now.  

Research providers and vendors 

The names of industry certifications can be confusing to decipher without context (even for someone who can read complicated computer code). Often, you’ll see the provider or platform, level, specialization, and alphanumeric exam code baked into the certification name. Take a look at some examples of industry certifications

  • AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate SAA-C03  
  • CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 
  • CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ FC0-U61 

Before you dive into a skill path or certification, consider which platform or provider is the most relevant to your goals, career, or industry. For example, the big three cloud providers, Amazon Web Services, Azure, and Google, all offer their own certifications. If your organization primarily uses Azure, that’s a good reason to choose to specialize in Azure. Or say you’re looking for a job in finance — you may want to focus on AWS, which tends to be a popular choice for banks and financial institutions. 

Some other credentialing organizations that you’ll come across in our catalog include CompTIA (the Computing Technology Industry Association), a non-profit trade association that provides vendor-neutral IT certifications, and Cisco, which is known for its networking hardware like routers and switches, as well as cybersecurity solutions.  

Do a little research to determine which route is right for your goals. Our new skill paths align with industry certifications, so once you choose a cert, it’s easy to tell where to start.

Evaluate your level 

There’s a huge range of levels when it comes to industry certifications — from absolute beginner to expert. When you’re just starting out, you’ll want to focus on foundational certifications before doubling down on a specific topic or technology.  

As with all areas of tech, you’re never really done learning in IT. Just like you gradually learn more programming languages or frameworks throughout your coding career, you’ll also pick up more certifications and skills. Some certifications, like the AWS Certified Solutions Architect, are intended for people who have a couple years of hands-on experience working with cloud architecture.  

Even seasoned technologists have to stay on top of current technologies and skills and continue earning certifications. For instance, Google Cloud’s Professional Cloud Architect certification is one of the highest-paying IT certifications in the US. The average certification-holder has 9 certifications, according to data from Skillsoft’s IT Skills & Salary Report, one of the largest studies of IT salaries, skills, and certifications.  

Consider the salary potential 

Certifications boost your qualifications for higher-paying jobs. They validate your skills, making you more productive and valuable to employers, who see certified employees as key to reducing troubleshooting time and closing skills gaps within the organization. 

Depending on where you are in your career, the earning potential of specific certifications might be a big factor in which certification you decide to pursue next. The highest-paying certifications that we offer test prep skill paths for are Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+). To put the value of these certifications in perspective, the average CISSP holder in the US has a salary of $168,060, according to the 2024 IT Skills & Salary report. 

Remember: IT professionals usually have multiple certifications that contribute to their compensation. There are also other factors that impact salaries beyond credentials, like your geographic location, industry, job tasks, and your individual performance.  

Start pursuing industry certifications 

If you’re starting from scratch, our beginner-friendly test prep skill paths [link to landing page] are a solid way to kick off your learning journey. Here’s what you need to know about the entry-level certifications, the types of jobs you can get with the certs, and the test prep skill paths to take: 

CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (FC0-U61)

CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (FC0-U61): Specifically designed for beginners and career switchers, this certification validates your understanding of basic IT concepts, including computer hardware, software applications, networking basics, and cybersecurity principles. If you want to see if IT is right for you, start with this skill path. It’s also a great option for people in tech-adjacent roles who want to upskill.  

Best for: Anyone interested in IT as well as tech-adjacent upskillers and students.   

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101)

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101): This is the industry-standard entry-level certification for people who want to break into IT. Our skill path prepares you for CompTIA A+ certification with expert training in hardware, OS, networking, security, and troubleshooting to help you get in the door in IT.  

Best for: Job seekers looking for a role as a Technical Support Specialist, IT Support Technician, or Field Service Technician.  

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CLF-C02)

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CLF-C02): Get up to speed on AWS Cloud, services, and terminologies with this introductory-level certification. Master AWS Cloud fundamentals, security, and migration strategies. This skill path prepares you for the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam (CLF-C02). Good to know: This is the most widely held AWS certification, according to new data from the IT Skills & Salary Report.  

Best for: Cloud curious people and upskillers who want to improve their cloud literacy.  

Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900):

Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900): Get introduced to cloud services and how they’re provided with Microsoft Azure. Explore cloud concepts, core Azure Services, Azure pricing and support, and the fundamentals of cloud security, privacy, compliance, and trust. This skill path prepares you for the AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification exam. 

Best for: Tech professionals (like Software Developers or Database Managers) who want to learn cloud concepts and gain Azure experience.   

Taking the first step toward industry certifications can open doors to exciting and rewarding career opportunities. By following these beginner-friendly test prep skill paths, you’ll gain the foundational knowledge and confidence needed to advance in the IT field. Don’t forget to check out our full catalog of IT, cybersecurity, and cloud courses that can complement your learning journey. Embrace these learning opportunities to build a strong base for your future professional endeavors. 

World’s Top Notch ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO 14001 Courses, Now Available in Spanish

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World’s Top Notch ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO 14001 Courses, Now Available in Spanish

Exciting news for Spanish-speaking professionals around the globe: Alison is now offering its highly acclaimed ISO 9001, ISO 45001, and ISO 14001 courses in Spanish. Led by expert instructor S.M. Waqas Imam, these courses have already attracted over 550,000 learners in their English versions. The Spanish translations aim to break language barriers, making high-quality education in quality management, occupational health and safety, and environmental management more accessible than ever to Spanish-speaking communities.

Why ISO Certifications Matter

ISO certifications are globally recognised standards that help organisations ensure their products and services meet customer and regulatory requirements. These standards improve management systems and enhance operational efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at the three key certifications now available in Spanish on Alison:

1. ISO 9001 (Quality Management)

  • Overview: ISO 9001 is the world’s most popular quality management standard. It helps organizations consistently meet customer expectations and regulatory requirements while focusing on improving overall efficiency.
  • Course Features: Alison’s popular ISO 9001 course, designed by expert S.M. Waqas Imam, delves into the core principles of quality management, including the process approach and the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle. What sets this course apart is its focus on demystifying complex concepts like risk-based thinking and organisational knowledge alongside essential QMS (Quality Management System) topics. By enrolling, learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the steps necessary to implement and sustain a robust quality management system.
  • Enrollment Impact: With over 190,000 enrollments in English and now expanding to the Spanish version, the total impact of this course is set to grow significantly. The Spanish version aims to reach and empower even more professionals worldwide.

2. ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety)

  • Overview: ISO 45001 sets the standard for occupational health and safety management systems. It helps organizations improve employee safety, reduce workplace risks, and create better, safer working conditions.
  • Course Features: This course, thoughtfully designed by S.M. Waqas Imam, guides learners through essential concepts of occupational health and safety, including risk assessment and hazard identification. Moreover, it comprehensively covers all aspects necessary to understand and implement effective occupational health and safety management systems.
  • Enrollment Impact: With over 250,000 enrollments in its English version, this course has made a unique impact worldwide. Now available in Spanish, it is set to further benefit Spanish-speaking audiences by significantly contributing to the creation of safer workplaces across the globe.

3. ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)

  • Overview: ISO 14001 focuses on environmental management systems. It enables organizations to minimize their environmental impact and comply with relevant regulations.
  • Course Features: Alison’s ISO 14001 course, led by S.M. Waqas Imam, offers an in-depth exploration of environmental management principles with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The course also covers the steps to implement an effective environmental management system. Learners will gain valuable skills to identify and manage environmental risks and opportunities.
  • Enrollment Impact: With over 110,000 enrollments in its English version, the release of the Spanish edition presents an excellent opportunity for Spanish-speaking learners. It will deepen the understanding of thousands, fostering the adoption of sustainable practices across diverse industries.

Why Choose Alison?

Alison is a trusted name in online education and offers free and accessible courses to millions of learners worldwide. Alison’s ISO courses are designed by industry experts like S.M. Waqas Imam and provide practical knowledge. The skills gained through this course can be applied in real-world scenarios.

Here why you should choose Alison for your ISO certification training:

  1. Expertly Designed Courses: Each course is crafted by professionals with extensive experience in their respective fields, ensuring you receive the most relevant and up-to-date information.
  2. Flexible Learning: Study at your own pace and access the courses anytime, anywhere. This flexibility makes it easier for working professionals to enhance their skills without disrupting their schedules.
  3. Free Access: Alison offers these courses for free, making high-quality education accessible to everyone without any financial risk. Optional certification is available for a fee, allowing learners to showcase their achievements to employers and peers. If you decide the coursework isn’t for you, simply enjoy the learning experience without any obligation to purchase a certificate.

Expanding Opportunities for Spanish-Speakers

Making these ISO courses available in Spanish marks a significant step towards inclusivity and global reach. Spanish-speaking professionals can now access Alison’s world-class ISO certification training for free, gaining essential knowledge and credentials in the top three ISO management system standards. This valuable training empowers them to excel in their careers and drive success within their organisations.

Whether you aim to enhance your quality management skills with ISO 9001, improve workplace safety with ISO 45001, or adopt sustainable practices with ISO 14001, Alison’s newly translated courses in Spanish, led by S.M. Waqas Imam, present an invaluable opportunity. With impressive enrolment numbers already, the addition of these Spanish versions is set to expand their impact even further. Take the first step towards achieving excellence in your field—join the growing community of ISO-certified professionals today.

Visit Alison.com to enroll in these courses and start your journey towards professional growth and success.

enrol in free online courses

 

Have You Ever Gone Hunting? Would You Ever Want to?

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A small cohort of turkey hunters wants more people to understand the beauty and challenge of hunting for your supper. What are your thoughts on hunting?

House, Trees, Sky

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Tell us a story, real or made up, that is inspired by this image.

Word of the Day: complacent

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This word has appeared in 143 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year. Can you use it in a sentence?

Is It Ethical for Teachers to Use A.I. to Grade Papers?

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Many schools do not allow students to use artificial intelligence to complete their assignments. Should teachers be held to the same standard?