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Word of the Day: archaic

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Word of the Day: archaic

The word archaic has appeared in 73 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year, including on Nov. 28 in the Opinion essay “Knowing When ‘They’ Means One” by John McWhorter:

Earlier English had “thou” for addressing one person, with “you” used only in the plural. (Actually, the subject form was “ye,” with “you” as the object form.) But by the 18th century, in standard English “thou” was relegated to the archaic, and “you” referred to both singular and plural. However, many speakers felt that saying “you were” to a single person — using the plural verb — was unnatural and therefore said “you was.”

Can you correctly use the word archaic in a sentence?

Based on the definition and example provided, write a sentence using today’s Word of the Day and share it as a comment on this article. It is most important that your sentence makes sense and demonstrates that you understand the word’s definition, but we also encourage you to be creative and have fun.

If you want a better idea of how archaic can be used in a sentence, read these usage examples on Vocabulary.com. You can also visit this guide to learn how to use IPA symbols to show how different words are pronounced.

If you enjoy this daily challenge, try our vocabulary quizzes.

Students ages 13 and older in the United States and the United Kingdom, and 16 and older elsewhere, can comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff.

The Word of the Day is provided by Vocabulary.com. Learn more and see usage examples across a range of subjects in the Vocabulary.com Dictionary. See every Word of the Day in this column.

Enhancing Learning Through Storytelling

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Enhancing Learning Through Storytelling

By Carolina Kuepper-Tetzel

Imagine you are enrolled in a life sciences course and learning about stochastic molecular motion in biological systems (i.e., how molecules move in random ways within cells and other parts of living things). You are given the option to study the topic using either a) expository instruction which focuses on explaining the topic, b) a narrative instruction where the explanation of the topic is embedded into a story-like narrative that offers additional background information (e.g., about the lives of the researchers who discovered the phenomenon), or c) a narrative blurb that is then followed by expository instruction. Here are examples of the three options:

Expository instruction: “The thermal energy leads not only to rotations or vibrations, whereby covalently bonded atoms move back and forth relative to each other, but also to translational movements, which move molecules from one location to another. This allows molecules to move very efficiently through the cell. In addition, individual molecules collide with each other and constantly change their direction of travel. As a result, molecules embark on a random path through the cytosol that allows them to move quickly from one side of the cell to the other…”

Narrative instruction: “Maud quickly realized that the thermal motion of particles that Robert Brown had seen in his light microscope also resembled the random motion of molecules in cells. Although the interior of the cell is very densely packed, all the particles rotate, vibrate, and move continuously through the cell without a destination. With meticulous care, Maud prepared experiments in her lab in Berlin to study the interaction of enzymes and substrates. She worked day and night, and when she finally had her data, everything suddenly seemed so clear: products were formed more quickly when more substrate was present…”

Narrative prior to expository instruction: “Historical background: Maud quickly realized that the thermal motion of particles that Robert Brown had seen in his light microscope also resembled the random motion of molecules in cells. With meticulous care, Maud prepared experiments in her laboratory in Berlin to study the interaction of enzymes and substrates… Theoretical findings: Cells contain countless different enzymes and molecules, often in very small numbers. The enzymes are responsible for catalyzing thousands of reactions of substrate molecules per minute…”

A recent experiment by Tobler et al. (1) investigated the effects of these three instruction methods on transfer performance in students and whether the effects depended on students’ prior knowledge. The researchers also examined a variety of learning mechanisms such as cognitive load, situational interest, cognitive engagement, and self-efficacy. Before revealing the results, let’s take a look at the potential benefits and pitfalls of using narratives and storytelling methods for learning.

What is HTML? Common Uses & Defining Features

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What is HTML? Common Uses & Defining Features

There’s a good chance you’ve heard the term HTML before — maybe you’ve even dabbled with the markup language as a means to edit your MySpace profile back in the day. HTML and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) came on the scene in the late ’90s and are considered the backbone or “power couple” of the internet, because they enable developers to build and structure web content.

When people are just starting out learning how to code, HTML and CSS are typically the first languages that they start with. HTML has a simple, text-based structure that’s easy for beginners to learn and understand. But what does HTML actually mean? HTML is an acronym that stands for HyperText Markup Language. Markup languages are different from programming languages. Whereas programming languages help us modify data, we use markup languages to determine how elements are displayed on a webpage.

Here’s an example:


 
  Page Title
 
 
  
Heading

  
Content

So, what is HTML used for? Web Developers use it to organize, format, and display a web page’s content. Read on to learn more about how HTML works, how HTML5 improved its functionality, and the different careers that use it.

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How does HTML work?

HTML is usually stored in files that use the .htm or .html extension. A website can include hundreds or even thousands of these HTML files kept in various directories.

When you visit a web page, its server sends its HTML files to your browser. Your browser then reads the HTML in the files and displays it. Some web applications don’t use static HTML but generate it in response to specific actions on their servers. In the free beginner course Learn HTML: Fundamentals, you’ll learn how HTML is used to create the structure and content of a web page and get to know the most important HTML elements.

We can also add other types of content, like CSS and JavaScript files, images, and videos, to add more features to a web page. CSS allows us to add stylistic elements (like colors) to a webpage. JavaScript enables interactivity. Together, these three languages form the foundation of web development.

Think of HTML elements as the building blocks of a web page. Elements are defined by their opening and closing tags and can be nested within other elements. Web developers use elements to structure a web page into sections, headings, and other content blocks. Here’s an example:


 
Heading

 
The main content

 
    
   
  • List item one
    • 
   
  • List item two
    •

In the HTML example above, the first element we see is

, which wraps around the other elements. Div is one of the most common HTML elements and is a simple way to separate a page into sections. For example, if you wanted to create two columns on a web page, you could use div elements to define them.

Nested inside the div, we see an

element. H1 elements define the main heading of a web page. The text within a heading will usually be larger and bolder, depending on the styles applied to the page.

The

tag creates a paragraph element. There will usually be a margin after the element, again, depending on the styles.

Finally, we see a few sets of nested elements. The

    tag creates an unordered list, which does nothing until you nest at least one set of list elements (

  • ) within it. A browser would render these elements as something like this:

    • List item one
    • List item two

    The HTML elements listed above are some of the most common, but we can use others to add images, tables, and other elements to web pages.

    What is HTML5?

    HTML5 is the latest version of HTML. The update improved the language’s functionality, enabling the use of features that previously required additional software like browser plugins. It also added the ability to create applications using HTML that function offline. Here are some of the tags that HTML5 added to the language:

    • : The video tag allows developers to embed and stream video from a browser without needing a plugin like Flash or Silverlight
    • : The audio tag is similar to the video tag in that you can use it to embed and stream sound files from a web browser.
    • : The canvas tag defines a section in the HTML used to draw graphics using JavaScript. It can even handle 3D graphics and animation using WebGL.

    The features listed above are only some of the many brought about by HTML5. It was one of the biggest changes in the language’s definition and made way for today’s modern dynamic web pages.

    What is HTML used for?

    Now that we understand HTML’s tags and elements and the updates brought about by HTML5, let’s take a closer look at what the language can do.

    Structuring web pages

    With tags and elements, we can define the headings, paragraphs, and other contents of a web page. Browsers come with a built-in stylesheet that visually differentiates these elements. Content surrounded with

    tags will have a large, bolded font and its own line. Surrounding text with

    tags will make it bold and slightly smaller than the

    elements, and so on. Without these tags, the text on the web page would all look the same.

    Navigating the internet would be much harder without HTML. Imagine having to manually enter the URL of every web page you wanted to visit. This would be our reality without anchor tags. HTML’s anchor tags allow us to link pages to and from each other using the href attribute. Here’s an example:

    Google

    As you’ve probably guessed, the code snippet above creates a hyperlink to Google. You can also use hyperlinks to link to a specific section of a webpage.

    Embedding images and videos

    HTML also allows you to not only embed images into a webpage but also adjust their width, height, position, and even the way they’re rendered.

    In the past, developers would use Flash to embed videos into a webpage. But, with HTML5’s addition of the tag, that’s no longer necessary.

    Along with embedding videos, you can use other HTML attributes to adjust video controls, timestamps, thumbnails, autoplay, and more.

    Improving client-side data storage and offline capabilities

    HTML5 also improved the language’s offline capabilities. Websites use cookies to store data about users that can be retrieved later when they revisit the site. Cookies work well for small data like authentication tokens and usernames, but HTML5’s addition of localStorage and IndexDB enabled browsers to store more complex data.

    Plus, the application cache and cache manifest files you can reference from HTML allow users to browse a website while offline by retaining data on the user’s machine. This allows your web app to continue functioning even if a user’s connection drops.

    Game development

    While you can’t create video games purely with HTML, the element makes it possible to build video games in your browser using CSS and JavaScript. In the past, you could only do this with Flash or Silverlight. But with modern HTML, you can create both 2D and 3D games that run in your browser.

    Interacting with native APIs

    Another feature of HTML is that it can interact with your operating system, not just with your web browser. These features make it possible to drag files onto a web page to upload them, full-screen a video, and more.

    What careers use HTML?

    As the language of the internet, every aspiring web developer needs to know HTML. Front-End Engineers use HTML (along with other languages like CSS and JavaScript) to design the structure and layout of web pages and applications. Similarly, Mobile Developers use these languages with frameworks like Ionic and React Native to build mobile applications.

    Back-End Engineers also need to be proficient with HTML. Even though the other languages in their tech stacks may generate HTML for them, they still need to understand HTML structure to keep everything running smoothly.

    We also use HTML outside of the internet, like in intranets and internal applications. So, even if you’re coding for offline purposes, you should still learn HTML. It can even be beneficial for non-technical teams, as some marketers use it for blogs and emails.

    Learn more about HTML

    You can find out more about HTML and its many uses in our Learn HTML course. In this course, you’ll learn everything you need to know about HTML’s basic syntax while creating your first web page.

    If you’re interested in a career in web development, check out our Front-End Engineer Career Path. We’ll teach you how to build web applications using languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, help you develop a portfolio, and prepare for future interviews.

    This blog was originally published in April 2021 and has been updated to include additional HTML courses.

Word of the Day: garner

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Word of the Day: garner

The word garner has appeared in 314 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year, including on March 22 in “A Rock Fell From Space Into Sweden. Who Owns It on Earth?” by Christina Anderson:

The iron rock’s journey from the depths of space ended with a thud in a dense pine forest, about an hour north of Stockholm, around 10 on a November night four years ago.
Unusually, its trajectory was caught on several cameras in the region used to track meteoroids. That led to a weekslong hunt and an even longer court battle over an unusual question: Who owns an unearthly object that falls to Earth?

… In addition to their scientific value, meteorites are prized by collectors. In the global market of private collectors, one like this could garner tens of thousands of dollars, Dr. Holtstam said.

Can you correctly use the word garner in a sentence?

Based on the definition and example provided, write a sentence using today’s Word of the Day and share it as a comment on this article. It is most important that your sentence makes sense and demonstrates that you understand the word’s definition, but we also encourage you to be creative and have fun.

If you want a better idea of how garner can be used in a sentence, read these usage examples on Vocabulary.com. You can also visit this guide to learn how to use IPA symbols to show how different words are pronounced.

If you enjoy this daily challenge, try our vocabulary quizzes.

Students ages 13 and older in the United States and the United Kingdom, and 16 and older elsewhere, can comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff.

The Word of the Day is provided by Vocabulary.com. Learn more and see usage examples across a range of subjects in the Vocabulary.com Dictionary. See every Word of the Day in this column.

The Ultimate Guide to Building Job Market Skills through Online Learning

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The Ultimate Guide to Building Job Market Skills through Online Learning

Three out of four companies provide online learning opportunities for their employees. This just highlights the importance of continuous skill development in the corporate world. 

With economic shifts, tech advancements, and changing workforce dynamics, the job market continues to change. For one, remote work is more common than ever after the COVID-19 pandemic. Fifty-eight percent of job holders in the US have the option to work remotely at least one day a week, which also shifted companies’ hiring practices.

Traditional education methods are still valuable. However, they can fall short in meeting the demands of modern industries in terms of flexibility, accessibility, cost-effective learning, and up-to-date, relevant content. 

The Rise of Online Learning Platforms

Understanding the Popularity of Online Learning

The popularity of online learning is driven by its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, technological advancements, personalised learning experiences, relevance to market needs, and widespread adoption by employers. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, online learning is poised to play an increasingly central role in skill development and career advancement.

Some benefits of online learning compared to traditional methods are as follows:

  • Flexibility and convenience: Learn at your own pace and schedule, accessible from anywhere, reducing the need for commuting.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Lower overall costs by eliminating expenses related to commuting, housing, and physical textbooks. Many online courses are free or low-cost.
  • Technological enhancements: Interactive and engaging learning experiences through video lectures, quizzes, and virtual classrooms. Personalised learning with adaptive technologies.
  • Broad access to resources: Access a diverse range of courses and expert instructors worldwide, often not available locally.
  • Improved career opportunities: Up-to-date knowledge and certifications that enhance employability and career advancement.
  • Enhanced learning environment: Comfort of learning from home, with the ability to review recorded sessions as needed for better comprehension.

Identifying In-Demand Job Market Skills

Analysing Market Trends

To identify current and future skill demands, you start by analysing market trends through industry reports from reputable sources. These reports can offer insights into emerging skills and trends. 

Next, make sure to regularly check job boards such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor to see which skills are frequently mentioned in job postings. This gives a practical view of what employers are looking for right now. 

Additionally, engage with industry professionals and join relevant LinkedIn groups to gain firsthand insights into in-demand skills and upcoming trends. Following thought leaders on social media and blogs can also keep you updated on the latest industry developments.

Furthermore, reliable job market data can be found in various sources. For example, government and educational institutions like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) provide comprehensive labour market data and projections. By leveraging these diverse sources, you can effectively stay ahead in the evolving job market.

Key Skills in Demand

Some skills are more in demand than others. Some examples are:

Furthermore, you can always extend your skills through education. Some notable examples are the Research.com online SLP programs and more. That said, soft skills are just as important. Some examples are:

  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Emotional intelligence and adaptability

Balancing both skill sets helps you stay competitive. 

Choosing the Right Courses for Skill Development

Course Selection Criteria

When you select a course, you would want to make the most out of your investment. First, examine the course content. It should cover the specific skills you want to learn. Plus, it should be up-to-date with industry standards.

Another important factor is the credibility of your instructor. They must be experienced professionals and educators from reputable institutions.

Peer reviews can help shed more light on the quality and effectiveness of a course. So, always look into feedback from previous students.

Best Practices for Course Completion

Discipline and strategic planning are crucial for online learning since you will mostly have to study at your own pace. That is why it’s important to set clear, achievable goals firsthand. You need to define what you exactly want to accomplish by the end of the course. From here, break it down into smaller manageable milestones. 

Next is time management. Allocate specific times for studying each day or week and stick to your schedule.

To stay motivated and engaged, you can opt to participate actively in course forums and discussions. Regularly review your progress and adjust your study plan as needed. Also, don’t forget to reward yourself for reaching milestones to maintain motivation.

Leveraging Online Learning for Career Advancement

Building a Learning Plan

Creating a personalised learning roadmap can help you stay focused and organised. Here’s how:

  1. Identify your career goals and the skills needed to achieve them.
  2. Map out a series of courses and learning activities that will help you acquire these skills. 
  3. Integrate learning into your daily routines by setting aside dedicated time for studying and applying new knowledge.

Applying New Skills in the Workplace

To demonstrate and utilise new skills, look for opportunities within your current role. For instance, you can volunteer for projects that require the skills you’ve learned. You can also propose new initiatives that showcase your capabilities. 

Practical application not only reinforces your learning but also demonstrates your value to your employer. As much as possible, seek feedback from your colleagues and supervisors who can further refine your skills and help you identify areas for improvement.

Tracking Progress and Outcomes

Effectively tracking progress and outcomes is crucial for measuring the success of your online learning efforts. Several tools and methods can help monitor skill development. Learning management systems (LMS) provide built-in analytics to track course completion, quiz scores, and participation. Additionally, some platforms offer progress-tracking features that show your advancement through course modules.

Setting benchmarks is another important step. Measurable metrics can include completing a certain number of courses, obtaining specific certifications, or mastering particular skills. Regularly review your progress against these benchmarks to ensure you are on track.

Also, monitor the return on investment (ROI) of your learning efforts by assessing both tangible and intangible benefits. Tangible benefits might include promotions, salary increases, or new job opportunities. Meanwhile, intangible benefits could be increased job satisfaction, improved confidence in your skills, and enhanced professional reputation.

Embracing Lifelong Learning

In today’s dynamic job market, the importance of continuous education cannot be overstated. Industries and technologies evolve rapidly, and staying competitive requires a commitment to lifelong learning. Continuous education allows professionals like you to keep your skills relevant and adapt to new challenges and opportunities. 

By committing to lifelong learning, you not only enhance your career prospects but also enrich your personal growth and adaptability.

In conclusion, tracking your learning progress and embracing continuous education are essential strategies for maintaining and enhancing your professional skills in a rapidly changing job market.

How I Went from Translator to Engineering Apprentice in 7 Months

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How I Went from Translator to Engineering Apprentice in 7 Months

Learning to code so that you can land a job in tech can feel daunting. That’s why we’re sharing inspiring stories from Codecademy’s community — to show how people like you (yes, you!) can embark on a learning journey and end up with a totally new career. We hope these stories serve as a reminder that there’s no single path to a more fulfilling work life. 

Today’s story is from Lizzie Gardiner, a 29-year-old Engineering Apprentice, living in West Yorkshire, England. Read more stories from Codecademy learners here — and be sure to share your story here. 

Why I chose to learn to code 

“About a year ago, I was reaching a point where I wasn’t really enjoying working as a translator anymore. Being self-employed has its own challenges, no matter the role. But I also wasn’t enjoying the translation industry itself. I had a friend who also did a linguistics degree, and she was now in cybersecurity. She was talking to me about it, and I thought it sounded really interesting. It seemed like there was actually quite a lot of overlap. 

I thought I would give coding a try and see what I thought. That’s when I came across Codecademy. Before signing up for any of the paid memberships, I did some of the free lessons. I thought, ‘I can see myself liking this.’ 

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I did the quiz on Codecademy where it matches you up based on your skills. Since I was saying I had an analytical mind, it pointed me towards back-end development with Python. When I decided to take coding more seriously, I looked into it a bit more and read in many places that HTML and CSS are good starting points. So, I thought, ‘Okay, I’ll leave Python for now and move on to that.’ 

I initially signed up for the Full-Stack Engineer career path and got about halfway through. Then I thought, ‘I’ll be done in half the time if I only focus on front-end,’ and I could start looking for jobs on that basis. But I’m still very interested in back-end development, so I’m planning to complete the rest as well.”

How I made time to learn 

“I think I was quite lucky because I was self-employed, which meant I could work coding into my day. However, for the first six months, I was doing translation work as well. I love lists and planning, so I kept track of everything in a spreadsheet. I monitored how much time I was dedicating each day, and I projected my completion date based on that pace. I think it’s helpful to have a goal and know what you’re working towards. 

I tried to code every day, and it helped that I enjoyed it. Even if I was doing it in the evening, it didn’t feel like a chore because I found it fun. That’s a big thing: if you’re forcing yourself through it, that’s probably not a positive sign. I think the ‘little and often’ approach is effective, and building the habit is key.” 

How I saved up money to switch careers 

“I was trying to decide between a paid bootcamp and Codecademy. Bootcamps are really expensive because you have to pay for them and you can’t work at the same time. I was adding up all my savings, wondering if it was even feasible. I had already done a little bit of Python and liked how Codecademy worked, so I thought it seemed like a no-brainer. I could do it in my own time, and it was a much smaller cost. 

At first, I was a bit wary because there wouldn’t be a tutor, and I would be on my own. But with the forums and everything, I ended up being very happy with the decision. Cost-wise, it might not be an easy option for everyone, but compared to bootcamps and other options out there, it’s much more accessible.”

Have you tried our AI Learning Assistant yet?

The AI Learning Assistant gives you instant, personalized coding guidance integrated right into your courses.

How long it took me to land a job 

“I realized that a lot of the new-grad schemes are advertised in November with a closing date in December, and they start the following September. I probably missed the boat on some of them because the deadlines had passed. However, I decided to apply to some anyway in November, even if I didn’t feel quite ready yet. Towards the end of December and into January, I started taking it more seriously. I focused on looking for things I was interested in and worked on my CV.”  

I always thought I hated networking, but I realized it doesn’t have to be a scary thing.

Lizzie Gardiner

Engineering Apprentice

How I got in the door 

“I was in a mentoring program for women in tech, which included weekly Zoom meetings. We were matched up with mentors, and there were talks by women in tech on various topics. This program provided a chance to connect with many different people. One of those people shared a job advert on LinkedIn, and that’s how I found it. So, networking is key.” 

Want to learn about tech organizations for women in tech?

Check out this list of organizations helping girls, women, and non-binary folks break into tech.

How I nailed the interview 

“It was quite an informal process, actually. First, it was just a CV and cover letter submission. Then there was the first interview with the hiring manager and one other person. It was very much like a chat, discussing what you’re like as a person and some basic questions about your background, but it wasn’t very intense. 

The second interview was with the head of IT and other department heads. There was a small technical test, but it wasn’t the data structures and algorithms stuff I’d been practicing. It was like a take-home test in that sense, as we could plan it in advance. They seemed more interested in how we thought rather than a specific answer. Everyone who got hired had very different answers. There were also some interview questions as part of that.” 

How I evaluated the offer 

“My main criteria were: Is this somewhere where I’ll still be able to learn? I’m still quite new to this, and I don’t want them to expect me to know everything immediately. I’ve only been learning for a year, and there’s so much to tech.  

The fact that [the platform Pega] was something new was cool because I could try out this low-code system and see what it’s like, which appealed to me straight away. The key one was being able to keep learning and having support, whether that’s a specific mentor or a structured training program. That’s all worked out, so it was quite an easy yes. Also, being a small company feels nicer because you can know everyone, rather than being just one person among a huge crowd.” 

How day one and beyond went 

“There are eight of us who started at the same time, and we’re still in the initial learning phase. Most of us have a coding background, but Pega is a new language or system, so we’re getting our heads around that. The logic element is still there, and the problem-solving aspect remains, even if the actual syntax and way of doing things are different. 

It’s been really good. The job is fully remote, which is convenient — even though when you’re learning something new, there are benefits to being in an office with people. With screenshare and other tools, everyone’s very willing to help and chat. The culture is great.” 

What I wish I knew before I started learning 

“I’d say definitely practice the technical interview prep. It’s great that interview prep is part of the [Codecademy] career path. I did one, but I hadn’t appreciated how different they are from the rest of our work. It’s definitely worth practicing those as much as possible. Even if you have loads of stuff in your portfolio, it doesn’t matter if you can’t pass the tech test, as you won’t get the chance to show anyone your portfolio.  

Other than that, networking is crucial. I always thought I hated networking, but I realized it doesn’t have to be a scary thing. In my head, it was always about going to events in person and trying to sell yourself, which didn’t appeal to me. But a lot of networking I’ve done has just been connecting with people on LinkedIn and chatting with them. I found that many people are willing to offer help, especially women in tech, because there’s still a disparity. If you approach someone who’s been through it, they’re often willing to offer advice. I wouldn’t have gotten this job without networking because it was only because someone shared it.” 

Coursera Coach: Leveraging GenAI to Empower Learners

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Coursera Coach: Leveraging GenAI to Empower Learners

Using pedagogy and user research to take a learner-centered approach

Online education opens up a world of possibilities, enabling learners to acquire new skills and knowledge from anywhere, at their own pace. However, it can also present challenges, including staying motivated, balancing other life priorities, and overcoming roadblocks. At Coursera, we recognize these challenges and have been exploring ways to apply the power of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) to help learners stay on track and achieve their goals.

To navigate the complexities of online learning, this new technology required a comprehensive pedagogical framework based on the science of learning and tutoring best practices while also having a contextual understanding of Coursera partners’ high-quality content.

Combining cutting-edge AI capabilities with the expertise of Coursera’s Teaching & Learning and Product teams, we launched an ambitious experiment: a learning assistant called Coursera Coach that offers tailored guidance and support, making the learning journey more enjoyable and empowering. This initiative has quickly grown in potential, now poised to become transformative for learners and a game-changer in online education. 

Welcome from Coursera Coach in Foundations of Cybersecurity by Google 

Coursera Coach’s methodological, interactive approach is aligned with Mastery Learning principles, providing frequent assessment, tailored feedback, and individualized pacing. These techniques ensure each learner achieves a solid understanding before moving on to more difficult topics. At each stage of Coursera Coach’s development, we have leveraged a multi-faceted approach, gathering learner feedback to iterate quickly.

Building Coursera Coach with learners for learners

Since its launch in 2023, Coursera Coach has evolved well beyond a simple question-and-answer tool. Through ongoing dialogue with our community and targeted research with learners, we have rapidly iterated on its functionality, delivering updates every few weeks to meet the specific needs of our learners. As Coursera Coach’s user base expanded, regular feedback sessions with learners have been instrumental in pinpointing the most impactful features, tailoring the experience to enhance accessibility, and aiding in efficient studying. 

We have seen Coursera Coach become a welcome support for those new to a subject or looking to strengthen their learning habits, while also streamlining the process for more seasoned students. Coursera Coach does not just answer questions—it teaches learners how to learn, embedding skills like note-taking, real-world applications, and key concept recall. More than a year into building Coursera Coach, we have identified several core benefits, refined through continuous research and iterations. The positive responses and utility found in Coursera Coach underscore the effectiveness of combining GenAI with the science of learning in the pursuit of solving real learner needs.

Here, we explore Coursera Coach through four key use cases—simplifying concepts, boosting confidence, reducing isolation, and enhancing motivation—to illustrate the potential of an AI-powered tutor built on the science of effective learning.

Use case 1: Making complex concepts more accessible 

One of the largest challenges for online learners is accessing help if they get stuck on a difficult concept. From our research, we know this can result in taking a break from the course and struggling to get back on track. Coursera Coach addresses this through in-the-moment support, breaking down complex ideas step-by-step and offering practical real-world examples. Learners can ask questions anytime to get unstuck quickly and continue making progress. By including this new functionality within courses on Coursera, we minimize learners’ need to look elsewhere and reduce their chances of losing momentum. 

As one learner we surveyed said, “In lieu of an in-person instructor, Coursera Coach is the next best thing to get me answers to my questions and assist with the readings when I do not understand it.”

“Explain this topic” with Coursera Coach in Python Data Structures by University of Michigan

Importantly, learners can ask Coursera Coach as many questions as they’d like without feeling judged or embarrassed. As another learner said, “Coursera Coach is like having a smart best friend. They completely understand the course and have the patience and intelligence to break it down for you.” It’s an ever-present learning companion, ready to offer guidance whenever a learner faces obstacles, making the online learning experience more enjoyable and frictionless.

Use case 2: Strengthening confidence and mastery through recall 

Before a learner attempts a graded assessment, Coursera Coach offers interactive practice to enhance their confidence and mastery of the material. We introduced this feature knowing learners want to apply their new knowledge as they learn and benefit from additional practice opportunities. Early in our research, learners expressed a desire not only to ask Coursera Coach questions but for the tutor to ask them questions to stimulate deeper reflection, a key element of Socratic learning. In our next iteration, we built the “Help Me Practice” feature with this framework in mind.

Help me practice with Coursera Coach in Navigating Generative AI: A CEO Playbook by Coursera

“Help me practice” sessions: In these interactions, Coursera Coach uses probing questions to guide learners’ thought processes, encouraging them to discover insights and formulate their own conclusions. This reflective and iterative process adapts to each learner’s level of mastery, gives them targeted feedback based on their answers, and progressively deepens their understanding. This approach allows learners to practice deliberately and assess their readiness to take the assessment. If they identify knowledge gaps, learners can continue practicing with Coursera Coach to refine their understanding and boost their confidence. Through learner research, we uncovered that this aspect of Coursera Coach enables learners without a background in what they were learning and those without strong foundational learning habits to build up the skills they needed. Even learners with more developed study skills are reporting the utility of this added practice. This is one example of how Coursera Coach can become a trusted ally to learners during their online education journey.

“Help me practice” with Coursera Coach in Navigating Generative AI: A CEO Playbook by Coursera

Use case 3: Providing emotional support and alleviating isolation

Coursera Coach’s role extends beyond providing practice—it acts as a supportive learning assistant that helps mitigate feelings of isolation and uncertainty that can be felt in online courses. Coursera Coach was first made to answer students’ questions, but our early research told us it did much more: learners felt like they had a friend and were no longer taking the course by themselves.

With Coursera Coach, learners gain a reliable companion in their educational journey. Providing emotional connection while learning can increase intrinsic motivation and boost learners’ confidence. Individuals can learn through observing, modeling, and interacting with others, which Coursera Coach now provides. Real-time support through natural language conversations offer a reassuring presence and can start to address the emotional needs of online learners as they progress through new concepts. This presence increases learners’ confidence in their ability to learn effectively and to achieve their career goals.

Use case 4: Boosting motivation through proven educational strategies

Coursera Coach is designed to emulate the best practices of human tutors, bringing sophisticated pedagogical strategies and practices into every interaction while delivering support that resonates with learners and fosters their growth.

Coursera Coach can play a crucial role in developing learners’ metacognitive skills, empowering them to become more self-aware and self-regulated learners. Specifically, Coursera Coach is designed to match learners’ needs at different stages, provide just-in-time feedback as they test their knowledge, and offer targeted guidance to update any misunderstandings. To supplement the course content, Coursera Coach can explain examples and explore concepts in more depth. With these additional interactions and support, Coursera Coach helps to build learners’ motivation and belief in themselves through acknowledgment of their efforts and successes. Ultimately, Coursera Coach empowers learners to take ownership of their journey, meeting them where they are and propelling their skill gains forward.

Next steps

As we look to the future, we are optimistic about the vast potential of Coursera Coach. This in-course functionality is already changing how learners around the world approach online education and enables us to offer many of the benefits of one-on-one tutoring at scale. The entire team working on Coursera Coach is committed to delivering the best possible learning assistant–one that opens doors to knowledge, career development, and personal growth like never before.

Coursera Coach is currently in beta phase and available to a subset of learners. Broader access will roll out later this year. Please visit the Coursera Blog to receive further updates.

Acknowledgments

Coursera Coach core team:  Alice Wong, Milee Yu, Olwen Puralena, Sandra Ximena Delgado Betancourth, Oleg Musayeu, Kody Smith, Sophie Gao, Zhan Cheng, James Tyack, Mashrur Khan, Yash Kshirsagar, Rebecca Eng, Michele Bové, Kang Chen, Melody Liu, Scher Foord, Laura Bronson
Teaching & Learning additional support: Alexandra Urban, LinLin Xia, Christina Anderson

Word of the Day: sheepishly

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Word of the Day: sheepishly

The word sheepishly has appeared in 37 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year, including on April 8 in the guest essay “Anxious Parents Are the Ones Who Need Help” by Mathilde Ross:

If the anxiety is connected to academic performance — for instance, if your child is having difficulty following the professor and thinks everyone in class is smarter — consider saying, “Do the reading.” Several times a semester, a student I’ve counseled tells me he or she discovered the secret to college: Show up for class prepared! This is often whispered rather sheepishly, even though my office is private.

Anxiety about oral presentations is also quite common. You know what I tell students? “Rehearse your speech.” Parents, you can say things like this, too. Practice it: “Son, you wouldn’t believe how helpful practice is.”

Can you correctly use the word sheepishly in a sentence?

Based on the definition and example provided, write a sentence using today’s Word of the Day and share it as a comment on this article. It is most important that your sentence makes sense and demonstrates that you understand the word’s definition, but we also encourage you to be creative and have fun.

If you want a better idea of how sheepishly can be used in a sentence, read these usage examples on Vocabulary.com. You can also visit this guide to learn how to use IPA symbols to show how different words are pronounced.

If you enjoy this daily challenge, try our vocabulary quizzes.

Students ages 13 and older in the United States and the United Kingdom, and 16 and older elsewhere, can comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff.

The Word of the Day is provided by Vocabulary.com. Learn more and see usage examples across a range of subjects in the Vocabulary.com Dictionary. See every Word of the Day in this column.

The Serious Business of Play: How It Shapes Young Minds

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The Serious Business of Play: How It Shapes Young Minds

Written by Liau Alex

Play stands out as the main way children explore, learn, and grow. But what exactly is play, and why does it matter so much for children’s development? Let’s explore this essential aspect and uncover its deep impact on early childhood growth

Play isn’t just something children do to pass the time; it’s the heart of childhood – a way for them to have fun and explore what they enjoy. It includes all sorts of activities they like, such as make-believe and games, driven by their natural curiosity and endless energy.

The first years of childhood are crucial because they shape how children think, feel, and connect with others later on. That’s why understanding how play helps during this time is essential for helping children grow up well-rounded and successful in the long run.

Types of Play

Social Play

Playing with others is vital for children to learn how to get along with friends and build relationships. There are two main ways children do this:

  • Cooperative play: At the heart of cooperative play lies collaboration and teamwork, where children engage in shared activities with common goals. Whether building a tower of blocks or organising a pretend tea party, this collaborative effort cultivates communication skills, negotiation abilities, and a sense of camaraderie.
  • Parallel play: Parallel play characterises the stage where children play alongside each other without direct interaction. Though seemingly independent, this form of play fosters social awareness, as children observe, imitate, and learn from their peers’ actions and behaviours.

Imaginative Play

When children use their imagination, they go beyond what’s real and enter amazing worlds where they can be super creative. In these make-believe worlds, there are two main ways they play:

  • Role-playing: Through role-playing, children assume various personas and enact scenarios drawn from their imaginations or real-life experiences. Whether pretending to be superheroes, doctors, or teachers, this immersive activity nurtures empathy, perspective-taking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Fantasy play: In the enchanting realm of fantasy play, the boundaries of reality dissolve, paving the way for magical adventures and whimsical narratives. From battling dragons in far-off lands to exploring imaginary kingdoms, this form of play stimulates creativity, divergent thinking, and storytelling abilities.

Physical Play

When children run around and play, it makes them feel strong and happy, and they get to explore how things feel. In this kind of play, there are two main ways they do it:

  • Rough and tumble play: Characterised by boisterous movements and spirited interactions, rough and tumble play allows children to test their physical boundaries, develop motor skills, and build resilience. Whether engaged in friendly wrestling matches or energetic chase games, this lively activity fosters agility, coordination, and self-confidence.
  • Outdoor play: The great outdoors beckons with boundless opportunities for exploration, discovery, and adventure. From scaling jungle gyms to splashing in puddles, outdoor play stimulates all the senses, nourishes curiosity, and instils a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Cognitive Benefits of Play

Play serves as a fertile ground for nurturing cognitive abilities and intellectual prowess. Several cognitive benefits come to light within this realm.

1. Problem-Solving Skills

Engaging in complex play scenarios requires children to navigate challenges, devise strategies, and adapt to changing circumstances. Whether constructing intricate block towers or solving puzzles, this process cultivates critical thinking, spatial reasoning, and persistence.

2. Creativity and Imagination

The boundless realms of play ignite the spark of creativity, empowering children to envision new possibilities, explore alternative perspectives, and express themselves freely. Whether crafting fantastical stories or inventing imaginative worlds, this creative process fuels innovation, originality, and self-expression.

3. Language Development

Play serves as a fertile ground for language acquisition and communication skills. Through interactive play sessions, children engage in rich verbal exchanges, expand their vocabulary, and refine their grammar. Whether narrating imaginary adventures or engaging in pretend play scenarios, this linguistic immersion fosters fluency, articulation, and literacy skills.

Emotional Benefits of Play

Beyond its cognitive dimensions, play holds profound implications for emotional well-being and socio-emotional development. A myriad of emotional benefits unfolds within this real.

1. Self-Regulation

Play provides a safe space for children to explore and express their emotions, regulate their impulses, and cope with stressors. Whether navigating conflicts during cooperative play or managing frustrations in challenging scenarios, this emotional regulation fosters resilience, self-control, and emotional intelligence.

2. Empathy and Social Skills

Through imaginative role-playing and collaborative endeavours, children cultivate empathy, perspective-taking, and interpersonal understanding. Whether comforting a pretend friend in distress or negotiating roles and responsibilities during group play, this empathic engagement nurtures compassion, cooperation, and conflict-resolution skills.

3. Stress Reduction

Play serves as a natural antidote to stress, offering moments of joy, laughter, and relaxation amidst life’s demands. Whether engaged in physical activities to release pent-up energy or immersed in imaginative worlds to escape reality momentarily, this playful respite promotes emotional well-being, mental rejuvenation, and a sense of inner peace.

The Role of Adults in Facilitating Play

As stewards of children’s development, adults play a pivotal role in nurturing and enriching the play experiences of young learners. Several guiding principles come into play within this sphere:

Creating a Conducive Environment

Adults can cultivate an environment conducive to play by providing ample space, resources, and opportunities for exploration. Whether setting up open-ended play stations or incorporating diverse materials and props, this supportive backdrop encourages creativity, autonomy, and self-directed learning.

Providing Guidance and Support

While children thrive in unstructured play environments, adults can offer guidance, encouragement, and scaffolding when needed. Whether modelling new play behaviours, offering gentle prompts, or facilitating peer interactions, this supportive presence nurtures confidence, competence, and social-emotional growth.

Recognising the Value of Unstructured Playtime

In a world dominated by schedules and agendas, adults must recognise the intrinsic value of unstructured playtime and safeguard its place in children’s lives. Whether advocating for recess breaks in schools or preserving free play opportunities at home, this commitment to play promotes holistic development, creativity, and well-being. Play is crucial during early childhood for children to grow, learn, and do well. It boosts their thinking skills, emotional strength, and ability to connect with others.

Learn the Fundamentals of Play

Want to learn the benefits of conducting pretend play? Enrol in Nurture Pods’ free course! Play is not just child’s play; it’s a crucial aspect of development that shapes a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social skills. In our comprehensive course, you’ll delve into the fascinating world of play and discover its myriad benefits.

From fostering creativity and imagination to enhancing problem-solving abilities, play is a powerful tool for nurturing a child’s holistic growth. Through interactive lessons and real-world examples, our course sheds light on the importance of play in early childhood development.

Uncover the secrets behind imaginative role-playing and its profound impact on cognitive agility. Explore the role of play in promoting emotional resilience and empathy. Discover how play lays the groundwork for strong social bonds and communication skills.

With Nurture Pods’ free course, you’ll gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of play. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver, this course equips you with the knowledge and tools to harness the full potential of play in nurturing young minds.

Explore more courses by Alex Liau Alex here.

About The Author

Liau Alex obtained his degree in Psychology from the National University of Singapore and specialises in childhood disorders, specifically learning and behavioural difficulties. He has many years of experience working with children exhibiting a wide array of learning and behaviour challenges, many of whom have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

As an author, Alex has two titles published by Future Horizons Inc. (USA), the world leader in autism and sensory resources. Schools worldwide have used his books for inclusive education and parent training for children with special needs. Titles under his name include School Shadow Guidelines (2015) and A Parent’s Guide to Early Intervention (2021).

Alex received training on early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI) in Australia and subsequently went to the USA, where he received relationship development intervention (RDI) training under Dr Steven Gutstein and Dr Rachel Sheely. He has presented in Australia, Houston, and Singapore and has also been invited to participate in media interviews. Furthermore, he has worked with clients from across the globe, including China, Taiwan, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Word of the Day: empathetic

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Word of the Day: empathetic

The word empathetic has appeared in 155 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year, including on May 3 in “How to Survive Your High School Reunion” by Jancee Dunn:

You may have fantasies of going back and impressing people who ignored you in school, said Mitch Prinstein, the chief science officer at the American Psychological Association and author of “Popular.”
Don’t waste your time, he said. The movie scene where a former nerd makes a red-carpet entrance as everyone lowers their sunglasses in awe only exists on film, he added. Instead, present yourself as the person you are now.

At my reunion, I realized pretty quickly that we were all grown-ups. Many of us, by that point, had weathered our share of knocks — which made us more empathetic with one another. I discovered that a few classmates who had intimidated me in the old days had somehow turned into pleasant middle-aged people. As had I.

Can you correctly use the word empathetic in a sentence?

Based on the definition and example provided, write a sentence using today’s Word of the Day and share it as a comment on this article. It is most important that your sentence makes sense and demonstrates that you understand the word’s definition, but we also encourage you to be creative and have fun.

If you want a better idea of how empathetic can be used in a sentence, read these usage examples on Vocabulary.com. You can also visit this guide to learn how to use IPA symbols to show how different words are pronounced.

If you enjoy this daily challenge, try our vocabulary quizzes.

Students ages 13 and older in the United States and the United Kingdom, and 16 and older elsewhere, can comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff.

The Word of the Day is provided by Vocabulary.com. Learn more and see usage examples across a range of subjects in the Vocabulary.com Dictionary. See every Word of the Day in this column.

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