💸 Loans Erased, 👩🏿🎓 Teen Defies Stereotypes, ❗NY's Reading Struggle, ✊ University Strikes & More!
SmartEdu News 2023-08-17
🇺🇸 U.S. EDUCATION
Student Loan Debt Forgiveness Begins for 800,000 Borrowers
A federal judge approved the cancellation of student loans for 800,000 borrowers, dismissing a lawsuit from conservative groups. This allows the U.S. Education Department to erase around $39 billion in debt. President Biden cited this as progress, with $116 billion already approved for debt cancellation. Thanks for reading SmartEdu News! Subscribe for free to receive new posts.
Texas Teen was Told Girls of Color Couldn't do Well. She's Graduating College at 14
Alena McQuarter, a 14-year-old prodigy from Texas, is set to graduate from Arizona State University. She was the youngest person to intern at NASA and the youngest Black individual accepted into medical school. Having started an organization, Brown STEM Girl, for girls of color in STEM, Alena aims to inspire others.
As States Confront a Reading Crisis in Schools, New York Lags Behind
New York lags in addressing nationwide reading instruction shortcomings. Despite most states passing literacy laws, NY's reading scores continue to decline. Critics claim outdated teaching methods persist, while officials emphasize local district control. Statewide action on reading remains minimal compared to other states.
AI Can Make Education More Personal (Yes, Really)
AI enhances teacher professional development through timely, automated feedback, elevating classroom interactions. Trials show improved teaching practices. Embracing AI's potential can fortify educator-student relationships, promoting enriched learning experiences.
🌎 INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION
Nearly 100,000 Fewer Top A-levels this Year in Grading Plan, Research Suggests
A-level students in England face potential disappointment with nearly 100,000 fewer top grades (As and As) expected this year, as the government aims to revert grading to pre-pandemic levels. Last year, 14.6% received As, but this year, the target is 7.8%. The move may impact applications to top universities and raises concerns about its effects on students.
More University Strike Days Planned for September
University and College Union (UCU) announces continued strikes in September after failed negotiations. A marking boycott started in April, has disrupted graduations and withheld grades. UCU might extend strikes into 2024. The dispute highlights casualisation, insecurity, and low pay in UK higher education. Critics argue UCU's tactics unfairly target students.
The Link Between Education and Poverty in Vietnam
In Vietnam, poverty impacts education access, particularly for girls. Despite poverty reduction from 16.8% to 5% (2010-2020), 13.6 million remain economically vulnerable. Disparities exist: 80% of wealthy 19-year-olds attend school, versus 20% of their poorer peers. UNICEF and Project Sprouts work to enhance and equalize educational opportunities.
U.S. Student Visas to Hit Post-Pandemic High in 2023
In 2022, 411,131 F-1 visas were issued, an increase from 2019's 364,204. The US government expects even higher numbers in 2023. Following pandemic-induced delays and staffing shortages, visa processes have improved, especially in India with the opening of a new consulate in Hyderabad.