TV And Videogames Rewire Young Brains, For Better And Worse

Technology is changing us. New evidence suggests that increased screen time at a young age rewires the brain to need more stimulation in order to really get it cranking. Whether this is a good or bad thing, remains unknown to researchers as there are indicators that suggest both benefit and detriment.

Read & Share   sourced from: NPR

Minnesota Police Officer Involved With July Shooting Charged With Manslaughter

The Minneapolis police officer involved with the shooting of Philando Castile will be charged with second-degree manslaughter. The tragic event took place in July following other shootings around the country, all of which have spurred continued high tensions among the law enforcement and black communities.

Read & Share   sourced from: NPR

How One University Used Big Data To Boost Graduation Rates

Predictive analytics is helping Georgia State University determine which students are falling behind with their education — a scenario that makes it more likely for them to drop out down the road. The University is then feeding this data to advisors and student support networks in the hopes of getting students back on the right track.

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After A Long Day Of Fighting Climate Change, This Grain Is Ready For A Beer

What does the future of grain production look like? One research institute in Kansas is selectively breeding a type of perennial wheat to enhance the food production qualities. It’s called Kernza, and When successful, it means no plowing and no planting. It will grow back each spring after harvest. Image: courtesy of The Land Insitute

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The Man Who Shed Light On Why College Keeps Getting More Expensive

The cost of higher education has been rising sharply over the past two decades, and there are many ideas as to why and probably more than a few factors contributing. In terms of economics, education is an interesting study, and this article from NPR highlights some of the challenges.

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Nonstop Flight: How The Frigatebird Can Soar For Weeks Without Stopping

As sea birds go, frigate birds are unique in that their feathers aren’t waterproof. In other words, they can’t land in water. Researchers learned recently they’ve evolved to capture updrafts in cloud structures taking them to heights of 12,000 feet where they have been tracked flying for as much as two continuous months.

Read & Share   sourced from: NPR

Should Computer Education Cover More Than Just Coding?

There’s a lot of talk about investing in computer science education, but what’s the balance between teaching theory and teaching practical skills, like coding?

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Tesla Preparing To Charge Into Affordable Car Market

Electric car maker Tesla is not yet a profitable company, but it will be taking a step this spring to help it get closer. The long-promised Model 3 will debut in March and will be sold for $35,000.

Read & Share   sourced from: NPR

What Kids Need From Grown-Ups (But Aren’t Getting)

According to author and researcher  Erika Christakis, the heavily structured early world our young kids now live in is doing them a disservice. And the solution is all too simple — play.

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As Sanctions On Iran Are Lifted, Many U.S. Business Restrictions Remain

The U.S. and other countries have agreed to lift sanctions imposed on Iran over its nuclear program, but Washington still has other sanctions in place against Tehran.

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Russia, China And U.S. Condemn North Korea’s Nuclear Test Claims

According to state-owned Korean Central Television, North Korea tested a hydrogen bomb. This admission drew quick condemnation from the international community. Bill Chappell with NPR has the story.

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50 Percent Off A College Education? Not Such A Good Deal After All

The skyrocketing cost of tuition has pushed some colleges into the arena of competitive pricing and discounting, but in an industry heavily subsidized through federal programs, it’s creating some funny economics.

Read & Share   sourced from: NPR

Cattle Theft: An Old Crime On The Rise

Cattle rustling is a growing problem in Oklahoma, Texas and other beef-producing states. High beef prices and drug addiction are fueling the resurgence of the centuries-old problem that has also surfaced here in Ward County.

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Guzzling 9,000 Years Of History With ‘The Comic Book Story Of Beer’

A new illustrated history explores beer’s journey from the cradle of agriculture, to the rise and fall of Ancient Rome, to the modern-day craft beer heyday. Get the full story along with a Q & A with the author and illustrator from NPR.

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How The U.S. Is Neglecting Its Smartest Kids

The authors of a new book argue that efforts to raise achievement for students at the bottom have come at the expense of the most gifted and talented.

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Benefits Of Sports To A Child’s Mind And Heart All Part Of The Game

In NPR’s most recent poll, a majority of American adults say they played sports in their youth. Many say they encourage their kids to play, too, and see health benefits as well as life-long lessons.

Read & Share   sourced from: NPR