Author: anwaryusef

Anwar Y. Dunbar is a Regulatory Scientist. Being a naturally curious person, he is also a student of all things. He earned his Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Michigan and his Bachelor’s Degree in General Biology from Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU). Prior to starting the Big Words Blog Site, Anwar published and contributed to numerous research articles in competitive scientific journals reporting on his research from graduate school and postdoctoral years. After falling in love with writing, he contributed to the now defunct Examiner.com, and the Edvocate where he regularly wrote about: Education-related stories/topics, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Financial Literacy; as well as conducted interviews with notable individuals such as actor and author Hill Harper. Having many influences, one of his most notable heroes is author, intellectual and speaker, Malcolm Gladwell, author of books including Outliers and David and Goliath. Anwar has his hands in many, many activities. In addition to writing, Anwar actively mentors youth, works to spread awareness of STEM careers, serves on the Board of Directors of the Friends of the David M. Brown Arlington Planetarium, serves as Treasurer for the JCSU Washington, DC Alumni Chapter, and is active in the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace Ministry at the Alfred Street Baptist Church. He also tutors in the subjects of biology, chemistry and physics. Along with his multi-talented older brother Amahl Dunbar (designer of the Big Words logos, inventor and a plethora of other things), Anwar is a “Fanboy” and really enjoys Science-Fiction and Superhero movies including but not restricted to Captain America Civil War, Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Prometheus. He is a proud native of Buffalo, NY.

Why more people should consider Government Guaranteed Home Loans

A key focus of my blog is Financial Literacy/Money. Most people have to get a home loan to secure a primary residence. A potential tool is a government loan. The following guest post is entitled, Why more people should consider Government Guaranteed Home Loans.

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As the housing price increases every year, many people feel that purchasing a home is becoming increasingly challenging due to increasing demand and lower supply. Even in 2021, when the nation is at the tail end of the biggest pandemic in the last 100 years, the median home price has continued to increase.

Many millennials reaching the age where they want to become homeowners believe that buying a home is becoming more difficult every year. Even during a slowed down real estate market, when mortgage rates are low, there are several banks asking for higher credit scores to qualify for a home loan. Increasing the hurdles that new home buyers must navigate on their path toward homeownership.

Thankfully, Government guaranteed Home Loans are available, and they can make the possibility of becoming a homeowner a reality. These loans offer more lenient eligibility requirements and several other benefits, which are sure to make homeownership a real opportunity for new and returning home buyers.

These Government guaranteed home loans come in the form of Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Home Loans, Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) Home Loans, and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Home Loans.

FHA Home Loans

These types of loans are beneficial for anyone who wants to become a homeowner. However, it is beneficial for first-time homebuyers looking for a more affordable alternative to conventional loans.

FHA home loans have some of the more lenient requirements out of any home loan available. These include a steady employment history (at least two years), closing costs that can be covered by either the seller, lender, and the borrower’s employer. In addition to these, FHA home loans require a low 3.5% down payment, much lower than the conventional loan requirement of 20%.

Having these lower eligibility requirements is not the only advantage that borrowers could have through an FHA loan. There are also several other benefits to FHA home loans, like lower monthly payments, lower closing costs, and borrowers’ ability to borrow more than the property is worth to finance the repairs and upgrades to a property.

VA Home Loans

VA home loans are the perfect loans for Veterans, Active Duty Service Members, and eligible spouses who want to become homeowners. To qualify for these loans, the applicant must meet its property, income, credit, and military requirements put forward by the VA.

To be eligible for these loans, the applicant must have served for at least 90 consecutive days during wartime and 180 days during peacetime. Members of the National Guard and reservists must have served at least six years. In addition to these service requirements, VA home loan requirements include property, income, and credit score requirements.

After eligibility is determined, the applicant will enjoy some of the best benefits available in any home loan. The benefits include a no down payment requirement, lower monthly costs, no-prepayment penalties, no mortgage insurance premiums, and lower interest rates. By taking advantage of these benefits, the applicant might become a homeowner in an increasingly more expensive housing market.

USDA Home Loans

Both FHA and VA offer excellent alternatives, for people in the lower middle class, to the often expensive conventional home loans. However, the dream of homeownership is not exclusive to people in the middle class, and that is where USDA home loans come in. Loans administered by the USDA are meant for lower-income families that would otherwise not be able to qualify for FHA or VA home loans.

Being eligible for these loans requires that applicants live in a rural development community and that their income is low to moderate. Moreover, the property that is used for the USDA home loan must be a modest single-family home with no extra features like in-ground pools. The home should also not be used for any business purpose whatsoever.

Conclusion

It is no secret that homeownership is a dream for most Americans who work hard to achieve that dream. However, for many who might not be informed about Government-backed home loans, homeownership might seem to be just a dream. Mostly due to the high cost of conventional loans and often unforgiving eligibility requirements. However, by understanding Government loans, borrowers can now qualify for a mortgage on a home and save more money than they would have with regular home loans.

Phil Georgiades is the CLS for FedHome Loan Centers, a brokerage specializing in first-time home buyer loans. He has been practicing real estate for over 22 years. To learn more about programs available to you or apply for an FHA loan. Call us at (877) 432-5626.

Three Ways to Introduce Lifelong Learning in the Workplace

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and Workplace Discussions. The reality of the working world is that your education is ongoing even after you have secured a position. As the persons running the organization, you may have to creatively introduce that concept to your staff. The following guest post is entitled, Three Ways to Introduce Lifelong Learning in the Workplace.

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Albert Einstein once said that “the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results.” Although this old saying may seem extreme, it does have some truth to it because anyone who is made to one thing repeatedly over the course of their life can drive them insane.

When it comes to choosing a career, most people tend to flock to a field that interests them. If the working conditions are acceptable and the compensation is sufficient, these people can be encouraged to work for their company until the time they reach the retirement age.

However, not everyone is fortunate to be able to climb the corporate ladder after putting in the work. Some are forced to remain in a dead-end job for countless years; stuck to the same desks and doing the same tasks. Their days may feel insignificant because nothing new happens and every day is the same.

Employee growth in the workplace is necessary to keep their minds sharp and ready to face challenges, but the lack of opportunities to grow can make work monotonous. In addition to that, remaining in long-term stagnancy can make work feel unsatisfying, which can lead to unhappy employees.

To make your business a place where your employees can thrive and grow as individuals, introduce them to the path of lifelong learning. This is a form of self-initiated education that aims to not only focus on personal development but also acknowledge that there is something new to be learned every day.

Formal Training and Seminars

Many employees are always eager to learn how they can perform their jobs better. But between working full-time and only having two days to recuperate for the coming week, they may no longer have the time to chase after learning opportunities.

However, as an employer who is interested in having better employees, you can take it upon yourself to make learning opportunities within the workplace. For instance, you can schedule a seminar with a topic that is directly related to your line of work.

If you want to have more credible and adept managers, you can also start leadership coaching to allow them to work on their personal skills. Leaders aren’t born, they are made. Turning your best employees into good leaders through formal training can bring success to your business.

Online Courses

There are multitudes of basic learning materials on the internet that are accessible to everyone who wants to work on their skills. But unfortunately, not all the materials are free of charge. The courses with in-depth and valuable information usually come at a price that is outside most people’s budget.

Money shouldn’t be a hindrance to anyone that wants to pursue lifelong learning, especially not if you can do something about it. As the employer, it may be advantageous for you to invest in your employees’ growth by shouldering the costs of the online courses.

Your employees might be more inclined to devote time to learning when you offer the course for free, or at least, with subsidized fees. The courses don’t have to be the most expensive ones offered online, but they have to provide relevant information that your employees can benefit from.

Brown Bag Lunches

Not all lifelong learning opportunities are done formally. One of the most effective ways to introduce new information or brainstorm ideas for business is to hold brown bag lunches. These are casual learning environments that can cover anything from new trends in the industry to personal finance.

Brown bag lunches are perfect if you want to build a stronger work environment as well. You and your employees can exchange ideas, collaborate on potential projects, or learn new skills over food. It can be held in a restaurant where you buy your employees lunch or a simple get-together in your office pantry.

A great leader is someone who communicates with their team. You can’t be a good employer if you don’t create bonds with your employees because the relationship remains superficial. If you truly want to build a conducive working and learning environment, then you should bridge the gap between you and your employees.

Work shouldn’t just be about money; it should also serve a purpose that gives your employees’ lives meaning. If an employee’s sole motivation to work is to get their salary at the end of the month, then they would have no drive to perform well. But if they see work as an avenue to grow and excel as a people, it might do your business wonders or potentially lead you to success.

8 Ways To Improve Mental Health

A key focus of my blog is Health/Wellness. Our personal health is something that must be monitored and maintained. It can be challenging at times depending on what’s going on in one’s life at that particular time. The following contributed post is entitled, 8 Ways To Improve Mental Health.

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In the modern business world, with rushed days, meetings, and lunches, you might need to find some time to relax. It’s an age where most entrepreneurial individuals invest as much time as reasonably possible into their future. Following the novel coronavirus pandemic, the strain on companies and small businesses was immense. It was overwhelming for many, thousands of businesses closed, and many more lost their only employment. It’s also been challenging for current business owners and operators trying their level best to keep their company afloat. Most entrepreneurs are used to the stress that comes with managing a business, but when stressful situations last as long as covid did, it changes just about everything. If you feel that your stress levels are causing an issue with your mental health, consider taking some time and working on it. In this article, we’ll discuss eight ways you can use to improve your mental health.

Photo by Maksim Goncharenok from Pexels

1 Track Your Achievements

Something you can undoubtedly consider is keeping track of every achievement you accomplish. These achievements can be big or small, expensive or cheap. It’s all about the satisfaction and pride you experience when you reflect on them. These achievements will accumulate, and sooner than later, you’ll understand your journey and enjoy the time you spend on it.

2 Smile More Often

It might just sound cliche, but try smiling a bit; if you’re struggling to get your thoughts and emotions together, constantly remind yourself to smile more and convince yourself that tomorrow holds a better ending. If you think that smiling can’t help your mental health, think again; according to scl health, when you smile, your brain releases small molecules referred to as neuropeptides, which assist with fighting off stress. Other neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins come into consideration.

3 Spend Quality Time With Family

Spending quality time with loved ones is also a critical factor in most individuals’ mental health. This might be because their parents make them feel safe or bring up fond memories. Spending time with family is always a blast, and it’s something many people around the globe can’t experience.

4 Spend Time With Your Pet

Many people found it hard to cope with the loneliness the lockdown transpired to create. But at least for the lucky ones, something as cute as your little furry friend does exist. It’s been proven in various case studies that spending time with an animal pet does reduce stress levels in people rapidly. This is also because of your neurotransmitters, where serotonin and dopamine levels are elevated.

5 Technology Detox

There’s nothing like a tech cleanse for the ultimate relaxation time. Be honest while you’re relaxing and you receive an email for your next deal. Odds are you’ll open it and start working straight away. Take a break from technology and focus your mind elsewhere; you can also use this guide – https://backlightblog.com/how-to-delete-instagram-followers to give your social media detox from any pages or individuals posting negative content.

6 Play Sports

Getting your body active is another great way of reducing stress levels significantly, it’s also because it stimulates your brain’s production of endorphins, these chemicals in your brain are your body’s natural painkillers and mood enhancers. If you start playing sports, it will also take your mind off business and work several times per week. What’s better than being fit and looking your best when you’re out on the beach, that’s right, playing sports will also keep your body in shape.

7 Sleep Well

It has been tested repeatedly; a well-rested mind is much more capable of processing stress, anxiety, anger, happiness, and all other emotions we regularly experience. Make sure you get enough rest between building an empire and remaining a fit, pleasant individual. It is bound to leave you feeling tons better, and in control of every day you take on.

8 Take Some Personal Time

Taking some time for yourself is also crucial on your road to fully taking control of your mental health. By taking time for yourself, you have an opportunity to reflect on everything positive in your life. You also understand what you’ve been through and how much you achieved much better. Allow yourself some rest, and your mind will recover much faster than you can imagine. There are many ways for you to take full advantage of your personal time. Because everyone is unique, not all of these ideas will fit every person. The secret is to find the best one that suits you and gives you the outcome you want – relaxing and recharging. Even if you have to try a few to get the one that clicks with you. If you are a more nature-loving person, going on a hike or bike trail will be right up your alley. If you’re more in the physical connection category, you can explore the many massage therapy programs available. Or even the good old retail therapy where you can still interact with others around you while indulging and rewarding yourself. The point is that you need to do something for yourself. Book out the time, an afternoon a month or even an hour a week. Make the commitment to yourself and stick to it.

Being in control of your mental health isn’t always as easy as it’s made out to be, yet, most individuals still suffer from it. It is a result of our modern rushed lives in business and personal life. You can easily follow these tips to start improving your mental health now.

Factors to Think About Before You Choose a STEM Degree

Two focuses of my blog are General Education and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). The career you choose is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. While STEM degrees are very valuable these days, consideration should be taken before choosing a field of study. The following guest post is entitled, Factors to Think About Before You Choose a STEM Degree.

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STEM degrees cover the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The demand for jobs belonging to STEM has relatively heightened across industries for the past few years. Along with the high demand for STEM graduates, the salary offered in these jobs lives up to its expectations.

That is why several students consider taking up a STEM degree when they enroll in colleges or online programs like Online Education (OEd). Though students may find STEM degree majors intimidating and formidable, graduates will most likely benefit from a higher job prospect compared to other degrees. Other than these major advantages, there are multiple reasons why a STEM career is an ideal path to take in the future. Nonetheless, it is crucial to consider a good deal of different factors before deciding on taking up the challenge to study for a STEM degree.

Factors to consider

Passion/Interest

88% of college students choose their degree based on their passion. Some students will prioritize choosing a degree that they are interested in to maintain a strong drive and desire to complete their studies after a few years. A STEM degree will be challenging to complete for plenty of individuals.

That is why succeeding in this field can be difficult if a student has no interest and desire to learn about the field. Individuals who consider choosing a STEM degree based on their passion and interest will more likely experience contentment and satisfaction in their jobs in the future. In addition, job burnout and stress can also be avoided in the future as long as they love what they do and find joy in their careers.

Security

On the other hand, some students will prefer to be more realistic when choosing a degree in STEM. Getting a college degree is already an investment in itself as students pay money to study and master their chosen degrees. For this reason, most students prioritize the amount of security they can get in a specific career path.

Not all STEM degrees offer equal earning potential. Some STEM careers like chemists, psychologists, computer programmers, and geographers get paid quite less compared to high-paying careers like surgeons, petroleum engineers, and IT managers. Even so, STEM degrees still earn comparatively higher than careers in other disciplines.

Flexibility

A STEM major can specialize in different areas. As the unpredictability of the future can be a problem, having a flexible STEM degree can be beneficial at the end of the day. For example, A degree in computer science can open up endless opportunities career-wise.

As technology is apparent in society today, many areas in the industry use computer science graduates in different ways. It covers programming languages, software, algorithm design, and so much more. Moreover, a degree in math can also proceed to a variety of jobs and occupations. Expanding fields like forensic accounting and finance offer graduates an abundance of chances to gain all kinds of experiences in the industry.

The impact of STEM on society

Getting an education in STEM allows students to obtain skills and traits that can greatly impact the development of modern society today. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics have an immense contribution towards creating solutions for major challenges and issues present in the world. With the skill set acquired during STEM education, current labor demands can be met. The field of science can allow students to establish a deep understanding and relationship with the world and strengthen skills in research.

For technology, young adults have the opportunity to master and navigate today’s digital age and become exposed to technologically advanced ideas and inventions. Engineering heightens an individual’s problem-solving skills and develops the technical knowledge needed for future projects. Lastly, mathematics encourages students to have a critical mind and get used to analyzing information and formulas that can be applied to large-scale problems in the world.

Overall, the different areas and fields of STEM all have one thing in common. These disciplines have the power to shape and develop societies for generations to come. STEM education upheaves social and environmental awareness as it can convey global issues and possible solutions to society.

Students who have studied in areas like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are known to be outstanding innovators and critical thinkers. The knowledge, skills, and experiences they acquire during STEM education can sustain economies, eradicate world issues, promote globalization and developing economies. As the world continues to change and evolve, civilization must keep up with its changes, which can be achieved with the help of STEM careers and professions.

Workout Essentials Your Gym Bag Should Have

Two focuses of my blog are Athletics/Sports and Health/Wellness. If you live a healthy lifestyle, there are certain items that you likely keep handy. If not this post may give you some clues as to what to keep in supply. The following contributed post is entitled, Workout Essentials Your Gym Bag Should Have.

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If you’re a sportsperson or fitness enthusiast, you probably have a set of fitness goals and challenges you want to meet. And believe it or not, the stuff you carry in your gym bag will have a lot to say about meeting your fitness goals. Preparation is vital for keeping a successful workout routine. And having the right items in your gym bag is one of the best ways to prepare for a good workout session. Although different people may prioritize other things, depending on their individual needs, there are some essential things you should always have. So, do you want to achieve your fitness goals? Then having these things in your gym bag will prove very helpful.

Pain relievers

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If you’re still recovering from injury or enduring severe pain, your safest bet is to stay away from the gym until you’re fully fit. Your doctor should tell when it is safe to resume active physical activities after a thorough physical examination. However, when you receive the green light to resume light physical activities and workouts, it is probably best to carry some prescribed pain relievers with you. You can also rely on elastic sports tape for relieving pain. A typical example is a pt tape from KT Tape, designed to support muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Bottle of water

Taking a bottle of water along might sound too obvious, but it is one of the most important things you can ever have in your gym bag. It is essential to remain hydrated throughout your workout sessions, especially when you end up sweating a lot. Additionally, having a reusable bottle means you can always refill and continue your exercise.

Nutrition bar, shakes, or post-workout supplement

Never give yourself the chance to go hungry or low on fuel when working out. Even if you feel fine before hitting the gym, always make sure you carry something to snack on or drink to refuel you when you need it. A nutrition bar is easy to snack on while on the go. Plus, it is also easy to carry around in your bag. You can also opt for a shake or nutritious drink if you want. Another thing you may want to consider is a post-workout supplement. Find a proven option that will aid in your post-workout recovery and muscle healing. You can also consider taking along some walnuts or your favorite fruit to help keep your blood sugar level in check while speeding up your recovery and healing process.

Compression socks

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Most people think it is good to have muscle soreness after a workout routine, as they consider it a sign of a productive session. However, when you experience muscle soreness, it is probably a sign that your muscles have experienced some swelling, causing pain in the process. The best way to avoid this pain is to use a pair of compression socks, as they help reduce swelling in the muscles. Compression socks also make it easy to recover faster from your workouts while boosting circulation in your legs.

Strategies for Getting Your Creative Work Noticed

A key focus of my blog is Career Discussions. If you’re a ‘creative person, you may have a different set of career considerations than a non-creative person. A key consideration is getting your work noticed. The following contributed post is entitled, Strategies for Getting Your Creative Work Noticed.

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If you’re someone who’s pursuing a creative career and have always been in touch with your creative side, you’ll know how challenging it can sometimes be for you to get the recognition you feel your creative work deserves. There are no shortcuts or easy answers when it comes to getting your creative work noticed.

Nevertheless, there are some strategies you can use to ensure you get as many eyes as possible on your work, or ears if you’re creating music. There are lots of ways to get noticed and a lot of it comes down to luck. But as they say, you create your own luck. We’re going to talk about how to do that right now, so read on to find out more.

Create a Professional Website for Yourself

First of all, you might want to consider setting up a professional website that everyone who might be interested in finding out more about your work can visit. It’s never been easier to create and set up your own website thanks to WordPress and Wix. You can follow the simple steps and then create your portfolio on that website. Just make sure you’re regularly linking to it from social media and wherever else you talk about your work online. It’s a must for artists these days.

Maintain High Standards and Create Work Worth Noticing

If you want your work to get noticed, you need to accept the fact that it’s important to keep standards high in terms of what you’re creating. Maintaining high standards isn’t always easy, but if you want to get noticed and you want your work to be picked up by people who are influential in your industry, you need to be constantly developing and improving as an artist. That’s what people expect to see, and if you’re not creating work that’s worth noticing, the truth is it probably won’t be noticed.

Don’t be Afraid to Make Noise About Your Work

There’s nothing wrong with talking about your work and making a noise about it. This is something that people too often shy away from but that shouldn’t be the case. That doesn’t mean you have to boast about the work you’re doing, but there’s a difference between being boastful and being proud of what you’re doing and wanting to share it with the world. If you shy away from attention and avoid talking about what you’re creating, people won’t take any notice of it.

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Don’t Assume Paid Ads Offer All the Answers

Many people think they can set up a bunch of paid ads online and that these will then drive the traffic to your site or store that you’re looking for. It’s a nice idea, and paid ads certainly can have a place in your wider strategy, but this alone is not going to offer you all the answers. You can’t pay your way to attention because it just doesn’t work like that, and nor should it. So, sure, use ads if you want to, but don’t discount the other things discussed in this guide.

Find the Niche Platforms That Are Most Relevant to What You Do

It’s important to find platforms that allow you to show off or sell your work. After all, monetizing your creative work is certainly a legitimate aim too and it’s what many creative people want to do. Places like Distrokid are often used by artists to distribute their music to audiences. And there are similar niche marketplaces and platforms that you can make use of no matter what kind of creative work you do; you just need to find the one that’s right for you.

Create a Brand Around Your Work and Online Presence

If you can create an entire brand around yourself as an artist and your work, it’ll serve you well when it comes to getting more attention for your work. Your online presence should be coherent and consistent so people know what to expect from you. Your brand should be organic and genuine and true to the real you. If you can achieve that, you’ll have a much greater chance of drawing people in as a result of them being interested in you and your brand.

Image Source – CC0 License

Be Open and Communicative with Your Audience

It’s important to be consistent and communicative with your audience if you want to keep them interested in what you’re doing. If you come across as distant and you don’t really offer any real communication to your audience via social media platforms, that’s probably not going to be great for you and your chances of receiving more attention. Be sure to be as open as you can be and talk to people directly.

Make Contacts Within Your Niche

Making contacts within your particular niche and making friends with the people who might be able to give you a leg up in your career is really important. In truth, it’s something that’s always been important in the art world. If you want to move forward, you need to know the right people and have the right professionals by your side who can deliver the experience and knowledge that you might be missing.

Make Use of Competitions and Contests

If there are competitions and contests for young and aspiring artists, you should make the most of these whenever you find them. You might think your chances of winning are low, but you never know until you give it a try. You might end up surprising yourself with how well you do. And you certainly won’t have people’s attention or win any awards if you’re not even taking part and showing up, so try to remember that.

Getting your work noticed as a creative person isn’t always easy. There are many challenges you’ll need to overcome on the way towards getting your work noticed, but if you keep at it and push yourself forward, you’ll eventually get the exposure your work deserves. Giving up early certainly isn’t the answer.

Robotics: A Powerful Educational Tool

Three focuses of my blog are General Education, STEM and Technology. As the world becomes more and more automated, there will be an increasing need for individuals to be trained in robotics and associated technologies. There are also benefits to robotics as an educational tool. The following guest post is entitled, Robotics: A Powerful Educational Tool.

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The field of robotics has numerous applications in various industries, usually in manufacturing different products in high volumes. Robots are ideal in these fast-paced environments as they can work for long hours without the risk of injury or exhaustion.

Robotics has also seen its impressive share of innovation through the years. Today, robots have the capability of sight. These robot vision systems increase precision and accuracy, helping improve the quality of products in many industries.

Aside from speeding up production processes, robots assist humans in other areas such as engineering and healthcare. Robotics also enriches the learning of students through their uses in the classroom setting. It provides a unique avenue of knowledge for learners of all kinds.

These are a few examples of how educators have adopted robotics as a tool for education.

Making Inclusive Education a Reality

Students in the STEM track are not the only ones who benefit from robotics. Students with special needs receive the necessary support for their different learning requirements.

An example of this is how robotics have been helping students in the autism spectrum develop their social skills. Some learners with autism can be uncomfortable in situations in which they have to interact with unfamiliar people.

Robotic solutions startup LuxAI responded to the need for innovative learning tools for children with neurodevelopmental disorders with the creation of QTRobot, an educational robot with play-based activities for social and cognitive development. These kinds of technologies make learning more encouraging and accessible for learners with disabilities.

Students with medical conditions that keep them from leaving home also benefit from having telepresence robots that enable them to do in-school activities. These robots are built to show a student’s presence in the classroom, with a tall vertical body with a screen on top to show the student’s face.

Simplifying Programming for Students

As robots increasingly play a larger role in daily living, students have much to gain from learning how to program. Robots are an interesting way to ease students into the art of programming, as these activities make learning about these technical and mechanical processes more enjoyable.

Of course, learning programming through the traditional classroom method is important. Bringing robotics in provides students with a practical application to help them put into practice what they learn in class.

Young learners can also more easily be introduced into the world of coding through robots. Many in the market teach kids aged three years old and above simple algorithms through puzzles and interactive storytelling. Robotics company Edison even has free lesson plans available online for use with their child-friendly robots, making coding education easier for many students.

Introducing robotics to children demystifies programming at an early age, thus encouraging more students to pursue STEM for higher education.

Sharpening and Broadening Students’ Skill Sets

More and more companies are automating to bolster their production and keep up with rising demands. However, industrial robots are complicated and often dangerous tools that trained professionals must only use. The rate at which organizations worldwide are adopting robots, and artificial intelligence necessitates more laborers who are knowledgeable in this field.

As robots take the place of humans in assembly lines, more human capital will be needed to operate and maintain these machines. Managing robots requires creativity and critical thinking skills, which are unique to humans, making humans an integral part of large-scale automation.

Giving Students Practical Experience Through Simulation

There are many ways in which students gain ample practical experience through educational simulators.

For example, students at the high school level often begin taking driving lessons. Driving simulators give driving students a realistic driving experience within a safe and controlled environment.

These simulators mimic the look and feel of driving an actual car, which helps students become better acquainted with the controls of a vehicle. The replication of real-life traffic situations also allows them to be prepared to face challenges that might come up on the road once they gain their driver’s licenses.

Simulators are also immensely helpful for medical students who will have to deal with various sensitive operations as doctors. These allow future doctors to gain training on how to perform surgeries safely and with precision. Simulations of different scenarios help them make proper decisions to ensure future patients’ safety while also preparing them for possible emergencies.

With its many applications in different fields, especially in education, robotics is a highly beneficial teaching tool for students of all levels. The sooner they are adopted in the classroom setting, the more enriched students’ learning will become.

What are the Benefits of a VPN?

A key focus of my blog is Technology. Many individuals and organizations employing the use of VPNs. In today’s age of cybercrime and cyberattacks, they are a necessary form form of digital security. The following contributed post is entitled, What are the Benefits of a VPN?

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Whether you are a business or an individual, you can benefit from a VPN service.

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, and it’s the best way to ensure your network is private and functions efficiently.

Nobody needs the random restrictions of an ISP admin to override their network at key times or take a threat in your data.

Below are the great benefits of a VPN service.

BETTER PRIVACY

Although there is a lot made of data security these days and new regulations like the GDPR laws have come into play, there is still a big issue over data privacy. The fact is that Web browsers, corporations, and governments can easily access your connection.

Every time you or an employee in your business uses the Internet, data is collected and analysed. A VPN can prevent this from happening. A VPN will encrypt your messages when you send and receive them, ensuring your company remains private and secure.

AVOID DATA THROTTLING

What could be worse for your business than data throttling? This is when your ISP notices you have used more than your data allowance and decides to slow your data speed, resulting in a reduced service. This is terrible for your business and its reputation.

When you use a VPN from your business, your data will be secured from the prying eyes of your ISP. It will also be free from data caps meaning there is no risk of your company slowing down through a busy period, which, let’s face it, is when you’re like to run your data down.

AVOID BANDWIDTH THROTTLING

Similar to data throttling, bandwidth throttling is when your ISP decides to lower your bandwidth at certain times of the day. This means might be taken based on the types of websites being visited or the volume of traffic coming through.

Again, this is not something you want when you’re trying to operate a profitable business. The last thing you need during busy periods is someone at the ISP deciding that your bandwidth is too high and taking administrative measures. A VPN can encrypt your network, so this is not possible.

BLOCKED ACCESS REGION

Sometimes the region for a service is blocked by the ISP or some other organisation. It means your company can’t access certain files, documents, or content that’s regionally restricted. But if you need to access this, there is a workaround by using a VPN.

Your VPN will change the IP address, so your service provider thinks you are operating from a different region. It will then grant access to the content. This process is legal in most cases but checks the terms of the content before using the VPN to make sure.

AVOID CENSORSHIP

If you or your business need to access content of service – such as social media sites – in regions that have various censorship rules, then a VPN service like NordVPN 3 Year Deal can help. Like an access blocked area, a VPN can change the region of the IP address making it local to the content. In this way, you can communicate with important business people or access content you need to take a project forward.

How ATM Technology Has Changed Overtime

Two focuses of my blog are Financial Literacy/Money and Technology. The concept and use of money has continued to evolve within civilization. A significant invention is the creation of the ATM. The following contributed post is entitled, How ATM Technology Has Changed Overtime.

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ATM banking tech has made customers’ lives much easier as the technology allows for seamless transactions anytime, anywhere. Varying bill denominations and cardless automated teller machine access represent two significant breakthroughs that are set to enhance consumers’ banking experience. While financial technology has a long history stretching back to the 1960s, here are four unique features revolutionizing ATMs today.

1. Paperless receipts

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If you are a customer who regularly visits banking halls, perhaps the sight of receipt-littered ATM cash points is something you are used to. The majority of customers print their receipts only to glance through their balance and dump the paper into the trash can or drop it on the floor. To some people, printing ATM paper receipts is a fun activity that spices up their banking experience. To address litter and keep their banking premises clean, financial institutions resort to paperless receipts via email.

2. Varying bill denominations

In the USA, ATMs were used to dispense cash only in single denominations such as the $20 bill, making it challenging when change was needed. Realizing that customers want more flexibility in ATM banking, banks have introduced more innovative ATMs that can now dispense multiple denominations of currencies. This has simplified cash withdrawal processes for consumers. Today, institutions like Chase and PNC are rolling ATMs that can issue smaller denominations, including $1 and $5. Being able to withdraw your money in smaller currencies means you won’t end up withdrawing less or more than what you actually need.

3. Cardless ATM access

The smartphone age has prompted innovators to consider building cardless ATM systems. People will be able to use their smartphones to access their ATM funds without any need for cards. Several smartphone manufacturers are starting to build mobile devices with near-field communication (NFC) features. These will make it possible for smartphones to communicate with ATMs in proximity. SunTrust bank intends to implement this feature in their ATM so that customers can use their NFC-enabled phones to transact with their ATMs without cards. This means that smartphones could essentially eliminate debit cards at ATMs in the next few years. Automated teller machines have remained relevant for the past half-century, and the technology behind them continues to evolve for the better through invention and reinvention.

4. Contactless payment and biometric ATMs

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Self-service digital banking and automated banking tech are getting smarter by the day, with some ATMs now offering “tap and go” contactless payment options. ATMs with biometric recognition features can identify customer’s fingerprints, irises, and voices. The vital role of ATMs in the financial system owes its success to the effective collaboration between bankers and engineers.

It took more than two decades for ATMs to gain worldwide acceptance, and as of today, there are over 3.5 million of them around the world. Besides, many innovative companies specialize in ATM repair and installation across Northern California and the USA for customer use. If you can keep your ATMs running efficiently 24/7, you are more likely to boost your customer satisfaction.

3 Ways To Ensure Business Success For Your Construction Company

Two focuses of my blog are Financial Literacy/Money and Business/Entrepreneurship. The construction industry is it’s own unique industry and as such, if you’re in it, there are certain things you need to do to be successful. The following contributed post is entitled, 3 Ways To Ensure Business Success For Your Construction Company.

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After a difficult year owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s likely that you are going to want to ensure your business remains successful in 2021. Construction companies were fortunate in that they were able to work throughout the majority of lockdown. However, that is no reason to rest on your laurels. Here are three ways to ensure business success for your construction firm.

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1. Focus On Better Customer Service

Repeat business results in success. So, when it comes to your construction company, you need to ensure that your firm is doing its bit to provide excellent customer service to your clients. Remember, people buy from people, so if your project managers aren’t going above and beyond for your customers, then you will need to rectify that. It may be worth sending your employees on a customer service training course to get them up to the necessary standard. It is through excellent reviews and customer referrals that you will earn new business, so make a concerted effort to focus on better customer service to remain successful in the construction space.

2. Use The Best Products & Techniques

Having the industry know-how is one thing but utilising the best techniques and using the highest quality products on your job is what will set your business apart from the other construction companies in your area. For instance, don’t just settle for standard excavation, invest in hydro excavation to improve your industrial projects. If you’re wondering what is hydro excavation, it is the use of a vacuum system and a high-pressured water device for excavation. It’s much more convenient for construction firms as it alleviates the risk of potential underground infrastructure damage, meaning your industrial project can be much more efficient and risk-free. It is by using these sort of techniques that you will become known for being the best construction firm in the area, ensuring you remain successful as a business moving forward.

3. Level Up Your Marketing Output

You need to create a strong online presence to be successful in any sector nowadays – and this is especially true in the construction industry. If you are relying on a junior team member to pop up a few posts on social media as your marketing strategy, then things need to change. Consider bringing onboard a specialist PR or marketing agency to enhance your business’ reputation in the marketplace. Be strategic with your marketing. Make use of digital techniques such as SEO, PPC, or even paid social media campaigns to illuminate your firm in a crowded market. Can’t afford the costs of an agency? It may be worth bringing some expertise in-house to help your construction company grow its marketing output. If you’ve never hired somebody in this space before, it’s probably worth working with a specialist recruiter to get the right person.

Hopefully, these three tips will ensure that your construction firm remains successful in 2021. It’s been a difficult year but it’s important that companies focusing on growing and not just recovering over the next twelve months. These pointers will stand you in good stead!