#ict and covid

[educationday]

Action ensuring that all educational responses are based on the fundamental principles of inclusion, equity, and non-discrimination.

A report issued by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) and the Regional Bureau for Education in Latin America and the Caribbean (OREALC/UNESCO Santiago) warns of the unequal access to human and economic resources, infrastructure and educational equipment in the region, which have been aggravated by the pandemic.

These structural conditions affect the implementation of the recommendations issued by international organizations on the appropriate processes for school reopenings, and impact upon the right to education of millions of students in the region.

"The region has an urgent need to plan and define priority actions to guarantee the safety of school operations and educational attention to the most vulnerable populations". This is the conclusion of the IDB and UNESCO report "Reopening Schools in Latin America and the Caribbean: Keys, challenges and dilemmas to plan for a safe return to in-person classes". The report was launched by both international organizations on Monday, December 7th, 2020 at an online event. The English version is available since January 20th.

The document presents an assessment developed by both institutions as a contribution to the prioritization of education in national response plans to the health emergency and future recovery strategies. "Countries have deployed various response and recovery plans in which education needs to be incorporated as a central element," the report says, "not only to ensure an education response, but to achieve an equitable, inclusive and sustainable recovery”.

The report points out inequality increases the challenge of developing an education strategy that integrates educational experiences of 2020 - and that recovery of students who have not returned to school will be difficult. For this reason, the document also calls for regional action ensuring that all educational responses are based on the fundamental principles of inclusion, equity, and non-discrimination. To this end, the report analyses the possibilities, restrictions and needs that Latin American and Caribbean countries will face during the process of returning to in-person classes, considering the following dimensions: safe schools (school infrastructure, access to water and sanitation); human resources (principals and teachers); remote education (access to ICT and connectivity; education financing; and information and planning.

In their conclusions, both organizations indicate that the responses that the countries have implemented to guarantee continuity of learning reflect a remarkable capacity to react to an uncertain scenario, but that there are difficult decisions to be taken as soon as possible, as the longer the return to in-person classes is delayed, exclusion will grow and inequalities will increase.

Within these decisions, UNESCO and the IDB call for investments to improve the state of school infrastructure to ensure conditions for basic sanitation and hygiene. They also call for careful planning of the demand and supply of teachers for the return to classes and emphasize the urgent need to improve policies on teacher training, availability, allocation and working conditions.

In terms of information and communication technology (ICT) and learning continuity during the pandemic, the report emphasizes inequalities among students in access to educational options in terms of technology during a pandemic and the enormous challenge for educational continuity, especially in rural areas. This period has also highlighted disparities in teachers' ICT skills, which require sustained policies that transcend the crisis. 

With regard to education financing, the IDB and UNESCO state that the recovery of the education sector will require additional resources, as well as improving their distribution. Huge inequalities highlight the need to incorporate equity criteria and the prioritization of vulnerable populations.

In order to build more comprehensive education systems that will allow  dealing with crises such as this one, it is also essential to modernize the collection and analysis of information and to make these systems more efficient  Currently, there are marked gaps in comparable data from all countries on key indicators for planning the return to in-person classes. In many cases these gaps reflect basic information that is not available at the national level.

Sabine Riegle-Aubourg, Director (a.i.) of the Education Division at the IDB says this report is "a wake-up call about the urgent need for careful education policy planning. The ability of countries to define priority actions to ensure safe school operations and prioritize education for the most vulnerable populations will be key.  In order to do this and to avoid a generational disaster, education funding must be protected”.

This diagnosis gives an account of the challenges faced by the education systems in the region, which have been deepened by the COVID-19 pandemic. This is why today, more than ever, we must maintain our commitments for the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development and its Goal 4. Adequate, timely and efficient investment will be crucial to reducing the current and future impacts of the pandemic on education and to avoid a generational catastrophe;

Claudia Uribe, Director of the Regional Bureau for Education in LAC (OREALC/UNESCO Santiago).

Even before the sanitary emergency, education systems faced major challenges. In 2018, 10.5 million children were out of school in Latin America and the Caribbean, 16% of them outside primary education, 22% without lower secondary education and 62% without upper secondary education. In addition, a large number of students in the region do not achieve basic learning competencies according to the results of PISA (OECD) and the Third Regional Comparative and Explanatory Study (TERCE), implemented by UNESCO.

The conclusions

Safe schools (school infrastructure, access to water and sanitation)

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed structural shortcomings in school infrastructure.

Most schools in LAC countries do not have the classroom size conditions that allow for the enforcement of the physical distance protocols for a safe return to in-person classes for every student. Around 1.3 million students at the primary level do not have access to drinking water in their households nor in school. It is urgent that LAC countries invest in the improvement of the state of school infrastructure to offer basic sanitation and hygiene conditions.

Human resources (principals and teachers)

Constraints on the return to in-person classes for some teachers and the implementation of hybrid models will require the need to hire new teachers. However, even before the pandemic, many countries already faced a shortage in trained staff to cover the education needs of the population. The region needs to plan the supply and demand of teachers carefully in order to return to in-person classes; the pandemic has brought to light the urgent need to improve training, availability, allocation and working condition policies for teachers.

Remote education (access to ICT and connectivity)

The most utilized resource in the region for remote and hybrid education are online platforms, employed by 85% of countries. However, access to connectivity and technological resources in households and in schools are deficient: 46% of children between 5 and 12 years of age live in households without Internet connection.  In terms of schools, 62% of primary schools and 75% of secondary schools have access to ICT equipment. This represents a huge challenge for learning continuity, especially in rural areas. The pandemic has highlighted the disparities in ICT competencies among teachers, this requiring sustained training policies that go beyond the urgency of the current situation.

Education Financing

The recovery of the education sector will require additional financial resources and better distribution. The large inequalities highlight the need to include criteria of equity and prioritization of vulnerable population in plans to return to in-person classes for students currently out of school. In this sense, education financing as well as fair and efficient resource allocation are key to respond to this crisis and to guarantee the right to quality education for everyone.

Information and planning

Ministries of education require strong education management information systems (EMIS) that allow for the planning, development, and management of these strategies. 42% of LAC countries still use physical formats (such as paper forms) completely or partially to gather data. The EMIS of the region need to be strengthened through the use of technologies to collect and analyze data more effeciently, allowing ministries to build a more comprehensive picture of their education systems to deal better with crises.

Further information:

Download the report (it includes executive summary)

Blog, OREALC/UNESCO Santiago ¿Están preparados los países de América Latina y el Caribe para abrir sus escuelas?

Webinar

[thestarbulletin]

Pantami calls for the creation of a Ministry of Digital Economy in all states

Pantami calls for the creation of a Ministry of Digital Economy in all states

Pantami calls for the creation of a Ministry of Digital Economy in all states Professor Alli Isa Pantami (Minister of Communications and Digital Economy) has asked state governments to establish a ministry for digital economy to increase economic growth. Pantami made this statement in Ibadan, Oyo State’s capital yesterday during a courtesy call on Governor Seyi Makinde to express appreciation for…

[reynita9]

I can’t stop thinking about how Cocomelon is damaging babies because the fast pace scene changes can “interfere with the development of executive functions”, and how thin parents are spread in capitalism that they rely on television to entertain/keep their babies company just so they have some time to complete domestic tasks. I am thinking about disintegrated Community Care/structure. I am thinking about how Instagram, Tiktok, Twitter, Tumblr, all media are engineered to be addictive and alter the executive functioning of kids, tweens, teens, and adults of all ages. How malleable our minds are..bread and circuses. Everything we consume has the power to heal or destroy us. I think about Congress Bill 686, and feel discouraged and powerless. You may have heard of it as “The TikTok Ban” of course, the media intentionally oversimplifies it as a ban on TikTok, but really it is the means for The State to restrict the sharing of information on the internet and to censor us, keep us misinformed and suppressed. The State knows that knowledge is power so they keep us intentionally in the dark and distracted, plucking away human rights one by one while we are watching the stage. The Restrict Act would require the Department of Commerce to “identify, deter, disrupt, prevent, prohibit, investigate, and mitigate transactions involving ICT products and services” 🤳🏼👁️ (ICT means Information and Communications Technology, ICT Products and services refers to social media) When COVID first hit, my friend said “this will be like 9/11, there was the world pre 9/11 and post 9/11” I am not one to believe we are “post-covid” because we are still in the grips of the Covidian information wars, which I feel will be one of the main long term take aways from The-Covid-Years. Bill 686 harms all, because any group of 1 million people organizing or sharing information online can be persecuted, banned and shut down under the guise of “prohibiting certain transactions between persons of the United States and foreign adversaries” Congress Bill 686 establishes both civil and criminal penalties for violations of the bill, meaning anything that they consider an “unacceptable risk to national security.” Please don’t forget we live in a police state which is meant to protect the empire. In The United States privacy is not sacrosanct, and actually American big brother corporations like Meta and Google are investing millions into anti-TikTok propaganda, because it clears their competition and allows them back into the palms of citizens, so they can personally be the ones to steal our time and data. It makes me angry, it’s painful. How can we organize against the faceless enemy? It’s all subversion and censorship, anything to get the undiluted power to be placed back into the hands of an American corporation. It will always be The State, Corporations, and Colleges keeping information tucked away and inaccessible to the masses. We must do what we can to preserve the internet as a place of free information sharing and connection. The infrastructure of our communities in real life are generally weak. Weekly I hit a paywall online, and I have seen my own words be instantaneously given an AI generated COVID misinformation banner before. It’s insane, and most people are not comfortable admitting out loud that we are alive during fascism. What’s funny in a way is, I have long hated TikTok, but now that it risks being banned in this “land of the free” I find myself urgently realizing how important it is to preserve and protect.. It is on the individual to use the internet wisely and with boundaries, not the state to restrict people’s access to information. Privacy is important and data-preservation is important, obviously, but if this is what 686 was truly about, we would be having different conversations. All legislation is created to build a precedent.

[nanowrimo]

Back to School: Interview with Meredith Towne, Young Writers Program Educator

NaNoWriMo’s Young Writers Program helps over 85,000 kids, teens, teachers, and families set creative goals and tell stories they care about. We asked some of our amazing YWP educators to share how they take on the NaNoWriMo challenge in their classroom. Today’s advice comes from Meredith Towne, a high school English teacher in New York City!

Q: What grade/ age level do you work with? What type of NaNoWriMo group is it (whole class, club, homeschool, elective, etc.)?

A: 12th. Whole class (ELA 12, general education and ICT)

Q: How long have you been doing NaNoWriMo with your students?

A: 7 years

Q: How do you structure the entire project (for example, do you start prepping in October and write in November, do you have kids work on it all year, etc.)?

A: We do 2 weeks of prep in October, write in November, revise 10 pages in December (2500-3k words). This year we had workbooks for all our students which was a huge help.

Q: What does a normal NaNoWriMo day look like for your students?

A: In November students come in and write. Teachers do 1:1 check-ins. With holidays sometimes students only get 13 class days (60 min each) so every moment is precious.

Q: How do you set and manage word-count goals?

A: We conference and since Covid have let students choose their goals and have pushed less. Usually we challenge 10k, 20k or 30k+ goals.

Q: How do you manage grading? Do you grade?

A: We do 4 progress checks where students are to meet the word count goal for that day. This is a participation grade. The revision is then graded as a summative assessment for all of our core competencies. I also love the YWP portal. It has become easy to track student progress and coordinate with co-teachers.

Q: How do you approach revision/ publishing (if at all)?

A: 10 pages, a section of choice. Bookcreator.com is an amazing tool for creating a cover and cool layout. We do a public share as well.

Q: Any NaNoWriMo tips or tricks to share with other educators? Hard-won lessons? Ah-ha moments?

A: Get the workbooks. Don't grade down for not meeting goal. Progress not perfection. In our classes students have to write at least 1500 words to be eligible to revise. If they have not met goals they move to an alternative assessment we have designed that aligns with our competency skills.

Q: Have you ever run into resistance from your administration about doing NaNoWriMo, and if so, how did you manage it? What do you say to people who don’t see the point of having students write novels?

A: No, never an issue. It has become one of the things lower classmen are warned about in Ms. Towne's class! 😀 I love this legacy.

Q: What are the most meaningful things you or your students take away from the project? What's your best NaNoWriMo memory?

A: One of the students who did NaNo in 2017 is starting a MFA in creative writing. This is the same kid who told me his senior year he didn't want to go to college. I credit NaNo!

Meredith Towne is a high school English teacher in New York City. She has challenged her Seniors to win NaNoWriMo YWP for the last 7 years. Meredith especially loves writing along with her students so they can see her walk the walk. She does her best writing early in the morning and can be found in her classroom before the sun comes up in November to write.

[maybxlle]

omg ur rb of my post reminded me of when i ws in year 1 and during ict if we finished our work early the teacher would let us use the school iPads to do wtv we want n id always go n watch blank space mv 😭 getting nostalgic for pre covid tay now

SAME tho!! when i was like six to eight i played blank space every single time me and my mom went on a drive on repeat and i screamed the lyrics and my mother still makes fun of me for it to this day 🙄 i showed my dad the video like last year and his reaction was so funny

[ippid]

Finding Passion - Kylian Mbappé

Chapter – 1

It was getting harder for me to pretend my joints weren't killing me, and I had to actually drag myself out of bed. I always wake up early because I'm motivated the day before to work out, and then I lay in my bed for what feels like seconds but is actually an hour or three. It's a bad habit I'm trying to get rid of without the trying part.

Meaning, I'm thinking about how much I need to do it and then actually not doing it.

Also, a bad habit.

Lately, I've been feeling more and more restless. I'm 19 years old, and I feel like I'm dead inside.

I'm not depressed or anything. Don't have any crazy stories to tell. I don't have any character-building traumas in my past or anything that would make me a person of interest in the slightest. But I'm feeling dead inside because my life is just so damn boring. Nothing ever happens, and I'm living in this stupid cycle where I feel like I'm never moving forward. I'm not accomplishing anything special in life, and I'm not making any crazy money either. I still live at home with my parents, and I've quit two of my previous attempts at college.

My parents are definitely disappointed in a failure like me. I just know it. I know my parents love me a lot, and they treat me well and support me and everything, but I can just tell they're disappointed because I'm not doing anything with my life.

I never wanted to be this way, but I can't help it. Not only that, but I see everyone around me moving forward with their lives. Buying cars and getting their degrees and jobs. I can see everybody enjoying life and then there's me who is just stuck in one place.

As I said, I can't help it. I get distracted easily and I lose motivation fast. The only thing I do basically all day long is search the internet for fan fiction and other interesting stuff that holds my attention but doesn't benefit me in any way. Or listen to music.

It wasn't always like this, though. Back in high school, I was still good. Everything was fine. I didn't have to do much for a good grade, and I knew I was a smart girl. I was good at a lot of things. Math, science, physics, languages, you name it and I could do it without having to kill myself to understand all the information. I was very proud of this fact, to be honest. I thought I was good and wouldn't really struggle much when I graduated.

That was a lie.

After I graduated and applied for college, I thought I would be interested in becoming an Architect. So I signed up and because it was the first year that everybody had to deal with Covid-19, the courses were hectic and everything became too much, too fast, and I couldn't keep up. I had always hated online learning anyway. The information just doesn't register. It feels like I'm watching a tutorial instead of a lecture. I kept putting things off and in the end, I missed the deadlines and felt like I couldn't do it anymore.

So I dropped out.

I lost interest, and I didn't think it was worth fighting for something I was probably not even going to enjoy doing in the future.

Back then, I didn't stress much. I was freshly 18, and I felt like I was still young, and I could explore my interests better.

So I signed up for a different field of study. I went and decided I could probably handle ICT. Wanted to become a software engineer, so I could make a lot of money and travel without having to go to work every day from 9 to 5. I thought it was a great idea and I would probably be able to do it.

I guess not.

Like the time before, these were still online courses and the material was just too complex for me to understand anything on a deeper level without real face-to-face explanations.

I realized some things then.

1. I don't do good without confrontation. In high school, I went to class and the teacher called you out if you had to answer something, and you just had to know these things if you didn't want to look like a dumb fool. So you studied and took in the information that was provided for you and everything was just easy. Here, you don't have anybody coddling you. You have to do everything yourself, and I am very bad at that. I always think I have more time than I actually do and end up procrastinating so much that I actually miss the damn deadlines.

2. I can't do something I'm not interested in because I will never find the motivation to actually research and do everything that is necessary to pass these college courses when I'm not even interested.

3. I really, really needed to search and find what I wanted to do, and what interests me because I can't keep starting up an education and then dropping out.

Not only that, but I think I will end up actually killing my parents if I do that. My mom's been feeling sick lately. Burnt out and tired. They had me pretty late, and my parents are definitely getting old. So I feel like every time I do something to upset them, or don't do something, I suppose, it weighs them down way more than it normally would or should.

Even with these realizations, I haven't gotten really far.

I just know I don't want a job where I need to think overly much and do paperwork all day. I want something creative and fun with variety. Something I won't get tired of. Something with lots of opportunities and where I can learn more without it feeling like a damn burden.

I've always been good at crafting, drawing, and fixing stuff. I like that a lot, so I've thought about doing something in that area, but I still have no clue what. I wanted to try photography. That's also something I'm very interested in since I've always been the designated photographer for people. But if I do that, then I want to be a photographer for sports or idols. Preferably, for K-pop idols. One of the things I enjoy the most.

I wasn't going to come to a decision right now, though, so I would just have to get up and try to help my mom in the house.

I never actually go outside if I don't have to. My parents have tried to get me to go out, so I could do something, but it's always a temporary thing, and it rarely comes from me personally. So I try to at least help as much as I can around the house.

I've never been a party animal. In fact, I've never been to any parties before, except maybe in middle school a couple of times. I have 2 or 3 friends that I snap with occasionally and one best friend who I almost never see.

I finally drag myself out of bed and into the bathroom to brush my teeth and wash my face before anything else.

My hair is a mess, and I try to rectify that with a bit of water after removing it from the bun it was supposed to be in and retying it in a ponytail. It always looks short. My hair doesn't grow fast and with it being so curly, I never really notice any differences in length unless I straighten my hair.

After I'm done with that, I tidy up my room a bit and head downstairs to greet my parents. I find my mom in the kitchen making coffee and my dad sitting at the table with some toast and a newspaper in front of him.

I know, and I told you, my parents are old. I greet him and walk up to my mom to kiss her on the cheek. ''Good morning mom.''

''Good morning sweetheart.'' My mom says, smiling at me. That's new, she's not usually smiling this early in the morning. ''What's up mom?'' I say. ''Why are you smiling like that?''

She brings the coffee to the table and sits down next to my dad before turning to me. "We have something to tell you, honey."

Okay, now I'm even more curious. ''We're going to go on a little vacation, and we want you to come with us.'' Oh. Well, I wasn't expecting that, but I'm definitely not complaining. ''Wow, mom, where to?'' I ask ''And how long?''

''Well, we were thinking about going to Paris for a week. It's not that far from here, so we don't have to go by plane. We can take the train.'' She said. I thought about it for a second while taking a seat at the table.

Like I said before, I never really go out and have fun, but I did always have the desire to travel. We live in the Netherlands, Amsterdam, and I have never been to Paris before. Which is crazy. I heard amazing things about Paris, of course. And it didn't hurt that a lot of people moved there for their studies, so maybe with this little vacation, I can at least find some inspiration as to what I want to do in life.

With that, I made up my mind. ''That's great mom! I've always wanted to go there.'' I say ''When are we leaving?''

My parents look at each other and smile. I could see I made them happy with my enthusiastic answer. They've been a bit more insistent that I have fun in the last couple of weeks. So my agreement is probably a relief for them. I can feel that familiar pang of guilt again. They really do deserve so much better than me. I've got to get my shit together.

I try not to let it get to me while I wait to hear when we're leaving.

My dad is the one that answers after looking over at me, ''We're leaving early in the morning this coming Friday, and we'll stay there for 8 nights. We'll return Saturday evening. Make sure you're packed and ready to go on Thursday, kiddo.'' Wow, I hadn't thought we'd be leaving so soon.

It's Tuesday today, so I don't have much time left till we leave. But that doesn't even matter because it's not like I take forever to get ready. I only have to pack clothes.

The more I think about it the more excited I become. I smile to myself and look over at my parents ''Alright, I'm really excited about this! I'm going to let Jess know!'' I say while getting up, ready to run back to my room and phone, so I could text my best friend to let her know.

''Not so fast kiddo, breakfast first!'' My dad says, making me turn around and sit back down quickly.

My parents laugh while I speed through my breakfast, and once I'm done, I quickly kiss both of them on the cheek before sprinting upstairs, ready to tell Jess the news.

.

.

.

A/N

Word count :  1875 words

[newsbites]

News from Africa, 19 June

Hage Geingob will host Danish PM Mette Frederiksen and Dutch PM Mark Rutte today in Namibia. Green hydrogen will reportedly be among the subjects discussed.

2. Namibia's proposed visa exemption for Chinese nationals is a bilateral agreement that would benefit both countries, according to China's ambassador to Namibia, Zhao Weiping.

Some Namibian politicians have objected to the proposal, with opposition leader McHenry Venaani claiming it is a "hoodwinking process" for Chinese prisoners to come to the country, and aspiring presidential candidate Job Amupanda alleging that it involves a deal between the ruling party and China to garner support for next year's elections.

The proposed agreement's main goal is to attract Chinese tourists and help Namibia become competitive again after the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Namibia's minister of home affairs, immigration, safety and security, Albert Kawana.

3. Angola and Zambia signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in information technology, including digital transformation, AI, and space technology.

The agreement includes the establishment of direct cross-border optical fibre backbone connectivity between the two countries, scheduled to happen this month.

The collaboration is expected to help improve the regulation of the Angolan and Zambian telecom markets and lead to improved coverage and quality of ICT services provided in both countries.

4. Namibia is embarking on a journey of digital transformation to modernize various aspects of the country's life.

The Department of Home Affairs, Immigration and Security recently announced the successful implementation of an online passport application system, a major step towards delivering home affairs government services through digital channels. Namibia is partnering with Estonia to bring government services online and gradually prepare citizens for the transformation ahead. The Vice Minister of ICT recognizes the importance of foreign direct investment (FDI) for African technology spaces, but stresses the need for a clear roadmap or strategy to ensure that solutions developed in Africa fit the lifestyle on the continent.

5. Nigeria has 71 million people living in extreme poverty and 133 million people are classified as multidimensionally poor, according to 2023 data from the World Poverty Clock and the National Bureau of Statistics.

6. The Bank of Namibia increased the repo rate to safeguard the dollar-rand peg and contain inflationary pressures, but this will severely impact consumers who rely on debt to survive.

The governor expressed empathy for people losing their homes due to rising debt costs, and urged the nation to find better solutions to keep more Namibians in their homes while maintaining financial stability.

7. The fighting in Sudan has caused a surge in refugees fleeing to South Sudan, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.

The UN has called for $253 million in funding to respond to the crisis, but donations have been slow to come in.

The lack of resources and funding has led to inadequate food, water, and sanitation facilities in transit camps, resulting in malnutrition, disease, and preventable deaths.

[waterspinachdith]

PUBLIC HEALTH *cough coro cough*

Since the end of 2019, the world has been shaken by the Corona Virus Disease 19 (COVID-19) attack. The Malaysian government has adopted numerous phases of the Movement Manage Order (MCO) 2020 beginning on March 18, 2020, in an effort to control the prevention of COVID-19. In the face of the COVID pandemic-19, which is spreading rapidly, and the implementation of the PKP-PKPB-PKPP, which was executed for the first time in Malaysia, the public is always searching for sources to get the most up-to-date information on the status and news of the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as the most recent Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). People used to rely on traditional sources such as radio and television to acquire information, but technological advancements now put everything at their fingertips through the usage of the internet and communications technology (ICT). The usage of technology such as the Internet, as well as media such as social media, is considered as extremely beneficial in giving up-to-date information. During the isolation or lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of persons accessing virtual (online) content rose over the world. Among the virtual content accessed is the ability to delight yourself and obtain up-to-date information on COVID-19.

In the past year, there have been 128 million more mobile phone users, according to the "Digital 2020 Global Statshot Report" by We Are Social, Hootsuite, and Kepios. This growth in mobile phone users is likely to contribute to an increase in social media use globally. The spreading of fake news and rumours is one of the major issues confronting the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, the WHO has voiced their concern about the virus pandemic as well as the issue of false information and the dissemination of persistent falsehoods. False information can prevent the responsible party from responding, prevent the public from receiving accurate information, and delay the adoption of measures to combat the outbreak.

The Movement Control Order (MCO) enforced in our country since mid-March last year to curb the spread of COVID-19 has also increased the use of the internet and communication on social media. Various campaigns and reminders are given by relevant agencies such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) about the ethics of using social media, but such campaigns are considered unimportant and ignored by some netizens. Everyone is racing to share information and give opinions without considering the validity of the information. The public is advised to first check the validity of any information regarding the COVID-19 outbreak and the Movement Control Order (MCO) before sharing it on social media to avoid the spread of false news and inaccurate information. People can be upset by fake news. The community is under strain as a result of the scenario as reported in fake news. The existence of prior news has increased the burden of those responsible for determining the veracity of the news and presenting it to the community.

[waningcrescentlune]

While I agree with the above, I can assure you that gen-z know how to use computers. Do not give into the "kids these days" mindset. Gen-Z ranges from 12-27. They know how to use computers, they know how to use folders. They may not always prefer to, but I'll be fucking damned if they don't know how to use em. Admittedly I'm also in the UK, but we regularly use computers in education, for example ICT classes in primary schools (11 nd below year olds) and online homework is extremely common especially post COVID. Not to mention College, damn near everything is online nowadays. If none of us knew how to use basic computer functions, we'd all be failing school.

Stop falling for this bullshit ragebait designed to inspire generational divide.

this can't be true can it

[ashna19]

How ICT helped me at home, in school and in communicating with people

ICT helped me by making my life easier, socializing with people, and with my school works especially during pandemic days. With the help of ICT we can still do classes during the COVID-19 era and also it's easier for me to buy something online. In socializing I can still talk to my friends even if we can't see each other everyday.

[latestmarketresearchnews]

Farm Management Software Industry 2030 Outlook, Regions, Size Estimation and Upcoming Trend

The global Farm Management Software (FMS) market was valued at USD 3.30 billion in 2022 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2023 to 2030. This significant growth can be attributed to the increasing adoption of cloud computing technologies for real-time farm data management, as well as the growing integration of Information Communication Technology (ICT), particularly technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and big data analytics in agriculture. These advancements help address a range of challenges that the agriculture industry faces, such as resource constraints (e.g., water, energy, labor shortages) and social issues (e.g., environmental concerns, animal welfare, and the use of fertilizers) that impact agricultural productivity.

Farm Management Software enables farmers to efficiently manage their operations by streamlining data collection, analysis, and decision-making processes. This approach helps in optimizing the use of resources and improving overall farm productivity. The integration of advanced technologies allows farmers to better monitor crops, manage soil health, and handle environmental challenges, ultimately improving the sustainability of agricultural practices.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the farm management software market. The pandemic led to significant disruptions in supply chains and posed operational challenges for the agriculture industry. In response, there was a marked increase in the demand for digital solutions. Farmers began relying more on digital tools to minimize physical interactions and optimize farm operations remotely. This surge in demand for data analytics and remote monitoring capabilities drove the adoption of farm management software. Moreover, precision agriculture gained momentum, as farmers increasingly relied on GPS-guided equipment, sensors, and other software-integrated tools to enhance resource utilization and improve operational efficiency.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Farm Management Software Market

Regional Insights:

North America Farm Management Software Market Trends

In 2022, North America dominated the global farm management software market, accounting for 33.7% of the revenue share. The region is home to several prominent market players such as AgJunction LLC, Farmers Edge Inc., CropZilla Inc., and Deere & Company, which play key roles in the development and adoption of FMS. The market growth in North America is driven by the region's widespread adoption of precision agriculture practices, efficient resource management, and a strong focus on sustainability. Additionally, the growing emphasis on data-driven decision-making and ongoing advancements in agricultural technologies have bolstered the market's expansion in the region. These factors enable farmers in North America to optimize their operations, enhance productivity, and maintain a competitive edge in the agricultural landscape.

Asia Pacific Farm Management Software Market Trends

The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest CAGR of 16.7% during the forecast period. Countries like China and Japan are at the forefront of this growth, with companies in the region increasingly investing in research and development (R&D) to introduce advanced drones aimed at improving agricultural productivity. Drones, integrated with farm management software, play a crucial role in enhancing productivity by enabling data collection and analysis. These drones, equipped with various sensors, capture valuable data about crop health, soil conditions, and field mapping, which is then processed by farm management software to provide actionable insights. Such advancements help farmers make informed decisions to optimize their operations.

Key market players in the region, such as Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan) and DJI (China), are innovating by introducing drones with better sensors and imaging capabilities to enhance the quality of the data collected, thereby improving the efficiency of farm management.

Browse through Grand View Research's Category Next Generation Technologies Industry Research Reports.

The global mobile payment market size was valued at USD 88.50 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 38.0% from 2025 to 2030.

The global bank kiosk market size was valued at USD 19.57 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.1% from 2025 to 2030.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights:

The global Farm Management Software market is highly competitive, with numerous key players driving innovations and adopting strategies like partnerships and collaborations to strengthen their position in the market. One notable example is the partnership between Farmers Edge, Inc. and Google Cloud, announced in January 2021. This collaboration aims to enhance the company’s services by integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and predictive analytics into its farm management platform. By leveraging these technologies, the company seeks to provide farmers with more accurate data insights, better predictive capabilities, and improved resource management, further driving the adoption of farm management software.

These companies are also focusing on the integration of new technologies like IoT, cloud computing, and data analytics to make farm operations more efficient, automated, and sustainable. As the demand for farm management software continues to grow, the competitive landscape is expected to intensify, with companies vying for market share by continuously innovating and offering advanced, user-friendly solutions.

Key Farm Management Software Companies:

Ag Leader Technology

AgJunction LLC

BouMatic

CropX, Inc.

CropZilla Inc.

DeLaval

DICKEY-john

Deere & Company

Corteva

CNH Industrial

Trimble Inc.

Climate LLC.

Gamaya

GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft

Farmers Edge Inc.

Gronetics

Order a free sample PDF of the Farm Management Software Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[researchreportinsight]

Farm Management Software Market 2030 - In-Depth Analysis on Size, Trends & Prominent Key Players

The global Farm Management Software (FMS) market was valued at USD 3.30 billion in 2022 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2023 to 2030. This significant growth can be attributed to the increasing adoption of cloud computing technologies for real-time farm data management, as well as the growing integration of Information Communication Technology (ICT), particularly technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and big data analytics in agriculture. These advancements help address a range of challenges that the agriculture industry faces, such as resource constraints (e.g., water, energy, labor shortages) and social issues (e.g., environmental concerns, animal welfare, and the use of fertilizers) that impact agricultural productivity.

Farm Management Software enables farmers to efficiently manage their operations by streamlining data collection, analysis, and decision-making processes. This approach helps in optimizing the use of resources and improving overall farm productivity. The integration of advanced technologies allows farmers to better monitor crops, manage soil health, and handle environmental challenges, ultimately improving the sustainability of agricultural practices.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the farm management software market. The pandemic led to significant disruptions in supply chains and posed operational challenges for the agriculture industry. In response, there was a marked increase in the demand for digital solutions. Farmers began relying more on digital tools to minimize physical interactions and optimize farm operations remotely. This surge in demand for data analytics and remote monitoring capabilities drove the adoption of farm management software. Moreover, precision agriculture gained momentum, as farmers increasingly relied on GPS-guided equipment, sensors, and other software-integrated tools to enhance resource utilization and improve operational efficiency.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Farm Management Software Market

Regional Insights:

North America Farm Management Software Market Trends

In 2022, North America dominated the global farm management software market, accounting for 33.7% of the revenue share. The region is home to several prominent market players such as AgJunction LLC, Farmers Edge Inc., CropZilla Inc., and Deere & Company, which play key roles in the development and adoption of FMS. The market growth in North America is driven by the region's widespread adoption of precision agriculture practices, efficient resource management, and a strong focus on sustainability. Additionally, the growing emphasis on data-driven decision-making and ongoing advancements in agricultural technologies have bolstered the market's expansion in the region. These factors enable farmers in North America to optimize their operations, enhance productivity, and maintain a competitive edge in the agricultural landscape.

Asia Pacific Farm Management Software Market Trends

The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest CAGR of 16.7% during the forecast period. Countries like China and Japan are at the forefront of this growth, with companies in the region increasingly investing in research and development (R&D) to introduce advanced drones aimed at improving agricultural productivity. Drones, integrated with farm management software, play a crucial role in enhancing productivity by enabling data collection and analysis. These drones, equipped with various sensors, capture valuable data about crop health, soil conditions, and field mapping, which is then processed by farm management software to provide actionable insights. Such advancements help farmers make informed decisions to optimize their operations.

Key market players in the region, such as Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan) and DJI (China), are innovating by introducing drones with better sensors and imaging capabilities to enhance the quality of the data collected, thereby improving the efficiency of farm management.

Browse through Grand View Research's Category Next Generation Technologies Industry Research Reports.

The global mobile payment market size was valued at USD 88.50 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 38.0% from 2025 to 2030.

The global bank kiosk market size was valued at USD 19.57 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.1% from 2025 to 2030.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights:

The global Farm Management Software market is highly competitive, with numerous key players driving innovations and adopting strategies like partnerships and collaborations to strengthen their position in the market. One notable example is the partnership between Farmers Edge, Inc. and Google Cloud, announced in January 2021. This collaboration aims to enhance the company’s services by integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and predictive analytics into its farm management platform. By leveraging these technologies, the company seeks to provide farmers with more accurate data insights, better predictive capabilities, and improved resource management, further driving the adoption of farm management software.

These companies are also focusing on the integration of new technologies like IoT, cloud computing, and data analytics to make farm operations more efficient, automated, and sustainable. As the demand for farm management software continues to grow, the competitive landscape is expected to intensify, with companies vying for market share by continuously innovating and offering advanced, user-friendly solutions.

Key Farm Management Software Companies:

Ag Leader Technology

AgJunction LLC

BouMatic

CropX, Inc.

CropZilla Inc.

DeLaval

DICKEY-john

Deere & Company

Corteva

CNH Industrial

Trimble Inc.

Climate LLC.

Gamaya

GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft

Farmers Edge Inc.

Gronetics

Order a free sample PDF of the Farm Management Software Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[industrynewsupdates]

Smart Transportation Market Insights: Opportunities and Challenges

The global smart transportation market was valued at USD 110.53 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.0% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is primarily driven by several key factors, including advancements in urban infrastructure projects, government initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and the increasing demand for advanced technology integration in traffic control systems. Many cities around the world face significant challenges such as a lack of quality public transportation, insufficient capacity to manage increasing transit demand, safety concerns on the roads, poor traffic management, and issues with parking availability. Additionally, pedestrian infrastructure is often inadequate. These challenges create a growing need for smart transportation systems, which can provide solutions to these problems and improve urban mobility. As cities expand and populations grow, the demand for efficient, safe, and sustainable transportation systems is expected to rise sharply in the coming years.

Several trends contribute to the momentum of the smart transportation market. For example, urbanization is a major driver, as more people move to cities, increasing the demand for efficient public transportation systems. The widespread acceptance of Internet of Things (IoT)-based technology and the expansion of 5G connectivity also play a crucial role in making smart transportation infrastructure more feasible and easier to implement. These technologies enable real-time data exchange, improve traffic management, and enhance vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications, all of which help optimize the transportation network.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted transportation systems worldwide, with travel restrictions severely affecting the movement of people and goods. This led to a significant decrease in revenues and growth for the transportation sector, as well as a decline in people's disposable income. Public transportation, being highly vulnerable to disease outbreaks, faced particular challenges. As a result, many travel organizations are now focusing on making data-driven decisions to improve service offerings, enhance safety, and rebuild consumer trust. This situation has also heightened the demand for private transportation services, such as ride-sharing and private car services, as people become more cautious about using crowded public 

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Smart Transportation Market

Regional Insights

North America

In 2022, North America captured over 33% of the global market share for smart transportation solutions. The region stands as the largest adopter of these technologies, primarily due to the increasing efforts of regional governments to improve transportation infrastructure. Factors such as congested highways, poor air quality, and a rise in highway accidents and fatalities are driving the need for advanced transportation systems. The U.S., in particular, is home to many major companies in the ICT sector that provide smart transportation solutions, further strengthening the region's dominance in the market.

In addition to this, other prominent transport infrastructure companies in North America are increasingly collaborating to innovate and expand smart transportation systems. These collaborations often leverage a wide range of technical expertise to create solutions that benefit the entire region. A notable example of such collaboration occurred in November 2022, when Iteris, Inc. entered into a four-year agreement with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to enhance mobility across the state using Iteris’ ClearGuide system. This system helps to analyze and visualize traffic data in real time, improving traffic flow and safety on the roads.

Europe

Moving to Europe, the region is expected to see substantial growth opportunities in the smart transportation market, driven by rapid technological adoption and growing traffic congestion in major cities. In addition to the increasing use of cars, which results in rising parking challenges, there is also a global shift towards more efficient transportation systems. This shift, coupled with semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicle technologies, is expected to accelerate the development of intelligent transportation solutions in Europe.

For instance, in January 2022, Kapsch TrafficCom AG introduced All-Electronic Tolling (AET) at toll plazas in New Hampshire. AET eliminates the need for traditional toll booths, allowing for free-flowing traffic by using license plate reading cameras, sensors, and in-pavement treadles to automatically charge vehicles without a transponder. This solution not only reduces congestion at toll plazas but also provides faster travel times and greater convenience for drivers.

Browse through Grand View Research's Automotive & Transportation Industry Research Reports.

• The global 4D imaging radar market size was estimated at USD 2.65 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 17.6% from 2024 to 2030.

• The global overhead cranes market size was estimated at USD 5.18 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow and at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2024 to 2030.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The smart transportation market is highly competitive, with numerous established players dominating the space. These companies cater to various sectors within the market, including automotive, infrastructure, IT, and telecommunications. The presence of these large players presents a significant barrier to entry for new companies. However, the growing demand for differentiated smart transportation solutions and the continuous technological advancements in the field offer opportunities for new entrants to make their mark.

To gain a competitive edge and strengthen their market position, key players in the industry are focusing on strategic partnerships and collaborations. One such example is Iteris, Inc., which announced in October 2022 that it had received approval from the City of Anaheim to implement its cloud-enabled managed services as part of a regional smart mobility, security, and sustainability program. These services are designed to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, and create a more sustainable transportation infrastructure. By leveraging cloud-based technologies, Iteris helps manage key transportation operations effectively, ensuring a more robust and equitable system for the city.

Key Smart Transportation Companies

Some prominent players in the global smart transportation market include:

• Accenture PLC

• Alstom, SA

• Cisco System, Inc.

• Cubic Corporation

• General Electric Company (GE)

• Indra Sistema S.A.

• International Business Machines Corporation

• Kapsch

• LG CNS Corporation

• Xerox Holdings Corporation

Order a free sample PDF of the Smart Transportation Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[vieyja]

How ICT helped me at home, in school and in communicating with people.

Ever since the Covid pandemic occurred and the quarantine took place, learning and interacting with people in real life was difficult. But with the use of gadgets and electronics, education and entertainment was made available in my home. Social media apps was made popular like Facebook, Discord, Messenger, and such for communication. Though society was changed because of this transition, I am still very thankful for the services that ICT has offered in the time of hardship of the world. Up to this day, we still use ICT for our everyday tasks, that's because there are various ways that we can use ICT, which was most useful for the pandemic.

In short, ICT gave me the chance to continue my studies, entertainment, and daily activities despite the state of the environment.

[suganya09]

Mastering Science & Technology for UPSC: Important Topics and Sources

Preparing for the Science & Technology section in the UPSC exams can seem daunting, but with the right focus on essential topics and reliable sources, it becomes much more manageable. Science and Technology (S&T) questions in the UPSC exam test your understanding of current technological developments, their applications, and impacts on society. In this blog, we'll cover the key topics you need to master and the best sources to use in your preparation.

Why Science & Technology is Important for UPSC

The Science & Technology section is crucial as it frequently overlaps with current affairs and other general studies topics. This portion tests your ability to understand how advancements in S&T affect areas like agriculture, health, economy, and international relations. It also examines your grasp of both fundamental and contemporary issues, making it a high-scoring part of the exam when approached correctly.

Key Topics to Focus on for Science & Technology in UPSC

Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering

Topics such as CRISPR, gene editing, and applications of biotechnology in medicine and agriculture are vital. Be familiar with ethical debates surrounding genetic engineering, especially GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms).

Space Technology

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) missions, collaborations with NASA or ESA, satellite launches, and concepts like Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan are crucial. Stay updated on global advancements as well.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics

Understand AI applications in governance, healthcare, defense, and agriculture. The ethical implications and debates surrounding AI also make frequent appearances in the exam.

Nanotechnology

Learn about the applications of nanotechnology in medicine, energy, and environmental science. UPSC often asks questions on recent breakthroughs and the potential risks associated with nanotechnology.

Nuclear Technology

Topics include nuclear energy, nuclear weapons, nuclear treaties, and India’s stance on nuclear policy. Understanding the basics of nuclear physics will be helpful here.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

The latest trends in telecommunications, cyber security, and India’s digital initiatives such as Digital India and 5G technology are critical.

Environmental Science and Green Technology

Focus on renewable energy sources, climate change technology, sustainable practices, and green technology. Initiatives like the International Solar Alliance are frequently covered.

Health and Medical Technology

Study topics such as vaccines, immunization programs, and advancements in medical technology. COVID-19 has made healthcare a focal point, so developments in telemedicine and medical devices are essential.

Recommended Sources for Science & Technology Preparation

NCERT Books (Class 6-12) – A solid foundation is necessary, and NCERT books cover basic scientific concepts which help in understanding advanced topics.

The Hindu and Indian Express – For current affairs related to Science & Technology, these newspapers are invaluable. Focus on the Science & Technology sections, which regularly feature updates on new technologies, research, and innovations.

Yojana and Kurukshetra Magazines – Government publications provide insights into India’s initiatives and policies related to Science & Technology.

PIB (Press Information Bureau) – The PIB website publishes reliable updates on governmental projects, including advancements in S&T that are relevant to the UPSC.

ISRO and DRDO Websites – These sources cover updates from India’s space and defense sectors, often featured in the UPSC exams.

Internet Sources and MOOCs – Platforms like Coursera and edX offer short courses on specific S&T topics, such as AI and biotechnology, which can be beneficial for UPSC preparation.

Standard Reference Books – Books like Science and Technology by Ashok Singh or Science and Technology in India by TMH Publications are recommended for in-depth knowledge.

Final Tips to Master Science & Technology for UPSC

Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Since S&T is a dynamic field, recent developments can be questioned in both Prelims and Mains. Regularly reviewing current affairs will keep you well-prepared.

Revise Consistently: Science & Technology topics are dense, so frequent revision is essential to remember facts and figures.

Practice Answer-Writing: Especially for Mains, practice answering questions on topics like AI applications or the benefits and risks of biotechnology to get comfortable with structuring your thoughts effectively.

Mastering Science & Technology for the UPSC exam requires a well-rounded approach that includes covering foundational knowledge and staying updated with recent advancements. Following these strategies and using reliable sources will put you on the right track toward success in this section.

For aspirants looking for specialized guidance, consider a TNPSC coaching centre in Coimbatore that can offer expert assistance tailored to science and technology topics, alongside comprehensive UPSC preparation.

Ready to take your preparation to the next level? A TNPSC coaching centre in Coimbatore can provide the support you need to excel in Science & Technology and other IAS subjects. Explore your options today and set yourself up for success!

[ayandagz]

A Bright Future Ahead: The Exciting Evolution of Occupational Therapy

The world is evolving at a fast pace, adding unknowns and complexities to many processes within the health department, offering exciting opportunities for practitioners and clients, this increases the need for future-focused research. The future of occupational therapy is exciting, driven by creative thinking, a growing need for client-centered care, a better understanding and increased focus of holistic health.

Imagine living in a society where compassion and technology exist together, where healing occurs not only in hospitals but also in the comfort of your own home, and where each person's unique health journey is valued, so come along as we look at how OT is changing and how I'm getting ready for this amazing ride that lies ahead.

The way we give care is changing as a result of technology. The options are numerous, ranging from virtual reality therapies to telemedicine services. As a student, navigating through change within my journey is exciting as there is always room for growth and setting these habits of looking for new ideas and strategies, with the help pf technology it is easier to find solutions that will help with therapeutic outcomes and increase client involvement. Just imagine the ability to reach clients who live in remote places by using telehealth systems, which guarantees that they will receive support regardless of their location.

Prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, occupational therapy services delivered through telehealth demonstrated comparative effectiveness to in-person services. At the onset of the pandemic, occupational therapy practitioners needed to continue delivering care to clients without being in-person. Many OT practitioners pivoted rapidly to telehealth, in many instances, with very little training (Abbott-Gaffney, 2022).

Telehealth is “the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) to deliver health-related services when the provider and client are in different physical locations”. However, potential barriers to utilizing telehealth as a service delivery model for OT services exist. Inexperience and unfamiliarity with telehealth can affect a client’s willingness to receive services through this service delivery model. In addition, limited resources and assistance needed to access services through telehealth may also be a barrier for some clients (Cheung, 2023). I believe future supports are necessary to facilitate the use of technology in delivering OT services, a better understanding to how we can use the ever-evolving power which will modernize assessment and intervention.

Some might ask why was such an opportunity overlooked in the first place, in a country where majority of the population is unemployed and come from backgrounds where socioeconomic status is poor, access to such will be difficult. Barriers to the use of telehealth (e.g., access to technology, internet reliability, e-helper/caregiver support, when needed, during therapy sessions) impact telehealth outcomes and were identified pre-pandemic (Cheung, 2023).

Occupational therapy, with its emphasis on meaningful engagement for health and wellbeing, is well placed to explore and apply these therapeutic benefits (Genter, 2015). There is growing acceptance that mental health is a crucial aspect of total wellbeing. Occupational therapists are in a unique position to use holistic methods to address mental health difficulties. I am dedicated to learning more about mental health approaches and incorporating stress reduction and mindfulness into my professional life as renewing my knowledge with recent research will help me become the best OT.

By using the evidence-based, client-centered intervention, the occupational therapists found that the collaboration with the clients was refined, more emphasis was placed on shared responsibility. It is an inherent assumption within occupational therapy that occupational engagement is essential for human well-being and that everyone should have access, and the opportunity and resources, to engage in occupations that contribute positively to their well-being (Larsen, 2023). The shift is turning toward individualized care. Understanding the particular requirements and objectives of each client is essential to providing therapy that is effective. I am improving my assessment skills so that I can develop interventions that are both evidence-based and relevant to the goals and needs of each individual.

The future of OT will likely involve closer collaboration with other healthcare professionals, the importance of working with the MDT in providing holistic assessment interventions as well as offering sound healthcare. I'm constantly looking for networking and interprofessional training opportunities. Together with physiotherapists, psychologists, and other experts, we may develop holistic care plans that take into account all of our clients' needs.

It is crucial that we promote the occupational therapy profession and spread awareness about its importance as it keeps evolving. I take part in neighborhood outreach campaigns and activities that emphasize occupational therapy's contribution to improving quality of life. Participating in the community not only advances our field but also creates relationships that may result in future chances for future collaboration.

It's critical that one keep up with the most recent research and patterns. Through conferences, online courses, and workshops, I'm dedicated to lifelong learning. This ongoing learning helps me improve my abilities and adjust to the ever-evolving healthcare environment. Regularly consult, futures websites and journals to keep up. By staying informed and embracing technological advancements, OT professionals can look forward to a bright and innovative future in their field.

In conclusion, there are a lot of chances for creativity and development in the field of occupational therapy in the future. We can improve our clients' lives and have a significant impact on our communities by embracing technology, evidence-based methods, preventive care, holistic approaches, and diversity. The road ahead is exciting and I can't wait to contribute to helping OT create a brighter tomorrow!

Bibliography

Abbott-Gaffney, C. R.-L. (2022). Toward successful future use of telehealth in occupational therapy practice: . What the COVID-19 rapid shift revealed. Work, 71(2),, 385-394.

Cheung, W. C.-T. (2023). A qualitative study exploring parental perceptions of telehealth in early intervention. . Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, 35(3)., 353-373.

Genter, C. R. (2015). The contribution of allotment gardening to health and wellbeing: A systematic review of the literature. . British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 78(10), , 593-605.

Larsen, S. M. (2023). Occupational therapists’ perspectives on an evidence-based, client-centered assistive technology intervention. . British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 86(5), , 376-384.