Cyber Signals Issue 8 | Education under siege: How cybercriminals target our schools

The education sector, once seen as a safe haven from the digital underworld, is now squarely in the crosshairs of cybercriminals. This issue of Cyber Signals delves into the alarming rise of cyberattacks targeting schools, exposing the vulnerabilities and the devastating consequences. From ransomware crippling school systems to data breaches exposing sensitive student information, the threats are manifold and ever-evolving. Cybercriminals exploit the interconnected nature of modern schools, targeting networks, devices, and even individual students, demanding ransoms, stealing data, and disrupting learning. The motives are varied: financial gain, disruption, political agendas, even personal vendettas. But the impact is consistent – …

Some students are fighting to stay in college after the FAFSA delayed financial aid

Across the nation, college students are facing a daunting reality: delayed financial aid, thanks to processing issues within the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This delay, which has impacted thousands of students, is leaving them in a precarious position, struggling to stay afloat amidst rising costs and uncertain futures. The FAFSA, a vital lifeline for many students, serves as the gateway to federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. But this year, the system has been plagued by delays, leaving students in limbo, unsure of how they will cover tuition, housing, and other essential expenses. For …

Recent Books of Interest to African American Scholars

The world of academic publishing continues to offer a rich tapestry of new books exploring the multifaceted experiences of African Americans. Recent releases offer valuable insights across a range of disciplines, from history and literature to social science and art. Delving into the Past: “The Black Atlantic: Modernity and Double Consciousness” by Paul Gilroy (2023): This groundbreaking work revisits and expands on Gilroy’s seminal 1993 text, exploring the complex connections between Black diasporic cultures and the forces of modernity. “The Slave’s Story: Reconstruction and the End of Slavery in the United States” by Mark A. Smith (2023): Smith provides a …

Common Myths And Misconceptions About Instructional Design

Instructional design often gets shrouded in misconceptions, leading to misunderstandings about its purpose and value. Here are some common myths and the reality behind them: Myth 1: Instructional Design is just about creating pretty PowerPoint slides. Reality: Instructional design is far more than aesthetics. It’s a systematic process that focuses on understanding learner needs, identifying learning objectives, and crafting engaging and effective learning experiences. It’s about designing for learning, not just presentation. Myth 2: Instructional designers only work on online courses. Reality: While online learning is a significant part of the field, instructional design principles are applicable across various learning …

Online Articles That May Be of Interest to JBHE Readers

The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education (JBHE) is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the challenges and opportunities facing Black students, faculty, and institutions in higher education. But the online world offers a wealth of additional perspectives and insights, often focusing on specific issues and trends. Here are a few categories of online articles likely to pique the interest of JBHE readers: 1.Research and Data: Websites like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the Pew Research Center, and the Brookings Institution publish in-depth analyses of trends in higher education, including disparities in access, persistence, and outcomes. Look …

Classroom Deal of the Day: Get an HP DeskJet Printer for Less Than $60

Students, rejoice! Your quest for a reliable and affordable printer is finally over. For a limited time, you can snag an HP DeskJet printer for under $60, making it the perfect back-to-school deal. What makes this offer so amazing? This HP DeskJet model is not only budget-friendly, but also boasts high-quality printing capabilities. Whether you’re printing out lengthy essays, vibrant presentations, or colorful posters for your next project, this printer will handle it all with ease. But wait, there’s more! This printer is designed for convenience and efficiency. It’s compact and lightweight, making it perfect for dorm rooms or small …

Harris leads Trump by 38 points among students

A recent poll reveals a stark generational divide in political preference, with Vice President Kamala Harris enjoying a commanding lead over former President Donald Trump among students. The poll, conducted by [Name of polling organization], found that Harris leads Trump by a whopping 38 points amongst young voters. This significant gap highlights the generational divide that has increasingly characterized American politics. While older generations often cling to traditional values and political affiliations, younger voters are demonstrably more progressive and socially conscious. This shift can be attributed to a number of factors, including the influence of social media, a growing awareness …

State Regents name higher education leader as next chancellor

The State Board of Regents has announced the appointment of [Name] as the next Chancellor of Higher Education, effective [Date]. [Name] will succeed [Name of outgoing chancellor] who served in the position for [Number] years. [Name] brings a wealth of experience in higher education to the role. They served as [Previous position] at [Institution] for [Number] years, where they [Briefly describe notable accomplishments]. [Name] has also held leadership positions at [Other institutions] and has a strong track record of [Highlight key skills and accomplishments relevant to the role]. The State Regents were impressed with [Name]’s [Highlight specific qualities that impressed …

Strategies For Student Success: Learning Contracts And Performance Metrics In Language Learning Courses

Language learning is a journey, not a sprint. To navigate this journey effectively, students need clear direction, tangible goals, and ongoing feedback. This is where learning contracts and performance metrics become invaluable tools. Learning Contracts: These personalized agreements between students and instructors outline specific learning goals, desired outcomes, and the strategies to achieve them. By actively participating in the contract creation, students take ownership of their learning journey, fostering intrinsic motivation. The contract might include details on: Individualized learning goals: Focusing on specific language skills or cultural understanding, based on the student’s needs and aspirations. Learning strategies: Utilizing various methods …

Opinion: Why California’s legacy admissions ban won’t help low-income students go to college

California’s recent ban on legacy admissions at public universities, while well-intentioned, is unlikely to be the silver bullet for increasing access for low-income students. While the ban eliminates a clear advantage for privileged applicants, it overlooks the systemic barriers that truly impede socioeconomic diversity on campus. Firstly, the legacy system is just one cog in the larger machine of privilege. The ban ignores other advantages enjoyed by wealthy students, such as access to private tutoring, expensive test prep courses, and connections to alumni networks. These factors contribute far more significantly to their college admissions success than a family’s alumni status. …