"From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"In the second half of the 5th century BC, particularly at Athens, 'sophist' came to denote a class of mostly itinerant intellectuals who taught courses in various subjects, speculated about the nature of language and culture, and employed rhetoric to achieve their purposes, generally to persuade or convince others.... A few sophists claimed that they could find the answers to all questions. Most of these sophists are known today primarily through the writings of their opponents (specifically Plato and Aristotle), which makes it difficult to assemble an unbiased view of their practices and beliefs....
"Owing largely to the influence of Plato and Aristotle, philosophy came to be regarded as distinct from sophistry, the latter being regarded as specious and rhetorical, a practical discipline. Thus, by the time of the Roman Empire, a sophist was simply a teacher of rhetoric and a popular public speaker....
"The Sophists certainly were not directly responsible for Athenian democracy, but their cultural and psychological contributions played an important role in its growth. They contributed to the new democracy in part by espousing expertise in public deliberation, since this was the foundation of decision-making, which allowed and perhaps required a tolerance of the beliefs of others....
"In addition, Sophists had great impact on the early development of law, as the sophists were the first lawyers in the world. Their status as lawyers was a result of their extremely developed argumentation skills."
Showing posts with label education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label education. Show all posts
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Sunday, April 10, 2011
North Dakota is New Norway
Like Norway, North Dakota has a strong energy industry, a strong overall economy, abundant natural resources, stalwart fiscal management, increasing tourism, and cold weather. A full 30% of North Dakotans claim Norwegian heritage.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_American#Norwegian_Americans_by_state
Nodak is currently implementing its second ten-year economic development plan. The strategy, concisely presented in a single document, advocates aggressive policies.
http://www.commerce.nd.gov/resources/
North Dakota Economic Development Strategic Plan 2010-2020
"This plan is intended to be a catalyst for state and local economic development efforts by providing common direction, strategic areas of emphasis, and priorities for investing state and local dollars.
"This strategy is grounded on North Dakota’s assets:
• Educated, hardworking people
• Abundant natural resources
• Strong academic, transportation, and technology infrastructure
"Strategies for Continued Growth:
• Maintain a positive business climate that supports private sector investment
• Continue investing in university-based research and development
• Embrace entrepreneurship and foster a culture of entrepreneurship
• Promote export trade by linking North Dakota businesses with foreign buyers and markets
"North Dakota, 2009:
• Population estimates show out-migration has reversed and the state is growing.
• North Dakota leads the nation in growth of gross domestic product.
• North Dakota has the lowest unemployment rate in the nation.
"North Dakota emerged as an economic leader during the recent global recession by making fiscally sound investments that leveraged our state’s natural strengths.
"The economic assessment contained in the 2002 North Dakota Economic Development Foundation Strategic plan painted a much different picture about North Dakota compared to today. North Dakota has improved considerably in almost all measurements of economic activity.
"Working with the North Dakota Trade Office and with industry groups, the state can take advantage of a lower U.S. dollar and continue building on recent export growth in commodities, processed foods, machinery, and computer and electronic products.
"Growth Challenges
"North Dakota faces a number of challenges for future economic development, some are new but many of them are familiar.
"Geography/Image
Distance from markets, lack of a major metropolitan area, and a negative image are familiar challenges for North Dakota. New technology and the internet have decreased some of the geographic barriers. And the recent attention North Dakota has received as a result of its strong economy provides a different national storyline about North Dakota that highlights some of the state’s most attractive qualities and provides a sharp contrast to the traditional national story about the state’s remoteness and cold weather.
"Other Issues
North Dakota’s strong economic growth is creating new challenges such as housing shortages, childcare needs, stress on infrastructure and water resources, and the recruitment and retention of workforce.
"Value-Added Agriculture
"North Dakota ranks as the largest United States producer of 16 different commodities, including spring and durum wheat, sunflowers and barley, among other crops. The state currently has an obvious competitive advantage in agricultural production.
"North Dakota Opportunities
• Biotech manufacturing: Among high-tech manufacturing industries, North Dakota has the greatest competitive advantage in biotechnology manufacturing.
• Agricultural biotech: This is a niche within biotechnology. Also referred to as bioengineering, this technology promises to drastically alter the way farmers produce foods. North Dakota’s natural resources in production agriculture provide an obvious competitive edge for ag-biotech.
• Specialty foods for niche markets: Specialty production presents North Dakota with an opportunity to generate growth from higher impact sectors such as agricultural biotech and 'natural' foods. In addition, food production has traditionally been a strong point in North Dakota’s economic, cultural, and political foundations. To the extent that North Dakota has an international reputation, food has been a significant asset. Building on that identification will facilitate greater global recognition for the state.
"Energy
"North Dakota is poised to be a model for America in the development of diverse energy resources. North Dakota has massive wind energy potential, and is the top producer of 16 different agricultural commodities that provide materials to support biofuels and biomass industries. North Dakota is home to the nation’s only National Center for Hydrogen Technology.
"North Dakota is nationally recognized as having the greatest potential of any state in its capacity to produce energy through wind power. Full realization of our wind power will require further development of the power transmission grid.
"Tourism
"North Dakota’s tourism growth has outpaced the nation, 37.6 percent since 2001 compared to the nation’s growth of 31 percent according to the U.S. Travel Association.
"Tourism ranks third among industries contributing to North Dakota’s economy with $4.1 billion spent in 2008. The growth of tourism is felt statewide.
"The legendary branding, creative strategies, and comprehensive media plans are showing a strong return on investment with $123 returned for every $1 invested in advertising. Advertising North Dakota as a tourism destination also has a positive impact on the image of North Dakota.
"North Dakota Opportunities
• Aggressive marketing: North Dakota continues to be challenged by our lack of image, climate, geographic location, and lack of nationally recognized landmarks which precipitates the need for aggressive marketing.
• Canadian travel continues to be strong. Although affected by exchange rates and border security, a targeted year-round campaign is needed to increase the 1.5 million trips to North Dakota by Canadians.
• Rural and agri-tourism is an area visitors are looking to experience in North Dakota. Efforts to expand these opportunities will help these sectors grow.
• Green travel: As the demand for environmentally friendly travel options grows, North Dakota needs to be prepared to offer green options. Nature-based opportunities do exist and need to be tied to these efforts.
"Strategies
• Continue to measure aggressive media relations campaigns that enhance North Dakota’s image and increase awareness of North Dakota as a great place to live, work, play, visit, and be in business.
"Existing Initiatives
• Fully integrated marketing and communication program to attract visitors from targeted countries including Canada, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Germany, and Australia."
Innovate ND
"A unique entrepreneurial community that connects coaches, business leaders, investors, and mentors to budding entrepreneurs to create economic growth in North Dakota."
http://www.commerce.nd.gov/innovate/innovatend/
http://www.experience.nd.gov/work/north-dakota-rankings/
"How does North Dakota compete with the national business climate?
"Nationally, North Dakota ranks:
#1 for production of 16 agricultural commodities, more than any other state (2008 National Agricultural Statistics Service)
#1 for Safest State (2007 Morgan Quitno Press)
#1 for Cost of Doing Business (2007 CNBC)
#2 for High School Students That Graduate With A Diploma (2007 Education Week, Quality Count)
#3 for Postsecondary Participation (2007 Education Week, Quality Count)
#3 for State Economic Competitiveness (2008 Beacon Hill Institute)
#7 for Best States to Look for Jobs (2008 US Census Bureau; Bureau of Labor Statistics)
#10 for Most Livable State by (2008 Morgan Quitno)"
http://www.business.nd.gov/uploads/resources/203/webquick-factsbrochure08.pdf
"Microsoft Business Solutions
1,333+ employees and division HQ in Fargo
North Dakota-grown Great Plains Software acquired for $1.1 billion in April 2001
"ING
750+ employees at Customer Service Operations center in Minot
"Amazon.com
300+ employees at Internet Distribution Center in Grand Forks
"Goodrich Corporation
Building aerospace cargo systems and replacement military structures in Jamestown
"Great River Energy
Capitalizing on reducing the carbon footprint in North Dakota
Leader in the energy industry
"Steffes
Leading manufacturer of electric thermal storage equipment
"LM Glasfiber
Manufacturing fiberglass blades for wind turbines in Grand Forks
• "State exports nearly 70% of electricity produced
• "Person-to-person access to public officials
• "Only state-owned bank in the nation that offers business expansion loans
• "Taxes: #3 in nation for lowest cost of doing business
"Foreign trade zone
• Two Canada-Mexico Trade Corridors
• Fourth largest port of entry for Canadian goods by truck and rail
• 24-hour ports of entry along the North Dakota-Canadian border
• Four international airports - Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, and Minot
"Education
• #2 public high school graduation rate
• #3 in SAT scores
• #3 college continuation rate for high school graduates
• #3 college participation rate for 19 year olds
• Nineteen college and university campuses, including two major research universities
"Workforce
Unisys Shared Service Center - Bismarck (325 employees - accounts payable):
• Annual turnover rate 11%, compared to industry standard of 35-40%
• Absenteeism rate 1%
"Quality of Life
• #1 safest state in the nation for 10 out of last 11 years (Morgan Quinto Press)"
From the entry on North Dakota (Nord-Dakota) in the Norwegian Wikipedia:
http://no.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nord-Dakota
"På 1800-tallet ble Nord-Dakota regnet som en del av den ville vesten."
English translation: "In the 1800's, North Dakota was counted as part of the Wild West."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_American#Norwegian_Americans_by_state
* * * * *
Nodak is currently implementing its second ten-year economic development plan. The strategy, concisely presented in a single document, advocates aggressive policies.
http://www.commerce.nd.gov/resources/
North Dakota Economic Development Strategic Plan 2010-2020
"This plan is intended to be a catalyst for state and local economic development efforts by providing common direction, strategic areas of emphasis, and priorities for investing state and local dollars.
"This strategy is grounded on North Dakota’s assets:
• Educated, hardworking people
• Abundant natural resources
• Strong academic, transportation, and technology infrastructure
"Strategies for Continued Growth:
• Maintain a positive business climate that supports private sector investment
• Continue investing in university-based research and development
• Embrace entrepreneurship and foster a culture of entrepreneurship
• Promote export trade by linking North Dakota businesses with foreign buyers and markets
"North Dakota, 2009:
• Population estimates show out-migration has reversed and the state is growing.
• North Dakota leads the nation in growth of gross domestic product.
• North Dakota has the lowest unemployment rate in the nation.
"North Dakota emerged as an economic leader during the recent global recession by making fiscally sound investments that leveraged our state’s natural strengths.
"The economic assessment contained in the 2002 North Dakota Economic Development Foundation Strategic plan painted a much different picture about North Dakota compared to today. North Dakota has improved considerably in almost all measurements of economic activity.
"Working with the North Dakota Trade Office and with industry groups, the state can take advantage of a lower U.S. dollar and continue building on recent export growth in commodities, processed foods, machinery, and computer and electronic products.
"Growth Challenges
"North Dakota faces a number of challenges for future economic development, some are new but many of them are familiar.
"Geography/Image
Distance from markets, lack of a major metropolitan area, and a negative image are familiar challenges for North Dakota. New technology and the internet have decreased some of the geographic barriers. And the recent attention North Dakota has received as a result of its strong economy provides a different national storyline about North Dakota that highlights some of the state’s most attractive qualities and provides a sharp contrast to the traditional national story about the state’s remoteness and cold weather.
"Other Issues
North Dakota’s strong economic growth is creating new challenges such as housing shortages, childcare needs, stress on infrastructure and water resources, and the recruitment and retention of workforce.
"Value-Added Agriculture
"North Dakota ranks as the largest United States producer of 16 different commodities, including spring and durum wheat, sunflowers and barley, among other crops. The state currently has an obvious competitive advantage in agricultural production.
"North Dakota Opportunities
• Biotech manufacturing: Among high-tech manufacturing industries, North Dakota has the greatest competitive advantage in biotechnology manufacturing.
• Agricultural biotech: This is a niche within biotechnology. Also referred to as bioengineering, this technology promises to drastically alter the way farmers produce foods. North Dakota’s natural resources in production agriculture provide an obvious competitive edge for ag-biotech.
• Specialty foods for niche markets: Specialty production presents North Dakota with an opportunity to generate growth from higher impact sectors such as agricultural biotech and 'natural' foods. In addition, food production has traditionally been a strong point in North Dakota’s economic, cultural, and political foundations. To the extent that North Dakota has an international reputation, food has been a significant asset. Building on that identification will facilitate greater global recognition for the state.
"Energy
"North Dakota is poised to be a model for America in the development of diverse energy resources. North Dakota has massive wind energy potential, and is the top producer of 16 different agricultural commodities that provide materials to support biofuels and biomass industries. North Dakota is home to the nation’s only National Center for Hydrogen Technology.
"North Dakota is nationally recognized as having the greatest potential of any state in its capacity to produce energy through wind power. Full realization of our wind power will require further development of the power transmission grid.
"Tourism
"North Dakota’s tourism growth has outpaced the nation, 37.6 percent since 2001 compared to the nation’s growth of 31 percent according to the U.S. Travel Association.
"Tourism ranks third among industries contributing to North Dakota’s economy with $4.1 billion spent in 2008. The growth of tourism is felt statewide.
"The legendary branding, creative strategies, and comprehensive media plans are showing a strong return on investment with $123 returned for every $1 invested in advertising. Advertising North Dakota as a tourism destination also has a positive impact on the image of North Dakota.
"North Dakota Opportunities
• Aggressive marketing: North Dakota continues to be challenged by our lack of image, climate, geographic location, and lack of nationally recognized landmarks which precipitates the need for aggressive marketing.
• Canadian travel continues to be strong. Although affected by exchange rates and border security, a targeted year-round campaign is needed to increase the 1.5 million trips to North Dakota by Canadians.
• Rural and agri-tourism is an area visitors are looking to experience in North Dakota. Efforts to expand these opportunities will help these sectors grow.
• Green travel: As the demand for environmentally friendly travel options grows, North Dakota needs to be prepared to offer green options. Nature-based opportunities do exist and need to be tied to these efforts.
"Strategies
• Continue to measure aggressive media relations campaigns that enhance North Dakota’s image and increase awareness of North Dakota as a great place to live, work, play, visit, and be in business.
"Existing Initiatives
• Fully integrated marketing and communication program to attract visitors from targeted countries including Canada, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Germany, and Australia."
* * * * *
Innovate ND
"A unique entrepreneurial community that connects coaches, business leaders, investors, and mentors to budding entrepreneurs to create economic growth in North Dakota."
http://www.commerce.nd.gov/innovate/innovatend/
* * * * *
http://www.experience.nd.gov/work/north-dakota-rankings/
"How does North Dakota compete with the national business climate?
"Nationally, North Dakota ranks:
#1 for production of 16 agricultural commodities, more than any other state (2008 National Agricultural Statistics Service)
#1 for Safest State (2007 Morgan Quitno Press)
#1 for Cost of Doing Business (2007 CNBC)
#2 for High School Students That Graduate With A Diploma (2007 Education Week, Quality Count)
#3 for Postsecondary Participation (2007 Education Week, Quality Count)
#3 for State Economic Competitiveness (2008 Beacon Hill Institute)
#7 for Best States to Look for Jobs (2008 US Census Bureau; Bureau of Labor Statistics)
#10 for Most Livable State by (2008 Morgan Quitno)"
* * * * *
http://www.business.nd.gov/uploads/resources/203/webquick-factsbrochure08.pdf
"Microsoft Business Solutions
1,333+ employees and division HQ in Fargo
North Dakota-grown Great Plains Software acquired for $1.1 billion in April 2001
"ING
750+ employees at Customer Service Operations center in Minot
"Amazon.com
300+ employees at Internet Distribution Center in Grand Forks
"Goodrich Corporation
Building aerospace cargo systems and replacement military structures in Jamestown
"Great River Energy
Capitalizing on reducing the carbon footprint in North Dakota
Leader in the energy industry
"Steffes
Leading manufacturer of electric thermal storage equipment
"LM Glasfiber
Manufacturing fiberglass blades for wind turbines in Grand Forks
• "State exports nearly 70% of electricity produced
• "Person-to-person access to public officials
• "Only state-owned bank in the nation that offers business expansion loans
• "Taxes: #3 in nation for lowest cost of doing business
"Foreign trade zone
• Two Canada-Mexico Trade Corridors
• Fourth largest port of entry for Canadian goods by truck and rail
• 24-hour ports of entry along the North Dakota-Canadian border
• Four international airports - Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, and Minot
"Education
• #2 public high school graduation rate
• #3 in SAT scores
• #3 college continuation rate for high school graduates
• #3 college participation rate for 19 year olds
• Nineteen college and university campuses, including two major research universities
"Workforce
Unisys Shared Service Center - Bismarck (325 employees - accounts payable):
• Annual turnover rate 11%, compared to industry standard of 35-40%
• Absenteeism rate 1%
"Quality of Life
• #1 safest state in the nation for 10 out of last 11 years (Morgan Quinto Press)"
* * * * *
From the entry on North Dakota (Nord-Dakota) in the Norwegian Wikipedia:
http://no.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nord-Dakota
"På 1800-tallet ble Nord-Dakota regnet som en del av den ville vesten."
English translation: "In the 1800's, North Dakota was counted as part of the Wild West."
* * * * *
previous posts on North Dakota
previous posts on Norway
Friday, April 30, 2010
Alfred Korzybski Koan
"From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"One day, Korzybski was giving a lecture to a group of students, and he suddenly interrupted the lesson in order to retrieve a packet of biscuits, wrapped in white paper, from his briefcase. He muttered that he just had to eat something, and he asked the students in the front row if they would also like a biscuit. A few students took a biscuit. 'Nice biscuit, don't you think,' said Korzybski, while he took a second one. The students were chewing vigorously. Then he tore the white paper from the biscuits, in order to reveal the original packaging. On it was a big picture of a dog's head and the words 'Dog Cookies.' The students looked at the package, and were shocked. Two of them wanted to throw up, put their hands in front of their mouths, and ran out of the lecture hall to the toilet. 'You see, ladies and gentlemen,' Korzybski remarked, 'I have just demonstrated that people don't just eat food, but also words, and that the taste of the former is often outdone by the taste of the latter.' Apparently his prank aimed to illustrate how some human suffering originates from the confusion or conflation of linguistic representations of reality and reality itself."
"One day, Korzybski was giving a lecture to a group of students, and he suddenly interrupted the lesson in order to retrieve a packet of biscuits, wrapped in white paper, from his briefcase. He muttered that he just had to eat something, and he asked the students in the front row if they would also like a biscuit. A few students took a biscuit. 'Nice biscuit, don't you think,' said Korzybski, while he took a second one. The students were chewing vigorously. Then he tore the white paper from the biscuits, in order to reveal the original packaging. On it was a big picture of a dog's head and the words 'Dog Cookies.' The students looked at the package, and were shocked. Two of them wanted to throw up, put their hands in front of their mouths, and ran out of the lecture hall to the toilet. 'You see, ladies and gentlemen,' Korzybski remarked, 'I have just demonstrated that people don't just eat food, but also words, and that the taste of the former is often outdone by the taste of the latter.' Apparently his prank aimed to illustrate how some human suffering originates from the confusion or conflation of linguistic representations of reality and reality itself."
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Volunteer Summer School in Buryatia 2010
“You are invited to participate in the Volunteer Summer School in Buryatia 2010!
“The Volunteer Summer School in Buryatia is an independent educational charity project. Volunteers from all over the world are welcome to spend two weeks, July 16 - August 1, in two villages in Buryatia in Russia near Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world, to teach local kids and motivate them to study for a better life. It aims to broaden the minds of both kids and volunteers.
“There is one school in Mikhaylovka village and one school in Yengorboy village with about 400 students in total, and some of the children have no further prospects of getting higher education.
“In 2009, the Volunteer Summer School in Buryatia took place for the first time with Kate from Canada (English), Eva from Switzerland (Health), Miguel from Portugal (Internet), Juergen from Austria (Judo), and myself, Ayuna from Russia (Journalism) participating.
“If you are going to travel through Russia this summer, make a stop at the Volunteer Summer School in Buryatia!
“Please spread the word! Tell your friends and people who might be interested in participating, post this announcement in groups or on your website, or print our poster and hang it in your university or place of work: http://buryatiasummerschool.org/wp-content/uploads/poster.pdf
“Thanks!
“Ayuna Shoyzhitova
Organizer of the Volunteer Summer School in Buryatia
“WHAT: Two weeks of teaching kids and exploring Buryat culture, food, and nature
WHERE: Russia, Buryatia, Mikhaylovka and Yengorboy: two Buryat villages in the south of Buryatia, on the border with Mongolia
WHEN: July 2010
WHO: Eight volunteers from different countries of the world who want to go where they've never been, see what they've never seen, live a unique experience, broaden their minds, and help local children get wider exposure to the world and educational opportunities.
“The aims of the Volunteer Summer School in Buryatia are to promote higher education for local children and to become a life-changing experience for you.”
“Educate yourself and others.”
Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Edurelief Global Giving Challenge
"Dear Edurelief friends and supporters,
"Our goal in 2010 is to start 10 new library projects in rural areas. To kick off this initiative we're taking part in Global Giving's (www.globalgiving.org) Open Challenge. Our challenge is to raise $4,000 from at least 50 individual donors in 30 days. Completing this challenge will not only get us well on our way towards funding 10 new libraries but it will open up the door for us to qualify for Global Giving matching grands, corporate donors, and other sources of funding. We could really use your help completing this challenge! Whether you can give, $10, $25, $50 or more, every little bit counts. Please share this with your friends as well and together I'm confident we can reach our goal.
"We've spent the last two years in Mongolia now, visiting schools, starting new projects, and investigating the situation of education in rural areas. Good school libraries are an urgent need and make a huge difference in their communities. It's proven that access to a school library and textbooks boosts school attendance, improves grades, and motivates new interest in learning.
"This month let's work together to fund our first two school libraries and then we can work towards the other 8 we have planned for the rest of the year.
"Please give via our Global Giving Challenge page found here:
http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/school-libraries-for-mongolia/
"Thank you for your support!
"Sincerely,
Jonathan and Marielle Renich
Edurelief"
===
"Эдүрэлиф-г дэмжигч эрхэм хүндэт найз нараа,
"Бидний 2010 оны зорилго нь хөдөө орон нутагт 10 шинэ номын сан байгуулах юм. Энэхүү зорилгодоо эрчимтэй хүрэхийн үндэсийг тавин бид Глобал Гивинг-н сорилд оролцож байна. Биндний энэ сорил нь 30 өдөрийн дотор 50-с дээш хүмүүсээс нийтдээ $4000-ийн хандив цуглуулах юм. Энэ сорилд тэнцэж чадваас бид 2010 оны зорилгодоо хүрэхэд ойртох бөгөөд бидний өмнө Глобал Гивинг-с тэнцүүлэн хандив өгөх, бусад том том компаниудаас хандив авах, болон бусад сангуудтай харилцах үүдийг нээж өгөх юмаа. Тиймээс яг одоо бидэнд та нарын тусламж маш ихээр хэрэг болж байна. $10, $20, $50... чадахаараа туслаарай. Мөн энэхүү үйл ажиллагааны талаар найз нөхөд таньдаг хүмүүцдээ цааш н дамжуулаарай.
"Бид өнгөрсөн 2 жилийг Монголд сургуулиадаар явж үзэж, шинэ шинэ төсөлүүд эхлүүлэн, хөдөө орон нутагийн боловсролын салбарт судалгаа шинжилгээ хийн өнгөрүүллээ. Чанартай номын сан нэн хэрэгцээтэй байгааг ойлгосоноос гадна цаашлаад нийгэмийн амдралд олон талын тустайг харсан. Сурагчдад хүрч чаддаг номын сан сурагчдын сурах эрмэлзэл, идэвхи, хүсэлийг илүү болгодог гэдэг нь батлагдсан.
"Тиймээс энэ сард бүгдээрээ хамтран ажилцгаая! Доорх линкээр ороод хандиваа өгөөрэй:
http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/school-libraries-for-mongolia/
"Та нарын дэмжлэгт баярлаа! Сайн үйлс дэлгэрэх болтугай!
"Хүндэтгэсэн,
Б. Мөнх-Эрдэнэ"
===
"Chers amis et supporters d'Edurelief,
"Notre objectif en 2010 consiste à lancer 10 nouveaux projets bibliothèque en zone rurale. Pour nous lancer nous prenons part à l'Open Challenge de Global Giving (www.globalgiving.org). Notre challenge consiste à réunir $4000 en provenance d'au moins 50 donneurs et cela dans une limite de 30 jours. En relevant ce challenge non seulement nous aurons déjà réuni assez pour nous rapprocher de notre objectif de 10 nouvelles bibliothèques mais en plus nous serons qualifiés auprès de Global Giving nous donnant accès à des subventions, donations d'entreprises et autres sources de soutient. Nous comptons sur vous pour relever avec nous ce challenge! Que vous donniez $10, $25, $50 ou plus, chaque don compte. Parlez-en aussi autour de vous et ensemble je suis sûr que nous arriverons à atteindre notre but.
"Nous avons passé ces deux dernières années en Mongolie, à visiter les écoles, à lancer de nouveaux projets et à enquêter sur la situation de l'éducation en milieu rural. De bonnes bibliothèques scolaires représentent un besoin urgent et font toute la différence dans les villages. Il est prouvé que l'accès au livres et manuels scolaires augmente la fréquentation des écoles, améliore le niveau scolaire des élèves et les motive à apprendre en stimulant leur intérêt et leur curiosité.
"Ce mois-ci travaillons ensemble à financer deux nouvelles bibliothèques scolaires et nous poursuivrons au cours de l'année pour financer les 8 suivantes.
"S'il-vous-plait, faites votre don via la page Global Giving Challenge que vous trouverez ici:
http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/school-libraries-for-mongolia/
"Merci pour votre soutient!
"Sincèrement,
Jonathan et Marielle Renich
Edurelief"
"Our goal in 2010 is to start 10 new library projects in rural areas. To kick off this initiative we're taking part in Global Giving's (www.globalgiving.org) Open Challenge. Our challenge is to raise $4,000 from at least 50 individual donors in 30 days. Completing this challenge will not only get us well on our way towards funding 10 new libraries but it will open up the door for us to qualify for Global Giving matching grands, corporate donors, and other sources of funding. We could really use your help completing this challenge! Whether you can give, $10, $25, $50 or more, every little bit counts. Please share this with your friends as well and together I'm confident we can reach our goal.
"We've spent the last two years in Mongolia now, visiting schools, starting new projects, and investigating the situation of education in rural areas. Good school libraries are an urgent need and make a huge difference in their communities. It's proven that access to a school library and textbooks boosts school attendance, improves grades, and motivates new interest in learning.
"This month let's work together to fund our first two school libraries and then we can work towards the other 8 we have planned for the rest of the year.
"Please give via our Global Giving Challenge page found here:
http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/school-libraries-for-mongolia/
"Thank you for your support!
"Sincerely,
Jonathan and Marielle Renich
Edurelief"
===
"Эдүрэлиф-г дэмжигч эрхэм хүндэт найз нараа,
"Бидний 2010 оны зорилго нь хөдөө орон нутагт 10 шинэ номын сан байгуулах юм. Энэхүү зорилгодоо эрчимтэй хүрэхийн үндэсийг тавин бид Глобал Гивинг-н сорилд оролцож байна. Биндний энэ сорил нь 30 өдөрийн дотор 50-с дээш хүмүүсээс нийтдээ $4000-ийн хандив цуглуулах юм. Энэ сорилд тэнцэж чадваас бид 2010 оны зорилгодоо хүрэхэд ойртох бөгөөд бидний өмнө Глобал Гивинг-с тэнцүүлэн хандив өгөх, бусад том том компаниудаас хандив авах, болон бусад сангуудтай харилцах үүдийг нээж өгөх юмаа. Тиймээс яг одоо бидэнд та нарын тусламж маш ихээр хэрэг болж байна. $10, $20, $50... чадахаараа туслаарай. Мөн энэхүү үйл ажиллагааны талаар найз нөхөд таньдаг хүмүүцдээ цааш н дамжуулаарай.
"Бид өнгөрсөн 2 жилийг Монголд сургуулиадаар явж үзэж, шинэ шинэ төсөлүүд эхлүүлэн, хөдөө орон нутагийн боловсролын салбарт судалгаа шинжилгээ хийн өнгөрүүллээ. Чанартай номын сан нэн хэрэгцээтэй байгааг ойлгосоноос гадна цаашлаад нийгэмийн амдралд олон талын тустайг харсан. Сурагчдад хүрч чаддаг номын сан сурагчдын сурах эрмэлзэл, идэвхи, хүсэлийг илүү болгодог гэдэг нь батлагдсан.
"Тиймээс энэ сард бүгдээрээ хамтран ажилцгаая! Доорх линкээр ороод хандиваа өгөөрэй:
http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/school-libraries-for-mongolia/
"Та нарын дэмжлэгт баярлаа! Сайн үйлс дэлгэрэх болтугай!
"Хүндэтгэсэн,
Б. Мөнх-Эрдэнэ"
===
"Chers amis et supporters d'Edurelief,
"Notre objectif en 2010 consiste à lancer 10 nouveaux projets bibliothèque en zone rurale. Pour nous lancer nous prenons part à l'Open Challenge de Global Giving (www.globalgiving.org). Notre challenge consiste à réunir $4000 en provenance d'au moins 50 donneurs et cela dans une limite de 30 jours. En relevant ce challenge non seulement nous aurons déjà réuni assez pour nous rapprocher de notre objectif de 10 nouvelles bibliothèques mais en plus nous serons qualifiés auprès de Global Giving nous donnant accès à des subventions, donations d'entreprises et autres sources de soutient. Nous comptons sur vous pour relever avec nous ce challenge! Que vous donniez $10, $25, $50 ou plus, chaque don compte. Parlez-en aussi autour de vous et ensemble je suis sûr que nous arriverons à atteindre notre but.
"Nous avons passé ces deux dernières années en Mongolie, à visiter les écoles, à lancer de nouveaux projets et à enquêter sur la situation de l'éducation en milieu rural. De bonnes bibliothèques scolaires représentent un besoin urgent et font toute la différence dans les villages. Il est prouvé que l'accès au livres et manuels scolaires augmente la fréquentation des écoles, améliore le niveau scolaire des élèves et les motive à apprendre en stimulant leur intérêt et leur curiosité.
"Ce mois-ci travaillons ensemble à financer deux nouvelles bibliothèques scolaires et nous poursuivrons au cours de l'année pour financer les 8 suivantes.
"S'il-vous-plait, faites votre don via la page Global Giving Challenge que vous trouverez ici:
http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/school-libraries-for-mongolia/
"Merci pour votre soutient!
"Sincèrement,
Jonathan et Marielle Renich
Edurelief"
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Edurelief: Laptops for Teachers
"We are proud to announce that Edurelief has just launched an exciting new program in our ongoing endeavor to promote education in Mongolia. Laptops for Teachers is a program that provides teachers with laptops at 0% interest loans to aid them in their efforts of educating Mongolia's youth. We've been dreaming about this program for a long time and are beside ourselves with excitement that it is finally happening. We delivered our very first laptop this month and are working hard to put together a pilot program for 10 other teachers. We've never seen 10 applicant spots fill so fast, demand is huge.
"Help us invest in Mongolian education by helping teachers to purchase laptops. These teachers are working face-to-face with children daily and being able to do research, plan lessons, and write and share curriculum makes a huge impact on the development of education. A $500 donation covers the cost of a new laptop, as well as shipping and customs fees related to getting the laptop into the hands of a teacher. This cost is still well below market price in Mongolia and since teachers can split up their loan into as many as 12 monthly payments it's an opportunity that many will benefit from. After the loan is fully repaid we simply use those funds to purchase another laptop. What does this mean for you? It means that over the course of several years, your $500 donation is reused over and over again, aiding teachers and promoting education in Mongolia. Help make a difference today, invest in a teacher."
--Edurelief Staff
http://www.edurelief.org/updates/1109.html
http://www.edurelief.org/
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Ethics with Calvin and Hobbes
excerpted from Open Questions: Readings for Critical Thinking and Writing edited by Chris Anderson and Lex Runciman, copyright 2005, pages 413-414:
“BILL WATTERSON
‘Today at school, I tried to decide whether to cheat on my test or not.’
“The creator of the Calvin and Hobbes comic strip, Bill Watterson (b. 1958) refused to merchandise his characters. Calvin and Hobbes appeared in more than 2,300 newspapers around the world, and ran from November 1985 through December 1995.
“Calvin: Today at school, I tried to decide whether to cheat on my test or not.
Calvin: I wondered, is it better to do the right thing and fail...or is it better to do the wrong thing and succeed?
Calvin: On the one hand, undeserved success gives no satisfaction. … But on the other hand, well-deserved failure gives no satisfaction either.
Calvin: Of course, most everybody cheats some time or other. People always bend the rules if they think they can get away with it. … Then again, that doesn't justify my cheating.
Calvin: Then I thought, look, cheating on one little test isn't such a big deal. It doesn't hurt anyone. … But then I wondered if I was just rationalizing my unwillingness to accept the consequence of not studying.
Calvin: Still, in the real world, people care about success, not principles. … Then again, maybe that's why the world is in such a mess. What a dilemma!
Hobbes: So what did you decide?
Calvin: Nothing. I ran out of time and I had to turn in a blank paper.
Hobbes: Anymore, simply acknowledging the issue is a moral victory.
Calvin: Well, it just seemed wrong to cheat on an ethics test.
“What does it say?
1. There are two figures in this comic strip, Calvin and his tiger, Hobbes. Track what each one says. Calvin obviously does most of the talking. What does Hobbes say and when does he say it? What is your reaction to Hobbes's final statement? How does Hobbes's body language—his facial expressions, his gestures—contribute to your understanding of what he says?
2. It doesn't take long to read a comic strip like this, and first reactions are usually quick, too. Describe yours. As soon as you stop reading, jot down a quick four sentence response. Did you laugh? Why? What made this funny? If you didn't laugh, what was your reaction and why?
“What do you think?
3. Bill Watterson, the cartoonist, doesn't come out and say what he wants this comic to mean. He is neither Calvin nor Hobbes. What do you think Watterson is getting at? Write a brief essay that presents your understanding of the thesis statement of this cartoon, and explain the evidence that supports your analysis.
4. Though Watterson is neither Calvin nor Hobbes, one of these characters may serve as his spokesperson. Which do you think does? Which of these characters comes closest to representing Watterson's own views, and how do you know? What details in the comic lead to this conclusion? Or do you think that neither character represents Watterson?
5. People often send their friends and families copies of cartoons they like. Who would you send this cartoon to, and why?
6. Hobbes says that ‘Anymore, simply acknowledging the issue is a moral victory.’ Write an essay agreeing or disagreeing with that statement, explaining your position.
“What would they say?
7. Read Lawrence Hinman's ‘Virtual Virtues: Reflections on Academic Integrity in the Age of the Internet.’ How would Watterson have to adapt this particular cartoon to reflect Hinman's analysis of ethical behavior and the Internet? Would the cartoon have to be any different? Is there something about cyberspace that changes the ethical dilemma that Calvin is describing?
8. Based on your reading of Hinman's ‘Virtual Virtues: Reflections on Academic Integrity in the Age of the Internet,’ do you think he would put a copy of this cartoon on his office door or on his syllabus for one of his courses? (Hinman is an ethicist who teaches courses in ethics and ethical reasoning.) Explain why or why not.
9. Write an essay explaining how you think Stephen L. Carter, in ‘The Best Student Ever,’ and Donald McCabe and Linda Klebe Trevino, in ‘Honesty and Honor Codes,’ would respond to this cartoon. What would they say? Would they agree with its premise? Why or why not?
10. Out of all the essays you've read in this book, which writer comes closest to embodying Calvin's position in this comic? Which writer comes closest to embodying Hobbes's position? Explain.”
“BILL WATTERSON
‘Today at school, I tried to decide whether to cheat on my test or not.’
“The creator of the Calvin and Hobbes comic strip, Bill Watterson (b. 1958) refused to merchandise his characters. Calvin and Hobbes appeared in more than 2,300 newspapers around the world, and ran from November 1985 through December 1995.
“Calvin: Today at school, I tried to decide whether to cheat on my test or not.
Calvin: I wondered, is it better to do the right thing and fail...or is it better to do the wrong thing and succeed?
Calvin: On the one hand, undeserved success gives no satisfaction. … But on the other hand, well-deserved failure gives no satisfaction either.
Calvin: Of course, most everybody cheats some time or other. People always bend the rules if they think they can get away with it. … Then again, that doesn't justify my cheating.
Calvin: Then I thought, look, cheating on one little test isn't such a big deal. It doesn't hurt anyone. … But then I wondered if I was just rationalizing my unwillingness to accept the consequence of not studying.
Calvin: Still, in the real world, people care about success, not principles. … Then again, maybe that's why the world is in such a mess. What a dilemma!
Hobbes: So what did you decide?
Calvin: Nothing. I ran out of time and I had to turn in a blank paper.
Hobbes: Anymore, simply acknowledging the issue is a moral victory.
Calvin: Well, it just seemed wrong to cheat on an ethics test.
“What does it say?
1. There are two figures in this comic strip, Calvin and his tiger, Hobbes. Track what each one says. Calvin obviously does most of the talking. What does Hobbes say and when does he say it? What is your reaction to Hobbes's final statement? How does Hobbes's body language—his facial expressions, his gestures—contribute to your understanding of what he says?
2. It doesn't take long to read a comic strip like this, and first reactions are usually quick, too. Describe yours. As soon as you stop reading, jot down a quick four sentence response. Did you laugh? Why? What made this funny? If you didn't laugh, what was your reaction and why?
“What do you think?
3. Bill Watterson, the cartoonist, doesn't come out and say what he wants this comic to mean. He is neither Calvin nor Hobbes. What do you think Watterson is getting at? Write a brief essay that presents your understanding of the thesis statement of this cartoon, and explain the evidence that supports your analysis.
4. Though Watterson is neither Calvin nor Hobbes, one of these characters may serve as his spokesperson. Which do you think does? Which of these characters comes closest to representing Watterson's own views, and how do you know? What details in the comic lead to this conclusion? Or do you think that neither character represents Watterson?
5. People often send their friends and families copies of cartoons they like. Who would you send this cartoon to, and why?
6. Hobbes says that ‘Anymore, simply acknowledging the issue is a moral victory.’ Write an essay agreeing or disagreeing with that statement, explaining your position.
“What would they say?
7. Read Lawrence Hinman's ‘Virtual Virtues: Reflections on Academic Integrity in the Age of the Internet.’ How would Watterson have to adapt this particular cartoon to reflect Hinman's analysis of ethical behavior and the Internet? Would the cartoon have to be any different? Is there something about cyberspace that changes the ethical dilemma that Calvin is describing?
8. Based on your reading of Hinman's ‘Virtual Virtues: Reflections on Academic Integrity in the Age of the Internet,’ do you think he would put a copy of this cartoon on his office door or on his syllabus for one of his courses? (Hinman is an ethicist who teaches courses in ethics and ethical reasoning.) Explain why or why not.
9. Write an essay explaining how you think Stephen L. Carter, in ‘The Best Student Ever,’ and Donald McCabe and Linda Klebe Trevino, in ‘Honesty and Honor Codes,’ would respond to this cartoon. What would they say? Would they agree with its premise? Why or why not?
10. Out of all the essays you've read in this book, which writer comes closest to embodying Calvin's position in this comic? Which writer comes closest to embodying Hobbes's position? Explain.”
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Capucine's Library in Mongolia through Edurelief
"With hundreds (literally) of blogs, and even national newspapers covering Capucine's story it's easy to see that people are completely taken by her. Don't believe us? Read this story by the National Post or simply look at the results in Google, Twitter, or Vimeo.
"Anne (Capucine's mother) and Capucine have decided to put her talents and fame to good use by helping children in Mongolia receive a better education. They have created a series of t-shirts, buttons, magnets, and postcards (coming) featuring the amazing world of Capucine. All the proceeds from these sales go to benefit 'Capucine's Library,' an idea we dreamt up with Anne where donations and sales from her merchandise would go towards one specific project reaching several hundred children in Mongolia. She's even made a special video especially for her project. We will track her progress and provide photos, films, and the results of her project. If you want to support Capucine and her library you can order from the links above or make a dedicated donation. In less than two months, Capucine has already raised over $2,000 for her library."
--Jonathan Renich
Edurelief Staff
"Anne (Capucine's mother) and Capucine have decided to put her talents and fame to good use by helping children in Mongolia receive a better education. They have created a series of t-shirts, buttons, magnets, and postcards (coming) featuring the amazing world of Capucine. All the proceeds from these sales go to benefit 'Capucine's Library,' an idea we dreamt up with Anne where donations and sales from her merchandise would go towards one specific project reaching several hundred children in Mongolia. She's even made a special video especially for her project. We will track her progress and provide photos, films, and the results of her project. If you want to support Capucine and her library you can order from the links above or make a dedicated donation. In less than two months, Capucine has already raised over $2,000 for her library."
--Jonathan Renich
Edurelief Staff
Friday, October 17, 2008
"Stayin' Alive," CPR
"'Stayin' Alive' might be more true to its name than the Bee Gees ever could have guessed: At 103 beats per minute, the old disco song has almost the perfect rhythm to help jump-start a stopped heart.
"In a small but intriguing study from the University of Illinois medical school, doctors and students maintained close to the ideal number of chest compressions doing CPR while listening to the catchy, sung-in-falsetto tune from the 1977 movie 'Saturday Night Fever.'
"The American Heart Association recommends 100 chest compressions per minute, far more than most people realize, study author Dr. David Matlock of the school's Peoria, Illinois, campus said Thursday....
"It turns out the American Heart Association has been using the song as a training tip for CPR instructors for about two years.
"They learned of it from a physician 'who sort of hit upon this as a training tool,' said association spokesman Dr. Vinay Nadkarni of the University of Pennsylvania.
"He said he was not aware of any previous studies that tested the song.
"But Nadkarni said he has seen 'Stayin' Alive' work wonders in classes where students were having trouble keeping the right beat while practicing on mannequins. When he turned on the song, 'all of a sudden, within just a few seconds, they get it right on the dot.'
"'I don't know how the Bee Gees knew this,' Nadkarni said. 'They probably didn't. But they just hit upon this natural rhythm that was very catchy, very popular, that helps us do the right thing.'
"Dr. Matthew Gilbert, a 28-year-old medical resident, was among participants in the University of Illinois study this past spring. Since then, he said, he has revived real patients by keeping the song in his head while doing CPR.
"Gilbert said he was surprised the song worked as well as it did.
"'I was a little worried because I've been told that I have a complete lack of rhythm,' he said. Also, Gilbert said he's not really a disco fan.
"He does happen to like a certain Queen song with a similar beat.
"'I heard a rumor that "Another One Bites the Dust" works also, but it didn't seem quite as appropriate,' Gilbert said."
--CNN
"In a small but intriguing study from the University of Illinois medical school, doctors and students maintained close to the ideal number of chest compressions doing CPR while listening to the catchy, sung-in-falsetto tune from the 1977 movie 'Saturday Night Fever.'
"The American Heart Association recommends 100 chest compressions per minute, far more than most people realize, study author Dr. David Matlock of the school's Peoria, Illinois, campus said Thursday....
"It turns out the American Heart Association has been using the song as a training tip for CPR instructors for about two years.
"They learned of it from a physician 'who sort of hit upon this as a training tool,' said association spokesman Dr. Vinay Nadkarni of the University of Pennsylvania.
"He said he was not aware of any previous studies that tested the song.
"But Nadkarni said he has seen 'Stayin' Alive' work wonders in classes where students were having trouble keeping the right beat while practicing on mannequins. When he turned on the song, 'all of a sudden, within just a few seconds, they get it right on the dot.'
"'I don't know how the Bee Gees knew this,' Nadkarni said. 'They probably didn't. But they just hit upon this natural rhythm that was very catchy, very popular, that helps us do the right thing.'
"Dr. Matthew Gilbert, a 28-year-old medical resident, was among participants in the University of Illinois study this past spring. Since then, he said, he has revived real patients by keeping the song in his head while doing CPR.
"Gilbert said he was surprised the song worked as well as it did.
"'I was a little worried because I've been told that I have a complete lack of rhythm,' he said. Also, Gilbert said he's not really a disco fan.
"He does happen to like a certain Queen song with a similar beat.
"'I heard a rumor that "Another One Bites the Dust" works also, but it didn't seem quite as appropriate,' Gilbert said."
--CNN
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Alliteration lifts learning
"Studies have shown that alliteration can act as a better tool for memory than both imagery and meaning...
"Alliteration's affect on memory is not lessened by either the type of work it is used in or whether or not the literature is read silently or aloud."
http://www.physorg.com/news136632182.html
"Alliteration's affect on memory is not lessened by either the type of work it is used in or whether or not the literature is read silently or aloud."
http://www.physorg.com/news136632182.html
Thursday, February 21, 2008
EXCO, the Experimental College of the Twin Cities
EXCO, "made up of two chapters, the first chapter based out of Macalester College (EXCO-Mac) that began in 2006 and a second one based out of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (EXCO-UMN) that began in 2007," offers free classes in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota.
List of classes:
http://www.excotc.org/?q=og
List of classes:
http://www.excotc.org/?q=og
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Folklore
"The collection of the folk-lore of the different peoples of the world should not be neglected, for it is of great value. It is the entire stock of wisdom accumulated by the unlettered masses of mankind in all ages. Like language, it is the product neither of one mind nor a given number of minds, but of all the various groups which together form humanity. Like language, it is property bequeathed by anonymous ancestors or predecessors. As there is no nation, tribe, or group of persons without language, there is none without folk-lore, which in a broad sense is the fruit of the intellectual activity of men before they are modified by what is called education, and represents their religion, philosophy, and literature..."
--Jeremiah Curtin, A Journey in Southern Siberia: The Mongols, Their Religion and Their Myths, 1909
--Jeremiah Curtin, A Journey in Southern Siberia: The Mongols, Their Religion and Their Myths, 1909
Sunday, June 03, 2007
Friends of Mongolia Rural Youth Scholarships 2007-2008
"Friends of Mongolia invites graduating Mongolian secondary school students and current post-secondary students under the age of 25 to apply for the Friends of Mongolia Scholarship, which provides one year full tuition at post-secondary institutions in Mongolia to successful applicants. The program is intended to address what is known as Mongolia's 'reverse gender gap' by providing opportunities for rural males to attend post-secondary institutions. Applicants must be male and able to prove permanent residency outside of Ulaanbaatar. For more information about the program and to receive a copy of the application, please visit http://www.friendsofmongolia.org/. Please distribute this announcement to eligible candidates. Deadline July 20, 2007."
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Jon loaned me this book and it's pretty good
“He visited my class, we set some poetry readings up for him, and we set up his Free University meeting room and place. I think the title of the class we said he would teach was Tantric Yoga—no it was Telepathic Communication. His class was a tremendous success, though not because of his lecturing on telepathy. The first night he was supposed to teach it, we walked with him to the student union building. The room was on the first floor and was packed with people sitting quietly, intently, as though waiting for Jim Jones to pass the Kool-Aid. Either it was that or something else, something false, levy picked up on, and he simply walked on by the door and out the side. I thought for a moment of going in and telling them it was another no-show, but what the hell. We all walked over to the 602 Club and then thought no more about it, until Ann Krooth told me that levy’s class was one of the most successful in all the Free University. People there assumed he was trying to reach them telepathically, and many of them heard him, as they sat there, meditating in the classroom. That class went on for several months after levy had returned to Cleveland—months after levy was no longer alive.”
--Morris Edelson in “Portrait of a Young Man Trying to Eat the Sun (the life, legend, & mysterious death of d. a. levy)” by Mike Golden, first published in BEET magazine in 1994, collected in The Outlaw Bible of American Essays
--Morris Edelson in “Portrait of a Young Man Trying to Eat the Sun (the life, legend, & mysterious death of d. a. levy)” by Mike Golden, first published in BEET magazine in 1994, collected in The Outlaw Bible of American Essays
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