Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Learning: What Makes Them Different

In the age of online and blended learning, synchronous and asynchronous learning are terms we often hear where course content and teaching methods are concerned. The terms sound related, alike even, but what exactly do they mean, and what are the differences? Synchronous and asynchronous learning are two different approaches to delivering learning content and […]

Effective Public Library Services for Seniors

The “age wave.” The “silver tsunami.” Whatever you call it, America is aging rapidly—and what it means to age is changing. With 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day, seniors now make up about 15% of the country’s population; by 2060, it will be nearly a quarter. We are living longer, and able to be […]

Haitian Revolution: A Historical Controversy from Issues & Controversies in History

The Haitian Revolution: Did this uprising successfully advance or ultimately thwart the cause of human rights? Be sure to check out Issues & Controversies in History’s complete and unbiased coverage of this issue. Learn more about the issue and check out a sample of the pro/con arguments on both sides below. THE ISSUE In 1791, […]

Labor Unions: A Featured Controversy from Issues & Controversies

An International Workers’ Day Spotlight from Issues & Controversies: Labor Unions: Do Labor Unions Benefit American Workers and the U.S. Economy? Do labor unions help the U.S. economy and American workers? Be sure to check out Issues & Controversies’ complete and unbiased coverage of this important issue. Here is a sample of the pro/con arguments […]

Can ChatGPT Really Write Your Students’ English Essays?

ChatGPT is terrifyingly good at lots of things, but not at understanding literature—and we have the test scores to prove it. It’s been widely reported that the latest version of the artificial intelligence chatbot was assigned a number of standardized tests, including the SAT, the Bar exam, and a variety of Advanced Placement tests, and […]

Berlin Wall: A Historical Controversy from Issues & Controversies in History

Should the Berlin Wall have been built? Be sure to check out Issues & Controversies in History’s complete and unbiased coverage of this issue. Learn more about the issue and check out a sample of the pro/con arguments on both sides below. THE ISSUE In 1961, the East German government closed the border between East Berlin […]

Celebrate Women’s History Month by Recognizing These Historic Women in STEM

March is designated as Women’s History Month, a time to recognize women who accomplished extraordinary feats through determination, intelligence, skill, talent, and sheer will. Although women have made gains over the years in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), they are still underrepresented compared to men. According to the United States Census Bureau, in 2019, […]

Developing Inclusive Children’s Library Programs

Children’s library programs are among the most vibrant and beloved library services. They connect kids and families; support literacy, academic achievement, and career exploration; and help close opportunity gaps—plus, they’re fun! To make sure all children can benefit from library programs, librarians need and want to make our youth programs highly inclusive. What steps can […]

Student-Centered Learning: Channel Student Interest with Databases

One of my first forays into exploring why I should consider a more student-centered classroom occurred in my AP English Language and Composition class, now more than 10 years ago. After handing out an assignment, which was a research paper, a student asked, “Okay, but what am I supposed to do in this paper?” It […]

Microcredentials in Higher Education Are Key to Student Success

This spring, many college students will prepare for life after graduation. Many undergraduates, graduates, and reskilling alumni will start their job searches in a market that is geared toward employees. If students are just starting right now, they are already behind.  There are two types of currency job seekers must need and understand to put […]

The Best Love Poems for Valentine’s Day

Some claim that poetry is useless, to which we at Infobase respond: “Not on Valentine’s Day.” Anyone who’s received a classic love poem in a note—or better, been the subject of an all-new one—knows that poetry is the surest way to get a lover’s full attention. Here at Infobase, we aim to provide our users […]

Teach Controversial Topics in the Classroom with Issues & Controversies

In an era of increasing polarization, critical-thinking skills are more essential than ever. Educators can use controversial issues in the news to help students develop these skills by providing reliable information, presenting both sides of the argument fairly, and encouraging learners to reach their own conclusions and communicate their ideas effectively and independently. But, with […]