General News
Everything else that affects UK students and young adults.
42 articles
Smartglasses could supercharge exam cheating
You might think that new tech like smartglasses and earpieces is just for gaming or fitness tracking, but it could actually be making it easier for students to cheat in exams. Ofqual, the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation, is sounding the alarm about the potential for these devices to be used for cheating in GCSE and A-level exams in England. This could undermine the reputation of these important qualifications.
Key takeaway: GCSE and A-level exams may need stronger checks to prevent cheating with smartglasses and earpieces.
£1.3bn theme park plan sparks surprise
The UK government is committing £1.3 billion to a new theme park, Universal UK, in Bedfordshire. This investment has raised eyebrows given the current economic climate and competing priorities. The project aims to create a major tourist attraction and boost local economic growth.
Key takeaway: The government is spending £1.3 billion on a new theme park in Bedfordshire.
Students thanking mentors isn't just nice, it's valuable
Acknowledging those who have helped them in their dissertations not only shows appreciation but also demonstrates the growth and skills students have developed. This practice can have a positive impact on their careers and personal development. It's not just a nice gesture, but a valuable one.
Key takeaway: Students who thank their mentors in their dissertations are more likely to demonstrate their skills and growth.
Universities Cancellations Send Troubling Message
The cancellation of university graduation speakers is sending a troubling message about free speech and academic freedom. Some speakers are being told they can no longer give their address at commencement ceremonies because of opinions they have voiced. This trend raises concerns about the limits of expression in academic settings.
Key takeaway: Universities' cancellation of graduation speakers sparks concerns over stifling diverse perspectives.
Poor phone signal on trains hits students hard
Research by Ofcom found that major phone networks are not providing good signal on trains, and train companies are slowing down wi-fi. This affects students who rely on their phones for study and travel. Poor signal can cause missed calls, delayed messages, and lost productivity.
Key takeaway: Students on trains face poor phone signal, disrupting their travel and study.
Strength training: 2 hours a week to live longer?
You might think that hours of exercise a day are needed to stay healthy, but new research suggests that just 2 hours of strength training a week could lower your risk of early death. This challenges the common assumption that you need to spend lots of time at the gym to see benefits. The study indicates that even a small amount of strength training can have a significant impact on your health.
Key takeaway: Doing just 2 hours of strength training a week can reduce your risk of dying early.
Post Office scandal victim receives OBE
A 92-year-old woman, who was affected by the Post Office scandal, has been awarded an OBE. She dedicated the honour to 'all sub-postmasters we have lost'. The Post Office scandal involved incorrect accusations of theft against sub-postmasters.
Key takeaway: A 92-year-old victim of the Post Office scandal has received an OBE for her efforts in bringing attention to the issue.
Former SNP chief executive embezzled £400,000
Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the SNP, has been found to have embezzled £400,000. The funds were used for personal expenses. This incident has raised concerns about financial management.
Key takeaway: Former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell embezzled £400,000, which was spent on personal items, highlighting the importance of financial transparency and accountability.
Rare disorder test saved child's life
A heel prick test detected a rare metabolic disorder called MLD in a seven-year-old boy. The condition leads to progressive loss of physical and mental skills. Early detection may have saved his life.
Key takeaway: Early detection of rare conditions like MLD through newborn screening can significantly impact treatment and outcomes.
Britain's oldest prehistoric art confirmed
Mystery cave markings in the UK have been confirmed as Britain's oldest prehistoric art, dating back over 17,000 years. The discovery was made by archaeologists who re-examined the markings. The meaning behind the art remains unknown.
Key takeaway: Britain's oldest prehistoric art has been confirmed in a UK cave, dating back over 17,000 years.
New allergy protections for NI schools
A boy died after a severe allergic reaction in school. His mother is now calling for new legislation to protect pupils in NI schools. The new protections would help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Key takeaway: A family is calling for new legislation to protect pupils in NI schools after a boy died from a severe allergic reaction.
Public attitudes to uni changing
The latest British Social Attitudes survey shows a significant change in public perception of higher education. The survey tracks public opinion on various issues, including higher education. This change may have implications for students and policy.
Key takeaway: The British Social Attitudes survey shows a change in public attitudes towards higher education, which may have implications for students and policy.