Being More Optimistic May Help You Live LongerHeres How to Train Your Mindset
Being more optimistic may support better health and longevity, with research linking positive thinking to lower stress, ...
Social Modes
Australia’s Bold Move: Under-16 Social Media Restrictions and Their Impact on Adolescent Mental Health
Spread the love“`html As social media continues to shape the lives of adolescents, its effects on mental health are becoming increasingly apparent. In the digital age, where connections and self-worth ...
The effects of social media abstinence on affective well-being and life satisfaction: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstaining from social media has become a popular digital disconnection strategy of individuals to enhance their well-being. To date, it is unclear whether social media abstinences are truly effective in improving well-being, however, as studies produce inconsistent outcomes. This preregistered systematic review and meta-analysis therefore aims to provide a more precise answer regarding the impact of social media abstinence on well-being. The databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Communication Source, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched for studies examining the effect of social media abstinence on three outcomes, namely positive affect, negative affect, and/or life satisfaction. In total, ten studies (N = 4674) were included, allowing an examination of 38 effect sizes across these three outcomes. The analyses revealed no significant effects of social media abstinence interventions on positive affect, negative affect, or life satisfaction. Relationships between social media abstinence duration and the three outcomes were also non-significant. The findings thus suggest that temporarily stepping away from social media may not be the most optimal approach to enhance individual well-being, emphasizing the need for further research on alternative disconnection strategies. Nevertheless, important methodological differences between studies should be considered when interpreting these results.
Study shows that opportunity costs influence when people leave social interactions
Psychology researchers and neuroscientists have been trying to understand the principles guiding social interactions for decades. While their studies have yielded interesting results, many questions ...
Earlier social information has a stronger influence on judgments
People’s decisions are often informed by the choices of others. Evidence accumulation models provide a mechanistic account of how such social information enters the choice process. Previous research taking this approach has suggested two fundamentally different cognitive mechanisms by which people incorporate social information. On the one hand, individuals may update their evidence level instantaneously when observing social information. On the other hand, they may gradually integrate social information over time. These accounts make different predictions on how the timing of social information impacts its influence. The former predicts that timing has no impact on social information uptake. The latter predicts that social information which arrives earlier has a stronger impact because its impact increases over time. We tested both predictions in two studies in which participants first observed a perceptual stimulus. They then entered a deliberation phase in which social information arrived either early or late before reporting their judgment. In Experiment 1, early social information remained visible until the end and was thus displayed for longer than late social information. In Experiment 2, which was preregistered, early and late social information were displayed for an equal duration. In both studies, early social information had a larger impact on individuals’ judgments. Further, an evidence accumulation analysis found that social information integration was best explained by both an immediate update of evidence and continuous integration over time. Because in social systems, timing plays a key role (e.g., propagation of information in social networks), our findings inform theories explaining the temporal evolution of social impact and the emergent social dynamics.
"Living Conversations": Strengthening Students' Interpersonal Skills and Confidence
<h3><strong>1.Overview </strong></h3><h4>Summary</h4><p>“Living Conversations” is a life skills module developed by the School for Life, UPES, to strengthen communication, confidence, and interpersonal skills among undergraduate students aged 15 to 20. The programme was designed in response to the growing global demand for soft skills, a trend highlighted by the World Economic Forum and further accelerated by the post-2020 shift toward dynamic, digital-first workplaces. Through experiential learning and engaging teaching methods, the course builds empathy, active listening, and cross-cultural communication. Between 2020 and 2023, it has benefited over 20,000 students, equipping them with essential skills for employability, entrepreneurship, and meaningful participation in society. </p><h4>Country / region of implementation </h4><p>India (the Republic of)</p><h4>Lead institution’s name </h4><p>UPES School for Life</p><h4>Partners</h4><ul type="disc"><li data-list-item-id="eaf4b5b04fb6c077c71789ba3fe10454b">Communication coaches</li><li data-list-item-id="e0b4dbb83cdbb6148343ecce048e10868">Guest speakers</li><li data-list-item-id="ecab76766ba313db232f173b95b509fb4">Global scholars </li><li data-list-item-id="edf9d7e217bc706804228c6801c7a5a82">UPES students</li></ul><h4>Implementation period</h4><p>01/07/2020 - 01/07/2023</p><h3><strong>2.Background </strong></h3><h4>Context and problems to address</h4><p> The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic underscored widening skill gaps in young learners. While technical competencies are often emphasized in higher education, students lack structured training in communication, empathy, and adaptability — all critical for employability and civic participation. According to the WEF, conversational abilities and life skills are among the top requirements for future workforces. The Living Conversations course was designed to bridge this gap by offering a structured yet creative approach to life skills development. Its strategy combines experiential learning, cross-cultural exchange, and continuous evaluation to ensure progress.</p><h3><strong>3.Implementation process</strong></h3><h4>Activities and outputs</h4><ul><li data-list-item-id="eb2bc073e5c6764c13c8204373ee4d3b1"><strong>Curriculum Design</strong>: The curriculum was structured to integrate modules on speaking, writing, listening, empathy, and cross-cultural communication.</li><li data-list-item-id="e60cbebd5d1f6b425f82cbc27902c3fe5"><strong>Pedagogical Approach:</strong> A pedagogy rooted in experiential learning and reflective practice was chosen then implemented to engage students actively.</li><li data-list-item-id="e62d20207c4fbb8d1a687bd542ebdec26"><strong>Programme Highlights</strong>: Real-world perspectives were brought in and collaboration was encouraged through signature activities such as Student Team Projects, the Mini Film Festival, and Global Guest Talks.</li><li data-list-item-id="e32186aee4291652b76bb86f33752dc2b"><strong>Monitoring and evaluation</strong>: carried out through a mix of assessments, peer reviews, and reflective assignments, with faculty conducting mid- and end-course evaluations to measure and refine learning outcomes.</li></ul><h4>Resources required for successful implementation </h4><ul type="disc"><li data-list-item-id="e8821059e99028653475c96d8dfe4cccb"><strong>Personnel</strong> — Certified faculty trained in life skills and communication.</li><li data-list-item-id="e189366cd1f7a0b541f02b1565dde33dd"><strong>Financial resources</strong> — Funding provided by UPES for the design and delivery of the programme. </li><li data-list-item-id="edf4bb39993c30c0c5c753d1b608e7703"><strong>Tools</strong> — Classrooms equipped with digital tools for blended learning.</li></ul><h4>Enabling factors</h4><ul><li data-list-item-id="e16deadf65e77d94e8d655cd3aa7ac4f2"><strong>Strategic partnerships</strong>: Collaboration with communication coaches, guest speakers, and global scholars brought diverse perspectives and enriched the learning experience, giving students direct exposure to real-world practices and global viewpoints.</li></ul><h4>Challenges</h4><ul><li data-list-item-id="ed56833778651803cb58d0440364efcef">Initial resistance was encountered from students who prioritized technical subjects over life skills.</li><li data-list-item-id="e36bc58e1f46fad6211c42305d416c39f">The need for continuous training was essential to maintain high-quality delivery and pedagogical consistency.</li><li data-list-item-id="e8573180c49076b0982776d9dc9de787f">The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted traditional, in-person classroom delivery.</li><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="edd462dbf7f262cb4fd2d5e6f90b87555"><strong>How challenges were addressed : </strong><ul><li data-list-item-id="efc98bc54f0813e2d2a2e849098132a46">To overcome student resistance, gamification and experiential methods were introduced, effectively demonstrating the practical value and professional relevance of the course.</li><li data-list-item-id="e7af0c36a2d4b05a148b248109a3ac861">Partnerships with Fulbright scholars and communication coaches were leveraged to provide faculty with ongoing training in innovative practices and global perspectives.</li><li data-list-item-id="e6b3d0bf52d300b09415229b98a6387cb">The programme successfully pivoted to digital platforms, utilizing gamified modules and interactive online assignments to ensure continuity and sustained engagement despite the disruption.</li></ul></li></ul><h3><strong>4.Results and impact </strong></h3><h4>Measurable outcomes </h4><ul><li data-list-item-id="ec8aac96f6f3f06191a8a200c328f77dc">Over 20,000 students students successfully completed the training between 2020 and 2023. </li><li data-list-item-id="e143f9de0f15d04b8e32e048660a6965b">90% demonstrated improved communication skills based on evaluations and feedback. </li><li data-list-item-id="e93ad6693a0da4b56c4dcc317b418e096">85% reported increased confidence and greater readiness to present ideas in public settings. </li><li data-list-item-id="e8ddb606c1f576f96764d9ef80fd10cc2">75% of program graduates showed enhanced employability outcomes, including improved placement rates and job readiness.</li></ul><h4>Impact on the targeted population</h4><ul><li data-list-item-id="e31a4e4d0047b20c7bd7d0e3429e2edc7"><strong>Students between 15 to 20</strong> : They demonstrated notable improvements in confidence, communication clarity, and active listening. These internal gains translated into tangible professional outcomes, as UPES placement cells reported a significant improvement in interview performance, with recruiters specifically noting students’ enhanced communication skills. Beyond technical competencies, independent surveys also highlighted broader development in teamwork, empathy, and analytical thinking.</li></ul><h4>Impact on SDG 4 targets</h4><p><strong>Target 4.4 </strong>— By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship</p><ul><li data-list-item-id="ec43efa78161728871468151addda7184">The programme provides relevant skills for decent work and entrepreneurship, ensuring a smoother transition for students into professional and entrepreneurial roles.</li></ul><h3><strong>5.Sustainability, replicability and lessons learned</strong></h3><h4>Strategies to ensure long-term sustainability of the practice</h4><ul><li data-list-item-id="e6e1a54d5827236a4be0cfe4cf8352332">The sustainability of Living Conversations is ensured by its integration into the School for Life curriculum, reflecting a strong institutional commitment.</li><li data-list-item-id="ea92a49323c05ff08ba322f567f67c9d2">The programme requires minimal resources beyond trained faculty and digital tools, and thus remains cost-effective and easy to maintain.</li><li data-list-item-id="e63f2c00ce567a472c79252ed87abce7f">Continuous evaluation and structured student feedback keep the course responsive, allowing it to evolve with changing learner needs and workplace demands.</li></ul><h4>Potential for scaling and replication</h4><ul><li data-list-item-id="ecc2418b2ea8c8415d91fa43d994a4c6e">The modular structure of the programme allows for easy adaptation to different contexts, languages, and communities. </li><li data-list-item-id="ea80e8001a6d46823a406cf36f8fef208">Having already proven effective in large-scale university settings, it holds strong potential for replication in schools, vocational training centres, and NGOs.</li></ul><h4>Lessons learned and recommendations</h4><ul type="disc"><li data-list-item-id="e4681796185c0c17c3e186839a856ab92">Experiential, student-driven activities are essential to sustaining engagement, while continuous mentoring is vital for achieving deeper outcomes.</li><li data-list-item-id="e5ff1de6b02c9f877c877ad2daa09e8d8">Global collaborations ensure that the curriculum remains high-quality and professionally relevant.</li></ul><p><strong>Disclaimer</strong>: This good practice is published based on the submission received through an open call. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not reflect the positions of UNESCO or the SDG 4 High-Level Steering Committee. UNESCO and the SDG 4 High-Level Steering Committee do not endorse any project or organization mentioned in this document.</p>
Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Support Groups in Massachusetts
This 30-hour IAYT approved continuing education course for yoga therapists focuses on individual and group strategies and skills to help design, implement and offer yoga therapy sessions that enhance ...
HIV Prevention Strategies and Community Engagement
HIV prevention has evolved into a multifaceted discipline combining biomedical, behavioural and structural approaches. Biomedical tools now include oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), long-acting ...
Cahokia Heights Fire Boosts Community Engagement With New Intern
Cahokia Heights Fire Department adds digital media intern Janiya to boost community engagement and share updates on growth ...
FreeCast Launches Starlink Business Connectivity Solutions Through Strategic Reseller Agreement
(NASDAQ: CAST), a technology company providing streaming media aggregation, distribution, and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) solutions, today announced it has entered into a reseller agreement for ...
Show HN: Convert your landing pages to powerful visuals for social media
launchreel.devBeing a solo founder focused on building products, content creation to evangelize was not easy. Making videos meant taking screen captures, writing captions, converting text to voice overs and assembling them into frames took hours. This being a repetitive exercise, it was becoming a bottleneck.So I built launchreel.How it works:you paste a URL (up to 3, plus up to 6 images/videos). It applies vision apis to extract visual references, text and LLM weaves a story. It writes ca
The internet is on life support
I am wondering what is going to happen to the internet when you can no longer navigate it with a Google Search? Its just astounding what OpenAI and Anthropic have accomplished, and I reminisce. I remember in 2004, how much better Google performed versus Alta Vista for finding sources for term papers and essays. Later, I learned that they achieved this by converting all the content on the internet to vectors, a process we would now call tokenization. I learned that they created the first stable s
A comprehensive survey on securing the social internet of things: protocols, threat mitigation, technological integrations, tools, and performance metrics
The integration of social networking concepts with the Internet of Things (IoT) has led to the Social Internet of Things (SIoT)—a paradigm enabling autonomous, context-aware interactions among devices based on social relationships. While this connectivity improves interoperability, it also raises critical challenges in trust management, secure communication, and data protection. This survey reviews 225 papers published between 2014 and 18 September 2025, analyzing advancements in SIoT security. Sources include IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Springer, ScienceDirect (Elsevier), MDPI, Wiley, Taylor & Francis, and Google Scholar. Blockchain and AI/ML approaches feature prominently, with blockchain referenced in more than 50 papers, AI/ML in over 80, and many adopting both in combination. The literature is examined across architectural foundations, security requirements, and layered defenses, with evaluation most often based on latency, accuracy, scalability, and false-positive rate. The review further highlights existing security and communication protocols, attack mitigation strategies, and the adoption of blockchain, cloud, and edge computing for scalable and decentralized processing. The survey traces the evolution of SIoT research, identifies future directions to strengthen security and transparency, and serves as a reference for researchers and practitioners designing secure and decentralized SIoT environments.
Steve Huffman: Reddit's model for a better internet
The internet was created to connect us, yet many people feel more alone than ever. Reddit cofounder and CEO Steve Huffman explores how social media rewards performance over participation — and offers a timely case for an internet built like a city, with thriving online "neighborhoods" that make space for real human connection. Ready to find your...
Keith Coleman and Jay Baxter: How Community Notes reduce viral misinformation
Community Notes on X started with a wild idea: Instead of tech companies deciding what's true, what if you let people fact-check each other? Keith Coleman and Jay Baxter, who helped build the crowdsourced system adding context to misleading posts, discuss how the program reduces viral misinformation — and why people across the political spectrum...
Barbara J. King: Grief and love in the animal kingdom
From mourning orcas to distressed elephants, biological anthropologist Barbara J. King has witnessed grief and love across the animal kingdom. In this eye-opening talk, she explains the evidence behind her belief that many animals experience complex emotions, and suggests ways all of us can treat them more ethically -- including every time we ea...
The World Cup is turning lesser-known players into social media stars
From Cape Verde’s Vozinha to New Zealand’s Tim Payne, players are gaining millions of Instagram followers almost overnight.
How social media and 'diet culture coercion' have helped create widespread disordered eating
Approximately 30 million Americans will experience some form of disordered eating in their lifetime. These conditions, which include anorexia, bulimia and binge eating, also seem to affect about twice ...
"Think of the children": Public policy panel questions Liberals' under-16 social media ban
Panelist Michael Karanicolas says that while the legislation is focused on children, it implicates all Canadians' data and ...
Social media ban for teens is 'part of the solution,' says Lisa Nandy who admits leaving X 'has made me a healthier person'
The Culture Secretary revealed that time off X, formerly known as Twitter, has made her 'a better politician' ahead of Starmer's restrictions announcement