Latest news with #creativity
Independent Singapore
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- Independent Singapore
Ex-teacher goes viral: How she's educating 'millions' without a classroom, but reactions are mixed
SINGAPORE: When an ex-teacher swapped her lesson plans for the cameras and ring lights, only a few expected she would become an online hit. But that's exactly what she became. Today, with millions of viewers learning from her through social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok, and recently via her feature on #DailyKetchup Episode 438, she's at the epicentre of a countrywide discussion about professional teaching, education, creativity, and the real meaning and purpose of 'instruction.' The ex-teacher in question? Kong Man Jing, better known online as Biogirl MJ, co-founder of Just Keep Thinking — a Singapore-based science and nature education channel that's won over a massive following with its fun, accessible content. Her catching the limelight and bursting onto the scene has sparked a rush of online commentary. Some congratulated her for daring to leave the limitations of the conventional classroom and share knowledge using her methods. Others are more cynical, doubtful about the usefulness and depth of her content. 'She's not really teaching foundational science,' one commenter said. 'It's more niche topics she's personally interested in. But I love that she's doing what she wants, free from a system that often stifles creativity.' It's a sentiment many teachers can relate to. Teachers are usually hidden behind an inflexible curriculum, administrative responsibilities, and a cutthroat system intended more for assessments than genuine learning and curiosity. 'The syllabus could be trimmed or restructured,' the commenter continued. 'We teach theories, but rarely the 'why' behind them. There's little emphasis on how science works, so students just end up memorising facts to pass exams.' Another viewer commented with a more personal reflection: 'She has the self-awareness to realise she might not be great at managing or communicating with people in a classroom setting. That's commendable in itself.' Others just relish her content for what it is. 'It gives me Saturday morning science show vibes,' one follower commented, recalling the wistful delight of learning for fun instead of just for grades. See also Gardens by the Bay's Christmas Wonderland 2018 Nonetheless, not all were persuaded that this shift demonstrates anything about conventional training. One commenter narrated that she used to work at The Learning Lab, a famous tuition centre, not a typical university. 'That's quite different from teaching in a public-school setting,' the commenter noted. 'And she even said she was quite satisfied with her job there.' But the most reverberating remark came from this Redditor: 'This just proves that teachers want to teach. The researching, planning, prepping, delivering, refining—that's the heart of it. It's all the extra bureaucracy, all the KPIs and admin nonsense, that drives teachers away.' And that's the real substance of the story here, not about a teacher abandoning education or her usual teaching duties, but about someone overhauling and reinventing what it means to teach. Whether via the classroom, a camera lens, or a viral video, she's doing what many teachers do best — sparking curiosity, nurturing interest, and prompting the imagination. See also Princess Diana's former abode gets a new look In a world where the conventional structures are often too stiff for novelty and too unyielding for innovation, her journey raises a compelling question: If the objective is to instigate learning and stir the imagination, do we really need a classroom at all?
Yahoo
an hour ago
- General
- Yahoo
Yoga, art and nature: Thrive Day inspires pupils at Maidenhill School
PUPILS in Stonehouse spent a day exploring mindfulness, creativity and emotional growth through hands-on activities. The event, known as Thrive Day, took place on Thursday, July 17, at Maidenhill School and was designed to promote wellbeing through the Thrive approach, which focuses on emotional resilience and personal development. It was funded by the school's parent-teacher association (PTA). Andrea Roberts, who organised the event, said: "Thrive Day is about more than just fun. "It's about helping children understand their emotions, build strong relationships and develop the life skills they need to flourish." Children took part in a wide range of activities, including yoga, storytelling, nature exploration, music and creative arts. Each session was designed to support children at their individual stage of emotional development. A yoga teacher from Calm Club led sessions focused on relaxation and body awareness, while former primary headteacher Bill Church delivered live storytelling. Other activities included sensory play, pond dipping, painting and a climbing wall challenge. Eco-themed activities took place in the school's garden with the support of parent volunteer Sarah, giving children the chance to connect with nature through hands-on exploration. Artistic activities ranged from finger painting in the nursery to mandala drawing in Year 6. Classrooms also gathered for Thrive circle time, where pupils shared fruit, played connection games, and reflected on kindness and empathy. The Thrive approach is embedded throughout the federation and focuses on supporting unmet emotional needs, building resilience and celebrating progress. The day brought these principles to life in a practical and engaging way. Mrs Jones, executive headteacher, said: "It was a day full of smiles, laughter and connection. "We saw children shine in ways that go beyond the classroom." The school extended its thanks to the PTA, staff, volunteers, and visiting practitioners who helped make the day possible.
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
'Just Putting Rims On A Prius': Which NHL Teams Took Shots At The Maple Leafs In Their Schedule Reveal Videos?
For the first time, the NHL had a coordinated schedule release where clubs had a chance to flex their creativity. Of course, this also gave some clubs (not all) a chance to poke fun at the Maple Leafs. Some took the high road, and others did not. Either way, I sat through the other 31 NHL clubs' videos (if they made one, some of them did not participate) to show you what might make for some bulletin board material.
The Sun
16 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
You have a sky high IQ if you can name all 10 karaoke songs in this picture quiz – how many can you master?
EVERYONE has their go-to song they choose at karaoke, but how many of the most popular belters are you familiar with. For International Karaoke Day on 19th July, Betboo has analysed popular karaoke songs and created a brainteaser for you to guess which songs are which - can you figure it out? 2 There are ten songs in total to figure out each with a cryptic clue to the title of the hit. While some images recreate the music video for the song, others give visual hints to help you on your way. Some are trickier than others so take your time mulling these over. Still struggling to work some out? Don't worry, scroll down to find the answers. Certain brainteasers and optical illusions, particularly those that involve patterns or sequences, can help strengthen both short-term and long-term memory. By working through puzzles on a regular basis, you will actively engage the brain's memory systems and directly improve your future attempts at visual challenges. Many brainteasers, like this one, require challengers thinking outside the box. This improves creative problem-solving skills by encouraging the brain to come up with innovative solutions. It also translates to real-life situations where you might need to approach challenges in new and inventive ways. If you're after another brainteaser to challenge yourself, try this one - as apparently only those with a high IQ are able to find the heart hidden among the spring flowers. How can optical illusions and brainteasers help me? Engaging in activities like solving optical illusions and brainteasers can have many cognitive benefits as it can stimulate various brain regions. Some benefits include: Cognitive stimulation: Engaging in these activities challenges the brain, promoting mental agility and flexibility. Problem-solving skills: Regular practice enhances analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Memory improvement: These challenges often require memory recall and can contribute to better memory function. Creativity: They encourage thinking outside the box, fostering creativity and innovative thought processes. Focus and attention: Working on optical illusions and brainteasers requires concentration, contributing to improved focus. Stress relief: The enjoyable nature of these puzzles can act as a form of relaxation and stress relief. Or you can have a go at figuring out the hidden message in this band's cover art that has confused fans for years. Lastly, puzzle fanatics have been left scratching their heads trying to find the lost feather in just 12 seconds. 2
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Hundreds of students showcase their creativity at annual fashion show
Vincent Van Gogh and Vivienne Westwood inspired the runway in a celebration of creativity. Springwood High School's annual fashion show returned for its 11th edition, with young designers and models taking centre stage in a colourful evening of style and innovation. Emma Markwell, fashion and textile course leader at the school, said: "The fashion show has become a highlight of the school year and is looked forward to by everyone. A vibrant collection explores identity and self-expression (Image: Ian Burt) "It encourages the students' confidence, creativity, and self-belief, and provides work experience in a variety of roles in the production of the show." This year's event showcased work from 130 students across all year groups, who contributed to everything from modelling and design to hair and makeup, front-of-house, and ticket sales. Year 11 designs explored the theme of nature and humans, while Year 12 BTEC students focused on nature and sustainability. Year 13 collections delved into identity and the bold and unexpected. Vivienne Westwood and Van Gogh were among the creative influences behind the designs, and a staff collection explored the theme of glamour.
