Today's Target: At the end of this class, the students are expected to be able to visualize a kind of classroom in the future.


Reading Proper

If you fast-forward a decade, classrooms and lessons might look a little different, according to Microsoft (MSFT, Fortune 500) Chairman Bill Gates.





1. Today, classes are too big. Lessons are taught the same way to dozens or hundreds of students -- each of whom has different learning style.

2. Technology can, and should, change that, Gates argues.

3. "Being there physically doesn't add much value," Gates told CNNMoney in an exclusive interview. He believes the days of big lectures with hundreds of students gathering in university classrooms may be numbered.

4. Gates envisions a college of the future in which students watch lessons online, delivered by the brightest minds in the field.

5. "If you want the very best lectures, if you want the cost efficiency, you have to break down and say, 'you know, let's take someone else's material," Gates said.

6. With the money saved from hiring professors, resources could be poured into labs and study groups.

7. Gates' idea is one of many visions for the quickly transforming education system in the United States. In a time where tuition costs are rising, and technology is quickly disrupting major industries, many entrepreneurs are wondering why innovation hasn't driven down the cost.




Let us discuss!

1. Classroom of the future: How do you describe or visualize a classroom of the future?


2. With the continuous advancement and alteration of technology in major business industries including education, do you think professors or teachers won't be needed in the future?


3. Gates' main theme was personalized learning, which can be enhanced by new technology.--- What do you think does this mean?


4. A wave of software that's being created that personalizes to the student...- What can you sayv about it?


5. Do you believe that there is a very bright future for the Education Industry?


6. How much willing are you to pay the cost tomorrow's education?

Learning Objective: This is a technology news discussion class. At the end of the session, the participants are expected to be able to list the advantages and disadvantages of having wearable computers (like the smart glass from Gooogle) in the very near future.


News Story Proper

1. Fresh details about Google's eagerly-anticipated smart glasses have been released by the company.

2. A YouTube video uploaded by the company shows Google Glass in action - including the interface which appears in the wearer's line of sight.

3. The search giant has also opened up the trial of the product to "creative individuals" and developers.

4. Google co-founder Sergey Brin was recently spotted on New York's subway testing the device.

5. The product was first unveiled as part of a demonstration at a Google launch event last year where developers were offered early access to the device for $1,500.

6. The company is now inviting people in the US to use the hashtag #ifihadglass to suggest ways they would make use of the headset.

7. "We're looking for bold, creative individuals who want to join us and be a part of shaping the future of Glass," Google said.

8. It will be possible to take pictures from the perspective of the person wearing the device.

9. "We're still in the early stages and, while we can't promise everything will be perfect, we can promise it will be exciting."


Let's discuss!

1. Google's eagerly-anticipated glasses released!- How do you feel about that?

2. In your opinion, what makes this smart glasses eagerly-anticipated?

3. Would you buy one for yourself once it is made available in the market? Why or why not?

4. What are the advantagers and disavantages of wearable computers like this?

5. What other wearable computers do you hope to be developed and be used in the very near future? Can you make a list?

Our Target Today: This is an open discussion class. At the end of the session, the participants are expected to be able to share personal thoughts and experiences rabout eating street foods abroad, the excitement and the dangers of food poisoning and how to avoid it.

Concern #1: Unsanitary water is one of the biggest causes of food poising abroad. In many parts of Asia, South America, and Africa you can’t simply rely on getting safe drinking water from a tap.



Tip #1: Bottled water is a necessary expense for staying hydrated when abroad. Make sure you always check the seals to ensure you’re getting just what you pay for.


Tip#2: It’s also smart to consider unexpected ways you could consume local water, such as ice cubes, washed fruits and vegetables, or cutlery and plates. To be on the safe side only accept drinks without ice, eat whole fruits with protective peels, and keep a stack of paper plates in your backpack!




Concern #2: Street food is one of Asia’s great joys, but it can also be a source of food poisoning.





Tip#3: It’s much safer to eat freshly cooked meals than anything that’s just been warmed through or served cold. Many of these dishes are prepared earlier in the day, and left to sit for hours. Look for vendors with kitchen and refrigeration facilities in plain sight for extra peace of mind.




Concern #3: Refrigeration is also a concern in Asia’s mobile ice cream stalls. Many don’t have the best freezers, and eating their desserts can make you ill.



Tip#4: Satisfy your sweet tooth with the frozen treats at cafes and supermarkets.


Concern #4: Some Asian nations also have incredible seafood, but unless it’s live you can’t be sure of its freshness.



Tip#5: Only indulge if you can choose your crustaceans and fish from a tank.


Conclusion:
Of course nothing is certain, but if you follow our tips hopefully you’ll keep your health, and some money in your wallet, on your next vacation.

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