Connect with us

Community News

Technology impacts teaching and learning in Canada

Published

on

BY PAUL JUNOR

The digital transformation has transformed all aspects of the modern world especially in the fields: of economics, business, politics and education.

The push towards online learning has given rise to many issues, concerns and questions during this COVID-19 pandemic. An important study titled, “Class, Take out your Tablet: Impact of Technology on Learning and Teaching in Canada,” was released in February 2020 by the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) tackled some of these challenges. This report is timely and relevant as it was able to obtain vital information from sixteen interviews with educators across Canada. It looked at the impact of digital technology in Canada by examining existing research on tech-aid learning and teaching and its implications.

ICTC is a not-for-profit research group, which is based in Ottawa, Canada. It started in 1992 as the Software Human Resources Council. There were thirty-one sectors funded largely by the government of Canada Council Program and in 2006 changed its name to ICTC. The group provides expertise for the digital economy, its mission is to strengthen Canada’s digital advantage in a global economy. It has seventy highly qualified professionals who are directly involved with students, schools, job seekers and businesses across Canada by providing tools, support and initiatives.

The report took nine months to complete starting from May 2019 and was Canada wide. The report examines four specific areas:

  • (i)   Current state of technology in education
  • (ii)  How technoloty is perceived in the classroom
  • (iii)  Opportunities, challenges and methods of technology adaptation
  • (iv)  Case studies

The report states, “Tech-aid learning is expected to potentially change the way students think, interact with the world and tackle problems while encouraging life-long learning.” This is an important conclusion as it shows that the nature of student’s learning will be heavily impacted by digital technology. It notes that teachers are generally supportive of the use of technology, particularly as digital literacy is an important skill that they need as part of global competencies. Others include: critical thinking, problem solving, character, communication, collaboration, creativity, leadership, inquiry and leadership.

The report highlights important guiding concepts, which are crucial for technology implementation such as: credibility, equity, diversity, connectivity, teacher training and support. In terms of broadband connectivity, even though the CRTC ruled in 2019 that telecommunication service should be available to all Canadians, the reality is that it is not universal or uniform especially in smaller, isolated and indigenous communities. The Ontario government announced in 2017 that high-speed internet should be available to all students by 2021.

In my 45-minutes interview with Nathan Snider (Manager of Policy and Outreach at ICTC), I was able to explore some of the issues in more detail. He stated that the fact that we are in the COVID-19 era has provided a pilot and real-world laboratory to gather first-hand information about the effects of technology on student learning. He mentioned that in this learning environment, it is important that all the major stakeholders in education; parents, teachers, boards, communities, faculties of education and ministry officials come to a consensus as to the goals of learning experiences.

Snider reiterates that it is important to have the full backing of teachers in the adoption of the technology in the classrooms. Currently, teachers’ readiness and preparation are varied. Some teachers are comfortable with remote learning while others are resistant to it. Snider observes that there has to be much more support given to teachers in terms of training, workshops and in service professional developments.

He observes that aside from low-income families not having access to devices, stable internet services and poorly prepared online classes, there are other issues. Many middle-class families may have only one device at home, and now that they are working remotely from home, there is additional pressure to share this device with their children who need to use it. This could further magnify inequities in terms of educational outcomes and add to the digital device. The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) stated that it could take up to three weeks for some of these devices to get in the hands of kids.

In response to the general study findings that, “The inclusion of digital technology in the classroom enables more interactive, collaborative learning and stronger learning outcomes in areas such as: engagement, creativity, agility, teamwork and flexibility,” Snider is supportive to the use of tech-aided learning. He believes this has the possibility of being a positive change for the future.

With a last name that means “Faithful and loyal,” it is no wonder that Paul Junor has become a welcomed addition to the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper Team. Since 1992, Paul has dedicated his life to become what you call a great teacher. Throughout the years, he has formed strong relationships with his students and continues to show them that he cares about them as people. Paul is a warm, accessible, enthusiastic and caring individual who not only makes himself available for his students, but for his community as well.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Community News

Two-week gastronomical event featuring cuisine and culture from the twin-island nation

Published

on

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has announced the list of celebrity chefs and culinary arts professionals participating in the second annual Antigua & Barbuda Restaurant Week (ABRW) starting May 4th, 2024.

During the two-week-long celebration, visitors and nationals can enjoy a variety of special and discounted dining and event experiences designed to showcase the twin-island nation’s delicious and diverse food, restaurants, art, and culture. Whether you’re indulging in the robust flavors of Antiguan Pepperpot, or savouring the simplicity of Fungi and Saltfish, each bite is a journey through the vibrant culture and history of Antigua and Barbuda.

This year also marks the return of Chef Andi Oliver who will headline events at the “The Pepperpot Rum Shop,” a100-day food and cultural pop-up. Pepperpot is the national dish of Antigua & Barbuda, and the concept was born after the successful 2023 release of Oliver’s recipe book, “The Pepperpot Diaries: Stories From My Caribbean Table.” For 100 days from the end of April, the pop-up will host curated cultural content and events spanning food and drink, music, art, and film in its stay-all-day sustainable and eco-conscious setting.

The Restaurant Week annual celebration highlights the best culinary experiences we have to offer–from favorite casual spots to multi-course menus at the finest restaurants,” said Shermain Jeremy, Special Projects and Events Manager at the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. “Given the fantastic lineup of Caribbean celebrity chefs and guests confirmed for this year, we expect to draw record-breaking participation from food loving locals and tourists. We’re excited, too, to showcase the diversity of food from our twin-island nation, especially with an elevated twist.”

As ABRW grows in its second year, the event will feature a lineup of celebrity chef and beverage professionals exclusively of Caribbean heritage. Highlights include:

Chef Kareem Roberts

Born in Leicester and raised in Antigua, Kareem first set foot in a professional kitchen at 26. He began composing salads at a small café in St. John’s, Antigua, and quickly moved to the high-volume kitchens at Sandals Grande Antigua. Over the next decade, he would hone his skills in a variety of kitchens in the United Kingdom, ranging from fine dining establishments to hotels to gastropubs.  He worked his way up to his most recent position as Head Chef of Trinity, a contemporary British restaurant in Cambridge. Roberts attributes his development as a chef to the foods and cultures he’s experienced, along with the fresh seafood he was exposed to as the son of an Antiguan fisherman. His creativity and passion were showcased recently on the BBC’s cookery competition “The Great British Menu.

Cookbook Author Althea Brown

Althea Brown is the creator and voice behind metemgee.com, a blog about Guyanese and Caribbean recipes and traditions. She offers simplified recipes, made accessible with diet specific tweaks. She is the author of the bestselling cookbook Caribbean Paleo. You can often find her on social media sharing stories about traditional Guyanese food and culture, and how she remixes dishes to fit her dietary needs. Born and raised in Georgetown, Guyana, Althea now lives in Aurora, Colorado, with her husband and three children.

Chef Angel Barreto

Chef Barreto is a three-time James Beard Foundation Award semifinalist and finalist, StarChefs Game Changer (2022), and a Food & Wine “Best New Chef” (2021). His highly awarded culinary career spans more than a decade, with exceptional experience in both French and Korean cuisines. He’s best known for his contemporary Korean cuisine at Anju in Washington, DC. Barreto is of Puerto Rican heritage and will be honoring Boricua cuisine at ABRW.

Chef Shorne Benjamin

St. Lucian born and New York-based, Chef Benjamin is known for his ability to infuse Caribbean food with a modern flair. Classically trained in French cuisine, he gained international acclaim as a guest chef at Mimo’s in London. Career highlights include an annual presentation at the James Beard House, competing on the Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay,” becoming a finalist on Chopped and winning the 2017 Jamaican Jerk Festival Celebrity Chef Throw Down. Most recently, he opened Fat Fowl in Brooklyn, where he crafts new age inspired dishes to showcase the richness and depth of Caribbean flavors through a healthy and imaginative lens.

Chef Digby Stridiron

 A native of St. Croix, Chef Digby is inspired by ingredients indigenous to the Caribbean and the history of regional recipes. He is best known for his work as chef of award-winning restaurants Balter and Braata in St. Croix, where he earned recognition as one of USA Today’s 10 Best Restaurants in the Caribbean and Food & Wine named his food “the new heart of Caribbean cooking.” A community leader, Stridiron served as a culinary ambassador for the U.S. Virgin Islands, having showcased West Indian cuisine at the James Beard House, and received the 2014 Chef of the Year award from the Caribbean Tourism Association. Currently based in Phoenix, Az., Chef Digby is also the founder of the West Indian Chefs Alliance.

Sommelier Nadine Brown

Born and raised in Jamaica and Puerto Rico, Brown fell in love with the hospitality industry after moving to the United States and started her career as a restaurant host in Washington, DC. Twenty years later, she’s an acclaimed industry veteran and award-winning Sommelier. Nadine worked as Wine Director at Charlie Palmer Steak for more than a decade. Owner of At Your Service, a wine consultancy, she is a wine writer, judge, and educator.

Nadine sits on the board of the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington and the Verasion Project, a non-profit that works to help more people of color enter the wine industry. Nadine curates a popular dinner series called, “Re-Imaging Wines,” where she collaborates with chefs, exploring wine pairings with cuisines from the Caribbean to the Philippines

“We are seeing more and more travelers around the world choose Antigua and Barbuda as a vacation destination,” said The Honourable Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment. “Building on the success of 2023, Antigua & Barbuda Restaurant Week will continue to raise the visibility of our culinary excellence in the region and around the world, and we are certain our guests will delight in immersing themselves into our food and our culture.”

The schedule of events for Restaurant Week will include Prix Fixe menus and discounted dining packages ($25USD – $75USD) inclusive of lunch, dinner, wine, and cocktails from more than 20 restaurants. Dishes to suit all tastes and dietary requirements will be available, and guests will also enjoy live music, entertainment, and children’s activities throughout the festivities.

A final schedule and lineup will be available soon. For the latest information on Restaurant Week menus and packages, visit: www.antiguabarbudarestaurantweek.com.

Continue Reading

Community News

Bill C-63 is the conclusive end to Canadians Freedom of Speech

Published

on

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

One “wrong” post on the internet, and you’re silenced… forever…

I have to admit; I am genuinely frightened by the federal government’s latest bill and its impact on OUR Freedom of Speech and Expression. This grim reality is something straight out of a science fiction movie, or at the very least, an online censorship law directly imported from an authoritarian regime like: China, Iran, or North Korea. “That can’t be happening here,” you say. Oh yes, it is.

Justin Trudeau’s (In) Justice Minister Arif Virani introduced Canada, and the world, to Bill C-63, the “Online Harms Act.” He is calling for a piece of legislation aiming to reduce online “hate” and “hate speech.” The definitions of “hate” and “hateful speech” are so vague that they could include almost anything: critical opinions, political commentary, even memes.

I get it. This might be in reaction to the fact that he has been at the receiving end of what could be called “hate speech.” An Angus Reid poll showed that the three most used words to describe Trudeau were: “arrogant,” “dishonest,” and “corrupt” with the fourth word being “charismatic,” which still doesn’t actually speak to a positive quality of his character.

Is this why there will be an update to section 318 and 319 of the CCC, that will introduce hate, or hateful speech as anything that “incites violent extremism or terrorism,” “incites violence,” and “foments hatred” (specifically)?

The implications are far-reaching and frightening since this bill will not just force social media and big tech giants to merely terminate your social media account. It’s a social media jail incarnate, where you will pay the physical price for sharing the “wrong” opinions by going to actual jail.

If the Trudeau Liberal government gets away with it, this will be the new normal in Canada. Let’s take a quick look at the proposed amendments:

  1. Update the Criminal Code of Canada (CCC)’s definition of “hate speech” and “hatred” to include ambiguous terms like “incites violent extremism or terrorism,” “incites violence,” and “foments hatred” (specifically section 318 and 319 of the CCC).
  2. Expand the federal bureaucracy by instituting a “Digital Safety Commission” (aka Canada’s very own Ministry of Truth) and a “Digital Safety Ombudsperson” to receive complaints about “hate speech” and enforce speech “standards” on internet platforms (Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, Instagram, Twitch, Rumble, etc.).
  3. Grant even more power to the Canadian Human Rights Commission, allowing them to force content removal and impose fines up to $70,000, with a maximum of $20,000 to the offended anonymous complainants. The same commission that labeled Christmas as “racist” last December.
  4. Raise the maximum punishments for “hate propaganda” to life imprisonment.
  5. Enact “protective measures” enabling a judge to act on anonymous reports of hate crimes by requiring accused individuals to wear an electronic monitoring device, undergo house arrest, be banned from public spaces, or have a restraining order against them.

It’s unclear how these claims of “hate crimes” will be verified, opening the floodgates for anonymous complaints from anyone, anywhere in the world.

If this bill passes, we could see media outlets like the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper lose our right to provide balanced, and transparent information, especially when it comes to what is going on in our world, the information that is quietly circulated behind your backs.

The passage of Bill C-63 could bring the Trudeau Liberals’ vision of turning Canada into a so-called “basic dictatorship,” one step closer to becoming an actual-livable reality, but in this dark time, there is still a glimmer of hope.

We’ve seen the massive public backlash against The Liberal government’s failed attempts to pass similar censorship bills over the last several years. This is why I am asking you to act now. If you don’t, you will lose the ability to openly discuss and debate important issues, first online and then in person.

Only with your help can we successfully defend all Canadians from authoritarianism and preserve OUR fundamental human right to Free Speech and Expression!

We want to help you voice your thoughts, and below I am going to show you how you can do this:

  • Find your MP’s official email address on the official parliamentary website, or their personal website.
  • Clearly state your concerns in a well-written and respectful email. Clearly articulate your concerns and provide your contact details for a follow-up. Include your name, address, and contact information for a more personalized response.
  • Engage with your MP on social media platforms like Twitter or Facebook. Publicly share your concerns and ask for their response or action.
  • Gather with members of the community who have similar concerns and schedule an appointment to meet with your MP at their constituency office. Face-to-face meetings can have a more significant impact as you can use the opportunity to voice your concerns in a public forum.

Remember to be respectful and clearly articulate your concerns when reaching out to your MP. We have to move past emotion and take ACTION. Providing factual information and potential solutions will strengthen your case. Additionally, encouraging others in your community to voice their opinions can contribute to a collective effort in influencing change.

REFERENCES:

Federal Politics: Conservatives open seven-point lead over Liberals as past PPC voters migrate to Poilievre

Liberals’ “online hate” bill contains $70K fines for speech and life imprisonment for hate crimes

https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/online-harms-hate-crime-sentences-1.7128596

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-justice-minister-defends-house-arrest-power-for-people-feared-to/

https://montrealgazette.com/news/national/virani-says-new-measures-meant-to-help-prevent-hate-crimes-will-come-with-safeguards

https://www.theepochtimes.com/world/feds-target-online-content-that-foments-hatred-in-new-bill-seek-steep-penalties-5595412

https://www.rebelnews.com/liberals_table_promised_online_harms_censorship_legislation

https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/trudeaus-online-harms-bill-threatens-freedom-of-expression-constitutional-lawyer-warns

https://www.parl.ca/DocumentViewer/en/44-1/bill/C-63/first-reading

https://em.citizengo.org/OTA3LU9EWS0wNTEAAAGRsmcQVWSchhVlH2Ays8BxQcP1xgK9KWmoK10MvOrCKgkK3zxb9g3G_qM7UDTgAByqcmm6YM8=

Continue Reading

Community News

Ring roars and adrenaline soars: United Boxing Promotions unveils another year of exciting fights

Published

on

Photo Credit: Jeff Lockhart

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

There was a palpable wave of anticipation sweeping through the air like an electric charge. The low hum of the crowd’s conversations intensified, creating a harmonious symphony of excitement. The atmosphere was charged with the promise of raw athleticism and unbridled competition. Spectators, perched on the edge of their seats, exchange animated glances and murmurs, their collective energy reaching a crescendo with every punch.

The scent of anticipation was thick, intermingling with the lingering echoes of bets being placed, and the occasional cheers that escaped from clusters of enthusiastic fans. The rhythmic thud of boxers’ footsteps reverberated through the venue, adding a primal heartbeat to the growing fervor.

As the announcer’s voice boomed over the speakers, introducing the contenders, the tension became almost tangible, creating an exhilarating prelude to the impending clash of skill and strength in the squared circle. The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, usually synonymous with chance and risk, transformed into a cathedral of adrenaline, where every spectator becomes a fervent believer in the unpredictable dance of combat about to unfold.

Once again, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to the Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto for a night of incredible fights. When I arrived, the Featherweight fight between Michael Cabato, and Jorge Diaz was nearing its end. Although not privy to the actual fight, I was informed that Michael Cabato had erased the only blemish on his record – an April 2023 draw – with a confident unanimous decision win over Jorge Diaz in a rare rematch.

Thankfully I was just in time for the Cruiserweight fight between Milad Zareian and Edgar Gonzalez. Milad Zareian stopped the overmatched Edgar Gonzalez and moved to 2-0 in the process. Boxing lovers definitely have to keep an eye on the promising newcomer, as he gradually discovers his rhythm and asserts his presence in the ring. The initial nervous energy that I saw in his first fight had transformed into a composed and calculated demeanor, evident in the fluidity of his movements and the precision of their strikes.

His increased comfort is palpable, as he is learning to seamlessly navigate the space, and exhibiting a heightened awareness of his surroundings. This newfound confidence is not only reflected in his technical proficiency, but also in his ability to adapt and strategize.

I stood up and cheered proudly when fellow Jamaican Ricardo ‘Big 12’ Brown caught Rafael Abdala Sanchez flush in the first round, ending their heavyweight clash early. As the dominant presence of Big 12 Brown continues to cast a looming shadow over the heavyweight division, fans are wondering if there exists anyone capable of challenging this formidable force. The relentless dominance of Big 12 has raised concerns about the competitive balance within the division, prompting a collective call to thoroughly assess the landscape, and identify potential contenders who can stand up to the challenge. The future of the division hinges on the strategic decisions made by United Boxing Promotions in their quest to find the next worthy adversary.

In an unfortunate turn of events Natasha ‘The Nightmare’ Spence was unable to showcase her skills in her match that was set against Angelica Flores. Drama ensued when Natasha reached out to Melinda Watpool to step in, as a return favour for her stepping in last year when Melinda’s fight was falling through. Melinda said “No,” stating her reasons, and Natasha was not having that. She was given a chance to speak to her fans in the ring, and she called out Melinda for not returning the favour. I can appreciate her frustration, and I enjoy the fact that there has been a little drama brought to the ring.

The Co-Main Event was an exciting match between Billy Allington, and Mark Smither, IBO International Super Lightweight Championship. British battler Billy Allington won a feisty 10-round road decision over Barrie, Ontario crowd favourite Mark Smither. The win should propel Allington back into the mix for another shot at the British title, and he and his team were full marks for the road victory.

Smither could not find the offensive breakthrough against the veteran Allington over the second half of their championship fight, and there was no protest after the scores were announced. His fight goes to show that it is crucial for a fighter to avoid leaving the outcome of a match to the scorecards.

At 12-1 and still the reigning IBO Americas Champion, Smither has a number of intriguing local, national and international options available — to be considered after a few weeks of reflection with his team and promoter.

Then there was the main event, the beloved Sukhdeep Singh against Gino Godoy, IBF International Junior Middleweight Championship. Sukhdeep ‘Chakria’ Singh legitimized his contender status, stopping Argentine Gino Godoy with an emphatic right in the fourth round to win the IBF International Junior Middleweight Championship.

This emerging young champion is undeniably one to keep a watchful eye on. With each passing challenge, his confidence continues to soar, solidifying his status as a rising star. In a recent triumph, he has added yet another impressive feat to his growing collection of accomplishments. As he navigates his way through various arenas, it becomes increasingly evident that his: determination, skill, and unwavering spirit are propelling him toward greatness. The world eagerly anticipates the next chapters of his journey, recognizing the undeniable potential of this remarkable individual who seems destined for even greater heights in the days to come.

I have some other exciting news for you boxing fans; United Boxing Promotions today announced the company has signed two-time Caribbean Amateur Champion Jerone Ennis to a multi-year promotional contract. Ennis, a product of Denham Town, Kingston, will campaign at light heavyweight and news regarding his professional debut in Canada will be announced shortly.

“This is another step in our efforts to build Jamaican boxing, and sign the best Jamaican talent available,” said United Promotions president Tyler Buxton. “Jerone is an elite boxer and joins a stable full of the best talent the country has to offer.”

The 24-year-old Ennis has big goals in the professional ranks and hopes to follow in the footsteps of Jamaican stablemates Kemahl ‘The Hitman’ Russell and Ricardo ‘Big 12’ Brown. “My goal is to rise through the ranks and hopefully in God’s favour one day become the number-one light heavyweight boxer in the world,” said Ennis, who in addition to his Caribbean titles also won a bronze medal at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games. “Kemahl Russell and Big 12 Brown have always inspired me to become great, and I am happy to now join the United family where we will all push each other to get better.”

Owwwweeee! The start of the boxing year in Toronto has been an electric one; I can’t wait to see what United Boxing Promotions has in store for us next!

Continue Reading

Trending