Latest news with #Futurewise
The Citizen
a day ago
- Science
- The Citizen
Smart tools, smart kids: A parent's guide to AI in education
Not long ago, students studied in analogue: dog-eared textbooks, handwritten notes and the occasional text to an overachieving friend. Today, many learners are turning to something far more advanced – artificial intelligence (AI). In particular, large language models like ChatGPT are fast becoming study companions for a new generation of learners. Kempton Express reports that from drafting essays to summarising chapters, checking maths problems and brainstorming science projects, ChatGPT and similar tools are rapidly and dramatically redefining how young people approach their studies. But are these tools enhancing learning or replacing it? As the world marks Youth Month, Arno Jansen van Vuuren, the managing director at education insurance provider Futurewise, says it is a good time to ask: 'What does the rise of AI mean for education in SA, and how can parents help their children use it to support, not shortcut, their growth?' 'We often call today's children digital natives, but more accurately, they're becoming AI natives, growing up with tools that can generate ideas, write essays and respond almost like a human,' he says. 'While some schools were quick to ban these tools, especially early on, enforcing those rules outside the classroom is nearly impossible. AI is evolving faster than policy can keep up, and it's not going away. These tools are advancing so rapidly that we can't predict what they'll look like even a few months from now. 'As parents, we have a key role to play in helping children build healthy, responsible habits around these tools so that they learn with AI, not from it.' The good: Study support at their fingertips When used correctly, AI can be a powerful learning ally. It helps students break down complex concepts, rephrase difficult topics and generate practice questions or writing prompts. For children too shy to ask questions in class or struggling to focus using traditional study methods, it can be a game-changer. It's also available around the clock, offering consistent support during late-night cramming or weekend revision. The bad: Over-reliance and lost thinking skills 'If students begin relying on ChatGPT to think for them, their critical skills may fade. Generative AI doesn't truly understand topics – it predicts words based on patterns, so learners might copy answers without grasping their meaning. Over time, this can erode both confidence and creativity. 'Think of AI like a calculator. It's great for speeding things up once you understand the process, but if you rely on it before mastering the basics, you risk losing the ability to solve problems on your own, says Jansen van Vuuren. The dangers: Misinformation, privacy and bias While ChatGPT can sound convincing, it isn't always accurate. It can generate false information and, since it draws from data across the internet, may reflect biases or stereotypes. 'There are also privacy concerns. Children might unknowingly share personal information while chatting with AI bots, unaware that this data can be stored or used to train future models.' He advises parents to remind children never to share personal details and always verify AI-generated facts with trusted sources. What can parents do? 'The answer isn't to ban these tools – it's to build understanding. Start by using AI tools with your child. Explore how prompts work and compare AI responses with their school materials. Encourage questions like, 'How did you get that answer?' or 'Can you explain it another way?',' says Jansen van Vuuren. 'Discuss ethical use: When is it okay to use AI for help, and when does it cross into cheating? Help your child understand that the goal is to learn, not just to submit the perfect assignment.' If you're unsure how to start these conversations, resources like the Futurewise Learning Hub can help. The hub offers interactive tools that promote digital and emotional literacy, covering online safety, academic support and practical ways for parents and children to navigate technology together. Preparing for the future of learning AI isn't going away. As it becomes more embedded in society, it will play a major role in how today's learners study, work and solve problems throughout their lives. Teaching children to use it wisely is key to future-proofing their success. 'As technology evolves, so must our parenting. Our role isn't to shield kids from innovation but to help them use it safely and meaningfully. With the right tools and support, parents can turn AI from Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal. Read original story on At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
15-06-2025
- Science
- The Citizen
AI use in classrooms is here to stay
AI use in classrooms is here to stay Just a few years ago, students were still studying the old-fashioned way – with dog-eared textbooks, handwritten notes, and the occasional Google search or message to a high-achieving friend. Many learners these days are turning to something far more advanced: artificial intelligence. Large language models like ChatGPT are quickly becoming essential study companions. From drafting essays and summarising chapters to solving maths problems and brainstorming science projects, AI tools are reshaping how young people learn. But are they enhancing education – or replacing it? As South Africa celebrates Youth Month, Arno Jansen van Vuuren, managing director of education insurance provider Futurewise, urges parents to ask: what does the rise of AI mean for education in South Africa, and how can children be guided to use it in a way that supports – rather than undermines – their learning? 'We often call this generation 'digital natives,' but they're becoming AI natives,' says Jansen van Vuuren. 'They're growing up with tools that can generate ideas, write essays, and respond almost like a human.' While some schools were quick to ban AI tools, particularly early on, enforcing those restrictions outside the classroom is virtually impossible. AI is advancing faster than regulations can keep up – and it's not going away. 'These tools are evolving so rapidly that we can't predict what they'll be capable of in even a few months,' he adds. 'That's why parents have a vital role in teaching children to use AI as a learning aid – not a crutch.' The good: a powerful study companion When used correctly, AI can enhance learning. It helps students break down complex concepts, rephrase difficult topics, and generate practice questions or writing prompts. For shy learners or those who struggle with traditional study methods, it can be transformative. And with 24/7 availability, AI tools offer consistent support – whether during late-night cramming sessions or weekend revision. The bad: over-reliance and lost thinking skills The danger arises when students begin relying on AI to do the thinking for them. Generative AI doesn't understand content – it predicts language patterns. That means learners may copy answers without truly grasping the material, which over time can erode critical thinking, confidence, and creativity. 'Think of AI like a calculator,' says Jansen van Vuuren. 'It's useful once you understand the basics. But using it before you've developed those skills can hinder long-term learning.' The dangerous: misinformation, bias and privacy risks Despite sounding confident, AI tools are not always accurate. They can generate false information and reflect biases based on the data they were trained on. 'There are also real privacy concerns,' Jansen van Vuuren warns. 'Children may unknowingly share personal details, not realising that their data could be stored or used to train future models.' He advises parents to remind children never to input personal information and to verify AI-generated facts using trusted sources. What can parents do? The answer isn't to ban AI – it's to build awareness and guide responsible use. 'Start by exploring AI tools with your child,' says Jansen van Vuuren. 'Experiment with prompts. Compare AI responses with school materials. Ask questions like, 'How did you get that answer?' or 'Can you explain it differently?'' He also encourages parents to discuss the ethics of AI use: when is it helpful, and when does it cross into academic dishonesty? 'Help your child understand that learning is the goal – not just handing in the perfect assignment.' If you're unsure where to start, resources like the Futurewise Learning Hub offer practical support. The Hub includes interactive tools that promote digital and emotional literacy – from online safety to academic guidance – helping families navigate technology together. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Miami Herald
12-06-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
Popular nationwide beauty chain files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
The beauty industry has faced economic challenges and financial distress over the last five years since the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily derailed most retail industries. Companies have dealt with rising labor and product costs exacerbated by inflation, increased interest rates, cautious consumers who are watching their budgets in uncertain economic times, and fierce competition. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter Some of the biggest names in the beauty business suffered from the Covid-19 fallout and filed for bankruptcy protection, including Revlon, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2022, and Avon, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August 2024. Related: Popular local Dairy Queen rival files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Beauty technology company Cutera filed for a prepackaged Chapter 11 bankruptcy on March 5, 2025, to reduce its debt by $400 million, and award-winning cosmetics company SBLA Beauty filed for Chapter 11 protection on March 11, 2025, to reorganize its business and restructure its debt. Also, telehealth company Hims & Hers Health shut down its acne treatment dermatology business, Apostrophe, also on March 7, 2025, after buying the San Francisco-based company four years ago for about $190 million. The company, however, did not file for bankruptcy protection. Hims & Hers transitioned away from the Apostrophe brand and encouraged patients to try its brand's treatment options, the company revealed on its website. Another skincare brand Futurewise Inc. revealed that it discontinued orders on its website beginning March 24, 2025. "Goodbye for now," the skincare brand wrote on its website. "After a lot of thought, we have made the hard decision to sunset Futurewise. Futurewise, which offered its skincare products Slug Boost, Slug Cream, Slug Balm, and Face Melt, for its "slugging" practice of skincare, also did not file for bankruptcy. In addition to skin care products, spa services for weight loss, non-surgical body improvements, slimming, and toning are also a major part of the beauty industry. One beauty service chain in Tuscaloosa, Ala., faced severe financial issues, filed for bankruptcy, and closed its business. Medical spa Body Oasis filed for bankruptcy on Nov. 6, 2024, and shut down all of its operations, reportedly leaving customers in limbo, ABC-33/40 News reported. Finally, national spa services chain Contour Spa LLC filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to reorganize its business, facing significant debt obligations. Related: Huge auto parts company files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy The Orlando, Fla.-based company filed its petition in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida on June 11, while at least 23 affiliates filed their petitions the following day. More bankruptcy: Iconic auto repair chain franchise files Chapter 11 bankruptcyPopular beer brand closes down and files Chapter 7 bankruptcyPopular vodka and gin brand files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy The debtor listed $500,000 to $1 million in assets and $1 million to $10 million in liabilities in its petition, including over $562,000 owed to Lanco Equities, over $344.000 owed to Kash Advance LLC, over $339,000 owed to Formentera Capital Group, over $377,000 owed to Liberta Funding LLC, and over $239,000 owed to American Express. The company has authorized CEO Roger A. Farwell to seek approval of a debtor-in-possession financing agreement, according to RK Consultants. Contour Spa offers its Cryo Slimming sessions using its slimming and toning protocols designed to reduce cellulite, tighten skin, achieve permanent fat loss, and minimize stretch marks. The spa service also offers its Cryo Facials, which can be obtained for free through its $99 introductory offer, according to its website. Related: Major trucking company files Chapter 11 bankruptcy The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
IOL News
10-06-2025
- Science
- IOL News
How AI is transforming education: a guide for parents
Used correctly, AI can be a powerful learning ally. It can help students break down complex concepts, rephrase difficult topics, and provide practice questions or writing prompts. Image: ChatGPT As digital landscapes transform rapidly, so too does the educational playground for today's students. Gone are the days of poring over dog-eared textbooks and scribbling notes. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is ushering in a new era for learners. Arno Jansen van Vuuren, Managing Director of Futurewise, said the implications of AI in education and what parents need to know to support their children in this evolving landscape. With tools like ChatGPT at their fingertips, students are empowered like never before. These large language models are redefining study habits, assisting with tasks such as drafting essays, summarising chapters, checking maths problems, and even brainstorming science projects. However, this remarkable facilitation raises an important question: Are these tools enhancing learning, or are they inadvertently replacing it? As Youth Month unfolds, Jansen van Vuuren emphasised that today's children are not merely digital natives; they are becoming 'AI natives.' These young individuals are growing familiar with tools that can generate ideas and mimic human responses almost effortlessly. 'While some schools moved quickly to ban these tools, enforcing those restrictions outside the classroom is nearly impossible,' he explains. 'AI is evolving faster than regulatory policy can catch up – and it's not going anywhere.' In this context, he stressed the critical role parents play in guiding their children to establish healthy and responsible habits concerning AI use. 'The goal is for children to learn with AI, not just from it,' he said. When harnessed correctly, AI can serve as a vital ally in learning. For students grappling with complex concepts or those who feel too shy to ask questions in class, AI tools can break down difficult topics, provide practice questions, and serve as a reliable study partner available around the clock. This capacity for accessibility can make a world of difference during those late-night cramming sessions or intense weekend revisions. However, Jansen van Vuuren warns that over-reliance on AI can lead to a decline in critical thinking skills. Generative AI does not truly understand the content it presents; it merely predicts text based on patterns. 'If students start relying on ChatGPT to do the thinking for them, they might miss grasping the concepts,' he warned. While the apparent intelligence of tools like ChatGPT can be misleading, they can yield inaccurate or biased information. He advised parents to educate their children about never entering personal details in AI tools and to verify AI-generated information using reliable sources.
Yahoo
29-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Residents across WA work together to protect farmland for future generations
The three of us call the Tri-Cities region home: Maricela is the daughter of farmworkers; Veronika works alongside farmers to connect them to their local farm-to-table community and business boosting resources; and Ginger is a passionate advocate for local food who served on the start-up board of the new Tri-Cities Food Co-Op. All three of us agree that farmers are the heart of our society, who work tirelessly to feed their communities. That's why we're writing to respond to the misinformation being spread in our community about a recent State Supreme Court decision, King County v. Friends of Sammamish Valley and Futurewise. Recent reporting in the Tri-City Herald asserts that this court decision was to blame for Wheat Head Brewery losing a permit for food trucks at the brewery. We don't claim to know why Benton County denied a food truck permit for Wheat Head Brewery but as Futurewise board members, we feel confident in asserting that it wasn't because of this court case. The 2024 court decision protects farmland from sprawl and speculative development by limiting non-agricultural uses on farmland. The court decision also supports agritourism that enhances (rather than competes with) the primary use of farmland for agriculture. The intent of this legal case and the impact of this ruling is to protect farmers on both sides of the Cascades, so they do not have to compete with non-farmers for land, while still allowing agritourism to supplement income for farmers themselves. The ruling doesn't ban tasting rooms at vineyards or a food truck at a brewery, or pumpkin patches. The ruling simply ensures that the primary use of agricultural land is for farming and stays that way. The court recognizes that agritourism can be an important way for farmers to support their difficult work and stay in business. This ruling provides guidance on how agricultural land can be used for secondary income sources — like a brewery, food trucks, or as an event venue — while ensuring that farmland remains primarily used for its main purpose: farming. The timing of this case couldn't be more crucial: according to the American Farmland Trust, Washington state is in danger of losing 192,000 acres of farmland by 2040 to sprawling development if current trends continue. We're seeing this first hand in Benton and Franklin counties with new subdivisions eating up more and more acres that in previous generations produced wheat, onions, and potatoes. Farmers are the heart of our society. There are few things more important than preserving bountiful farmland and supporting the families working each acre. Farming has significant challenges. Agritourism is an important component of a multi-level solution that advocates for and supports farmers statewide while preserving legacy agricultural land. We encourage everyone passionate about this issue to complete the Washington State Agritourism Study to share your feedback with decision makers and help us preserve farmland while promoting density, accessibility, and a better future for all people in Washington. And if you or someone you know is having trouble with a permit for an accessory use on a farm, please reach out to Futurewise and we'll see if we can help. Maricela Sanchez is a Prosser City Councilmember and past Futurewise board president. Veronika Meiers is the founder and CEO of Strategy Northwest and Futurewise board treasurer. Ginger Wireman is a founder of the Tapteal Greenway and Tres Ríos Community Land Trust and serves as a Futurewise board member.
