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Category: Skills

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: January 9, 2025In:

Top 10 Extremely Dangerous Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Refrigerator.Read more

Top 10 Extremely Dangerous Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Refrigerator.

A burning refrigerator in a kitchen with a fire coming out of it

A refrigerator is an essential appliance in every household, but it can become a source of danger if not used correctly. Here are the top 10 mistakes to avoid to ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Placing the Refrigerator Too Close to Heat-Generating Devices

Positioning your refrigerator next to heat sources such as gas stoves, microwaves, or ovens can cause overheating and even explosions. The proximity to heat increases the workload on the refrigerator’s cooling system, leading to potential malfunctions. Ensure at least a few inches of space around your refrigerator to allow proper ventilation.

2. Using an Old, Poorly Maintained Refrigerator

An old refrigerator that has not been regularly serviced can become a hazard. Issues such as clogged capillary tubes and faulty compressors can increase pressure inside the refrigerator, leading to reduced efficiency and potential explosions. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of outdated appliances are crucial.

Tip: Schedule professional maintenance checks annually and consider replacing refrigerators that show signs of wear and tear, such as continuous noise or ice buildup.

3. Storing Carbonated Drinks or Alcohol in the Freezer

Storing carbonated beverages or alcohol in the freezer can be a recipe for disaster. These liquids can expand and cause the container to explode due to pressure changes. This not only risks damage to your refrigerator but also personal injury.

Tip: Chill carbonated drinks and alcohol in the refrigerator section or use a rapid beverage cooler for safe cooling.

4. Ignoring Gas and Electrical Leaks

Gas leaks combined with electrical issues can result in dangerous explosions. The sturdy steel shell of a refrigerator’s gas tank may develop leaks, and if an electrical short circuit occurs simultaneously, it can ignite the gas.

Tip: Regularly inspect the refrigerator for any gas or electrical issues. If you smell gas or notice sparking, turn off the appliance and call a technician immediately.

5. Overloading a Single Outlet

Plugging multiple devices into the same outlet as your refrigerator can lead to electrical overloads and short circuits. This can cause fires, especially if the outlet is not designed to handle high power loads.

Tip: Use a dedicated outlet for your refrigerator and avoid overloading power strips or extension cords.

6. Using Insect Repellents Near the Refrigerator

Chemicals from insect repellents or hairspray can react with electrical sparks from the refrigerator, causing an explosion. Keep these substances away from the appliance.

Tip: Store flammable sprays in a separate area and ensure proper ventilation when using them nearby.

7. Blocking Air Vents

Blocking the air vents inside the refrigerator can hinder air circulation, causing uneven cooling and increased strain on the compressor. This can lead to overheating and potential failure.

Tip: Keep the vents clear by not overloading the refrigerator and organizing items to allow free air circulation.

8. Failing to Defrost Regularly

Ice buildup in the freezer can reduce efficiency and increase energy consumption. It can also block essential components, leading to potential mechanical failures.

Tip: Manually defrost the freezer periodically or choose models with automatic defrost features.

9. Placing Hot Food Directly Inside

Placing hot food directly into the refrigerator can raise the internal temperature, forcing the appliance to work harder and potentially causing mechanical strain.

Tip: Allow hot food to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain optimal performance.

10. Not Using a Surge Protector

Power surges can damage the electrical components of a refrigerator, leading to malfunction or short circuits.

Tip: Invest in a surge protector for your refrigerator to safeguard it from power fluctuations.

Additional Safety Tips

  • Read the Manual: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use and maintenance.
  • Keep It Clean: Regularly clean the coils and interior to prevent dust buildup and ensure efficient operation.
  • Check Seals: Ensure the door seals are tight to maintain cooling efficiency and prevent energy waste.

By avoiding these mistakes and following the tips provided, you can ensure your refrigerator operates safely and efficiently, prolonging its lifespan and reducing the risk of accidents.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: December 9, 2024In: ,

Khmer Dictation Contest Closes Applications, 1,200 EnrollThe Khmer Dictation Contest, a unique event that celebrates the beauty and intricacies of the Khmer language, has quickly become one of Cambodia’s most cherished cultural competitions. With the second edition closing its ...Read more

Khmer Dictation Contest Closes Applications, 1,200 Enroll

The Khmer Dictation Contest, a unique event that celebrates the beauty and intricacies of the Khmer language, has quickly become one of Cambodia’s most cherished cultural competitions. With the second edition closing its application process and securing 1,200 participants, the contest underscores the importance of preserving and promoting Khmer literature and the alphabet.

Angkor Wat writing event
Angkor Wat writing event

This blog delves into the essence of the Khmer Dictation Contest, its history, purpose, and the milestones achieved, along with the inspiring stories of its participants.

What is the Khmer Dictation Contest?

The Khmer Dictation Contest, also known as the Angkor Writing Contest, is a national competition aimed at celebrating the Khmer language. It highlights the beauty and complexity of Khmer spelling and grammar while fostering a sense of unity and pride among Cambodians.

Khmer dictation contest

Participants are tasked with dictation exercises that test their proficiency in the Khmer language, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation. It is not just a competition but a celebration of Cambodia’s rich literary heritage.

The Purpose of the Contest

The Khmer Dictation Contest serves several key purposes:

  1. Preserving Khmer Language and Literature
    By emphasizing the intricacies of Khmer grammar and spelling, the contest acts as a safeguard for the preservation of the Khmer alphabet and literary traditions.
  2. Promoting Cultural Awareness
    Themes such as Angkor Khmer Civilisation and Angkor Writing connect participants to Cambodia’s history and cultural richness, deepening their appreciation for the nation’s heritage.
  3. Fostering National Unity
    The competition brings together individuals from all walks of life, reinforcing a shared love for the Khmer language.
  4. Encouraging Intergenerational Participation
    With participants ranging from six to 81 years old, the contest demonstrates the timeless appeal of Khmer literature and its ability to unite generations.

History of the Khmer Dictation Contest

The Khmer Dictation Contest was first organized in 2023 under the theme Angkor Khmer Civilisation. A collaborative effort among various ministries, including those responsible for education, culture, and tourism, it quickly gained national attention.

Angkor writing contest 2025
Angkor writing contest 2025

The inaugural event welcomed 700 participants aged between seven and 67, and it concluded with prizes ranging from cash awards to luxury hotel stays. Cheng Ratana, a 28-year-old participant, emerged as the champion with an impressive record of only two errors.

Building on the success of the first edition, the 2025 contest has set its sights higher, with 1,200 applicants officially registered under the theme Angkor Writing.

Who Can Enroll?

One of the contest’s defining features is its inclusivity. The event is open to all Cambodians, regardless of age, background, or profession. This year’s participants include students, professionals, and retirees, showcasing a diverse array of individuals united by their passion for the Khmer language.

For the 2025 edition, participants are divided into two groups:

  • Group 1: For those aged 18 and under (with no minimum age requirement).
  • Group 2: For those aged 19 and above (with no upper age limit).

The wide age range ensures that everyone, from budding linguists to seasoned language enthusiasts, has an opportunity to showcase their skills.

Where Does the Contest Take Place?

The Khmer Dictation Contest takes place at a site that is both iconic and culturally significant: the western causeway of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This venue not only adds a sense of grandeur but also connects participants to Cambodia’s historical and cultural roots.

How the Contest is Organized

The event’s organization is a collaborative effort involving multiple ministries. Key details include:

  • Participation Fee: A nominal fee of 20,000 riel ($5) is collected to cover basic costs such as T-shirts and logistical support.
  • Capacity Limit: Due to venue constraints, the number of participants is capped at 1,200, ensuring a well-managed event.
  • Themes: Each year, the contest adopts a theme that resonates with Cambodian history and culture. This year’s theme, Angkor Writing, continues the tradition of honoring Khmer heritage.

Technical Preparations and Support

According to Hour Chhun Kry, director-general of the Ministry of Education’s General Education Department, all technical preparations are in place to ensure the contest runs smoothly. The seamless execution of such a large-scale event reflects the dedication and expertise of the organizing team.

Inspiring Stories from Participants

The inclusivity of the Khmer Dictation Contest has led to some remarkable stories:

  • The Youngest and the Oldest Participants
    This year’s competition includes a six-year-old child and an 81-year-old elder. Their participation highlights the universal appeal of the Khmer language and the desire to preserve it across generations.
  • Family Participation
    Some families have turned the contest into a bonding activity, with multiple members enrolling together.
  • Champion Stories
    The previous winner, Cheng Ratana, shared that his victory inspired his community to take a greater interest in Khmer literature.

What Makes the Khmer Dictation Contest Special?

Several factors contribute to the contest’s unique appeal:

  1. Cultural Significance:
    By linking the competition to themes like Angkor Khmer Civilisation, the event reinforces the connection between language and heritage.
  2. Community Engagement:
    The contest has become a platform for community participation, drawing contestants from across Cambodia.
  3. Inclusivity:
    The absence of rigid age or professional barriers ensures that everyone can participate.
  4. Prizes and Recognition:
    Winners receive not only material prizes but also national recognition as ambassadors of Khmer literary heritage.

The Future of the Khmer Dictation Contest

The overwhelming response to the contest highlights its growing popularity and cultural significance. While the current venue capacity limits participation to 1,200, the organizers have expressed a desire to expand in future editions, allowing even more people to join.

The introduction of the age-group system is another step toward inclusivity, ensuring fair competition across diverse demographics.

Why It Matters

The Khmer Dictation Contest is more than a competition—it is a celebration of Cambodia’s linguistic and cultural identity. In an era where globalization and technology threaten traditional practices, such initiatives are vital for preserving and promoting national heritage.

By bringing together participants of all ages and backgrounds, the contest not only fosters a love for the Khmer language but also strengthens national pride and unity.

Conclusion

The Khmer Dictation Contest stands as a testament to the enduring power of language and culture. From its humble beginnings in 2023 to its ambitious 2025 edition, the event has inspired thousands of Cambodians to reconnect with their linguistic roots. It has also highlighted the importance of preserving the Khmer alphabet for future generations.

As the second edition unfolds at the majestic Angkor Wat, the contest promises to be a landmark event that continues to celebrate the beauty of Khmer literature. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a young learner, the Khmer Dictation Contest offers a platform to share in the collective joy of language and heritage.

What do you think about the Khmer Dictation Contest? Have you or someone you know participated in it? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: December 5, 2024In: , , ,

The field of education is on the brink of a revolutionary transformation. Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technology that has steadily evolved over the years, is reshaping how children learn, interact, and grow. By 2025, the integration of AI into education ...Read more

The field of education is on the brink of a revolutionary transformation. Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technology that has steadily evolved over the years, is reshaping how children learn, interact, and grow. By 2025, the integration of AI into education systems worldwide promises to make learning more engaging, personalized, and effective than ever before. In this article, we explore how AI will transform education, focusing on its impact on kids, their teachers, and the broader educational landscape.

How Will AI Change the Ways Your Kids Learn in 2025?
How Will AI Change the Ways Your Kids Learn in 2025?

1. Personalized Learning: Tailored Education for Every Child

One-size-fits-all education is quickly becoming a relic of the past. With AI, each child can enjoy a tailored learning experience.

  • Adaptive Learning Platforms: AI-powered platforms like DreamBox and Squirrel AI analyze a student’s strengths, weaknesses, and pace of learning. By 2025, these platforms will become more advanced, adapting in real-time to suit individual needs.
  • Custom Curricula: For instance, a child excelling in mathematics but struggling with reading can spend more time on literacy-focused tasks without slowing their peers in other subjects.
  • Feedback in Real-Time: AI systems provide instant feedback to students, ensuring that they grasp concepts thoroughly before moving forward.

This personalization ensures that no child is left behind while also challenging advanced learners to reach their full potential.

2. AI as a Teaching Assistant

Teachers are invaluable, but their workload is immense. By 2025, AI will act as a powerful ally in classrooms, taking on repetitive tasks and freeing educators to focus on teaching.

  • Automated Grading: AI can grade tests, essays, and even creative assignments, saving teachers hours of work.
  • Attendance Tracking: Biometric AI systems will automatically track attendance and participation, eliminating administrative burdens.
  • Classroom Management: AI tools will identify students who may need additional support or are at risk of disengaging.

This partnership between AI and educators ensures a more efficient and supportive learning environment.

3. Immersive Learning Experiences

Learning is no longer confined to textbooks and classrooms. With AI and other technologies, education becomes a multisensory experience.

  • Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): By 2025, AI-powered AR and VR tools will create immersive learning environments. Imagine kids exploring ancient Rome in a VR simulation guided by an AI historian.
  • Gamified Learning: Games powered by AI will make learning fun and interactive. For example, AI might create a math game that adapts to a child’s progress, keeping the challenge engaging and dynamic.
  • Language Acquisition: AI tutors will help children learn new languages by mimicking natural conversational patterns, complete with accents and cultural nuances.

These tools will ignite curiosity and make complex topics easier to grasp.

4. Enhanced Special Education Support

For children with special needs, AI offers transformative solutions.

  • Speech and Language Therapy: AI-powered tools like ChatGPT can help children with speech disorders practice and improve their communication skills.
  • Assistive Devices: Devices equipped with AI can help children with physical or cognitive disabilities navigate learning environments more easily.
  • Behavioral Insights: AI systems can detect patterns in behavior that signal challenges, enabling early intervention and personalized support.

By addressing diverse needs, AI ensures inclusivity in education.

5. Learning Analytics: Insights for Better Outcomes

AI doesn’t just teach;

it learns about learning itself. By analyzing vast amounts of educational data, AI can provide critical insights to improve teaching strategies and student outcomes.

  • Performance Monitoring: AI tools will track each student’s progress over time, highlighting areas of improvement and success.
  • Predictive Analytics: Teachers and parents will receive data-driven predictions about a child’s learning trajectory, enabling proactive support.
  • Custom Recommendations: Based on analytics, AI can suggest additional resources, such as books, exercises, or extracurricular activities that align with a child’s interests and learning needs.

These analytics-driven insights will make education more data-informed and result-oriented.

6. AI and Creativity: Encouraging Imagination

Contrary to the belief that AI is purely logical, it can play a pivotal role in nurturing creativity among children.

  • Art and Music Composition: AI tools like OpenAI’s DALL-E and AIVA assist students in creating visual art and composing music, pushing the boundaries of their imagination.
  • Creative Writing: AI-powered platforms will help young writers craft stories, improve their narratives, and explore various genres.
  • STEM Creativity: AI will encourage innovation by providing children with tools to design prototypes, code apps, or even build robots.

By empowering kids to create, AI fosters a love for exploration and artistic expression.

7. Global Classrooms: Breaking Down Barriers

AI will make the world a smaller, more connected place by creating opportunities for global learning.

  • Virtual Exchange Programs: AI-powered platforms will enable students to collaborate with peers worldwide, promoting cultural understanding and teamwork.
  • Language Translation: AI tools will eliminate language barriers, making resources in any language accessible to students everywhere.
  • Global Educators: Students in remote areas can learn from the world’s best teachers via AI-enabled virtual classrooms.

This global approach to education will prepare kids for an interconnected future.

8. AI and Ethical Decision-Making in Learning

AI isn’t just about teaching facts—it can also foster ethical thinking and decision-making in children.

  • Scenario-Based Learning: AI simulations can place kids in real-world scenarios where they must make ethical choices, such as resolving conflicts or managing resources sustainably.
  • Empathy Building: AI can create role-playing games that help children understand different perspectives and develop emotional intelligence.
  • Digital Citizenship: With growing concerns about online behavior, AI tools will educate children on responsible internet usage and cybersecurity.

By 2025, AI will play a crucial role in shaping not just smarter but also kinder and more socially responsible individuals.

9. Lifelong Learning Habits

Education doesn’t stop at school, and AI will help instill lifelong learning habits in children.

  • Self-Paced Learning: AI apps will encourage kids to explore topics of personal interest, from astronomy to entrepreneurship.
  • Habit Tracking: AI systems can monitor study patterns and suggest improvements, helping students build discipline.
  • Parental Involvement: Parents can use AI-powered dashboards to stay informed about their child’s progress and support their learning journey at home.

These tools ensure that children grow into self-motivated learners, prepared to adapt to the demands of the future.

10. Ethical Challenges and Safeguards

While the benefits of AI are numerous, it also raises important ethical questions in education.

  • Data Privacy: Protecting students’ personal data will be a top priority. AI systems must comply with stringent privacy laws to ensure safety.
  • Equity and Accessibility: Ensuring that AI tools are available to all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, is critical.
  • Bias in AI: Developers must work to eliminate biases in AI algorithms to ensure fair treatment for all learners.

By addressing these challenges, educators and policymakers can ensure that AI is a force for good.

11. Reshaping the Role of Teachers

Rather than replacing teachers, AI will redefine their roles.

  • Mentors, Not Monitors: Teachers will focus more on mentoring, inspiring, and guiding students, while AI handles administrative tasks.
  • Professional Development: AI will offer teachers personalized training programs, helping them stay ahead in their fields.
  • Collaborative Teaching: Teachers will work alongside AI to design engaging lesson plans and monitor class performance.

This partnership will elevate the teaching profession and enhance the classroom experience.

12. The Future of Assessments

Traditional exams often fail to capture the full range of a student’s abilities. AI will revolutionize how assessments are conducted.

  • Continuous Evaluation: AI will assess students in real-time through their interactions, projects, and activities, reducing the reliance on high-stakes testing.
  • Holistic Metrics: Beyond academic knowledge, AI will measure critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and emotional intelligence.
  • Instant Results: Students and teachers will receive immediate feedback, enabling faster adjustments to learning strategies.

This new approach to assessments will provide a more comprehensive picture of a child’s growth.

13. Preparing for AI-Powered Careers

By 2025, AI will be a cornerstone of many industries, and education must prepare kids for this reality.

  • Coding for Kids: AI platforms like Scratch and Code.org will teach children programming languages from an early age.
  • AI Literacy: Students will learn to understand, interact with, and even build AI systems.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: AI tools will encourage students to tackle real-world problems, fostering skills like critical thinking and innovation.

These efforts will ensure that the next generation is ready to thrive in an AI-driven world.

A New Era of Learning

AI is set to transform education by making learning more personalized, engaging, and inclusive. By 2025, kids will not only gain knowledge but also develop critical life skills that prepare them for an ever-changing world. However, this transformation comes with responsibilities—to ensure equity, protect privacy, and uphold ethical standards.

As parents, educators, and policymakers, we must embrace AI’s potential while addressing its challenges. The future of learning is bright, and with the right guidance, AI can unlock the limitless potential of every child.

What excites you most about AI in education? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! Let’s discuss how we can work together to shape the future of learning for the better.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: December 1, 2024In:

In Cambodian society, teachers hold a highly esteemed position, often referred to as the “second parents” of children. This belief is deeply ingrained in Cambodian culture, where education is considered a key pillar for personal development and national progress. But ...Read more

In Cambodian society, teachers hold a highly esteemed position, often referred to as the “second parents” of children. This belief is deeply ingrained in Cambodian culture, where education is considered a key pillar for personal development and national progress. But why do Cambodian people regard teachers with such reverence, equating them to the role of parents? Let’s explore the cultural, social, and educational reasons that underscore this perspective.

Teachers Are the Second Parents

1. Teachers as Caregivers When Parents Are Absent

In Cambodian households, parents entrust their children to teachers once they leave for school. During this time, teachers act as guardians, ensuring the students’ safety and well-being.

  • Supervisory Role: Teachers monitor children’s activities, mediate conflicts, and provide guidance in their day-to-day interactions.
  • Emotional Support: Teachers often serve as confidants for children, helping them navigate personal challenges when parents aren’t available.
  • Disciplinarians: Like parents, teachers instill discipline, setting rules and expectations for behavior in the classroom and beyond.

This role as a protector and nurturer aligns closely with the responsibilities parents hold at home, cementing the view that teachers are indeed “second parents.”

2. Teachers Are Role Models for Students

Teachers play an influential role in shaping the values and character of Cambodian students. Beyond academic lessons, they impart life skills and moral principles.

  • Ethical Guidance: Teachers emphasize respect, integrity, and responsibility, which are foundational values in Cambodian culture.
  • Inspiration for Aspirations: By sharing their knowledge and experiences, teachers motivate students to dream big and work towards their goals.
  • Life Lessons: Teachers use everyday situations to teach resilience, critical thinking, and cooperation—skills essential for personal and professional growth.

In this way, teachers mirror the moral and ethical guidance traditionally provided by parents.

3. Teachers and Parents Share a Common Goal

Both teachers and parents are committed to the growth and success of children, albeit in different settings.

  • Academic Excellence: Parents focus on providing a supportive home environment, while teachers ensure students excel academically.
  • Life Preparation: Teachers equip children with the knowledge and skills needed for future challenges, complementing parents’ efforts in teaching practical life skills.
  • Partnerships for Progress: Many schools in Cambodia encourage parent-teacher collaboration to align educational goals, further strengthening the bond between teachers and families.

This shared mission unites parents and teachers as partners in raising well-rounded individuals.

4. Teachers Help Build Future Citizens and Leaders

In Cambodia, education is seen as a pathway to national development. Teachers play a pivotal role in cultivating responsible citizens and visionary leaders.

  • Nation-Building: By teaching history, civics, and ethics, teachers help students understand their roles in society and inspire patriotism.
  • Leadership Skills: Through group activities, debates, and projects, teachers encourage leadership qualities among students.
  • Empowerment Through Knowledge: Teachers empower students with the tools to break cycles of poverty and contribute meaningfully to Cambodia’s economy and culture.

As builders of the nation’s future, teachers’ influence goes far beyond the classroom, paralleling the aspirations parents have for their children.

5. Teachers Devote Their Lives to Education

The dedication of Cambodian teachers to their profession often mirrors the unconditional commitment of parents.

  • Long Hours and Hard Work: Many teachers go beyond their regular duties, staying after school to help struggling students or organizing extracurricular activities.
  • Sacrifices: Despite modest salaries, teachers in Cambodia continue to prioritize their students’ education, often using personal resources to enhance learning experiences.
  • Passion for Teaching: This deep commitment to their vocation reflects a parental-like love and concern for their students’ futures.

Such devotion resonates with parents’ sacrifices for their children, earning teachers their place as “second parents.”

6. Teachers Provide a Safe and Inclusive Environment

For many Cambodian children, school is a haven where they feel secure and accepted. Teachers foster an environment of trust and inclusivity that encourages learning and growth.

  • Creating Belonging: Teachers ensure every child feels valued and included, regardless of background or ability.
  • Promoting Safety: Teachers are trained to recognize signs of bullying or distress, stepping in to resolve conflicts and protect students.
  • Emotional Nurturing: Through kind words and encouragement, teachers build confidence and self-esteem in their students.

By providing a space that nurtures both intellect and emotion, teachers emulate the protective role of parents.

7. Teachers Shape Cultural and Social Values

Cambodian society places great importance on cultural preservation, and teachers are the custodians of these traditions.

  • Teaching Traditions: Teachers incorporate Cambodian customs, language, and history into their lessons, ensuring that cultural heritage is passed to future generations.
  • Social Etiquette: From proper greetings to respect for elders, teachers reinforce societal norms in the classroom.
  • Promoting Unity: In diverse classrooms, teachers emphasize inclusivity and cooperation, preparing students for harmonious coexistence in a multicultural society.

This cultural mentorship strengthens the familial bond between students and teachers.

8. Teachers Act as Problem-Solvers

In addition to academic instruction, teachers often address issues that students face both inside and outside the classroom.

  • Personal Guidance: Teachers help students navigate challenges such as peer pressure, academic stress, or family difficulties.
  • Conflict Resolution: Teachers mediate disputes among students, teaching them the importance of empathy and communication.
  • Adapting to Individual Needs: Recognizing that every child is unique, teachers tailor their approaches to suit different learning styles and personalities.

These problem-solving efforts mirror the problem-solving role parents undertake at home.

9. Teachers Encourage Lifelong Learning

Teachers instill a love of learning in students, a quality that benefits them throughout their lives.

  • Curiosity and Creativity: Through engaging lessons and hands-on activities, teachers spark curiosity and foster creativity.
  • Critical Thinking: Teachers challenge students to question, analyze, and think independently—skills essential for personal and professional success.
  • Continued Support: Even after students graduate, many Cambodian teachers remain mentors, offering advice and encouragement.

This lifelong impact reinforces the enduring relationship between teachers and students, akin to the bond between parents and their children.

10. Teachers Bridge Gaps Between Generations

In Cambodia, teachers often play a unique role in bridging generational divides by helping students understand and respect the wisdom of elders while embracing modern ideas.

  • Cultural Contexts: Teachers explain the significance of traditional practices, helping students connect with their roots.
  • Modern Insights: At the same time, they introduce new technologies, global perspectives, and innovative solutions, preparing students for a dynamic world.
  • Balancing Values: By blending old and new, teachers help students appreciate their heritage while adapting to contemporary challenges.

This ability to bridge generations mirrors the parental role of preserving family traditions while preparing children for the future.

Conclusion

In Cambodian culture, the reverence for teachers as “second parents” stems from their multifaceted role in students’ lives. Teachers provide care, guidance, and support, just as parents do, and their influence often extends beyond the classroom. By shaping character, imparting knowledge, and nurturing potential, teachers contribute not only to individual success but also to the development of Cambodian society as a whole.

What do you think about the role of teachers in shaping the lives of Cambodian students? Share your thoughts and stories about the impact of teachers on your life or your child’s education in the comments below!

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: November 29, 2024In:

In a move that has captured global attention, the Australian Parliament passed a groundbreaking law banning children under 16 from accessing social media platforms. The legislation, hailed as a world-first, holds platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, and ...Read more

In a move that has captured global attention, the Australian Parliament passed a groundbreaking law banning children under 16 from accessing social media platforms. The legislation, hailed as a world-first, holds platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, and X accountable, imposing fines of up to 50 million AUD ($33 million) for systemic failures to enforce the age restriction.

Australia has passed a law banning under-16s from social media
Australia has passed a law banning under-16s from social media. Photograph: SolStock/Getty Images

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the law’s significance in safeguarding children, stating, “Platforms now have a social responsibility to ensure the safety of our kids is a priority for them.”

But why has this decision sparked such intense debate? Here’s an in-depth look at the legislation, its implications, and the controversies surrounding it.

Key Details of the Legislation

The new law passed through both houses of Parliament with significant support:

  • The Senate: Approved by 34 votes to 19.
  • The House of Representatives: Passed with 102 votes to 13.

The platforms have one year to devise and implement mechanisms to enforce the age restrictions before penalties take effect.

While the law bans users under 16, it includes exemptions for health and education services, such as YouTube, Messenger Kids, WhatsApp, Kids Helpline, and Google Classroom.

A Step Towards Protecting Children

The legislation seeks to address mounting concerns from parents and safety advocates about the risks children face online, such as cyberbullying, exploitation, and harmful content. Online safety campaigner Sonya Ryan, whose 15-year-old daughter Carly was tragically murdered by an online predator, described the Senate vote as a “monumental moment in protecting our children from horrendous harms online.”

Ryan added, “It’s too late for my daughter, Carly, and the many other children who have suffered terribly, but let us stand together on their behalf.”

Similarly, Wayne Holdsworth, whose teenage son Mac took his own life after falling victim to an online sextortion scam, praised the legislation as a major achievement:

“I have always been a proud Australian, but for me, subsequent to today’s Senate decision, I am bursting with pride.”

Controversy Surrounding the Ban

While the government and many parents support the legislation, it has faced criticism from various sectors, including mental health experts, the tech industry, and advocates for children’s rights.

Concerns About Implementation and Scope

Meta Platforms, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, criticized the legislation for being rushed, stating:
“The law was passed without properly considering evidence, what the industry already does to ensure age-appropriate experiences, and the voices of young people.”

DIGI, an industry advocate group, echoed this sentiment. Managing director Sunita Bose noted:
“No one can confidently explain how it will work in practice – the community and platforms are in the dark about what exactly is required of them.”

Snapchat also expressed reservations, pledging cooperation with the government during the 12-month implementation period to ensure a balanced approach.

Privacy and Unintended Consequences

Critics argue the legislation could infringe on user privacy by requiring platforms to verify users’ ages. The law prohibits platforms from demanding government-issued identification, but concerns remain about how age verification will be enforced without compromising user data.

Mental health experts, including Sen. David Shoebridge from the Greens party, warned of the potential harm the ban could inflict on vulnerable children. Shoebridge stated:
“This policy will hurt vulnerable young people the most, especially in regional communities and especially the LGBTQI community, by cutting them off.”

Christopher Stone, executive director of Suicide Prevention Australia, criticized the rushed nature of the legislation:
“Young Australians deserve evidence-based policies, not decisions made in haste.”

Potential Political Motivations

Some critics view the legislation as a politically motivated move to appeal to concerned parents ahead of the general election in May. The government hopes to gain voter support by addressing parents’ concerns about their children’s social media use and online safety.

However, opponents caution that the ban may do more harm than good by:

  • Isolating children who rely on social media for support and connection.
  • Driving young users to riskier platforms like the dark web.
  • Reducing incentives for platforms to improve safety measures.
  • Undermining parental authority in deciding what’s best for their children.

A Balancing Act Between Safety and Freedom

The legislation represents a significant step in regulating digital platforms, but it has also sparked a global conversation about the role of governments, platforms, and parents in protecting children online. While many applaud the Australian Parliament for its bold action, others argue that more time and consideration are needed to ensure the law achieves its intended purpose without unintended consequences.

What do you think about this landmark legislation? Is it a necessary step to protect children, or does it overreach and risk causing more harm than good? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/

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