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Are 'the world's most beautiful islands' in danger?

Norway's stunning Lofoten Islands have gone viral for their midnight summer sun. But as the isles face overtourism for the first time, residents have an important message for visitors.

Located 300km inside the Arctic Circle, Norway's Lofoten archipelago rises dramatically from the sea in a jagged, mountainous crescendo. Its otherworldly glacier-sculpted landscapes and magical 24-hour summer daylight have led the isles to proudly dub themselves "the world's most beautiful islands". But it's a roadside stop, not a soaring summit or majestic fjord, that convinces me of this self-declared moniker.

Just a few paces away from the village of Flakstad on the island of Flakstadøya, I spy a beach where the water shifts from turquoise to glass-clear as it laps against basalt rock and sugar-white sand. It's a scene more Aegean than Arctic − until you see the ridge of craggy mountains floating above the fjord, the last snow clinging to their flanks. From late May to the end of July, Lofoten is bathed in constant daylight, and in this endless summer sun, the colours feel heightened. Standing on the sand, it's hard to imagine anywhere more idyllic.

Locals tell me that the 24-hour sun bathes these islands in a unique light and point to round-the-clock fishing and 02:00 tee times as quintessential summertime experiences. But kayaks crisscross the waters in every season, and hikers come year-round for the panoramic mountaintop views of silent fjords and romantic waterside villages that define the islands, chasing the midnight sun or the Northern Lights. At times, the only sounds around are the cries of the island's resident avians: sea eagles, puffins and razorbills. 

The Lofoten archipelago is made up of seven principal islands off the North West coast of Norway. The E10 highway runs for nearly 175km through the archipelago, threading the five largest, Austvågøya, Vestvågøya, Moskenesøya, Flakstadøya and Gimsøya, by a series of impressively engineered bridges and tunnels, allowing drivers to move between islands with ease.

Visitors here are nothing new. The islands were home to northern Norway's earliest Viking settlement, drawing traders from as far away as Iceland. For centuries, tens of thousands of sailors journeyed here each winter to fish for Arctic cod, a tradition still reflected in the red rorbuer (fishermen's cabins) that now host tourists instead of seafarers.

And yet, tourism was late to come to this far-flung corner of the world. It only started to grow significantly in the past 20 years, helped initially by improved road and ferry links, then accelerated as social media began showcasing Lofoten's stunning scenery to a global audience. Now Lofoten's beauty is no longer a secret, and what was once a seasonal outpost of survival and commerce has evolved into one of Norway's most popular destinations. In 2023, the islands welcomed around one million visitors, or roughly 40 times Lofoten's permanent population of 25,000.

But as European heatwaves drive travellers further north and new seasonal flights from Paris, Frankfurt and Zurich launched last year, tourism is only set to rise further. A weaker Norwegian krone is helping to seal the deal.

Lofoten residents Astrid Haugen and Frida Berg explain that they're proud to share their home and welcome the jobs (and the new bars and restaurants) brought about by tourism, but wonder whether infrastructure can keep up. They also worry whether this influx of visitors will affect the landscape and fragile ecosystem that make Lofoten so special.

I meet up with them on Unstad beach, at the north-western corner of Vestvågøy, one of the best places on the islands to catch the midnight sun, thanks to its unobstructed views across the bay. Even at 23:00, surfers cheer each another on from the waves. Families enjoy snacks on the rocks while children shriek in the shallows as they splash in the frigid, single-digit Arctic waters. Mountains hover on either side of us, framed by a sky a few shades paler than the sea.

"When I used to travel abroad and said I was from Lofoten, people looked blank," says Haugen, as we stroll the beach. "Now they've seen pictures online and can't believe this is my everyday view."

"That's part of the problem," adds Berg. "This is our home − not just a backdrop for a Facebook selfie. When people litter or block roads, it's so frustrating".

Many residents I speak with share this frustration. They're not just bothered by the number of visitors, but by their behaviour.

I see many examples of this during my week on Lofoten. RVs creep along narrow fjordside roads to snap a photo, oblivious to the traffic building behind them. At 20:00, the car park hike up the vertiginous Reinebringen mountain resembles a suburban shopping centre on Black Friday, jarring with the peaceful surroundings. Groups of eager tourists spill out, eager to tackle the 1,978 steps that separate them from the vertiginous panorama at the summit.

Some locals have had enough. In a recent radio interview, Flakstad mayor Einar Benjaminson warned of shifting sentiment: "Ten years ago, maybe 2% of our residents didn't want tourism. Now it's more like 25%."

As in many tourist hotspots, Lofoten residents are also frustrated that an increasing number of homes are being bought by wealthy outsiders. Some are purchased as seasonal getaways or turned into short-term accommodation, hollowing out villages in winter; in other areas whole settlements have been turned into sleek resorts. 

Nusfjord, on Lofoten's southern coast, illustrates this shift. The historic fishing village is postcard-perfect, with ed and ochre warehouses perched on a narrow isthmus facing the sea, appearing frozen in time on its 19th-Century foundations.

The permanent population? 22. The number of annual tourists? 90,000.

After the village's fishing industry migrated to more populated areas, Nusfjord's centre became a Unesco World Heritage site, combining tourist accommodation and "a living museum where you can touch, feel and breathe the history of coastal Norway," according to local historian Ingrid Larsen. It remains an utterly charming stop: the museum, set in a former cod liver factory, offers insights into the village's fishing legacy; the restored general store serves excellent cinnamon buns; and the boardwalk, backed by a rippled grey ridgeline, is undeniably scenic.

Erling Hansen, a tour guide, understands the locals' concern but is pragmatic: "Without tourism, there probably would be no village in Nusfjord anymore."

Later that day in Henningsvær − 80km and several peninsulas away from Nusfjord − the contrast is stark. Even at 22:00, the village hums with life as locals revel in the extended daylight. Teenagers swarm towards the floodlit football pitch, improbably perched on a rocky outcrop. Two neighbours paint their front doors − one white, one blue − gesturing mid-conversation with dripping brushes.

At the harbour, tools clank as fishermen check their nets. "The fish bite better at midnight," one says with a grin.

Tourism supports 19% of local jobs on the islands. Around-the-clock fishing trips offer visitors a taste of tradition − and locals a new income stream. The message is clear: guests are welcome, but as Hansen says, "We're not some Arctic Disneyworld".

Earlier this year, the Norwegian government gave councils in high-tourism areas the right to introduce a visitor tax. Lofoten plans to roll it out in 2026. The revenue will help fund overstretched infrastructure, from extra parking to trail signage urging hikers to stick to the path − in case the dizzying drop-offs weren't clear enough.

Mayor Benjaminson welcomes the budgetary relief. "We no longer need to choose between renovating a school or cleaning up after tourists," he says dryly.

It's part of a broader, gently persuasive strategy. Local tourism campaigns feature locals − including schoolchildren − asking visitors to drive responsibly, take their rubbish home and avoid disturbing local wildlife when hiking. Officials also hope to promote Lofoten year-round, easing the summer surge and preventing areas becoming ghost towns when the light fades.

Back at Unstad, the light softens to amber as I walk along the shore with Haugen and Berg. A lone surfer rides a gilded wave while multiple families are trying − and failing − to convince their children that constant daylight doesn't cancel bedtime.

"It's hard," says Berg. "We want people to love Lofoten − just not so much that it stops being Lofoten."

She has captured the dilemma. Tourism funds heritage projects that might otherwise vanish, but the endless days − and the crowds they bring − stretch local patience and infrastructure.

And still, Lofoten captivates. Peaks catch fire as the sun stretches over the sea, quietly inviting us to linger.

Amid this serene beauty are homes, schools and businesses. Locals are learning how to share the magic without losing it. They hope visitors will do more than admire the view − that they'll tread lightly, listen closely and help protect what attracted them in the first place.

https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20250801-are-the-worlds-most-beaut iful-islands-in-dange

Texto: Challenges in Global Education Systems

    Education is a fundamental pillar of societal development, but many global education systems face significant challenges that hinder their ability to provide equal and quality learning opportunities. These challenges vary from country to country but share common themes such as inequality, lack of resources, outdated curricula, and the rapid pace of technological change.

    One of the most pressing challenges in global education systems is inequality. In many parts of the world, access to quality education is not universal, and disparities in educational opportunities persist along socioeconomic, geographic, and gender lines. In low-income countries, educational infrastructure may be underdeveloped, with inadequate classrooms, outdated textbooks, and insufficient access to digital technologies. Rural areas often face more severe challenges, with limited access to schools or well-trained teachers. Similarly, marginalized communities — such as girls in some parts of Africa or indigenous populations — face cultural and societal barriers that prevent them from accessing education. In wealthier countries, while access to education may not be an issue, disparities remain within local communities, particularly in urban areas. Students from lowerincome backgrounds may face challenges in accessing tutoring, extracurricular activities, and the technology required for modern learning. Addressing these inequities is crucial to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

    Another significant challenge in global education systems is the outdated nature of curricula and teaching methods. In many cases, education systems are still based on models from the 19th or 20th centuries, designed to meet the needs of an industrialized economy rather than a knowledge-based, technology-driven society. Traditional curricula often emphasize rote learning and memorization rather than critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving — skills that are essential in today’s globalized world. Moreover, teaching methods may be rigid, focusing on passive learning rather than active student engagement. This makes it difficult for students to develop the skills necessary to thrive in modern workplaces, where adaptability, innovation, and collaboration are highly valued.

    In many parts of the world, education systems have been slow to adapt to the integration of digital technologies and 21st-century learning strategies. Without updating curricula to reflect the demands of the modern world, students may leave school without the skills needed to succeed in higher education or the workforce. A lack of effective teacher training is another challenge that impacts global education systems. Teachers are the heart of any educational system, and their ability to deliver quality instruction directly affects student outcomes.

    In recent years, technology has become a critical part of the education system. However, the digital divide remains a significant barrier to achieving global educational equity. While students in wealthier countries have easy access to digital tools, high-speed internet, and online resources, students in low-income or rural areas often lack access to the necessary technology. The COVID19 pandemic highlighted these disparities, as many students in underserved communities struggled with remote learning due to limited access to devices or reliable internet connections. The digital divide not only limits access to education but also prevents students from gaining essential digital skills that are crucial in today’s job market.

    The pressures of academic performance, social media, and external expectations can take a toll on students’ mental well-being. In highpressure educational systems, students may experience stress, anxiety, and burnout, which can hinder their ability to focus, learn, and succeed. Additionally, a lack of access to mental health resources or support services further exacerbates these issues. Teachers, too, face significant mental health challenges. The demands of managing large classrooms, addressing diverse learning needs, and meeting educational standards can lead to burnout and job dissatisfaction. Addressing mental health and well-being for both students and educators is essential for creating a healthy and effective learning environment.

    In conclusion, the challenges faced by global education systems are multifaceted and complex, ranging from inequality and outdated curricula to teacher training and the digital divide. These challenges impact not only the quality of education but also the future success and wellbeing of students. To overcome these issues, it is crucial for governments, educational institutions, and communities to collaborate on innovative solutions that address the root causes of these challenges. By investing in equitable access to education, updating curricula, enhancing teacher training, and integrating technology, we can create a more inclusive and effective global education system that equips students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Taken and adapted from:

https://portaleducoas.org/challenges-in-globaleducation-systems/

Read the text to answer the question.

     A recent Executive Order by President Biden emphasized the link between racial equity, education, and artificial intelligence (AI). It stated that the Federal Government must both pursue educational equity and eliminate bias in the design and use of new technologies, such as AI.

     The U.S. Department of Education’s report Advancing Digital Equity for All defines digital equity as the condition in which individuals and technological communities capacity needed have the for full participation in society and the economy.  

     Concerns about racial equity and bias are central to the debate on AI in education. AI systems rely on datasets, and when these datasets are non-representative or contain biased patterns, the resulting models may behave unfairly. Such systematic unfairness in automated decisions is known as algorithmic bias, which can lead to discrimination and undermine equity at scale.

     Bias is intrinsic to how AI algorithms are trained on historical data. When these biases sustain unjust or discriminatory practices in education, they must be identified and addressed. For instance, algorithms used for admissions, early intervention, or exam monitoring should be regularly evaluated for evidence of unfair bias, not only during design but also as they are deployed in real educational contexts. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Educational

Technology. (2023). Artificial Intelligence and the Future of

Teaching and Learning: Insights and Recommendations.

Washington, DC: U.S.

Text 1

Smatphones are banned in Brazilian Schools

Brazil’s president has signed a law to limit smartphone use in schools, starting in February. This rule will apply to elementary and high schools across the country. Phones will only be allowed in emergencies, for educational activities, or for students with disabilities. The goal is to help students focus better and reduce distractions caused by phones.

Officials explained that children are using the internet at younger ages, which makes it harder for parents to monitor them. Limiting smartphones at school can help students concentrate on studying. A recent survey found that nearly two-thirds of Brazilians support banning smartphones in schools, and over threequarters believe these devices are harmful for kids.

Some families and students agree with the move, saying it will encourage more interaction and help classmates focus better. However, others believe it won’t solve all school issues, like bullying and harassment.

As of 2023, about two-thirds of Brazilian schools already limit smartphone use, while 28% ban them completely. Some states, such as Rio de Janeiro and Goias, have passed local laws restricting phones in schools, but enforcement has been challenging. In Sao Paulo, discussions are ongoing about banning phones in both public and private schools.

Globally, concerns ______________ smartphone use ______________ children have led to similar measures. Countries ______________ China, France, and parts of the U.S. have introduced restrictions to reduce distractions and protect children’s mental health. A report ______________ UNESCO found that one in four countries has already limited smartphone use in schools.

Adapted from: https://en.islcollective.com

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF AI IN EDUCATION

    As artificial intelligence becomes more common in our daily lives, its effect on education calls for both enthusiasm and caution. Supporters believe that AI offers great opportunities for personalized learning, making administrative tasks easier and bringing new ways to teach. However, there are still worries about privacy, fairness and the possibility of replacing traditional teaching jobs. A study by the Digital Education Council found that 86% of students admit to using AI in their studies. To further that, 24% use it daily and 54% use it weekly. What is artificial intelligence in education?

    Artificial intelligence in education refers to the use of computer systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence to enhance learning experiences, streamline administrative processes, and support educators. AI technologies include machine learning, natural language processing and robotics, which can personalize learning by adapting content and pace to individual student needs. This personalized approach helps address diverse learning styles and paces, ensuring that each student receives the attention and resources they need to succeed.

    In addition to personalized learning, AI can assist educators by automating administrative tasks. By reducing the time spent on these repetitive tasks, teachers can focus more on instruction and student engagement. AI-powered tools can also provide insights into student performance and progress, enabling early intervention for those who may be struggling and recognizing those who excel. This data-driven approach allows for more informed decision-making and tailored support for students. AI in education can facilitate innovative teaching methods and interactive learning environments. As AI continues to evolve, its potential to transform education by making it more accessible, efficient and personalized becomes increasingly evident.

    The role of Artificial Intelligence in education is rapidly transforming how students learn and how educators teach. AI-powered tools enable personalized learning experiences, adapting content and pace to meet individual student needs. Intelligent tutoring systems, automated grading and virtual assistants enhance both teaching efficiency and student engagement. By analyzing learning patterns, AI can also help identify struggling students early, allowing for timely intervention and support. Another key aspect of the role of AI in education is its ability to improve accessibility and inclusivity. AI-driven platforms can provide real-time translations, speech-to-text capabilities and adaptive learning materials for students with disabilities. Moreover, educators benefit from AI by gaining data-driven insights into curriculum effectiveness and student performance. As the technology continues to evolve, AI holds the potential to create more equitable and effective educational environments worldwide. Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing various sectors and education is no exception. The integration of AI in education has brought about significant changes that enhance learning experiences, streamline administrative tasks and support both students and educators in various ways.

    As artificial intelligence continues to integrate into various sectors, its application in education is both celebrated and scrutinized. While AI holds significant potential to transform learning experiences, it also presents several disadvantages that need careful consideration that must be addressed to ensure a balanced and effective learning environment. Another major concern is the growing dependence on technology that AI in education fosters. As educational institutions increasingly rely on AI-driven tools for teaching, assessment and administrative tasks, there is a risk of becoming overly dependent on these technologies. This dependence can lead to significant disruptions in the event of technical failures or cyber-attacks. Furthermore, it may also diminish the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students, as they may become accustomed to AI systems providing answers and solutions.

    The lack of human touch is another critical disadvantage of AI in education, leading to a dehumanized learning experience. Traditional education relies heavily on human interaction, with teachers providing not only academic instruction but also emotional support and mentorship. AI systems, while efficient, cannot replicate the empathy, understanding and personal connection that human educators offer. This absence of human elements can affect students' social and emotional development, as well as their overall engagement and motivation in the learning process. AI in education also raises the risk of cheating. Advanced AI tools can be exploited by students to find ways to bypass academic integrity measures. For instance, AI-powered plagiarism detection systems may themselves be outsmarted by sophisticated AI-generated content that mimics genuine student work. Additionally, AI-based tutoring systems and automated assessments might be manipulated to provide undue assistance, undermining the fairness and integrity of academic evaluations. Schools and institutions must continuously adapt and update their AI tools to mitigate these risks.

    Lastly, the rise of AI in education brings the concern of teacher job displacement. As AI systems take on more roles traditionally filled by educators, there is a fear that teachers may become obsolete. Automated grading, AI-driven tutoring, and administrative tasks handled by AI could reduce the need for human teachers, leading to job losses and a devaluation of the teaching profession. While AI can certainly support and enhance educational practices, it is essential to balance its implementation to ensure that teachers remain integral to the educational process, providing the human touch that technology cannot replace.

    Taken and adapted from: https://www.ucanwest.ca/blog/education-careers-tips/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-ai-ineducation

Read the passage and answer question.

Palestinians in Gaza Reflect on One Year of Israel’s War With Hamas Oct. 7, 2024

The war has killed tens of thousands and devastated entire cities, leaving many in Gaza without a home and fueling a humanitarian catastrophe.

By Bilal Shbair and Hiba Yazbek Reporting from the Gaza Strip and Jerusalem.

Last October, Fadi Abu Kheir of southern Gaza had big plans. He was going to be engaged to the woman he loved. After they got married, he said, they would move in together, into an apartment that he spent years building.

“Now,” Mr. Abu Kheir, 24, said, “I am clueless about my future. I cannot even think how I can adapt to life postwar.”

It has been a year since the Hamas-led terrorist attacks impelled Israel to launch a retaliatory offensive in Gaza. For Mr. Abu Kheir — and, indeed, for Palestinians across the enclave — every day since, he said, has teemed with “sadness, depression and fury.”

The war has killed over 41,000 people, according to Gazan health officials, and devastated entire neighborhoods and cities, leaving hundreds of thousands without a home and fueling a humanitarian catastrophe.

More than 2 million people lived in the strip before the conflict. No one has been unaffected.

“We were so happy before this war,” said Maisaa al-Naffar, 20, of Khan Younis, breaking into tears as she recalled her first few weeks as a newlywed before the war began. She added: “I am not the person I used to be.”

Nine months pregnant, she is sheltering in a tent in southern Gaza.

“I miss my old life. I miss the days when we used to have fun or laugh at even the smallest things.

I miss my life when we had enough healthy food and snacks,”

Ms. al-Naffar said. “Today, everything has become a hell, full of dust and darkness.” 

Throughout the enclave, similar stories abound. For Mr. Abu Kheir, the image from the war that lingers is that of a naked, lifeless woman lying in the street, blown out of a house that had been bombarded, he said. The conflict has killed two of his best friends, and displaced him and his family, he said. It also destroyed the apartment he was building, in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. The war, he said, has “destroyed my dreams.”

Text 3

If you visit Japan, you might choose to travel around the country by shinkansen train. These high-speed trains connect the major cities of Japan. They are nicknamed “bullet trains” because they go very fast and have pointy noses like a bullet.

Bullet trains are a good way to travel for several reasons other than their speed. They are very punctual, often leaving on time to the second. They are also comfortable. All the seats face forward, and there is plenty of leg room. Most importantly, bullet trains are very safe. In their 35-year history, there have been only a few accidents and no deaths.

The only downside to bullet trains is that they are expensive. A ticket to travel to another city can cost almost as much as an airline ticket would. However, if you fly, you will land at an airport at the edge of a city. Train stations are usually right in the middle of a city. This means that it is often more convenient to take a bullet train instead of flying, because you will arrive exactly where you want to be.