Grade Inflation

When every course is a gut

Grade inflation has made academia like Lake Woebegone

In Garrison Keillor's fictional world of Lake Woebegone, all children are said to be above average. Grade inflation has made the groves of American academia a real-life equivalent. Despite the fact that college entrance examination scores have been slumping for many years, a study by Columbia Teachers College president Arthur Levine in the Chronicle of Higher Education has found that undergrad grade point averages have been increasing steadily. The proportion of students with gpa's of A- or higher almost quadrupled in recent years, from 7 percent to 26 percent.  Meanwhile, the number of students with gpa's of C or lower dropped from 25 percent to 9 percent. Today at elite institutions like Princeton and Stanford, grades below a B are rarely given.

Experts see several reasons for the upward trend in grades. Defenders suggest that colleges have ceased to issue failing grades in the hopes of encouraging grade-conscious students to experiment with a broader range of course offerings than they might otherwise dare. But some schools, feeling rising financial pressures, may be shying away from issuing flunking marks as a safeguard against losing tuition, critics charge. Until recently, even a school as rich as Stanford University allowed students to withdraw from a course all the way up until the eve of the final exam, and permitted students to repeat a course an unlimited number of times before requiring a permanent recording of the final grade on a transcript. Both of these options enabled students to create picture-perfect transcripts and boost their graduate school acceptance records accordingly.

Grade Inflation. Photo by Elena.

Grading study author Arthur Levine attributes the inflationary bias to a confusion of undergraduate and graduate grading systems. Graduate students, by definition, are assumed to be good students, and that assumption has always been reflected in the high grades they are awarded. On campuses with extensive graduate programs, professors who teach both graduate and undergraduate courses carry over their more lenient graduate grading criteria to undergraduates.

There are signs that the inflationary psychology may finally have peaked, however. In a move hailed by editorial writers from coast to coast, Stanford recently announced that it was officially bringing back a flunking grade, though it chose to call it an NP (for No Pass) rather than an F. Stanford had banished F's from its grading system back in 1970. To further encourage truth-in-transcripts, the university also decided that a student having difficulty in a course could no longer drop out just before the final exam without having it recorded on his transcript. What's more, it is only possible to repeat a course once, and the fact that the course is being retaken must be entered on the student's transcript as an RP (For Repeat).

The Bear Facts about Grizzlies

 The Bear Facts about Grizzlies

Here's what to do if you come upon a bear sitting in the woods.

You never know where you'll run into one. There are three different kinds of bears roaming the polar regions and North America. Polar bears weigh an average of 1,500 pounds, are excellent swimmers, and eat mostly seals. Concentrations of grizzlies exist in Alaska, Yellowstone National Park, and Glacier National Park. The largest ones, 1600 pounds and up, live along the Akaskan coast, where they feast on salmon. Black bears, which weigh around 300 pounds, are commonly found in the Alaskan interior as well as elsewhere in the United States.

Grizzlies, especially, don't like to be surprised. Experienced hikers in grizzly country constantly ring bells, sing songs, and generally make as much noise as possible. Black bears are somewhat less dangerous.

“I always tell people if they run into a bear on the trail not to worry too much”, says David Graber of the National Biological Service. “Most likely the bear will meander away.”

Here's some more specific advice from Denali National Park publication:

Never run: Bears can run more than 30 miles an hour – faster than an Olympic sprinter. Running can elicit a chase response from otherwise non-aggressive bears.

A terrific Canadian bear. Photo by Elena

An unaware bear : If the bear is unaware of you, move quickly and quietly away from it. Give the bear plenty of room, allowing it to continue its own activities undisturbed.

An aware bear: If the bear is aware of you, but has not acted aggressively, back away slowly, talking in a calm, firm voice while slowly waving your arms. Bears that stand up on their hind legs are usually trying to identify you and are not threatening.

An approaching bear: Do not run, do not drop your pack. A pack can help protect your body in case of an attack. To drop your pack may encourage the bear to approach people for food. Bears may occasionally make “bluff charges”, sometimes coming to within ten feet of a person before stopping or veering off. Stand still until the bear stops and has moved away, then slowly back off. Climbing trees will not protect you.

If a bear touches you: If a brown bear does actually make contact with you, curl up in a ball, protecting your stomach and neck, and play dead. If the attack is prolonged, however change tactics and fight back vigorously. If it is a black bear, do not play dead at all: fight back.

The Citadel of Weeping Pearls

The Citadel of Weeping Pearls

By Aliette de Bodard (excerpt)

The world around Diem Huong shifted and twisted; and vanished – and, for a moment, she hung in a vacuum as deep as the space between stars, small and alone and frightened, on the edge of extinction – and, for a moment, she felt the touch of a presence against her mind, something vast and numinous and terrible, like the wings of some huge bird of prey, wrapping themselves around her until she choked.

And then she came slamming back into her body, into a place she recognized.

Or almost did. It was – and was not – as she remembered: the door to Mother’s compartment, a mere narrow arch in a recessed corridor, indistinguishable from the other doors. From within came the smell of garlic and fish sauce, strong enough to make her feel six years old again. And yet… and yet, it was smaller, and diminished from what she remembered ; almost ordinary, yet loaded with memories that threatened to overwhelm her.

Slowly, gently – not certain it would still remain there, if she moved, if she breathed – she raised a hand, and knocked.

Nothing.

She exhaled. And knocked again – and saw the tip of her fingers slide, for a bare moment, through the metal. A bare moment only, and then it was as solid as before.

The Citadel of Weeping Pearls. Photo by Elena

She was fading. Going back in time to Lam’s lab? To the void and whatever waited for her there?

No use in thinking upon it. She couldn’t let fear choke her until she died of it. She braced herself to knock again, when the door opened.

She knew Motheer’s face by heart; the one on the holos on the ancestral altar, young and unlined and forever frozen into her early forties; the wide eyes, the round cheeks, the skin darkened by sunlight and starlight. She’d forgotten how much of her would be familiar – the smell of sandalwood clinging to her; the graceful movements that unlocked something deep, deep within her – and she was six again and safe; before the betrayal that shattered her world; before the years of grief.

“Can I help you?” Mother asked. She sounded puzzled.

She had to say something, no matter how inane; had to prevent Mother’s face from creasing in the same look of suspicion she’d seen in the monk’s eyes. Had to. “I’m sorry, but I had to meet you. I’m your daughter.”

“Diem Huong?” Mother’s voice was puzzled. “What joke is this? Diem Huong is outside playing at a friend’s house. She’s six years old.”

“I know,” Diem Huong said. She hadn’t meant to say that; but in the face of the woman before her, all that came out was the truth, no matter how inadequate. “I come from another time,” she said. “Another place.”

“From the future?” Mother’s eyes narrowed. “You’d better come in.”

Inside, she turned, looked at Diem Huong – every time this happened, Diem Huong would wait with baited breath, afraid that this was it, the moment when Mother would start forgetting her again. “There is a family resemblance,” Mother said at last.

“I was born in the year of the Water Tiger, in the Hour of the Rat,” Diem Huong said, slowly. “You wanted to name me Thien Bao; Father thought it an inappropriate name for a girl. Please, Mother. I don’t have much time, and I’m running out of it.”

“We alle are,” Mother said, soberly. She gestured towards the kitchen. “Have a tea.”

“There is no time,” Diem Huong said; and paused, scrabbling for words. “What do you mean, we’re running out of time?”

Mother did not answer. She turned back, at last; looked at Diem Huong. “Oh, I’m sorry, I hadn’t seen you here. What can I do for you?”

“Mother -” the words were out of Diem Huong’s mouth before she could think; but they were said so low Mother did not seem to hear them. “You have to tell me. Why are you running out of time.”

Mother shook her head. “Who told you that?”

“You did. A moment ago.”

North West Iceland

North West Iceland

North west Iceland is a part of the country that Icelanders themselves are discovering more and more.

This area is the setting for many Icelandic sagas, the most important of which is the saga of Grettir-The-Strong. North west Iceland is also the setting for the book Burial Rites by the Australian writer, Hanna Kent, which was published in 2014.

This is an historical novel based on the famous murder case in 1828 of Agnes and Friðrik. They were condemned to death for murder and were the last culprits to be executed in Iceland. The book has enjoyed much popularity worldwide.

Please note that there are quite a few gravel roads in this area, e.g. Road 711 around Vatnsnes peninsula. Over the winter months, it is essential to check weather and road conditions before setting off on your journey. Some places are closed over the winter but it is possible to get information from the information centres or on the website www.northiceland.is

Countless natural wonders can be found all over this area, such as Hvítserkur A, the troll of the Northwest rising proudly from the ocean waves and Kolugljúfur B, a magnificent gorge and waterfall named after a troll called Kola.

The hidden pearls are:

1Hvammstangi is the first stop around the Vatnsnes peninsula coming from the south, only 197 km from Reykjavík. This is a charming little village with 550 inhabitants and the biggest seal colony in Iceland. The Icelandic Seal Centre has a very interesting exhibition on seals, their biology and co-existence with humans. Seal watching tours are offered from Hvammstangi.

It is easy to forget oneself in the Bardúsa Gallery which is a shop and museum selling quality souvenirs. Kidka is one of the biggest wool factories in Iceland where it is possible to buy top quality fashionable woollen clothes.

Icelandic Geysers. Photo by Olga

Other tourist services in Hvammstangi include guesthouses, good restaurants, a sheltered camping site and a swimming pool.

2 Illugastaðir is the setting for Burial Rites, which was mentioned earlier. It is an excellent location for seal watching.

On most days of the year, seals can be seen swimming or just lounging on the skerries close to land. There is a good camping site at Illugastaðir with facilities for camper vans.

3 Geitafell is a perfect stop for the hungry on Vatnsnes. It offers fresh seafood on the menu with a deilicious fish soup topping the list. A countryside surprise.

4 Borgarvirki, also known as The Citadel is a volcanic plug that was used by the Vikings as a fortress during

times of strife. A wonderful view from the top at 177m, but it is not an easy walk. Be careful.

The entire central part of Iceland is uninhabited highlands, with unbound glacial rivers, black sands and the hardy arctic flora. This region has long been a barrier for travellers between the north and south. Two main roads lie across the highlands. The shorter and easier one, Kjölur, runs between the glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull while the more demanding one, Sprengisandur, lies between Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull. In earlier times those roads were said to be severely haunted by the ghosts of people that were lost on the way.

The highland roads have improved much but are still only open in summer to well equipped vehicles, since they run through rough terrain and over unbridged rivers. Although the nature and travelling conditions of the highlands are rough, the area contains many wonderful sites, such as the hot springs and natural baths at Landmannalaugar and Herðubreiðarlindir.

5 Þingeyrarkirkja is an impressive ancient stone church which gives a sense of grandeur to the area. It took thirteen years to build, using unusual methods which are attributed to its pristine condition still today. The interior of the church is no less grand with valuable artifacts and features.

6 Spákonuhof in Skagaströnd is the Museum of Prophecies where futures, pasts and presents come together. Focusing on Þórdís, the famous soothsayer and first inhabitant of the area, this museum is full of surprises, both for adults and children. The Árnes Museum is the oldest house in Skagaströnd and depicts the living conditions of early 20th century. Skagaströnd Golf Course is a 9–hole course with spectacular views over the fjord.

7 Reykir, a campsite with a difference. It is host to a seaside hot tub (about 40°C) called Grettislaug. A remote location with superb views of surrounding mountains and the ocean. It is also the place from which the boat tours to Drangey Island depart. Drangey Island, just off the Skagaströnd coast, is a birdwatcher‘s paradise as it is the nesting colony for a wide variety of birds, the main star being the puffin. Drangey island also served as a place of refuge for the longest-surviving Icelandic outlaw, Grettir-The-Strong.

8 Glaumbær farm and museum offers a wonderful opportunity to experience conditions in a turf home and gain insight into the harsh living conditions of Icelanders in the past. Besides the turf farmhouse dating back to the mid 18th century, there are also two 19th century timber houses which are good examples of the first timber houses built in the area.

9 Hólar in Hjaltadalur was the centre of religion and education for centuries, and is one of two Episcopal seats in Iceland. Today, it is home to the oldest stone cathedral in the country, a university college and a thriving tourism service.

10 Hofsós is a quaint little village with 146 inhabitants. It is one of the oldest trading centres in Iceland and boasts a visible heritage in its renovated buildings. Vesturfarasetrið is the Icelandic Emigration Centre which has information on the Icelandic diaspora to America. The Hofsós swimming pool could be seen as the forerunner to the infinity pool, situated on a hilltop with magnificent views over the ocean, you can be forgiven for being awestruck.

11 Siglufjörður in North Iceland has 1200 inhabitants and was the capital of herring fishing up to the late 60’s. These glory days have been immortalized in an impressive award winning museum called The Herring Era Museum, which is housed in five historical buildings and occupies a large part of town. The magnificent luxurious Sigló Hotel dominates the waterfront and together with two popular restaurants, Hannes Boy and Kaffi Rauðka, form a colourful backdrop to the marina village, which is a popular outdoor area in the summer.

Reykjavík for the Seasons

Reykjavík for the Seasons

Summer

In the days of the midnight sun, Reykjavík becomes a city that never sleeps. Popular summertime activities include whale-watching, sea-angling, horseback-riding and trips to the many natural wonders just outside the city limits.

Perhaps one of the more remarkable summer destinations within Reykjavík city is the geothermal beach at Nauthoslvik, where you can spend the afternoon enjoying a picnic or swimming in a heated ocean lagoon. Sea-swimmers can enjoy the cooler waters of the Atlantic and warm up afterwards in the sauna or the two giant hot tubs.

One of the best things about Reykjavík is its abundance of exceptional coffee houses, staffed with talented baristas. On a hot sunny day, the thriving coffee culture often spills out onto the streets – particularly around Austurvöllur square, where coffee-loving crowd can be found sipping coffee, hot or iced, while soaking up the sun.

Autumn

Reykjavík's calendar of events goes into high gear during the fall, with festivals, conferences, and other cultural events taking place. Kicking off the season at the end of September is the Reykjavík International Film Festival, which highlights independent filmmaking and showcases the work of up-and-coming filmmakers. The biannual Reykjavík International Literary festival in September as well, hosting Icelandic writers as well as international guests.

Fans of peace, love and John Lennon won't want to miss Yoko Ono's annual imagine Peace Tower ceremony in October, where she invites everyone to join her for the illumination of a superbeam of light on Videy Island. The work of art is dedicated to Lennon's vision of peace and is lit every yearon his birthday.

In early November, you can experience the Icelandic music scene's crowning glory, Iceland Airways – the coolest music festival of them all. The five-day music extravaganza draws top performers, countless festivalgoers and media attention from around the globe.

Winter

There's never a dull day in Reykjavík during the wintertime, even if they are dark! Apart from the occasional fall of snow and regular displays of Norther Lights, there's also a full calendar of cultural events and festivities; concerts, plays and many seasonal exhibitions.

Christmas season is always celebrated with great splendour. The city's buildings, trees and streets are decorated with countless twinkly lights, ornaments and Christmas displays and Christmas concerts and events are popular.

Winter-sports enthusiasts will find many of exciting winter tours available from Reykjavík including super jeep tours, horseback riding, dog sledding and snowmobiling on a glacier, etc.

In February, you can enjoy the tasty Food & Fun Festival, followed closely by the Winter Lights Festival, which always delivers a packed program full of special events for the whole family.

Yachts in the port of the capital. Photo by Olga

Spring

In between the sunshine, showers and dustings of snow, the first blooms peek out at the Botanical Gardens in early April, and the new generation of farm animals arrives at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo.

As the ice melts on lake Tjörnin, you'll also notice the nation getting back to their outdoor routine, donning their jogging shoes, climbing back on their bikes and firing-up their grills for outdoor BBQs. It's a great time to visit the outdoor areas of Reykjavík, and after a long day of activities. Reykjavík's geothermal swimming pools are relaxing and soothing for tired travellers.

March is dedicated to Icelandic design, with the Design March Festival transforming the city into one big venue for exhibitions, fashion shows and other design-related events. Other events on the festival calendar include the Children's Vulture Festival. The First Day of Summer Celebrations and the Reykjavík Horse Festival.

Reykjavík for the whole family

Families will find plenty of interesting activities in Reykjavík. Whether it's splashing around in a geothermally heated swimming pool, trying on Viking armour or viewing whales at close range, kids of all ages will find something to enjoy.

Reykjavík is particularly family-friendly. It's safe and clean city, simple to navigate on foot, with easy access to nature. Local businesses are very accommodating of families with young children; even in the hippest of coffee shops and restaurants, you'll find high-chairs and play areas set aside for the kids. Reykjavík has much to offer visitors at affordable prices – sometimes even for free! Below are our top ten recommendations for active families and curious kids to enjoy while visiting Reykjavík.

Top Ten Family Activities in Reykjavík

Splash & Play in any of the 18 swimming pools in the Reykjavík Capital area.

Make friends with the resident ducks, geese and swans of Tjörnin Lake.

Go back in time to the Viking age at one of the capital area's many museums.

Visit the animals at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo.

Try delicious Icelandic food – hot dogs, soft ice cream, skyr and black liquorice.

Climb the majestic Mount Esja.

Ride an Icelandic horse through rocky lava fields.

See whales and puffins on a boat trip from the old harbour.

See bubbling hot springs and roaring waterfalls on a day trip from Reykjavík.

Revel in a Reykjavík sinter – be dazzled by Christmas lights, visit the Hafnarfjördur Christmas Village, skate on Lake Tjörnin or simply start a snowall fight.

Family Friendly Events

Children's Culture Festival (April) – A festival celebrating the music, literature and arts of children of all ages.

First Day of Summer (April) – The First Day of Summer is an official holiday, celebrated with parades and family-friendly fun all over the city.

Festival of the Sea (June) – The area around the old harbour in Reykjavík bustles with life during this festival, which celebrattes the ocean around Iceland and the men and women who spend their days fishing and sailing.

Independence Day (June 17) – Iceland became an independent country in 1944 and every year since, June 17th is celebrated with a festival in evert town in Iceland.

Reykjavík Culture Night (August) – Culture night actually mostly takes place during the day, with plenty of events, concerts, street theatre, and other events to keep the whole family entertained.

Varma – the Warmth of Iceland : Varma is dedicated to maintaining Icelandic tradition in developing. Designing and manufacturing quality garments and accessories from the best Icelandic wool and sheepskin shearling. Varma is available in various tourist shops around Iceland.