The Best Windows Laptops for 2026

This post is provided by guest blogger, Carla Reed, graduate student at University of St. Francis, MS Talent Development program.

Windows laptops in 2026 offer impressive variety, strong performance gains from new Snapdragon chips, and better battery life than many MacBooks. Overall, the lineup feels more innovative and user‑focused than in previous years. In a recent article, Henschel (2026) highlights a wide range of top‑rated Windows laptops, from ultraportables to dual‑display models and gaming systems, all tested for performance, build quality, and value. The author concludes that the Surface Laptop 7 stands out as the best all-around choice, combining power, premium design, and exceptional battery life.

I recommend this article for students, professionals, and frequent travelers looking for practical buying guidance. Although it reflects the author’s personal editorial choices, the source is fairly trustworthy given her tech background. Henschel (2026) makes it clear that Windows laptops are outpacing MacBooks in innovation and flexibility.

Reference

Henschel, H. (2026, January). The 11 best Windows laptops for 2026. Mashable. Retrieved from: https://mashable.com/roundup/best-windows-laptop-2026

Boost Employee Development with E-Learning  

This post is provided by guest blogger, Bianca Henderson, a graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, MS in Training and Development Program. 

In the article “Why Now’s The Time To Use E-Learning For Employee Growth And Development”, Berkes (2022) explains the importance and value of e-learning in today’s workplace. The article highlights that e-learning is a flexible and cost-effective methods for training and developing employees, especially in a post-pandemic world where remote and hybrid work models are more common. Berkes (2022) emphasizes that e-learning helps organizations keep up with rapid technological changes and meet the expectations of modern employees who want an accessible learning experience.  

This information can be helpful for HR professionals, training managers, and organizational leaders seeking cost-effective and adaptable training solutions. It offers insights into how e-learning can enhance continuous development and employee retention. This article could benefit from adding data to support its claims about the effectiveness of e-learning or by comparing e-learning with traditional methods.  

Category: e-Learning and Technology, Training & Development 

Reference: 

Berkes, O. (2022, May 4). Why now’s the time to use e-learning for employee growth and development. Forbes Technology Council. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/2022/05/04/why-nows-the-time-to-use-e-learning-for-employee-growth-and-development/ 

Top eLearning trends for 2026

This post is provided by guest blogger, Nancy Herrera, graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, MS in Talent Development program.

eLearning is essential in education and professional environments. In a recent article, Sharma (2025) outlines eLearning trends for 2026. They include intelligent technology, security, and collaboration. The first discusses using AI for personalization while increasing engagement. It is used by most enterprises and so is microlearning. Microlearning is credited for its short yet effective impact. Blockchain and crypto tokenization are providing security and credential verification. A holistic approach to marketing can build trust by building a balance between profits ethical obligations. Communal learning programs boost engagement. Learning in the flow of work is common practice in most corporations.

The website where the article was published is a self-proclaimed leading source for industry specific training and development content. Sharma is a managing partner of Tecuy Media and leads LinksFrog. He is a reliable source as he is considered a Level 5 Legend. The information can be useful when wanting to keep updated with any current technologies. Educators, Human Resources professionals, Talent Development representatives and enterprises would be interested in this information. In these roles knowing what technologies can be the most relevant, useful, and efficient is key.

Reference:

Sharma, O. (2025, September 20). Top eLearning trends in 2026: How new innovations are shaping education. eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/top-elearning-trends-how-new-innovations-are-shaping-education

Technology-Driven Education: A New Era of Learning

Education is undergoing a revolutionary transformation aided primarily by an era of rapid technological advancements. Once a mere facilitator, technology has begun to shift from its former support role to be a core driver of how students learn and interact. In a recent article, Denys Vorobyov (2024) presents the potential and multifaceted challenges technology brings to education. Digital tools and online resources are enhancing engagement, accessibility, and quality of learning, preparing students for a digital future. However, the author stresses that successful integration of new technologies requires collaboration among schools, governments, and tech experts to ensure equitable access, cybersecurity, ongoing training for educators, and appropriate application to curriculum. The author concludes that the prospects for education are boundless, with technology opening up new possibilities for learning, teaching and growing. With effective partnerships between technology innovation, integration, and educators, the future of education promises a more inclusive, interactive, and imaginative learning experience for all.

I recommend this article for anyone who works in education and is looking to integrate technology into their curriculum. In particular, this would be a useful resource for those wishing to have a framework to implement new technology to their learning environment. The article provides a list of key stakeholders that are needed throughout the integration process in order to overcome possible challenges that may arise. Additionally, the source provided a real-world example of an online platform that was developed utilizing the previously mentioned framework, highlighting how tech companies and educational platforms can successfully collaborate to produce an accessible tool.

Reference

Vorobyov, D. (2024, February 1). Technology-driven education: A new era of learning. Forbes. https://forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2024/02/01/technology-driven-education-a-new-era-of-learning

What’s Trendy with eLearning?

This post is provided by guest blogger, Edith Peña, graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, MS in Talent and Development program.

In 2025, we are seeing some eLearning trends gain more momentum and usage. The trends are gaining momentum due to people in the corporate world needing to reskill or upskill to stay competitive in the current market. Some of the trends we are seeing are the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), mobile learning (mLearning), and Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) (Peck, 2025). With the use of these technologies employees are now able to learn from anywhere, anytime and at times faster than they would with in-person trainings. Employees also feel more confident when getting trained through these mediums. 

The article, “Top eLearning Trends: The Ultimate Guide in 2025” by Devlin Peck (2025) contains valuable information for individuals in the learning and development industry. The author provides statistics and information published by firms that specialize in gathering data and from sources that are nationally recognized. The information in this article could be used by individuals who are needing to stay current on how to train their employees. This article will also help employers stay competitive in the learning space. 

Reference

Peck, D. (2025, January 3). Top eLearning trends: The ultimate guide in 2025. Delvin Peck. 

https://www.devlinpeck.com/content/elearning-trends

Revolutionizing Autonomous Medical Imaging

This post is provided by guest blogger, Leah Koncir, graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, M.S. in Health Administration

NVIDIA (2025) and GE HealthCare announced a partnership to advance autonomous diagnostic imaging using AI. This collaboration aims to develop autonomous ultrasound and x-ray technologies that can independently capture and analyze medical images without human intervention. By integrating NVIDIA’s AI computing platforms with GE HealthCare’s imaging devices, the collaboration seeks to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, potentially transforming medical imaging practices.

The information comes from press release by NVIDIA (2025), a reputable source in AI technology, indicating high reliability. The collaboration’s success depends on rigorous clinical validation to ensure safety and efficacy. If successful, this initiative could streamline workflows and improve patient outcomes.

Category: E-Learning, Education Technology, Artificial Intelligence

Reference:

NVIDIA. (2025, March 18). NVIDIA and GE HealthCare collaborate to advance the development of autonomous diagnostic imaging with physical AI. NVIDIA New. http://nvidianews.com/news/nvidia-and-ge-healthcare-collaborate-to-advance-the-development-of-autonomous-diagnostic-imagng-with-physical-ai [nvidianew.nvidia.com]

Innovations Shaping Our Future

This post is provided by guest blogger, Hailey Kaddatz, graduate student at the University of St Francis in Joliet, MS in Talent and Development program.

Today’s technology refers to rapid developments in AI, renewable energy sources, and communication tools, among others. These innovations are changing daily life and many sectors. For example, different industries like healthcare, finance, retail, and manufacturing help AI to make better decisions, and customer experiences (Feldman, 2024). Solar and wind energy technologies are solving climate challenges while providing sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, tools including video talks and collaboration software are changing how we communicate and work, especially in remote environments. The use of these technologies enhances efficiency. It also opens the door for fresh opportunities for development, training, and innovation in many sectors.

The source is a very dependable one and gives a lot of information about the current technological trends. It uses credible studies and expert opinions. So, it can be helpful for a lot of people, especially the students. Knowing how technology has influenced education can be useful for students. It can also help professionals. They can learn how trends will impact their workspace. This resource is great for anyone who wants to become aware of the latest tech trends. These trends affect their career and personal life.

Reference:

Feldman, K. (2024, December 18). The 9 industries that will benefit the most from AI. isixsigma. https://www.isixsigma.com/artificial-intelligence/the-industries-that-will-benefit-the-most-from-ai/#:~:text=While%20healthcare%2C%20finance%2C%20retail%2C,confined%20to%20these%20sectors%20alone

How Technology is Shaping Social Media

This post is provided by guest blogger, Bianca Henderson, a graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, MS in Training and Development Program. 

In the article “Technologies Evolving Social Media,” Masifa Bukari (2024) explores how new technologies are reshaping social media. Key advancements include the Internet of Things (IoT), which boosts connectivity and business success; blockchain, creating platforms for fairer content creator compensation; Radio Frequency Identification Tags (RFID), enhancing audience experiences at events; and AI, driving personalized content and user engagement. Bukari (2024) highlights that these innovations are vital for improving user experiences and ensuring safer online spaces, urging businesses and individuals to embrace these changes to stay relevant in the dynamic digital world. 

Masifa Bukhari’s (2024) article “Technologies Evolving Social Media” offers valuable insights but lacks concrete examples and data, which affects its reliability. While the article is well structured and accessible, its effectiveness could be enhanced by including case studies of companies utilizing these technologies. Marketers and tech developers might find this information useful, as it highlights emerging trends. 

Category: Social Media Trends, Technology and Innovation, Artificial Intelligence in Social Media 

Reference: 

Bukhar, M. (2024, March 28). Technologies evolving social media. Coding Pixel. https://www.codingpixel.com/technologies-evolving-social-mediaLinks to an external site. 

ChatGPT Assessments: Rethinking Curriculum Design in an AI World

This post is provided by guest blogger, Rachel Dobrich Ruffetti, a graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, working towards the Talent Development Certificate.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT can potentially create personalized, interactive learning environments tailored to individual needs (Bennett & Abusalem, 2024). Since research remains limited, universities are reevaluating curriculum and assessment methods to integrate AI meaningfully. They are advocating for collaborative approaches that blend human intelligence with AI strengths. Key concerns include distinguishing between human and AI-generated work. Although source citation partially addresses this, redesigning assessment tasks can further mitigate risks. By leveraging Bloom’s Taxonomy, educators can emphasize higher-order thinking skills to reduce academic misconduct. Strategies, including monitoring assessment stages, incorporating self-reflection, and narrating presentations, can prove students’ original thoughts. Some universities are also exploring AI as research partners to enhance writing and language learning. While challenges exist, AI presents significant opportunities to enrich education. 

I recommend this article for instructors in higher education. It provides insights into how institutions are embracing AI rather than resisting it. Many concerns stem from a lack of research on AI’s role in higher education. However, this article offers a foundation for rethinking instruction and assessment. College should prepare students for the workforce, where AI will be integral. Rather than banning AI, institutions should engage students in meaningful projects that develop their ability to manage and implement AI responsibly. As the article emphasizes, thoughtful AI integration, with regulation and ethical considerations, can shift learning from rote memorization to critical thinking.

Reference
Bennett, L., & Abusalem, A. (2024). Artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on the future of higher education. Athens Journal of Education, 11(3), 195–212. https://research-ebsco-com.ezproxy.stfrancis.edu/linkprocessor/plink?id=8838c1ff-5edb-3238-9627-e20d028c7409

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, ChatGPT, curriculum design, pedagogy, assessment.

Educating with AI

This post is provided by guest blogger, Stephanie DeFrancesco, graduate student University of St. Francis, MS Training and Development program. 

The evolution of AI technology has significantly improved our world especially when it comes to education (Haroun, 2023). In the article, Haroun (2023) discusses how AI in education can guide the student in different ways of learning, enhance performance, improve grammar and carry the students into a successful career. Although AI can be beneficial, it can also have flaws. AI technology is very advanced, but it can also make errors. There have been issues with information that AI has put out that is not accurate or fabricated. It is always best to double check the information provided by AI before using it for any research. 

I believe this is a good article that discuss the pros and cons of the use of AI in education. It is not a significant amount of information, but it does provide the basics of how AI can be used for learning purposes. I think it is also great that it reviews some of the negativity associated with using artificial intelligence and for this to not be your only source of information as it can use it incorrectly. It is a great started article if you are interested in learning how it can benefit education. 

Haroun, C. (2023, Dec. 12). How AI Impacts Online Learning. Forbes Business Council. www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/12/12/how-ai-impacts-online-learning/.