13 November 2023

Doomscrolling and Its Consequences

Doomscrolling – The New Drug of the 21st Century

Doomscrolling and Its Consequences

Have you ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through the news, reading one tragic story after another? If so, you’re not alone. This phenomenon, known as “doomscrolling” or “doomsurfing,” has become increasingly common today. We’ve all experienced those moments when we get caught up in the cycle of doomscrolling, unable to tear our eyes away from the screen, even though it leaves us feeling drained and anxious. (Source: IvyPanda)

Learn More About Doomscrolling:
  • What Is Doomscrolling
  • Signs You Are Doomscrolling
  • The Science Behind Doomscrolling
  • Who Is More Likely to Doomscroll
  • How Doomscrolling Affects You
  • Doomscrolling Impact on Mental Health
  • Doomscrolling Impact on Other Aspects
  • How to Stop Doomscrolling

Learn more:  'Doomscrolling – The New Drug of the 21st Century'

Source / Reference: IvyPanda

Published with permission from IvyPanda

01 November 2023

Neurotransmitters and Psychology

Neurotransmitters and Psychology: Awareness, Research and Resources

Neurotransmitters and Psychology

In contrast to dopamine-fueled feelings of pleasure, feelings of happiness are caused by another neurotransmitter—serotonin. Serotonin also helps create feelings of contentedness, significance, and importance. Among other functions, serotonin is a mood stabilizer. Sure, dopamine will give you the quick pleasure rush, but serotonin will keep you happy in the long term—a positive upbeat mood that chases the blues away.” ― Simon Marshall

Neurotransmitters and Psychology Research

Neurotransmitters and Psychology
"Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers in the brain that play a crucial role in regulating various psychological processes and behaviors. These neurotransmitters help transmit signals between nerve cells (neurons) and are integral to the functioning of the nervous system. Understanding the relationship between neurotransmitters and psychology involves exploring how different neurotransmitters influence emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Here are some neurotransmitters commonly associated with psychology:

Serotonin: Serotonin is often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter because it plays a significant role in regulating mood and emotions. Low serotonin levels are associated with conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed to increase serotonin levels and alleviate depressive symptoms.

Dopamine: Dopamine is associated with the brain's reward and pleasure pathways. It plays a role in motivation, pleasure, and reinforcement. Dysregulation of dopamine is linked to conditions such as addiction, schizophrenia, and Parkinson's disease. Drugs of abuse, like cocaine or opioids, can lead to a surge in dopamine release, contributing to addiction.

Norepinephrine (Noradrenaline): Norepinephrine is involved in the "fight or flight" response and helps regulate alertness, attention, and arousal. Dysregulation of norepinephrine can contribute to conditions like anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Medications used for ADHD often target norepinephrine pathways.

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid): GABA is the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. It helps regulate anxiety and stress by reducing neuron excitability. Low GABA levels are associated with anxiety disorders, and medications like benzodiazepines enhance GABA's inhibitory effects.

Glutamate: Glutamate is the brain's primary excitatory neurotransmitter and is involved in various cognitive functions, including learning and memory. Dysregulation of glutamate is associated with conditions like Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and some psychiatric disorders.

Acetylcholine: Acetylcholine plays a role in muscle control and is involved in cognitive functions like memory, attention, and arousal. It's also associated with the parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates rest and digestion.

Endorphins: Endorphins are neurotransmitters that act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers. They are released during activities like exercise and can produce feelings of euphoria.

The relationship between neurotransmitters and psychology is complex. While imbalances or dysregulation of neurotransmitters can contribute to psychological disorders, it's important to recognize that psychological phenomena are influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, environment, life experiences, and social interactions. Moreover, the exact mechanisms and roles of neurotransmitters in psychology are still subjects of ongoing research.

Psychologists and psychiatrists often consider neurotransmitter functioning when assessing and treating mental health conditions. Medications designed to address imbalances in neurotransmitters are commonly used in the treatment of various psychological disorders. However, a holistic approach that considers both biological and psychosocial factors is essential for a comprehensive understanding of mental health and well-being." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

A Pilot Study on the Effects of Exercise on Depression Symptoms Using Levels of Neurotransmitters and EEG as Markers PDF Download Liberty University

Anxious Personality Traits: Perspectives from Basic Emotions and Neurotransmitters MDPI

Cells of the Nervous System Pressbooks

Comparison of Psychological Symptoms and Serum Levels of Neurotransmitters in Shanghai Adolescents with and without Internet Addiction Disorder: A Case-Control Study Plos One

How Dopamine Influences Mental Health Mental Health and Motivation

How Oxytocin Influences Mental Health Mental Health and Motivation

How Serotonin Influences Mental Health Mental Health and Motivation

IB Psychology (BLOA): Cognitions, Emotions & Behaviours are Products of the Anatomy and Physiology of our Nervous and Endocrine System Tutor2U

Impact of Neurotransmitters on Health through Emotion ResearchGate

Introduction to Neurotransmitters Psych Exam Review

Neurochemicals, Behaviours and Psychiatric Perspectives of Neurological Diseases Neuropsychiatry Journal (London)

Neurotransmitters GoodTherapy

Neurotransmitter - An Overview ScienceDirect

Neurotransmitters and Emotions Frontiers in Psychology

Neurotransmitters and their Impact on Mental Illness International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR) 

Neurotransmitters of Leadership Psychology Today

Neurotransmitters: Types, Functions and Disorders Kenhub

Neurotransmitters: What they are, Functions, and Psychology Medical News Today

Neurotransmitters and their Effect on Behaviour Psychology Rocks!

Neurons, Neurotransmitters & Synaptic Transmission CGS Psychology

Neurons and Neurotransmission IB Psychology

Scientists identify connection between dopamine and behavior related to pain and fear.
New research illuminates crucial links between avoidance behavior and key brain chemicals ScienceDaily

The Ultimate Guide to Neurotransmitters for AP® Psychology Albert

Neurotransmitter - Animated Video Science

Free Promotion of International Mental Health Resources

Free Promotion / URL Listing of Relevant Mental Health and Support Resources

Free Promotion of Relevant Mental Health Resources : Mental Health and Motivation

Free Promotion and Listing / Placement of International Mental Health and Support Resources

Interested Mental Health ambassadors, authors, educators, practitioners, publishers, life coaches, community outreach specialists and / or organisations are welcome to consider a no-cost promotion and publication of related international resources (new books / workbooks / manuals / articles / research journals / research reviews / article URL's / media releases / statistics / support services) on this website.

I will consider each request individually in evaluating the opportunity for both the external publisher (service provider) and the active Mental Health and Motivation readers / visitors for possible publication. Current readers / visitors are from more than 105 Countries 48 USA States.

Contact Vernon Chalmers for more information.


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About and Disclaimer

What is Doomscrolling?

Doomscrolling: Awareness, Research and Resources

What is Doomscrolling?

Let us break the deadlock and stop doom-scrolling into the narrative of a fluctuating landscape of dispiriting thoughts...but, instead, invite the flowers of compassion to blossom in our hearts and our minds and overwhelm us with a spray of vibrant petals of well-being.”― Erik Pevernagie

Doomscrolling Research

What is Doomscrolling?
"Doomscrolling" refers to the habit of endlessly scrolling through bad news, often on social media, even though the content is upsetting, disheartening, or anxiety-inducing. The term gained popularity in the context of the widespread use of social media and the constant flow of negative information available online. People who engage in doomscrolling may find themselves compulsively scrolling through news feeds or timelines, consuming a continuous stream of negative or distressing information.

Doomscrolling can have negative effects on mental health, contributing to feelings of anxiety, stress, and helplessness. The constant exposure to negative news and sensationalized content can also lead to a distorted view of the world, as positive or neutral information may be overshadowed by the overwhelming volume of negative content.

It's essential to be mindful of our online habits and to take breaks from consuming distressing information to prioritize mental well-being. Setting limits on screen time, curating online content to include more positive sources, and practicing self-care are some strategies that individuals can employ to manage doomscrolling tendencies." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

A Doomscrolling Self-Assessment Psychology Today

Consuming too much bad news from doomscrolling can lead to worse physical and mental health, a new study suggests Business Insider

Doomscrolling Isn't Just Bad For Your Brain, Study Finds. Here's How to Stop Science Alert

Doomscrolling Scale: its Association with Personality Traits, Psychological Distress, Social Media Use, and Wellbeing NIH

Doomscrolling and Its Consequences Mental Health and Motivation

Epidemiology of News: Doom Scrolling, Information Overload, and Other “Media Pathologies” in Our Infected Society ResearchGate


How to Stop Doomscrolling and Find Meaning on Social Media Time

How Doomscrolling Can Wreak Havoc on Your Mental Health Good Housekeeping

How to Stop Doomscrolling - With Psychology Wired

Resisting the Doomscroll: 4 Tips to break the habit Suisideline Victoria

Stop Doomscrolling with CBT in 4 Steps Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles

The Dark at the End of the Tunnel: Doomscrolling on Social Media Newsfeeds PDF Download University of Florida

What 6 Hours of Doomscrolling Does to Your Brain Medium

What's Doomscrolling and Can It Harm Me? WebMD

Why You're Probably Doomscrolling... And How to Stop University College London

Doomscrolling: Why do we do it?

๐ŸŽ“ Mental Health, Psychology and Relationship Resources

Mental Health Awareness Videos

Mental Health Awareness Video Links - YouTube and Others

Mental Health Videos: Mental Health and Motivation

A selection of appropriate Mental Health videos. Related videos are embedded towards the bottom of resource pages.

Introduction to Mental Health
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Anxiety Resources
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How to Deal With Apathy : Psychology & Mental Health - Mental Health Watch >>

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Financial Debt and Mental Health
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Gender Dysphoria
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Global Mental Health Strategies
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Gratitude
Say "Thank You" - A Motivational Video On The Importance Of Gratitude Watch >>

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Heroin, Fentanyl and other Opioids
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How Drugs Affect the Brain and Nervous System
How Drugs Affect the Brain  Watch >>

How Oxytocin Influences Mental Health
2-Minute Neuroscience: Oxytocin Watch >>

How Serotonin Influences Mental Health
Serotonin and Treatments for Depression, Animation Watch >>

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Why Do Our Brains Have Distinct Hemispheres? Watch >>

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What are Emotions, Feelings, Affect, and Mood? Watch >>

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Four Types of Human Perception Watch >>

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Idealize, Devalue, & Discard - Let's talk Neuroscience! Watch >>

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Are You Addicted to the Internet? Watch >>

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Child Development: Relationships and the Environment Watch >>

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What causes insomnia? - Dan Kwartler Watch >>

Internet Addiction
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Global Mental Health Challenges and Priorities - Watch >>

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How your brain's executive function works -- and how to improve it Watch >>

LSD and Mental Health
How LSD and shrooms could help treat anxiety, addiction and depression Watch >>

Life Coaching
How To Structure Your Coaching Sessions - Step-by-Step Plan Watch >>

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8 Signs It's Obsession, NOT Love Watch >>

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Mental Health and Academic Achievement Watch >>

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The Neuroscience of Being Transgender Watch >>>

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Mental Health Careers Resources
10 Psychology Careers To Know About Watch >>

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16 Reasons Why Hobbies Are Important Watch >>

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Nature vs. Nurture: What Science Really Knows Watch >>

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Neurotransmitters and Psychology
Neurotransmitter - Animated Video Science Watch >>

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Personal Focus and Self-Improvement
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Personal Mental Health Recovery Strategies
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Positive Psychology
What is Positive Psychology? Watch >>

Procrastination
Why you Procrastinate even when it feels bad Watch >>

Promotion of Mental Health
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Psychiatric Rehabilitation Resources
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Psychopathy
Signs you are dealing with a Psychopath Watch >>

Psychotherapy
Watch a Live Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Session Watch >>

Psychopathology
Definitions of Abnormality - Psychopathology [A-Level Psychology] Watch >>

Psychological Rehabilitation Resources
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Psychosocial Rehabilitation
Understanding Psychosocial Support Watch >>

Racism
The Science of Racism | Creators for Change - YouTube Video Watch >>

Relationship Abuse Cycle
Power and Control Wheel & Cycle of Violence Watch >>

Relationship Anger Management
Anger Management for Relationships Watch >>

Relationship Red Flags
7 Red Flags In Dating You Should Watch Out For Watch >>

Respect
How To Get People To Respect You - 20 Ways To Earn Respect Watch >>

Road Rage and Aggressive Driving 
Doctor talks about what Causes Road Rage Watch >>

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder - Mayo Clinic Health System Watch >>

Sense of Self and Self-Identity
The Philosophy Of Personal Identity - Who Are You? Watch >>

Setting and Maintaining Personal Boundaries
Setting Healthy Boundaries Watch >>

Self-Image and Mental Health
Watch This If You're Struggling With Your Self-Worth (Self-Image) Watch >>

Self-Identity Improvement 
Self-Concept, Self-Identity & Social Identity Watch >>

Social Identity Theory
Social Identity Theory Definition + Three Components Watch >>

Social Media
Impact of Social Media on Mental Health Watch >>

Social Psychology
What is Social Psychology? An Introduction Watch >>

Solitude
Solitude Will Sharpen Your Mind  (Motivational Speech) Watch >>

Somatic Therapy
Healing the Nervous System From Trauma: Somatic Experiencing Watch >>

Social Media Addiction
Social Media Addiction - How it Changes Your Brain | Luke Burgis Watch >>

Student Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources
5 Steps to Mental Health and Wellbeing: A Framework for Schools and Colleges Watch >>

Stoicism
Stoicism: Become Undefeatable Watch >>

Substance Abuse Disorder
Substance Abuse Disorder Awareness Watch >>

Substance Abuse and Addiction Success Stories
My Story - This is Steven's Story of Addiction and Loss Watch >>

Suicide
What Leads To Suicide Watch >>

The Journey of Loss
How Grief Changes Us! Watch >>

Therapeutic Journaling
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Trauma
What Is "Trauma"? - and How to Cope With It Watch >>

Trauma Bond
What is a Trauma Bond? Trauma Bond Explained Watch >>

Trauma Loops
Healing From Trauma & Limbic Loops With Don Wood, PhD Watch >>

Walking for Mental Health
Benefits of a Long Walk for Anxiety and Depression Watch >>

What Happens When You Stop Drinking Alcohol
What Happens To Your Body When You Stop Drinking Alcohol Watch >>

When is it Time to End Therapy?
Therapeutic Termination Watch >>

Where to publish Mental Health Research
How to Publish Scientific Research in Medical School (Academic Publishing) Watch >>

Why Do People Abuse Other People?
Why Do Abusers Abuse? Watch >>

What is Stockholm Syndrome?
What is Stockholm Syndrome? Psychology 101 Watch >>

Workplace Anxiety and Stress
The One Factor Causing Depression & Anxiety in the Workplace Watch >>

From Analytical Education to Creative Training

Vernon Chalmers Academic, Business, Training and Development Journey

From Intel Corporation, Founding of Blu-C, Neuropsychology and Photography  

Vernon Chalmers Labour Relations Training SAS Simonsberg Simon's Town Photo Credit: SA Navy : Mental Health and Motivation
Labour Relations Training SAS Simonsberg Simon's Town, Cape Town Photo Credit: SA Navy
As a young first-year student in Cape Town I made a solemn promise on my way to my first lecture - if ever given the opportunity, I will educate, train and develop others for the rest of my life.” ― Vernon Chalmers

Image 1: Vernon Chalmers Training Officer South African Navy
With my students (I’m back row on the left) after my first ever self-designed training course (on Labour Relations). My KPA's included the lecturing of Military Leadership / Military Management / Labour Relations Strategy and Consulting for the SA Navy at the Military Training School, SAS Simonsberg, Simon’s Town and the SA Naval Staff College (for Naval Officer Training) in Muizenberg during the early 1990’s. 

Some of my (personal) biggest achievements were two Chief of the SA Navy Merit Awards for Labour Relations / Military Management Training (SAS Simonsberg), SADF Joint Senior Staff Officer College Labour Relations Course Selection (as a junior officer) - completed Summa Cum Laude (Pretoria), trusted with the autonomy for continuous research / development of Classified Military Management training (for Navy Petty Officers and Warrant Officers Qualifying) curriculums and being selected as one of the youngest members to serve on the Chief of the SA Navy's Steering Committee for Military Management and Leadership Training (and the curriculum development / facilitation of civilian Labour Relations Training to current / future Naval Base Commanding Officers) Naval Officer Staff College (Muizenberg). 

It was an honour to work with some of the Navy's finest senior officers who served as Commanding / Executive Officers on some of our Navy's most prestigious ships and / or shore units. 

'Secretly' shaping my interest in Information Management and Technology
As a Management and Social Science student was I unexpectedly awarded a Curry Merit Award / Bursary at the end of my first year and was recruited (from my second year) by a covert Information Management and Technology agency involved in Secret and Top Secret national and international projects for the South African Defence Force. After some intense scrutiny I was granted an official SADF / SA Government Secret Clearance and over a three-year period was exposed to some of the best local Information Technology (IT) software engineers / computer systems in the country. What was quite ironic (to keep a secret) was the many days I attended lectures in full business attire - under the pretense of working as a part-time sales representative. I was prohibited from talking to anyone (via a Classified Non-Disclosure Agreement) about the existence and / or my affiliation to the agency - and I worked there most afternoons, evenings and weekends. At least my best friend (as a naval officer) who worked via the SADF for the same agency at times was well aware of my 'clandestine occupation'.

From Human Resource Development Education to Personal Computing    
My post-graduate majors included Compensation Management, Human Resource Development and Organisational Behavior. At the same time (while working at the agency) I developed a stupendous interest in the fast-developing global semiconductor industry with specific reference to the 'heart of the PC' - the Central Processing Unit (CPU) - with specific attention ito the integration of its main functions; the Arithmetic Logic Unit, Overall Control Unit and the Ram / Rom Memory functionality. The agency assisted me in acquiring my first Personal Computer (PC) - an Intel-based XT 80286 unit and within the next year upgraded to an Intel-based AT 80386 just to upgrade again to the more advanced Intel-based 80486 (as it became available in the local market). After these upgrades I was freely and generously supplied with some of Intel's Europe, Middle-East and Africa (Intel EMEA) market's first assigned high-performance multiprocessing Intel Pentium and Intel Pentium II CPUs after joining Intel Corporation.

Intel CPU and Motherboard Components
Open Socket with Intel CPU on a Motherboard with two open RAM Slots on the Left
 
Applying IT Systems in Enhancing Management / Employee Productivity
I became fascinated by IT Systems to such an extend that I quickly mastered not only to design / integrate complete desktop / workstation IT Systems, but also vigorously researched how IT (and the fast-developing Internet) could be applied in improving individual / group productivity, corporate communications and analytical / data management performance objectives. During the early days of HTTP and HTML I developed a self-designed Intranet for an academic institution in Cape Town - for improving digital communications between the IT department and every PC across the campus. Working for / and be further trained by Intel Corporation a few years later enabled me to consult large corporations, universities and SME IT Systems development 'roadmapping' and lectured a variety of Information Systems, Software and E-Commerce modules to various groups of graduate and postgraduate students. However, my most important personal learning interests were, above all, still focused on the cognition, development and applied research in human behaviour / motivation.   

Academic / Private Sector Education, Training and Consulting 
The years between Image 1 and Image 2 was quite a journey. During these years I have had the privilege of lecturing (and designing / facilitating many training courses) at various business schools, universities and private training institutions across South Africa (Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban). I was provided with many opportunities for consulting / lecturing / facilitating subjects such as Strategic Management, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, Training Management, Labour Relations / Law, Industrial Psychology, Self Management, Small Business Management, Entrepreneurship, Organisational Behaviour, Consumer Behaviour / Market Research, Corporate Communications, Business Economics, Macroeconomics, Accountancy, Advertising Management, Project Leadership / Management, Supply-Chain Management, Marketing Management, Change Management, Information Systems Management, Information Systems Architecture /  Design / Integration, Corporate Website Strategy / Design / Implementation / Analytics, E-Commerce Strategy / Application, Internet Marketing Strategy / Application, Social Media Strategy / Application and Quantitative Analytics / Global Consumer Visitation / Market(ing) Behaviour Analysis (where applicable).

Intel Corporation - Working on the 'Intel Inside' campaign and more...
During this busy time (of lecturing and consulting day and most evenings) I was very fortunate to be recruited by Intel Corporation (USA) as the company entered the local Information Technology market with Marketing and Sales offices in three South African cities. At the time Intel was a Global Top 10 company in the S&P Fortune 500 Company Index (as one of the world's largest semiconductor / CPU manufacturers) - to manage the commercial desktop Central Processing Unit (CPU) word-renowned 'Intel Inside' advertising / education campaigns and the more industrial 'Intel Product Integrator' and (Intel Workstation / Server / CPU's, related high-performance Motherboards / Network Interface Cards) Sales, Marketing and related Dealer Training programmes in Cape Town. My Intel EMEA (UK) regional director was one of the senior members involved in the development of the original 'Intel Inside' advertising / brand campaign. Intel Corporation entered the South African market in 1997 and as one of only a few South Africans I regularly attended Intel CPU / Information Systems Architecture and Integration Training in various UK  / European cities. 

Iconic Reading: "The Intel Trinity: How Robert Noyce, Gordon Moore, and Andy Grove Built the World's Most Important Company" by Michael S. Malone Amazon

Inspired by Intel's PhD founders, Robert Noyce, Gordon Moore and Andy Grove it was more than an honour and privilege to work for one of the world's top-ranked (Information Technology) companies at the time. I have had the opportunity to meet / work with the U.S.-based Intel Corporation CEO and Chairman of the Intel Board, Dr. Craig Barrett in Johannesburg and was inspired by his charismatic and highly intelligent, but humble global business leadership approach. In many ways Intel Corporation (with it's famous founders and extraordinary semiconductor / technology journey since the 1960's) motivated me to do even more (on my own) with Information Technology, Education and Training. 

Don’t be encumbered by history, just go out and do something wonderful.” ― Robert Noyce, Intel

The Founding of Blu-C and beyond...
I left Intel after a few years to pursue further postgraduate studies in Business Administration, International Economics, Organisational Behaviour, Human Resource Development etc. Together with my friend, Joseph Inns, (an Art / Photography lecturer and Graphic Design entrepreneur) we founded the exciting 'dot.com' start-up of Blu-C - a creative Internet, IT (Desktop System Integration and Networking), Database Development, Graphic Design, Public Relations and Photography agency in Pinelands and later Rondebosch, Cape Town. Recruitment and selection of new staff were ingenious and effective - we both recruited our best students / graduates (who we thought would fit into our entrepreneurial culture) from relevant subjects we both lectured. Joseph worked full-time at Blu-C while I maintained my part-time lecturing (close to the office in Rondebosch, but also Cape Town, Granger Bay and Bellville).

After four years as executive partner at Blu-C (and spending half the time in classrooms again) I decided it was time to call it a day and returned to (almost) full-time lecturing, JSE Derivatives Trading, Organisational / Information Technology consulting and private Internet Marketing / Social Media Strategy consulting / training across the Western Cape, Durban and Johannesburg. Joseph took full ownership and control of Blu-C. To assist me with my demanding traveling schedules I developed my first personal academic resource-sharing website. Different pages of the website represented different subjects and any student could securely up / and download subject-specific information (while away from campus) without manual intervention from me.  

Today Blu-C is the registered name of my Photography Training Studio / Private Accommodation Apartment in Milnerton (with Joseph Inn's personal blessing before he sadly passed away in 2021).

Privilege and Responsibility
I never had a favourite or preferred subject. The privilege to contribute to so many careers and lives came with an enormous sense of responsibility and motivation during the entire 'left brain' lecturing / facilitation period. I have very fond memories of lecturing at the SA Navy's Military Training School / Naval Staff College. I enjoyed the discipline, military organisational structure and the close-knit social environment. I also learned about / enjoyed international traveling and was subjected to a sublime professional business culture at one of the most successful global IT organisations (while working / training at Intel Corporation). One thing I did not really enjoy after leaving the SA Navy was the endless driving between university campuses during the week and many Saturday mornings, but always with the same objectives of being prepared and never to be a minute late (albeit with the same privilege and motivation). At Intel Corporation it was more / less the same, the endless travelling schedule across South Africa and abroad took its toll on all the other plans 'I had in my head'. Nevertheless, I am still grateful for each and every opportunity I received. 

Paradigm Shift: Education and Training to Creative Application, Research and Training
Since 2010 I started with a complete paradigm shift, transitioning from the above to photography / photography training. I transformed my photography hobby into an educational, training and support system by first educating myself with a thorough academic understanding of the art and science of photography, followed by application through the research, design, development and facilitation of various Canon EOS Camera & Photography Workshops and currently, one-on-one Training Programmes (Birds in Flight / Landscape / Macro / Speedlite Flash / Image Post-Processing) at my Milnerton training studio apartment (opposite Woodbridge Island), Cape Town. My Photography Training Philosophy.

Canon Camera News Website
I started researching and archiving the entire Canon EOS SLR / DSLR / EF / EF-S lens, PowerShot camera ranges (and related accessories, manuals and international media releases) and during 2012 launched my Canon Camera News website. Today the website (with the full range of the current Canon mirrorless EOS R System cameras - and RF / RF-S lenses) is an 'one-stop online destination' to more than a million global Canon camera (and to a lesser extent Canon small office / home laser and inkjet printer) users for the viewing / downloading of historic and up-to-date Canon camera and printer-related support information (for a growing international user circulation of +- 130 countries per year).

The 'ever-present' Joseph Inns
My friend, photography lecturer and former business partner, Joseph Inns, played an extraordinary role in assisting me with my transition into photography. He's knowledge, experience and personal qualities guided me in more ways he would ever have known. Joseph unfortunately passed away in 2021. I dearly miss my friend, but will never forget the absolute meaningful impact / paradigm shift he has brought to my life and career. Grieving the loss of my friend, Joseph Inns

Delegates during a Vernon Chalmers Landscape Practical Session on Milnerton Beach : Mental Health and Motivation
Delegates during a Landscape Practical Session Milnerton Beach, Cape Town : Photo Credit: Steve Williams

Image 2: Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Milnerton / Woodbridge Island

Students during a recent Landscape / Seascape Photography Workshop at Milnerton Beach. Theory (settings / composition) was presented at Intaka Island, Century City and practical sessions for Canon and Nikon photographers were facilitated around Woodbridge Island and Milnerton Beach.  About everything during the years stayed the same (although I have completely changed subjects). I have the same intensity and interest in the development and training of people. 

Vernon Chalmers Intaka Island Photography View >>

Vernon Chalmers Kirstenbosch Garden Photography View >>

Vernon Chalmers Woodbridge Island Photography View >>

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training View >>

Photography is absolutely more creative than any of the left brain subjects I facilitated, but the personal responsibility, research, preparation, support and ultimately the privilege is the same (for me).

Mental Health and Motivation Website
The website was created during May 2021 as an online journaling project expressing my personal experiences and views with reference to Emotional Wellbeing, Neuropsychology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sense of Self Research / Resource Sharing. More >>

Human Brain Asymmetry and Lateralization
With my omnipresent interest in education, training and developmental psychology I have found contemporary neuroscience as a fundamental physiological requirement for gaining more insight into cognitive vs. emotional decision-making biases and subsequent behavioural responses. Learning more about human brain asymmetry and lateralisation and how the limbic system controls our cognition, motivation, emotions and stress reactions etc. are indeed fascinating, but also serves as important personal guidance in understanding more about human behaviour challenges / development.   

Photography Training Research Project 2023 / 2024
Metacognitive Assessment and Review Opinion: Photography Training and Development. 
This research project will be inclusive of a fundamental pedagogic assessment orientation with emphasis on creating assumptions of the adult learner's challenges in improving cognition, behaviour, skills and creative ability. More >>

Hybrid Mode: CFD Trading on the JSE
What I did retain form my more analytical 'left brain days' is my Contract for Difference (CFD) trading on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). This is an effective way of keeping my mind sharp and it provides for my only 'set' daily schedule - the JSE is open Monday to Friday between 09:00 - 17:00. I live every week day with these 'office hours' in the back of my mind - even if I don't trade and just walk around Intaka Island, Kirstenbosch Garden and / or Woodbridge Island doing my photography. I trade only for myself therefore the research, decision-making and management of my own derivatives portfolio is a personal, but 'challenging strategy, application and risk management exercise' for stimulating analytical thinking.

© Vernon Chalmers : Mental Health and Motivation (Education and Training)

From Analytical Education to Creative Training: Supporting Information
"Shifting from analytical education to creative training involves a focus on fostering creativity, innovation, and critical thinking skills in students. Here are some key aspects to consider when transitioning from an analytical approach to a more creative and experiential learning environment:

1. Encouraging Exploration and Curiosity: Create an atmosphere that encourages students to explore different ideas, ask questions, and think critically. Foster a sense of curiosity by providing opportunities for hands-on experiences, experimentation, and problem-solving.

2. Emphasizing Critical Thinking: Develop activities and assignments that promote critical thinking skills, such as analyzing complex problems, evaluating multiple perspectives, and generating innovative solutions. Encourage students to think critically about the information they encounter and challenge traditional assumptions.

3. Incorporating Project-Based Learning: Implement project-based learning approaches where students can engage in real-world problem-solving. Design projects that require creativity, collaboration, and interdisciplinary thinking. This approach allows students to apply their knowledge in practical ways and encourages innovative thinking.

4. Promoting Collaboration and Communication: Encourage collaborative learning environments where students can work together in groups to solve problems, brainstorm ideas, and share diverse perspectives. This helps students develop effective communication skills and learn from each other's unique experiences and insights.

5. Integrating Arts and Design: Incorporate arts-based activities, such as visual arts, music, drama, and design, into the curriculum. These activities can stimulate creativity, foster self-expression, and encourage students to think outside the box. They also provide alternative avenues for students to explore and express their ideas.

6. Providing Flexibility and Choice: Offer students more flexibility and choice in their learning paths. Allow them to pursue topics of interest and explore different approaches to assignments. This autonomy can enhance motivation, engagement, and creativity.

7. Leveraging Technology: Integrate technology tools and resources that facilitate creative expression, such as multimedia creation, coding, virtual reality, or online collaboration platforms. These tools can empower students to explore new possibilities and engage in innovative ways of learning.

8. Emphasizing Reflection and Feedback: Incorporate regular reflection exercises where students can analyze their own learning process, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and set goals. Provide constructive feedback that encourages students to iterate and refine their creative work.

9. Cultivating an Innovation Mindset: Foster an environment that values risk-taking, resilience, and adaptability. Help students develop an innovation mindset by promoting a growth mindset, where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities and experimentation is encouraged.

10. Engaging with the Real World: Connect students with real-world contexts and professionals from various industries. Invite guest speakers, organize field trips, or facilitate internships and partnerships with local organizations. This exposure allows students to see the practical applications of their learning and encourages creative problem-solving.

Remember, transitioning from an analytical education approach to a more creative training environment requires a shift in teaching practices, curriculum design, and assessment methods. It's important to provide ongoing support, resources, and professional development opportunities for educators to effectively implement these changes and create an environment conducive to creativity and innovation." Source: ChatGPT 2023)

Vernon Chalmers - Never Stop Learning

“Optimism is an essential ingredient of innovation. How else can the individual welcome change over security, adventure over staying in safe places?” ― Robert Noyce, Intel

"We are bringing about the next great revolution in the history of mankind - the transition to the electronic age."  Gordon Moore, Intel

"Not all problems have a technological answer, but when they do, that is the more lasting solution."  Andy Grove, Intel

"With the help of technology, teachers will be leaders in the transformation of education around the world." ―  Craig Barrett, Intel

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