Articles tagged with Science Education
Scientists have discovered a rare type of white dwarf pulsar, shedding light on stellar evolution and the origin of strong magnetic fields. The newly detected pulsar, J1912-4410, has a size similar to Earth but a mass at least as large as the Sun.
A yearlong science program with family members led to increased interest in STEM subjects and a lifelong engagement. Children who participated showed more enthusiasm for science and were more likely to envision themselves as scientists, while their families reported renewed interest in science at home.
A University of Pittsburgh study found that TV medical dramas prompted middle schoolers to engage in discussion about vaping dangers after viewing clips featuring fictional adolescents with vaping-associated lung disease. The study suggests using entertainment television as a tool for dialogue about the health effects of e-cigarette use.
A team of researchers at Lancaster University developed accessible ways to communicate sustainability research using fairy tale characters. The 'Telling Tales' project aims to make complicated arguments more engaging and understandable for policymakers and the public.
A study by researcher Breno Arsioli Moura investigated the depictions of Benjamin Franklin's famous kite experiment in illustrations published in the 19th century. The study found several inaccuracies, including the incorrect location where the experiment was performed and the method used to harness electricity from the clouds.
Researchers discover allowing imperfection in design can create wider range of 'good enough' solutions, enabling more innovative designs. The study uses simple examples, such as walkways and bird flapping motion, to show that even small tolerances for imperfection open up significant design space.
A new scientific statement co-authored by the American Heart Association recommends teaching CPR to school-aged children as early as age 4, with layers of skill-building throughout childhood. This approach aims to educate generations on responding to cardiac arrest and increasing survival rates globally.
A team of 995 undergraduate and graduate students analyzed 600 real solar flares, casting doubt on the theory that nanoflares heat up the sun's corona. The students' work provided a unique opportunity for early-career scientists to learn about collaborative research.
In a new study, NC State University researchers had high school students develop their own machine-learning AI models to analyze data. The project aimed to prepare students for the future workforce and help them understand the potential and challenges of AI. Students created text classification models using StoryQ technology, which all...
A new study reveals that contaminated bubble bursting produces aerosols with smaller sizes, greater number of drops, and higher ejection speeds. This finding has significant implications for public health and environmental impact.
A new study found evidence of a reverse 'Flynn effect' in the US, with declines in verbal reasoning, matrix reasoning, and letter/number series scores, but an increase in 3D rotation scores. The study suggests that changing values and motivation may be contributing factors.
A proof-of-principle study introduces a 'glowscope' - a $50 device that converts smartphones into fluorescence microscopes. The device allows for low-magnification imaging of cells, tissues, and organisms under fluorescent lighting.
Researchers found that those perceiving an oral exam as a challenge tend to perform better and have lower cortisol levels. Experts advise examiners to create a supportive atmosphere to reduce stress. This study highlights the importance of self-efficacy in presentation performance.
The 57th annual meeting of the Geological Society of America's South-Central Section will take place in Oklahoma, USA, from March 13-14. The event features a diverse program covering various geologic disciplines and includes environmental-related sessions on topics such as hydrogeology and unconventional resources.
The USC Viterbi School of Engineering and National Academy of Engineering launch a weekly social media news network, The Circuit, to promote engineering to the public. The program aims to engage diverse audiences in conversations about engineering and highlight notable engineers and technologies that shape our world.
The Carnegie Mellon Portugal initiative offers up to 12 Ph.D. scholarships for the 2023/2024 academic year in selected ICT areas. The selected candidates will be hosted by Portuguese universities and benefit from a research period at CMU, with full tuition fees and stipend support.
Tactile Engineering's Cadence tablet allows users to access technical diagrams and read equations using a refreshable display of electronic cells. The investment will enable the company to manufacture Cadence in larger quantities, supporting its mission to strengthen Braille literacy and equal-opportunity STEM education.
A recent study from North Carolina State University suggests that participation in environmental education programs can motivate children across diverse language groups to act responsibly toward the environment. Bilingual or multilingual students saw bigger gains on average compared to students who spoke English primarily at home.
The American Chemical Society (ACS) is hosting a hybrid Spring 2023 meeting with over 10,000 presentations on various topics, including agriculture, energy, health, and sustainability. Press registration is available for qualified journalists and public information officers.
The University of Texas at El Paso has received a $5 million grant from the National Science Foundation to provide financial support and professional development experiences to talented computer science students. The program will fund partial scholarships for 26 UTEP students and 15 EPCC students.
Researchers found that biology textbooks published between 1970 and 2019 provided insufficient climate change information, with median sentence counts decreasing over time. Climate coverage has varied substantially, but actionable solutions decreased significantly since the 1990s.
Recent changes in climate change coverage in college biology textbooks have been minor and focus on the impacts rather than solutions. The analysis of 57 college biology textbooks since 1970 shows that coverage has continually expanded, but the proportion of text dedicated to actionable solutions has decreased over time.
Jon A. Jacobson, MD, FACR, has been recognized as the 2023 ARRS Distinguished Educator for his exceptional contributions to radiological education and innovative educational activities. He is a renowned expert in musculoskeletal ultrasound and MRI, with over 250 peer-reviewed publications.
A study found that children think they have less access to common measurement tools and toys than their parents. This disparity can hinder STEM interest and success, as prior experience with tools is crucial for self-efficacy. The authors argue that this issue persists due to unnoticed gaps between parental and child perspectives.
A novel framework uses remote-controlled, internet-connected microscopes to bring project-based STEM education to students worldwide. Users in Latinx communities and multinational students successfully conducted tissue culture experiments, exploring the scientific method in a scalable and affordable approach.
A new study explores how older adults plan for future changes, such as stopping driving or using firearms. The research found that reducing access to potentially dangerous situations should be prompted by declining ability, not age alone. Trusted messengers like family and clinicians can lead conversations around limiting access, and s...
The American Heart Association has selected 52 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) students for its Scholars program. The program aims to increase diversity in the healthcare field by providing opportunities for research, mentorship, and leadership development. Accepted students will study social determinants of health ...
The University of Missouri is revamping its training courses for childcare providers with a $7.5 million grant from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The new online video-based courses aim to be more accessible and engaging, covering topics such as safe sleep, transportation, and emergency preparedness.
Researchers from Pomona College developed an online undergraduate physics lab course using Hexbug Nanos to engage students in scientific research. Students designed experiments to investigate concepts in statistical mechanics and electrical conduction, with promising results.
A recent UNLV-led study discovered that women enthusiastically embraced live chat during pandemic Zoom classes, with ratings showing significantly higher engagement than men. The researchers hope this data can help colleges incorporate technology into hybrid and in-person courses to increase underrepresented groups' access to STEM fields.
A pilot study found that a firearm safety program may not reach all parents equitably, with disparities affecting girls and some racial and ethnic minorities. The program aims to reduce suicide deaths by securely storing firearms.
Researchers have discovered that zinc ions tune the ability of human serum albumin to prevent α-synuclein aggregation, a process linked to Parkinson's disease. Zinc binding alters HSA's chaperone function, blunting fibril formation and slowing down protein deposition that can lead to neurodegeneration.
UTSA has received a five-year, $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation to develop an HSI Student Success Servingness Framework. The project aims to improve student learning and self-efficacy through pedagogical approaches and enhanced student peer mentoring.
A new study reveals that coaches displaying authentic leadership qualities can decrease athlete aggression and increase trust, enjoyment and commitment. Researchers found athletes training with authentic coaches are less likely to act aggressively towards competitors.
A new study from the University of Kansas suggests that fostering positive attitudes toward math and science early in students' lives can address gender and socioeconomic gaps in STEM. The study analyzed data from over 21,000 students and found that having a science or math identity in ninth grade can increase the likelihood of enrolli...
A new study suggests that pretending to be a successful female scientist can increase young girls' persistence in science. Four- to seven-year-old girls who assumed the role of Marie Curie or another gender-matched scientist played longer and rated themselves higher than those in control groups.
A team of researchers from Japan successfully reconstructed common brain input signals from the firing rates of neurons using a method called superposed recurrence plot. This breakthrough has significant implications for artificial intelligence, neuroscience, and potential treatments for mental health disorders.
Researchers aim to improve and expand Enzymatic Construction Material (ECM), a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete that can repair cracks and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The grant will also support programs to inspire girls' interests in engineering and construction, addressing the industry's gender gap.
A study found that resiliency and family support play a crucial role in helping Hispanic breast cancer survivors manage lymphedema. Adaptations such as modifying work tasks and seeking support from family members enable survivors to maintain their quality of life.
The report explores diffuse optical imaging methods applicable to noninvasive human studies, including near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS). It introduces state-of-the-art technologies and software, exploring their impact on neuroscience and clinical applications.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that patient education and nurse performance feedback can significantly reduce missed or refused doses of VTE-preventing drugs. The interventions resulted in a 36% drop in missed doses, with the patient education bundle showing a 44% reduction.
A new federal grant will develop training for thousands of future faculty in evidence-based teaching practices, aiming to foster interest and support all STEM students. The project, led by PSU Associate Professor Erin Shortlidge, has the potential to increase student success and close the opportunity gap for marginalized students.
A new Australian study reveals that despite growing interest in nature-based learning, teachers need professional development to effectively integrate it into their teaching practices. The research found that seven out of ten teachers felt limited by their knowledge and confidence in using nature play areas to support curriculum goals.
A research group from Tokyo University of Science has discovered molecular features that govern the filling process at nanoscales, enabling finer resolutions in ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography. The findings provide valuable insights for guiding the selection and design of optimized resists for sub-10 nm resolution.
A survey of 1,086 adults found that negative views towards harassing public health officials increased from November 2020 to July-August 2021. Higher earners and those with more education were more likely to hold such views.
A Polish study found that students without disabilities achieve the same academic results when attending classes with students who have disabilities, with implications for inclusive education. The research suggests that the type of inclusion does not affect academic achievement.
The CUNY Graduate Center's Nanoscience Connected to Life program will prepare diverse Ph.D. students for careers in biotech, clean energy, and other areas benefiting from bioinspired nanoscience. The $3 million NSF grant will fund dissertation research mentoring by faculty from multiple disciplines.
The ACS Fall 2022 meeting is a hybrid event with nearly 11,000 presentations on topics like lab safety, sustainable chemicals, and energy. Press registration is open for journalists and public info officers, offering access to embargoed press releases and a virtual media briefing schedule.
A novel single-cell RNA sequencing technique, TAS-Seq, has been developed to provide higher-precision data than current methods. The new method detects more genes and identifies highly variable genes, making it a sensitive high-throughput scRNA method.
A study found that 77% of volunteers participated in multiple projects, but were overwhelmingly White and educated, suggesting existing programs may not be broadening public participation. Researchers suggest a shift to focusing on volunteers rather than individual projects to address these issues.
The WVU program trains next generation of toxicologists to collect, analyze air samples from mining, fracking sites, using the university's Inhalation Facility. Students will work with preceptors from various fields to investigate health effects of inhaling toxicants.
Researchers present a 'green' process for tie-dyeing cotton with renewable resources and wastes, linking science, art, and sustainability. The natural dyes used produce designs of white, brown, orange, and bluish-black colors on fabrics.
The UK's Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation advises that COVID vaccines should be offered to 5–11-year-old children, but deem immunization as non-essential. Dr Hamid Merchant explains why current vaccines are not suitable for children due to efficacy and safety concerns.
Students in a University of Illinois course used household items like buttercream frosting, toothpaste, and yogurt to measure fluid properties. They developed creative methods for carrying out rheometric measurements, including compression squeeze flow analysis and gravity-driven filament stretching.
The electrochemistry designette is a pedagogical tool that enables instructors to visualize students' competence and misconceptions on electrochemical principles. Developed by SUTD researchers, the designette has proven highly effective in allowing instructors to spot misconceptions and provide prompt intervention.
The new COBRE grant will help WVU recruit researchers and clinician-scientists to develop innovative solutions for preventing and treating incurable vision problems. The project aims to reduce visual disparities in West Virginia by understanding the complex combination of factors that contribute to these problems.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory discovered an aberrant protein that mimics the action of aminoglycoside antibiotics, which could help scientists understand how those drugs kill bacterial cells. The newly identified protein could lead to the development of new inhibitors to target bacterial growth.
The latest neurophotonic tools and techniques are reviewed in a new status report, covering advances from molecular nanoprobes to cortical column imaging. The report provides an overview of current state and future directions for brain science research.
A new study reveals that firearm retailers and law enforcement agencies in Colorado and Washington support providing temporary, voluntary firearm storage options. The concept aims to increase safety by limiting access to firearms during times of crisis, such as suicidal thoughts or Alzheimer's disease. However, concerns about civil lia...
Researchers identified key factors contributing to the gender gap in engineering courses, including female instructors, peer participation, and icebreaker questions. The study suggests that these strategies can help increase women's participation and close the gap in STEM fields.