Articles tagged with Undergraduate Education
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study by NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing found that nurses with bachelor's degrees report being better prepared in quality and safety measures, but the gap in preparedness between associate and bachelor's degree nurse graduates has doubled since 2007. This highlights the need for increased educational attainment among new nurs...
The National Science Foundation has awarded $45 million to 31 projects under the Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program, aiming to increase retention and graduation rates for STEM students at these institutions. The program invests in building capacity and increasing STEM education and research capacity at HSIs.
A new study found that eighth-grade science teachers without an educational background in science are less likely to practice inquiry-oriented science instruction, a pedagogical approach developed by the National Research Council. This research suggests that U.S. middle-grades students may lag behind global peers in scientific literacy...
New UBC research suggests access to flexible work arrangements, such as working from home and choosing hours, improves wages for mothers, particularly those with a university degree. Flexible work benefits primarily by reducing barriers to employment in higher-paying firms, offering an important lesson for hiring managers.
David Peak, a physics professor at Utah State University, has received the national Council on Undergraduate Research-Goldwater Scholars Faculty Mentor Award. He has mentored over 30 USU undergraduates to 36 Goldwater Scholarships and Honorable Mentions.
A new paper from North Carolina State University presents a case study on fieldwork in rural Belize, demonstrating how anthropological fieldwork methods can be adapted for public history research. The study emphasizes the value of local partnerships and diversity in research teams.
Dr. Heidi M. Sosik has made significant contributions to phytoplankton ecology and sensor development, with notable applications in monitoring harmful algal blooms and promoting ocean science education. She will be formally recognized as a Fellow of The Oceanography Society at the Ocean Sciences Meeting in February 2018.
Researchers at Portland State University developed a survey to tap into students' motivation in STEM classes, highlighting the importance of feelings of belonging and positive identity. The survey findings aim to provide educators with tools to address motivational factors and improve teaching strategies.
The University of Texas at Arlington has received a five-year grant to further the efforts of its McNair Scholars program, which helps first-generation college students from low-income and minority backgrounds pursue master's and doctoral degrees. The program aims to increase diversity among academics and researchers.
A study published by The BMJ found that staying in education is associated with a lower risk of developing coronary heart disease. Increasing the number of years spent in education may lower this risk by a substantial amount, say the authors.
A new study by NYU's Steinhardt School finds that the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill increased overall college enrollment among veterans by 3 percentage points, with a larger impact immediately after its adoption. However, this effect has waned in recent years.
Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a prototype smartwatch called Cito that can rotate, hinge, translate, rise, and orbit in five different directions. The innovative technology improves the user experience by addressing limitations of fixed-face watches.
The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture is providing $18 million in funding to support the next generation of agricultural science professionals. The program aims to strengthen pathways for students and researchers in agriculture-related fields, from primary school STEM education to fellowships for new scientists.
Researchers at NSU discovered that shaking bacteria can create confusion, preventing them from coordinating an attack. This strategy has promise in reducing the need for antibiotics and combating antibiotic resistance. The team plans to test their theory in more species of bacteria and eventually in mice.
The US Department of Agriculture has awarded over $5 million in grants to support research and extension experiences for undergraduate students in agriculture. These fellowships aim to prepare students for careers in the agricultural sciences, focusing on food, agriculture, natural resources, and human sciences.
Researchers found that college students perceive a difference between 'real meal' and 'meal', with the former being associated with nutritious food and guidelines. The term 'real meal' could be an effective tool to encourage healthy eating habits in education campaigns or media-based interventions.
Researchers created a high-speed terahertz modulator that operates at room temperature and low voltages, exceeding 14 gigahertz modulation cutoff frequency. The device has the potential to work above 1 THz, filling the 'THz gap' in wireless device development.
A study found that campus composting programs effectively raise students' knowledge of composting and environmental issues. The programs also promote a more internal locus of control, encouraging students to take action towards solving future environmental problems.
Developing a broader skill of empathy is crucial for medical students and doctors, enabling them to strike a balance between compassion and clinical detachment. This approach, driven by Dr David Jeffrey's work, enables improvements in patient care, psycho-social research, and medical education.
Researchers at NSU discovered that barnacles can modify their penis shape, size, and length based on environmental conditions. This unique adaptation allows them to optimize their reproductive success.
The University of Texas at El Paso received $1.9 million from the NSF to address PCAST report findings on uninspiring introductory courses and faculty unwelcoming atmosphere, aiming to foster positive student identities in computer science.
Joanna Kreitinger, a University of Montana graduate student, has been awarded a prestigious immunology fellowship to study immune cell development and contribute to understanding lung diseases. Under Professor David Shepherd's leadership, her research aims to develop new drugs to treat diseases of the immune system.
A new study finds that courses engaging college students in scientific research early on increase students' odds of completing a STEM degree. The Freshman Research Initiative at UT Austin boosts STEM retention by almost 25 percent.
Researchers at Georgia State University found that using imagery can improve memory recall and reduce false memories. Participants who created images of list words recalled more words accurately than those who didn't, while also committing fewer errors.
A team of CCNY chemists has devised a method to cleave carbon-hydrogen bonds, paving the way for the creation of novel pharmaceutical molecules. The breakthrough could provide direct access to new antiviral drugs.
A NSU researcher is studying the evolution of bioluminescence and vision in deep-sea shrimp to better understand how they match light around them. The research will focus on the physiological control of this complex system, with the goal of bringing this knowledge to life for elementary through college-age students.
William B. Kristan is recognized for his outstanding contributions to neuroscience education and training. He has established the Neurobiology Boot Camp course at UCSD, which provides students with a comprehensive understanding of neuroscience.
The University of California, Santa Barbara, has been awarded a $2.6 million grant from the US Department of Education to strengthen student success and retention. The grant will focus on two main areas: first-year experiences and faculty professional development, targeting underrepresented students in specific majors and courses.
A collaborative study will synthesize scattered information about butterflies, placing it in an evolutionary context to study broad-scale patterns of ecology and evolution. The project aims to assemble a database of biological information about each species, making it available to the public via a website.
Teachers certified through alternative pathways exhibit stronger SAT scores and greater success on certification exams compared to traditional university-based programs. These findings suggest that adding course requirements may actually deter the most qualified individuals from pursuing teaching careers.
The Ecological Society of America will create a new network for 21st century STEM professionals in environmental biology with an innovative mindset. The project aims to prepare students for rapidly evolving career tracks and addresses NSF's goal of building the professional STEM workforce for tomorrow.
The NSF Engineering Research Center for Biorenewable Chemicals at Iowa State University has received a major boost with the addition of three years and $8.48 million in grant funding. The center, known as CBiRC, will now receive a total of 10 years and $35.26 million in support.
A new study by CCNY physicists suggests that smaller influencers can maximize the spread of information in social networks. The Collective Influence algorithm, proposed by Morone and Makse, beats competing methods in large-scale networks like Twitter and Facebook.
Robert L. Nussbaum, Roderick R. McInnes, and Huntington F. Willard are the recipients of ASHG's Award for Excellence in Human Genetics Education. They have made significant contributions to genetics education through their work on textbooks and educational programs.
Researchers at City College of New York have developed an eco-friendly biodegradable agent derived from the plant-based small molecule phytol, which can replace chemical herders currently in use. The new substance has been shown to contract and thicken oil slicks, making them easier to collect or burn.
A NYU study found that a life review writing workshop combined with student interactions enhances the sense of purpose for older adults living independently. The program showed significant benefits in promoting well-being and reducing depressive symptoms among community-dwelling seniors.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $12 million to six engineering and computer science departments to redesign their undergraduate programs. The funding will support groundbreaking changes in the professional formation of engineers and computer scientists.
The PULSE certification process recognizes eight US colleges for implementing transformative practices in undergraduate biology education. The pilot project assesses progress towards the Vision and Change report's recommendations, providing a framework for evaluating teaching quality and student learning outcomes.
Researchers found that alternative developmental educational pathways can significantly improve academic outcomes for community college students. Three pathways, including summer immersion, English language immersion, and CUNY Start, were evaluated and showed positive effects on student success.
Researchers at City College of New York have developed a novel polarization method to increase data speeds, carrying an additional data stream through manipulated laser beam shapes. This technology has the potential to scale terabits or even petabits per laser beam and is compatible with building-to-building communication in NYC.
The Greenland Ice Sheet is projected to darken further as a result of increased temperature and melting. Darker ice appears when snow grains become smaller, increasing exposure of bare ice and impurities concentration.
W. James Lewis received the 2015 AMS Award for Impact on the Teaching and Learning of Mathematics, recognizing his career-long advocacy for integrating mathematics research and education. He established a national model for teaching at University of Nebraska-Lincoln, shaping math education across the country.
Six CCNY graduates have been named National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellows for their exceptional proposals in biology, environmental engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, and geochemistry. The fellowships provide annual stipends and cost-of-education allowances to support graduate study.
A recent report highlights the need for transparent financial counseling before students accumulate debt, which can have long-lasting consequences. The average US graduate has $28,400 in student loan debt, with many struggling to repay due to low salaries and job insecurity.
A new study reveals that faculty careers are largely determined by their alma mater, with only a small percentage of professors receiving training outside elite institutions. The research found a systematic bias against women with elite doctorates, who face significant career advancement barriers.
A recent study published in Science estimates that between 4.8 and 12.7 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean every year, mainly from coastal regions. The researchers used a grand model to estimate the amount of plastic waste entering the ocean and found that it is significantly higher than previously estimated.
The American Statistical Association analysis shows that statistics degrees nearly doubled during 2010-2013, outpacing other computer-related disciplines. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for workers with statistical and analytical skills in the job market.
Researchers discovered that fondaparinux, an anticoagulant, can protect transplanted kidneys from damage. Improved kidney function was observed both immediately after transplantation and months later, suggesting this strategy could augment the pool of available organs.
The Undergraduate STEM Education Coalition has released a sourcebook offering practical advice on how to achieve widespread and sustained transformation in teaching in STEM disciplines. The publication highlights the need for institutional capacity-building and overcoming barriers to faculty adopting effective teaching practices.
A new study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that frailty significantly increases the risk of premature death in kidney transplant recipients. The study analyzed data from 537 patients and found that those who were classified as frail had a mortality rate twice that of non-frail patients.
A report by Richard Wakeford highlights the shortage of doctors in general practice, with only 11% of new medical students planning a career in GP. The Medical Schools Council's lack of representation from GPs is a major concern, as it may hinder effective recruitment.
The University of Pittsburgh has received a $2.9 million grant from the National Science Foundation to establish QUBES, a project aiming to refine quantitative biology pedagogy nationwide. The initiative plans to leverage existing technologies to provide cost-effective solutions for faculty development and undergraduate education.
A new study found that living liver donor candidates often experience ambivalence regarding donation, which is linked to physical, psychosocial, and financial concerns. Providing social support can help mitigate these concerns and reduce ambivalence among living liver donors.
New research reveals that broader organ sharing for liver transplants will not negatively impact Cold Ischemia Time (CIT) but will increase the percentage of organs transported by flying, according to findings published in Liver Transplantation.
NREL researchers Art Nozik and Keith Emery have been included in the Thomson Reuters' Highly Cited Researcher list, citing over 22,000 and 10,000 times respectively. Their work has greatly increased solar cell efficiency and established NREL as a leader in photovoltaics measurements.
Experts warn of physical and toxicological risks from widespread ocean microplastics, calling for 'turning off the tap' on plastic waste. Small changes in daily habits can collectively reduce dependence on disposable items.
The Association of American Universities (AAU) has launched the AAU STEM Initiative Hub, a website providing resources for universities to showcase innovative efforts improving undergraduate STEM teaching. The hub will also profile efforts by eight AAU STEM Project Sites and provide a platform for sharing strategies and challenges.
Researchers found that 89.5% of respondents believe fieldwork should be a required part of undergraduate education, but nearly two-thirds think traditional focus on bedrock mapping is unnecessary. The study calls for academia-industry dialogue and further research to test the value of field education.
A new core concept template called BioCore Guide aims to provide an updated blueprint for educators to clarify the learning outcomes for undergraduate students majoring in general biology. The guide builds on previous reform efforts and provides overarching principles for each core concept, as well as 40 statements that illustrate the ...
A team of scientists from Tufts University, Brown University, and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is working on a project to create robots capable of making moral decisions. The researchers aim to develop formal frameworks for modeling human-level moral reasoning that can be verified and implemented in computational architectures.