ORAL PRESENTATIONS
Each student has 15 minutes to present, followed by the remaining time for Q&A with all the presenters at once.
LIGHTNING TALKS
Each student presentation has 20 slides that auto-advance every 20 seconds (4 mins 40 secs per presenter), followed by the remaining time for Q&A with all the presenters at once.
ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS
Each student has 5 minutes to talk about their work then with the remaining time they will break out to separate tables to sit with attendees discussing prepared questions.
POSTER PRESENTATIONS
tudents will be standing next to their research display/poster/ S computer/tablet/artifact to chat with attendees.
Ragsdale Center MABEE
MABEE
MABEE
A
B
C
Jo’s Coffee
JONES
J
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Letter from Co-Chairs
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Schedule
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Abstracts
Topics
*3:30pm – 4pm Harald Becker High Tea
MABEE C
April 12, 2019 Dear SOURCE Participants & Guests,
Welcome to the 18th Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). It is a pleasure to join with faculty, staff, students, and guests to celebrate the work of our undergraduate scholars. Since its inception in 2002, SOURCE has become a forum for crossdisciplinary discussion and an opportunity for students to actively fulfill the University’s mission to “make graduates competent in a chosen discipline and to help them understand and appreciate the contributions of other disciplines.” The research and creative projects presented at SOURCE reflect “training in critical and creative thinking as well as moral reasoning, to analyze problems, propose solutions and make responsible decisions” (St. Edward’s University Mission Statement). SOURCE presentations also reflect our faculty’s commitment to work collaboratively with students in research and creative expression and / or as mentor for students undertaking independent projects. During SOURCE we see these characteristics shine through as students tackle tough issues, think deeply about complex questions in their chosen fields, and eloquently present their ideas to the St. Edward’s community. Further, SOURCE provides an opportunity for the community to participate in this scholarly discourse, and to celebrate student achievement and excellence in learning and research. For the ancient Greeks, the symposium was a medium for debate and discussion, a key arena for the exchange of scholarly ideas. Often food and drink was served. We hope that today’s symposium offers a similar forum, and as you gather in the hallways over coffee between lightning round, roundtable, oral presentations, or linger over lunch at the poster session, that the ideas and discussions raised in these formal presentations will continue, and will inspire new ideas for future research and creative expression. For presenters and their mentors, SOURCE culminates in celebration at a High Tea. Here we will continue the good discussions that have begun and take the time to formally recognize the work of the participants at an award ceremony. SOURCE 2017 represents the efforts of many talented students and their faculty mentors, and we honor them for their accomplishments. In addition, the symposium would not be possible without the excellent work of the faculty and staff that volunteered for SOURCE. We would like to express our deepest gratitude for the time and energy expended by the many people whose work makes the symposium a reality.
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We extend a great appreciation to, Sr. Donna Jurick, Executive Vice President, and Dr. Lori Peterson, Associate Vice President for Faculty Development and Academic Programs, for their continued support. With the effort of editors Dr. Peter Austin and Dr. Victoria Hill, the SOURCE journal, J Source, introduced in 2008, continues to grow. This is another excellent scholarly forum in which our students can present their ideas and research. The 2017 edition, featuring papers presented at SOURCE 2017, is available now. Additionally, would like to thank the Ragsdale Center staff for facilitating arrangements in Ragsdale, as well as providing audio, visual and technological assistance. From the Graphic Design program, we are very thankful to Professor Tuan Phan, M.F.A., as well as graphic design student, Logan Stallings who designed all the materials both print and digital for this year’s SOURCE. We look forward to the new and unique designs each year and our continued collaboration. Finally, as we proceed in our second decade of SOURCE, we would like to recognize the tireless efforts of past committee members, Chairs and administrative staff. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to serve with dedicated and talented individuals from across the St. Edward’s University campus. We also recognize the students and their faculty mentors who participated in SOURCE; your labors have ensured that SOURCE remains a highlight of the academic year at St. Edward’s. As the University increasingly encourages student research in the Strategic Plan, we are confident that SOURCE will continue to provide a forum for highlighting our students’ achievements. As Co-Chairs it has been our pleasure to work with so many outstanding members of the St. Edward’s community. We look forward to a wonderful day of dialogue, inquiry, and conversation as we celebrate our students’ accomplishments. With regards, Casie Parish Fisher, Ph.D. Emma Woelk, Ph.D. SOURCE Steering Committee Co-Chairs
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9am – 10am Oral Presentations JONES Alyssa Chern El Norte: No Home for Immigrants Bailey Garrett The French Presence in Texas: From La Salle to Shlumberger Jennifer Gray Imagination is the Name of the Game: Effects of Competitive Mental Imagery on Mood MABEE A Dakota Nichols Biblical Geography Carlos Gutierrez Three Virtual Acts of Kindness: A Positive Psychology Intervention Administered in Virtual Reality Karlee Bradley Race Relations in the 20th & 21st Century: Political Representation, Economics, & Opportunities
10am – 11am Oral Presentations JONES Jennifer Cote Stranger Women in Stranger Things Reina Evans Associations Between Sex Education & Well-Being In Adult Relationships Sydney Chandler The Destruction & Creation of Girlhood MABEE A Amira Mahler American Roulette: How Long Can You Play? Alma Arellano Looking for Genetic Superheroes: Genetic Background Affects Mutant Phenotypes in Drosophila Melanogaster Kamryn Gerner-Mauro Effect of Nutritional Stress on Fecundity & Maternal Provisioning of Oocytes in Drosophila Melanogaster Lightning Talks MABEE C Allison Hohimer Life Behind the Pine Curtain Adriana Fontanez Institutionalized Racism & Gentrification i n Modern Austin Cassidy Emmitte Brexit: An Uncertain Future
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11am – 12pm Oral Presentations JONES Ryan Wheeler Flipped!: Flipped Classroom Design as Pedagogical Strategy for Teaching Counseling Practices to Undergraduate Audiences Jasmine Conner Congress: To Approve or Disapprove... That tis the Question! Brady Schuh Explicit, Radical, Crazy: An Exploration of Evangelical Christian Approaches to Identity MABEE A Maria Alfaro The Effects of Causation & Gender on Views of Hypocrisy Amarie Gipson Blackness & Contemporary Art Elizabeth Marx Countering Terrorism in Indonesia: Why it is Critical to Reform the 2003 Anti-Terrorism Laws Lightning Talks MABEE C Jordan Ely A Look Through the Glass Ceiling: Biases Against Women in Leadership Carlos Gutierrez, Daniel Williamson The Relationship Between Emoji Use & a Person’s Outlook on Life James Shelby Faculty Perceptions
12pm – 1pm Poster Presentations MABEE B Katinka Barragan The Rise of Spirit Photography in 19th Century America Grace DeLucia Trump’s First 100 Days in Office Joanna Ariola Student Learning Outcomes & Their Effect on Student Evaluations Taylor Duane Access to Controlled Substances & Sufficient Pain Management for Cancer Patients Gabrielle Wilkosz Doomsday Preppers & the Alt-Right: How Magazine Coverage of Contemporary Times Alludes to Apocalyptic Literature Cherese Perez Effective Writing in Forensic Science
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SOURCE SCHEDULE
Mackenzie Hughes Research About Writing: Writing in the Behavioral Neuroscience Discipline Lauren Ayoub User-Testing Instructions Report: How to Remove an Image Background in Photoshop CS6 Karla Garza Gold Leaf Stationery Design Stephanie Darby Birth Bloom Decay Olivia Barton Don’t Push the Red Button! Efficacy of Biofeedback Treatment for Impulsivity in Adults Emily-Jane Cosgrove Internal Voice Jose Alvarez Animation Mary Counts Translation & Expression in Augmented Reality Paula Santos OPTIC: Speculative Design James Peacock Society Revived: Religious Awakenings & the Advent of Social Change in the 19th Century Brianna Collins The Effect of Vacancy Defects on Ion Transfer in Carbon Nanotubes Alexander Gremillion Studying the Active Site of Nickel-Acireductone Dioxygenase Through Nickel & Zinc Analogues: A Structural & Spectroscopic Comparison Study Anthony Sanchez Structural Analogues Of The Active Site of Nickel Acireductone Dioxygenase (Ni-ARD) Andy Barnes Trends in Houston Surface Ozone Levels Marcelo Salinas Photodrawing Ana Narro Derivatization, DLLME, & GC-FID Analysis of Mercury in Fish Tissue
1pm – 2pm Oral Presentations JONES Max Murphy Creating the Martians: A Posthuman Future
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Lauren Ayoub Remodeling the Role Model: Exploring LGBTQ+ Tumblr Fame Maia Samboy, Kate Dolan, Kay Vo Pride or Hide: A Conversation About LGBTQIA+ Issues at St. Edward’s & in Austin MABEE A Gabriel Tavares Calderaro Save The Tapajós River: Dam Construction in the Amazon Forest Ryan Wheeler Old Theories, New Tricks: Neosophistic Theory & Contemporary Pedagogy with Comprehensive Annotated Bibliography Mary Cavaliere Open Sesame: Opening Up About Childhood Emotional Stress Around the World on Sesame Street Roundtable Discussions MABEE C Anja Vukicevic Selfie Culture & Teen Girls Sarah Alalani Self-Efficacy for International Students at St. Edward’s University Melissa Chavarria Incarcerated Survivors: Are Their Needs Being Met?
2pm – 3pm Oral Presentations JONES Crisel Suarez Tiling & Tetris Luana Chaires An Analysis of the Impact of Redistricting Commissions on Turnout & Competition in Congressional Elections MABEE A Nick Stiles This is Your Brain on Morality: New Answers to Old Questions Emily Dalton Assessing Assessments of Sustainability Chloe Curiel, Michelle DeSantiago, Lexi Brown The Butterfly Project: Ascending Hope Roundtable Discussions MABEE C Michael Williams The Diluted Power of Education: The Difficulties of Being an Educator & Child Care Provider in the 21st Century Lesley Pettit Housing Security for Domestic Violence Survivors: The Power of Empathic Listening
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SOURCE SCHEDULE
English Writing & Literature 9am – 10am JONES Bailey Garrett
The French Presence in Texas: From La Salle to Shlumberger
10am – 11am JONES Sydney Chandler
The Destruction & Creation of Girlhood
12pm – 1pm MABEE B Gabrielle Wilkosz
Doomsday Preppers & the Alt-Right: How Magazine Coverage of Contemporary Times Alludes to Apocalyptic Literature 1pm – 2pm JONES
Max Murphy
Creating the Martians: A Posthuman Future
MABEE A
Ryan Wheeler
Old Theories, New Tricks: Neosophistic Theory & Contemporary Pedagogy with Comprehensive Annotated Bibliography Mathematics 10am – 11am MABEE A Amira Mahler
American Roulette: How Long Can You Play?
2pm – 3pm JONES
Crisel Suarez
Tiling & Tetris
Political Issues 10am – 11am MABEE C Cassidy Emmitte
Brexit: An Uncertain Future
11am – 12pm MABEE A Elizabeth Marx
Countering Terrorism in Indonesia: Why it is Critical to Reform the 2003 Anti-Terrorism Laws JONES
Jasmine Connor
Congress: To Approve or Disapprove... That tis the Question!
12pm – 1pm MABEE B Grace DeLucia
Trump’s First 100 Days in Office
Taylor Duane Access to Controlled Substances & Sufficient Pain Management for Cancer Patients 2pm – 3pm JONES
Luana Chaires
An Analysis of the Impact of Redistricting Commissions on Turnout & Competition in Congressional Elections
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Psychology 9am – 10am MABEE A Carlos Gutierrez
3 Virtual Acts of Kindness: A Positive Psychology Intervention Administered in Virtual Reality 11am – 12pm MABEE C Carlos Gutierrez, Daniel Williamson
The Relationship Between Emoji Use & a Person’s Outlook on Life
JONES
Ryan Wheeler
Flipped!: Flipped Classroom Design as Pedagogical Strategy for Teaching Counseling Practices to Undergraduate Audiences 12pm – 1pm MABEE B Joanna Ariola
Student Learning Outcomes & Their Effect on Student Evaluations
Lauren Ayoub User-Testing Instructions Report: How to Remove an Image Background in Photoshop CS6 Olivia Barton Don’t Push the Red Button! Efficacy of Biofeedback Treatment for Impulsivity in Adults 1pm – 2pm MABEE A
Mary Cavaliere
Open Sesame: Opening Up About Childhood Emotional Stress Around the World on Sesame Street 2pm – 3pm MABEE A
Nick Stiles
This is Your Brain on Morality: New Answers to Old Questions
Religious Studies 9am – 10am MABEE A Dakota Nichols
Biblical Geography
11am – 12pm JONES Brady Schuh
Explicit, Radical, Crazy: An Exploration of Evangelical Christian Approaches to Identity 12pm – 1pm MABEE B James Peacock
Society Revived: Religious Awakenings & the Advent of Social Change in the 19th Century 2pm – 3pm JONES
Ana Avalos
Gazing Downwards: The Salvific & Problematic Nature of the Guadalupana Symbol for Mexican-American Young Women
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SOURCE BY TOPIC
Sciences 9am – 10am JONES Jennifer Gray
Imagination is the Name of the Game: Effects of Competitive Mental Imagery on Mood 10am – 11am JONES Reina Evans
Associations Between Sex Education & Well-Being in Adult Relationships
MABEE A
Alma Arellano
Looking for Genetic Superheroes: Genetic Background Affects Mutant Phenotypes in Drosophila Melanogaster
Kamryn Gerner-Mauro
Effect of Nutritional Stress on Fecundity & Maternal Provisioning of Oocytes in Drosophila Melanogaster 12pm – 1pm MABEE B Alexander Gremillion
Studying the Active Site of Nickel-Acireductone Dioxygenase Through Nickel & Zinc Analogues: A Structural & Spectroscopic Comparison Study
Ana Narro
Andy Barnes
Trends in Houston Surface Ozone Levels
Anthony Sanchez
Derivatization, DLLME, & GC-FID Analysis of Mercury in Fish Tissue
Structural Analogues of The Active Site of Nickel Acireductone Dioxygenase (Ni-ARD)
Brianna Collins
The Effect of Vacancy Defects on Ion Transfer in Carbon Nanotubes
Cherese Perez
Effective Writing in Forensic Science
Mackenzie Hughes
Research About Writing: Writing in the Behavioral Neuroscience Discipline
1pm – 2pm MABEE A
Gabriel Tavares Calderaro
Save The Tapajós River: Dam Construction in the Amazon Forest
2pm – 3pm MABEE A
Emily Dalton
Assessing Assessments of Sustainability
Social Impact & Issues 9am – 10am JONES Alyssa Chern
El Norte: No Home for Immigrants
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MABEE A
Karlee Bradley
Race Relations in the 20th & 21st Century: Political Representation, Economics, & Opportunities 10am – 11am MABEE C Adriana Fontanez
Institutionalized Racism & Gentrification in Modern Austin
JONES
Jennifer Cote
Stranger Women in Stranger Things
11am – 12pm MABEE A Amarie Gipson
Blackness & Contemporary Art
Maria Alfaro, Magaly Vargas, Carolina Romero, Eilish Flynn
MABEE C
James Shelby
Faculty Perceptions
The Effects of Causation & Gender on Views of Hypocrisy
Jordan Ely A Look Through the Glass Ceiling: Biases Against Women in Leadership 1pm – 2pm MABEE C
Anja Vukicevic
Selfie Culture & Teen Girls
Melissa Chavarria
Sarah Alalami
JONES
Lauren Ayoub
Remodeling the Role Model: Exploring LGBTQ+ Tumblr Fame
Incarcerated Survivors: Are Their Needs Being Met? Self-Efficacy for International Students at St. Edward’s University
Maia Samboy, Kate Dolan, Kay Vo Pride or Hide: A Conversation about LGBTQIA+ Issues at St. Edward’s & in Austin 2pm – 3pm MABEE C
Lesley Pettit
Housing Security for Domestic Violence Survivors: The Power of Empathic Listening Michael Williams The Diluted Power of Education: The Difficulties of Being an Educator & Child Care Provider in the 21st Century Visual Arts 10am – 11am MABEE C Allison Hohimer
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Life Behind the Pine Curtain
SOURCE BY TOPIC
12pm – 1pm MABEE B Emily-Jane Cosgrove
Internal Voice
Jose Alvarez Animation
Karla Garza
Gold Leaf Stationery Design
Katinka Barragan
The Rise of Spirit Photography in 19th Century America
Marcelo Salinas Photodrawing
Mary Counts
Paula Santos
Stephanie Darby
Translation & Expression in Augmented Reality OPTIC: Speculative Design Birth Bloom Decay
2pm – 3pm MABEE A
Chloe Curiel, Michelle DeSantiago, Lexi Brown
The Butterfly Project: Ascending Hope
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Sarah Alalami 1pm – 2pm
Mabee C Mentor: Rachael Neal
Self-Efficacy for International Students at St. Edward’s University Self-efficacy is task-specific self-confidence. My research investigates the effects of learning strategies, achievement motivations, and self-efficacy on academic excellence. I was motivated to examine this topic based on my experience as an international student, unable to absorb the shock of social-cultural and geographical change within a short time period. Over the past 34 years, self-efficacy has been examined by education researchers to explain and predict human functioning across diversified fields, such as academics and athletics. My research concentrates on the academic effects of self-efficacy on the performance of international students. This research will employ case study methodology in addition to Schwarzer Ralf’s psychology scale on self-efficacy. Ralf is a Freie University Berlin professor in psychology whose scale used samples from over 23 countries, and has recorded criterionrelated validity in many correlation studies. Additionally, the scale is successfully applied for the past two decades globally (Schwarzer, 2014). Consequently, my project assesses the role of international students, university professors, and others impacting the academic success of global learners. The study also outlines necessary actions by the students to facilitate their self-efficacy. Maria Alfaro, Magaly Vargas, Carolina Romero, Eilish Flynn 11am – 12pm
Mabee A Mentor: Jessica Boyette-Davis
The Effects of Causation and Gender on Views of Hypocrisy Previous research indicates that females are held to higher moral standards than males; however such literature has not fully accounted for situational influences on judgments of hypocrisy when comparing males and females. The purpose of this study was to therefore investigate the contributions of gender and situational factors on perceptions of hypocrisy. Using the online survey method, Qualtrics, participants were randomly assigned one of four versions of a made-up scenario involving the behavior of drinking and driving despite vowing to serve as a designated driver: a male who did so due to an external situation (relationship issues), a male who did so due to internal causes (to have fun), a female who engaged in this behavior due to external situations, or a female who did this due to internal causes. The participants were then asked to rate from 1-10 how hypocritical the person’s behavior was. It was expected, initially, that females would be judged more harshly than males when behaving in a way that was not in accordance with their morals due to an internal factor. The data revealed that there was no significant main effect for gender. However, the results did show significant difference between internal and external causation, with those who drank and drove due to internal causes being deemed more hypocritical. These results indicate that judgments of hypocrisy are more heavily influenced by the situation than by the gender of the person behaving hypocritically. Jose Alvarez 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Jimmy Luu
Animation ‘My Childhood Ghost’ animation is the first episode to a three part original story. The story revolves over a character named Neil, who means nothing but business and has isolated himself from the world. However to his surprise he is visited by a ghost kid that wears many
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different and strange costumes. His one mission is to try to help Neil to relax and let people come in back into his life. The reason I chose to create this animation was because like most animator, their animation is an extension of them in the form of moving pictures. Coming up with the story, one thing kept popping in my head during my writing which is that it is really easy to fall into depression and isolate yourself from the world. I have fallen into depression many time in my life and it made me feel like I’m all alone in the world. Thank goodness I have amazing friends and family that have help me get out of the sad funk. In this world you may be able to carve your success on your own but it becomes less of a struggle with the support of friends and family and that is what I wanted the theme of my animation to be. Getting out of depression with the help and support of loved ones. Alma Arellano 10am – 11am
Mabee A Mentor: Lisa Goering
Looking for Genetic Superheroes: Genetic Background Affects Mutant Phenotypes in Drosophila Melanogaster A consideration of “genetic background” is integral to understanding the phenotype of an organism. A recent study has shown a small fraction of individuals harboring deleterious mutations known to cause Mendelian disease show no signs of these disorders. These “genetic superheroes” must have other, unidentified mutations at modifier loci that protect individuals harboring deleterious mutations from developing disease. Drosophila melanogaster is used to investigate the interaction between genetic background and mutations in the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) pathway. Overexpression of these receptors in humans has been linked to breast cancer, and in Drosophila melanogaster, EGFR signaling is important in eggshell patterning during oogenesis, as well as wing and eye development. Previous research in our lab has shown that “background” genetic variation in Drosophila melanogaster can influence the expression of EGFR mutations, with one background showing a ‘protective’ (lessening the effects of the mutation) effect and another background exacerbating the effect of the mutation. Using flies from two different genetic backgrounds, Oregon (OreR) and Samarkand (Sam), as well as three EGFR pathway mutations (spitz, blistered, and Star) we examine the potential for modifier loci in the OreR and Sam backgrounds to affect phenotypes associated with EGFR pathway mutations. We will use quantitative RT—PCR to analyze these effects by examining transcription of pointed, a target of the EGFR pathway. This research may contribute to a better understanding of the role genetic background plays in determining complex disease phenotypes that arise from mutations in this pathway. Joanna Ariola 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Beth Eakman
Student Learning Outcomes and their Effect on Student Evaluations The problems with student evaluations are well-documented in the academic community. They are often useless, meaning they provide no critical feedback to contribute to the improvement of the course content and its delivery. They also critique the professor more often than the course itself. However, concrete recommendations for how to improve their effectiveness are difficult to find. While working as Beth Eakman’s teaching assistant last fall, we discussed the lack of critical feedback often received from student evaluations, leading to my current research. To address this problem, we have designed an experiment
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
that integrates weekly discussion of Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) with first-year writing students in Rhetoric and Composition II. By introducing the SLOs transparently throughout the semester, I want to clearly explain how the class relates to the SLOs and how they are meant to benefit the student at the end of the term. I am currently on my second semester gathering data. For SOURCE, I would like to share my current results as a poster presentation, in the hopes to open this discussion from mere observations and documenting the problem to developing solutions to improve the outcome of student evaluations in the future. Lauren Ayoub 1pm – 2pm
Jones Mentor: Don Unger
Remodeling the Role Model: Exploring LGBTQ+ Tumblr Fame My research addresses how and why specific Tumblr users become famous among the Generation Z, LGBTQ+ Tumblr community, which highlights relationships among identity development, technology use, and user interaction. As a member of the LGBTQ+ Tumblr community, I have observed first-hand how specific users have emerged as popular social influencers. These transformations have raised questions about common practices within this community and why certain users gain attention while others do not. To conduct my research, I reviewed literature on the Internet’s initial impact on queer youth; how the queer community uses Tumblr as a medium for self-expression, identity development, and community building; and the behaviors and habits of Generation Z. I, then, analyzed online content produced by two lesbian couples and their interactions with their followers. Ultimately, I identified common practices employed by both couples that helped establish their roles as social influencers, some of which included developing multimedia content across key social media platforms, organizing in-person meet-ups around the world, and building a transparent brand. My research documents an emerging type of LGBTQ+ role model that is not represented in mainstream media. Most importantly, my research illustrates how these social influencers play a significant role in fostering visibility, establishing social practices, and shaping attitudes and values within the LGBTQ+ community.” Lauren Ayoub 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Elizabeth Eakman
User-Testing Instructions Report: How to Remove an Image Background in Photoshop CS6 “When writing instructions, technical writers must be cognizant of the context in which their audience is approaching the document. Likely, their reader has already attempted to perform the process, is confused, and is reading the instructions as a last resort. Therefore, instructions must be concise and user-friendly. Once a technical writer drafts a set of instructions, they must undergo user-testing. User-testing is an integral piece of the instruction creation process. Without user-testing, technical writers would not be able to identify and correct specific flaws in their instructions. This report will detail the objectives, methodology, results, and recommendations of usertesting the instructions set titled, “How to Remove an Image Background in Photoshop CS6.” By analyzing the data produced by user-testing, I can determine how to edit the instructions to be as accurate and reader-centered as possible. “
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Andy Barnes 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Paul Walter
Trends in Houston Surface Ozone Levels We examine how the diurnal ozone cycles of surface ozone in Houston have changed in the spring and summer seasons over a time period long enough to establish trends in the data of statistical significance. We initially consider a 4-5 year time period as a test and then will investigate the record back to 1980 at 9 separate stations in the Houston-GalvestonBrazoria area. We also report on the daily maximum and minimum averages as well as the max 8-hour average by season over that time period. Katinka Barragan 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Mary Brantl
The Rise of Spirit Photography in 19th century America Spirit photography is the process and or belief of connecting the spiritual and earthly realms via the appearance of the dead onto a photographic portrait of the living. In the United States this otherworldly contact was first discovered by accident on October 5, 1861, by a Boston jewelry engraver and amateur photographer named William Mumler. The acceptance of spirit photography came as a result of the rise of Spiritualism and of photography as well as the latter’s role in events such as the American Civil War. Spiritualism is a movement founded on the belief that the human spirit exists beyond the body and the spirits of the dead can and do communicate with the living. Although the beginnings of the belief have roots during the days of the Renaissance and far earlier, it experienced a revival in the 19th century. This rise of interest came from those unsatisfied with the various established religions, which preached salvation through means of faith in Jesus Christ’s atonement. Spiritualism provided individualism and the belief that the afterlife is not a static place but rather a place the soul can progress and develop. Despite the number of false claims made against spirit photography, the sense of hope and security of a continuous life after death was often too great for believers to be swayed away from something that ultimately could neither be proven nor disproven. Olivia Barton 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Kelly Green
Don’t Push the Red Button! Efficacy of Biofeedback Treatment for Impulsivity in Adults Impulsivity is a common complaint for adults, particularly individuals with a variety of mental disorders. Being unable to regulate and manage one’s behavior can create issues in perception of locus of control. Research shows biofeedback interventions to be efficacious in improving awareness and perceived control over internal states, which could translate into better impulse control. Much of the research on biofeedback interventions for impulsivity focuses populations diagnosed with attentional disorders. The current study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of biofeedback training as a means of improving self-regulation related to impulsivity in adults without a specific diagnosis. Volunteers (n=30) took part in a 3 session intervention, in which they were randomly assigned to receive either a combination of biofeedback training and brief cognitive-behavioral intervention, or the cognitivebehavioral intervention alone. The cognitive-behavioral intervention was a guided relaxation exercise, which was before and after completing a cognitive puzzle intended to induce stress. Participants were prompted to rate their distress level several times throughout
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
each session. We hypothesized that adults who received the dual intervention would report greater reduction in impulsivity than those who received only the cognitive-behavioral intervention. Results suggest that the addition of biofeedback training to the cognitivebehavioral intervention did not lead to a larger reduction in impulsivity. However, significant differences were found between pre-and post-treatment of measures of impulsivity for both groups, suggesting that the cognitive-behavioral intervention was effective in decreasing selfreported impulsivity with or without biofeedback training. Karlee Bradley 9am – 10am
Mabee A Mentor: Rachael Neal
Race Relations in the 20th and 21st Century: Political Representation, Economics, & Opportunities Everyone is aware of racism in the past, but a large majority doesn’t recognize that it’s still happening today. With this in mind, we coded and analyzed interview transcripts from people in the Austin community. Interviewees were asked how the treatment and social status of different racial groups in Austin has changed over time and how the changes affect the area today. We identified three themes present across the interviews: political representation, economic factors, and opportunities for advancement of minorities. We found that many of the historical events contributing to the segregation of Austin today are very similar to other historical events throughout the United States related to the controversy of race. Mary Cavaliere 1pm – 2pm
Mabee A Mentor: Amy Wright
Open Sesame: Opening Up About Childhood Emotional Stress Around the World on Sesame Street Sesame Street began as a response to the educational and social inequalities many urban youth faced and rapidly became one of the United States’ best-loved television programs. Advocates of early childhood development all around the world have sought out Sesame Workshop, the producers of the show, to help establish co-productions unique to each country, after seeing the success of the show in the US. However, Sesame Street US is one of the only productions to address issues of emotional stress and provide tools for children to help them cope. This paper explores the development of curriculum geared towards emotional stress in the US and compares productions in Afghanistan, Indonesia, and South Africa to assess how best to integrate curriculum geared towards coping with emotional stress. Sesame Street’s global presence and extensive viewership makes it a perfect mode of educating children on emotional and mental health. Luana Chaires 2pm – 3pm
Jones Mentor: Nicholas Long
An Analysis of the Impact Of Redistricting Commissions on Turnout And Competition in Congressional Elections Competitive elections are essential for a successful democracy. In recent decades, the process of drawing congressional districts after each new census has resulted in districts that are less competitive. A major reason for this is partisan gerrymandering, whereby districts are deliberately created to benefit a particular party. Several states have removed responsibilities for redistricting from state legislatures and given them to independent commissions in an attempt to depoliticize the process and restore competition. The purpose of this study is to
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evaluate the impact of these independent redistricting commissions. Relevant electoral data was collected for the six states with commissions, both in the decade before and after these states instituted the commissions. The results suggest increased levels of voter turnout and increased levels of competition in congressional districts created by the commissions. Sydney Chandler 10am – 11am
Jones Mentor: Sasha West
The Destruction and Creation of Girlhood I hope to be presenting a couple of my writings, their content focused loosely around the concept of “the destruction and creation of girlhood.” In this presentation, I will be investigating the source of the “individual,” as well as the constant breaking and merging of “the family/the father” versus “the self.” More specifically, my pieces of writing hone in on my relationship with my father, investigated through separate metaphors found in Flower Girl and The Sea, the two pieces I hope to read from. While creating my abstract for this Source Presentation, I had to ask myself a question: what emotions drive my creative process? I found that the emotions revolving around family, around self, and around the breaking from “family unit” to “individual being” show up within all of my work, whether it be poetry, prose, essay, and or fiction. I will connect with my audience through use of language and different forms of writing, in order to investigate how strained family relations, as well as specific events in one’s life, can simultaneously destroy and build up an individual’s being. Melissa Chavarria 1pm – 2pm
Mabee C Mentor: Rachael Neal
Incarcerated Survivors: Are Their Needs Being Met? Sexual assault can happen to anyone and anywhere, including incarcerated individuals. Although incarcerated individuals have committed a societal wrong, causing them to be put behind bars, this does not mean they should not be protected from crime while serving their sentences. Studies show that the national average for experiencing a sexual assault while incarcerated is 4.5%; this number nearly doubles within five Texas prisons alone. While PREA (the Prison Rape Elimination Act) aims to protect incarcerated survivors, there have been discrepancies in the efficacy of the act. This research is based on qualitative and descriptive survey data about organizations serving sexual assault survivors, including who they serve and the practices they use. Additionally, the survey investigates common obstacles faced by non-English-speaking incarcerated survivors when it comes to seeking help. Staff members working in non-profit victim services assisting incarcerated survivors of sexual assault were surveyed for this research. Findings will contribute to a better understanding of the needs of incarcerated survivors of sexual assault living behind bars. Alyssa Chern 9am – 10am
Jones Mentor: Barbara Filippidis
El Norte: No Home for Immigrants Gregory Nava’s El Norte (1983) is a film that portrays the issue of communities rejecting illegal immigrants. This film is a story of two Mayan refugees, Enrique and Rosa, who flee their village during the Guatemalan Civil War and travel to the United States hoping to
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
escape persecution and live the American dream. Nava depicts Enrique and Rosa’s journey to gain acceptance in America by creating fantasy-like scenes through dream realism, the enhancement of realistic stories through dramatic symbolism in order to engage in social issues. Nava uses the film techniques of lighting, film score, and imagery to emphasize the obstacles that Enrique and Rosa face. These fantasy-like scenes include the scene with the coyote, the clothes-washing scene, and the work scene at the end of the film. Dramatically contrasted lighting as Enrique and Rosa attempt to cross the border with the coyote represents the initial hope of illegal immigrants. After they reach Los Angeles, the clotheswashing scene highlights the immigrants’ connection to their cultural roots through lighting and tribal music, a connection that comes into conflict with Americans’ expectations that immigrants should assimilate. At the end of the film, Enrique realizes that he is viewed as inferior by legal citizens in the work scene. Circular images show that Enrique has been unable to escape the cycle of being used as labor, a pair of “brazos fuertes,” strong arms, and seen as less than human by legal citizens. Brianna Collins 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Tricia Shepherd
The Effect of Vacancy Defects on Ion Transfer in Carbon Nanotubes Carbon nanotubes can be viewed as analogues for many biological systems like protein channels through which ions and water flow in a confined space. Experimentally, carbon nanotubes have been known to harbor inherent defects, such as vacancies, which may impact computational predictions. We performed large-scale molecular dynamics simulations with a coarse-grained molecular model to investigate the effect of defects on ion activity. This was done in order to better model the above biological systems. In this study we investigated the relationship between the percent of vacancies for nanotubes of different radii and observed the impact on water coordination, ion hydration, and diffusion coefficients. We were dually able to model the effect of defects on water in the system, which is useful in understanding how the system works as a whole. These results, although not complete, will be useful in assessing the differences between the impact of structural purity of the nanotube and confinement on solution properties. Jasmine Connor 11am – 12pm
Jones Mentor: Brian Smith
Congress: to Approve or Disapprove... That tis the Question! Distrust and dislike of the US Congress is not a new thing, but congressional approval ratings are at historic lows and which influences many aspects of American Democracy. Congressional approval ratings are an important component of American democracy for many reasons. These measures offer telling indications of how the public feels about its government and the decisions it’s making. Low approval indicates that Congress is not functioning in favor of its electorate. Being able to pinpoint the different demographics that disapprove can help Congress to evolve and improve by responding to its constituents. This paper analyzes several independent variables, to understand why Americans dislike Congress. Using multiple regression and NES 2012 data I examine these factors to explain why the public generally disapproves of its legislative branch of government. I conclude with possible policy suggestions on how America can improve what is increasingly seen as a “broken system”.
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Emily-Jane Cosgrove 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Jimmy Luu
Internal Voice The balance act of internalizing my voice and projecting it so others can understand me has been an ongoing aspect of my life. I have always had a strong desire to communicate whether it be graphically or verbally, and both my internal and external voice allows me to do just that. For my senior studio project in graphic design I focused my research on bridging the relationship of sociology and graphic design through my own lens. I explored many female creative influencers who have paved the way in women’s self expression including Sister Corita Kent, Barbara Kruger, and Jenny HoIzer. I chose to use typographic posters to project my internal monologue of stubborn opinions, fears, hopes, and feelings I have on the reality of the world we live in and my graphic approach voicing them to my audience. By removing the barriers circulating my comfort zone, my project explores self identity and expression. Jennifer Cote 10am – 11am
Jones Mentor: Teresita Garza
Stranger Women in Stranger Things Rhetorical criticism allows us to uncover the shared realities experienced by different audiences. Those shared realities can be influential, even through entertainment. Gender roles are especially apparent in the science fiction and science horror genres because of the extreme, extraordinary situations that frequently occur. However, recent television shows have challenged not only the science horror genre’s use of stereotypes, but also the portrayals of leading female roles in general. One of the main female characters in Stranger Things, named Eleven, challenges gender roles in a particularly unique way by taking on the role of a twelve-year-old savior. Another main character, Nancy, represents the stereotype for leading female characters. These characters embody two different types of femininity, even when in similar situations, these differences result in different outcomes accordingly. The contrast of their characteristics suggests an underlying meaning. By using the fantasy theme method to analyze reoccurring character, setting, and action themes, this analysis explores how Stranger Things exemplifies a new lens of feminism in television and pop culture and tries to understand how the connection of those themes make up a new rhetorical vision for female gender roles. Finally, the rhetorical vision and its implications are discussed. Mary Counts 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Jimmy Luu
Translation and Expression in Augmented Reality To explore the uses of augmented reality and the disconnect between the inner world of thoughts and the outer environment, I designed a speculative product: An innovative contact lense that can project a live translation and emotional readout of any subject to the wearer using augmented reality. Ideally, this project would allow us to communicate our inner worlds perfectly to the outer world, and could ease the task of conveying the most complicated emotions or thoughts we have. Practically, it is a tool that can allow any person to understand another seamlessly. To show this design in context, I created a promotional video and an imaginary technology blog to feature the product and explain how it works.
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
Chloe Curiel, Michelle DeSantiago, Lexi Brown 2pm – 3pm
Mabee A Mentor: Alex Robinson
The Butterfly Project: Ascending Hope In the spring of 2016, the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum commissioned a small group of students enrolled in ARTS/VISU3399 Art of the Holocaust: The Butterfly Project to design an installation for its rotunda. The installation would accompany an exhibit titled “State of Deception” that focused on Nazi propaganda and the techniques used to spread and breed intolerance. Emphasis on the visual impact and importance of symbolism was constantly taken into account during the process of creating proposals, of which one or a combination of a few would become the final installation. From these proposals, the flypaper concept, in which beautiful butterflies are trapped unfairly on six hanging panels of fabric, was the design that moved beyond conception and was ultimately installed. Students enrolled in ARTS/VISU3399 Installation Art began the Fall 2016 semester completing the final details in the production of the project which was installed in September 2016. Three of the panels recently on view in the library at St. Edward’s gave students a different and up close view of the piece. We will share how dealing with devastating history fostered a unique and emotionally involved creative process, especially working in collaboration with not only our fellow students, but children from all over Texas, who contributed hand-made butterflies to be used in the final installation. Additionally, our wish is to communicate that employing visual dynamism and symbolism to bring light to a dark subject is extremely valuable in creating meaningful and socially impactful work that encourages others to do the same. Emily Dalton 2pm – 3pm
Mabee A Mentor: John Cotter
Assessing Assessments of Sustainability Public outcry for information regarding sustainability has never been louder. Yet, for every definition provided for sustainability, a different method of assessment is employed, which has resulted in skewed and incomparable reports. Data presented in these sustainability assessments typically proves incapable of gauging the effectiveness of sustainable practices instituted. The purpose of this case study was to assess existing assessments of sustainability to explore the definition and application of sustainability. Scale and category of the system reviewed was predicted to influence how sustainability reports are generated. Results provided by this study will encourage sustainability-oriented decision-making. Stephanie Darby 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Kim Garza
Birth Bloom Decay Birth Bloom Decay is a line of sustainable beauty products inspired by the cyclical aspects of nature. Made with biodegradable plastic and plant fiber & seed paper, the line produces zero landfill waste. Through design, I have looked for ways to re-purpose and find natural solutions for packaging design that minimizes waste and energy use. Each bottle is modeled after a specific structure in nature—from the shape of flower petals to rock formations. This process, called biomimicry, takes inspiration from the design of the natural world—cellular structure, animal behavior, the geometry of plants, sea-life, and animals. At its core, biomimicry is about efficiency and emulating natural processes. The product line is 3D printed with a majority wind and solar energy, thus reducing the overall
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carbon footprint of the line. The box packaging is crafted from native Texas wildflower seed paper; once planted the seeds will germinate and grow into wildflowers. Each beauty product is handcrafted in small batches with organic, locally sourced ingredients. Grace DeLucia 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Richard Daly
Trump’s First 100 Days in Office History was made when Donald J. Trump, a businessman and reality TV star with no political or military experience, was elected as the 45th President of the United States. In light of this unprecedented situation, I have been keeping a journal and writing a research paper chronicling the first 100 days of the Trump administration, determining which of his pre-election promises he delivers on and which he does not. After the instances of blatant racism, sexism, xenophobia, and other forms of discrimination immediately following Trump’s election, I wanted to see how American citizens, and people around the world, reacted to Trump’s presidential decisions. Would we come together to fight everything we disagreed with? Would Trump successfully strip us of the rights that took us decades to obtain? Taylor Duane 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Beth Eakman
Access to Controlled Substances and Sufficient Pain management for Cancer Patients With new regulations on controlled substances, it has become increasingly difficult for cancer patients to access their medications. In an effort to curb America’s growing prescription drug abuse problem, Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) were introduced to track controlled substances dispensed in pharmacies across America. These programs are meant to monitor information about prescribing and dispensing in order to identify patients who may be at risk for addiction or who may be participating in the illegal selling of prescription medications. Consequently, cancer patients are having a difficult time accessing the medications they need to appropriately manage their pain due to heavy monitoring of controlled substances. Additionally, the controversy surrounding prescription pain medications and their potential for abuse has made doctors skeptical of prescribing them even for cancer patients who are suffering from extreme pain. There is an obvious need for the medical and pharmaceutical industries to adjust policies regarding controlled substances so that cancer patients do not have to face difficult access to their medications and deal with insufficient pain management. My research explores the issues surrounding access to medication and pain management for cancer patients and investigates possible solutions. Jordan Ely 11am – 12pm
Mabee C Mentor: Mary Dunn
A Look Through the Glass Ceiling: Biases Against Women in Leadership Women currently hold 20 (or 4%) of CEO positions at Fortune 500 Companies (Catalyst, 2015). What accounts for such a low number of women in top leadership? Research suggests that biases play a role in the disparity of women in top leadership roles in the USA. My research focused on how agentic and communal qualities that are prescribed by perceivers to leadership roles and sex roles have a negative effect on the ability of women to achieve high profile positions. These qualities help define our creation of social groups and expectations and who we find apt to fill social roles, like “leader.” In my research on this topic, I found that
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
Leadership Categorization Theory and Social Role Theory help us to form our ideas about who we find appropriate to fill all different kinds of roles, and found that Role Congruity theory explains the discomfort we face when we feel there is an incongruence between someone’s capability to fulfill both their sex role and their social role. I hope to explore, clearly understand and explain how these social theories create our biases and how those biases affect women in leadership so that we can effectively recognize and reverse their effects. Cassidy Emmitte 10am – 11am
Mabee C Mentor: Mark Poulos
Brexit: An Uncertain Future On June 23, 2016, the UK shocked the world when they voted to leave the EU, a decision now coined as Brexit. The next day the Prime Minister stepped down, Scotland began new discussions of independence, and the pound fell drastically to the US dollar, all factors that have not only serious implications for the future of the European Union, but for the world as a whole. This project will provide for a more in depth look in to Brexit and try to explain where the vote came from and what this could mean for the future of the United Kingdom and European Community countries. Reina Evans 10am – 11am
Jones Mentor: Katherine Goldey
Associations Between Sex Education & Well-Being in Adult Relationships Studies show that sex education impacts the frequency of unprotected sex and prevalence of STIs and unintended pregnancy in an adolescent population. However, little is known of the longer-term effects of different types of middle and high school sex education on an adult population. This study tested whether content of prior sex education (Comprehensive versus Abstinence-only) predicted sexual risk taking and sexual satisfaction in college students. Sexual risk, sexual satisfaction, and content of sex education (from school and family) were measured via questionnaires as part of a larger anonymous, online survey (n=90). Preliminary data analysis shows that participants who reported more comprehensive familial sex education also reported lower occurrences of risky sex acts, lower intent to engage in risky sexual behaviors, and higher levels of satisfaction with communication about sex in their intimate relationships. Findings highlight the importance of familial communication about sex and sexuality for future well-being. Adriana Fontanez 10am – 11am
Mabee C Mentor: Rachael Neal
Institutionalized Racism and Gentrification in Modern Austin In February, Today published an article calling Austin the best city to live in in America. There were some mixed reactions to this article, between comments of people wanting to move to Austin, and Austinites wanting others to stay out. Although Austin has experienced an economic boom in recent decades, the city is also struggling with high levels of economic inequality. The city’s cost of living has increased, further solidifying gentrification in the East Austin area. Gentrification is the practice of using zoning changes to accommodate the waves of increasingly wealthy residents moving into areas that have traditionally been segregated racially, ethnically, and economically. To gauge the effects of gentrification in Austin, our group of four conducted an interview
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with an artist who wants to improve the conditions for people of color in Austin. We asked him questions about living in Austin and changes he’s noticed in the city. We coded and analyzed his responses, as well as those from interviews with three other Austinites. The interviewees discussed challenges in the city such as economic inequality, access to political power, and the distribution of people based on race or ethnicity. We found that despite the efforts of our four interviewees, the economic gap doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. Bailey Garrett 9am – 10am
Jones Mentor: Florina Matu
The French Presence in Texas: From La Salle to Shlumberger Texas and France have always had a unique relationship that began over 400 years ago. This connection has continued to flourish despite great changes to Texas and its inhabitants. My dossier examines the influences of French culture in Texas that can be witnessed across the state from Houston to Castroville. This specific research document begins with the first French person on Texan soil, La Salle, and finishes with current events and organizations relevant to Texan life. It explores the sister cities of Texas and France, businesses in Texas with French connections, historic Franco-Texan figures and the founding of important French government entities such as the Legation and the Consulate in Houston. Information was collected from historic documents, first-hand accounts and books in French and English. Karla Garza 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Kim Garza
Gold Leaf Stationery Design Gold Leaf was born from my passion on stationery and graphic design. The idea behind my project is to remind people how important stationery is because stationery printing is a process that creates a beautiful product and while digital and online communication grow, traditional stationery remains as an important means of communication. The products are meant to give an elegant tone to your office. Gold Leaf is a lifestyle brand currently transitioning to an online destination with more styles to come in the near future. Kamryn Gerner-Mauro 10am – 11am
Mabee A Mentor: Lisa Goering
Effect of Nutritional Stress on Fecundity & Maternal Provisioning of Oocytes in Drosophila Melanogaster An organism’s phenotype (observable characteristics) is determined by genetics, but can be modified by the environment. For example, a child may have a genotype that codes for ‘tallness’, but if undernourished, that phenotype will never be realized. Nutritional resources are a major environmental determinant of life history traits in many organisms including Drosophila melanogaster. Prior research suggests that variation in dietary protein levels can affect D. melanogaster phenotypic expression, specifically, reproductive phenotypes. This suggests that dietary protein has an important role in maternal fitness (the ability to survive and reproduce in a given environment). This study was conducted to examine the relationship between maternal phenotypes and levels of dietary protein. Diets with varying protein levels (low, normal, high) were used to examine fecundity and maternal provisioning of oocytes. Egg laying assays were used to monitor fecundity and quantitative real-time PCR was used to quantify the amount of yolk protein 1 (yp1) mRNA deposited into oocytes.
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
Our hypothesis is that flies fed a high protein diet will show an increase in egg laying and an increase in yp1 transcription relative to those fed a normal diet (and the reverse for flies fed a low protein diet). Ongoing research will examine embryonic patterning as well. These studies will provide a better understanding of the effects of nutritional stress on reproduction and early development. Additionally, assays of male-male aggression have been started to examine whether males raised on altered protein diets exhibit different aggression levels from those fed a normal protein diet. Amarie Gipson 11am – 12pm
Mabee A Mentor: Mary Brantl
Blackness & Contemporary Art In the past four years, conversations surrounding race have spiked in an effort to make sense of the heightened visibility of injustice and social inequality in America. Addressing our country’s highly racialized history, these dialogues are well timed and take place across all cultural spectrums. From popular music to film and television shows, black cultural production from the years 2012 to 2016 has helped contextualize the social climate, including the rise of Black Lives Matter, a second term for President Barack Obama and the ongoing debates surrounding the future of our nation’s progress. Just as a flux in black representation has appeared in music and film, the contemporary art world has experienced similar trends. In contemporary art, exhibitions are sites that institutions and artists use to communicate, broaden and challenge cultural perception. Social practice has gained more leverage over the years, as artists and cultural institutions take on the highly problematic and often overlooked issues of race, class and gender inequality. Creating is a means to maintain sanity, show solidarity, and dispel the narrow notions that are used to perpetuate oppression. For the targeted minority, a visual aesthetic is a means of empowerment and an expression of culture. The critical reception of art by people of African descent has constantly been mitigated to be less important than the work created by nonblack counterparts. With rampant discussions of race and injustice coming to the surface, are racial identifiers still limiting the interpretation of artwork produced by black American people? In this presentation, I will critically assess three exhibitions that grapple with this question. Spanning from the emergence of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2012 through 2016, the exhibitions may be examined as a part of a collective effort to correct the dominant narrative and elevate Blackness, black bodies and subjectivity within the contemporary American context. This presentation is rooted in several years of researching black contemporary artists and was developed through an independent study that focused on the curatorial implications of each exhibition, the context in which they were created and the work of notable artists. Jennifer Gray 9am – 10am
Jones Mentor: Katherine Goldey
Imagination is the Name of the Game: Effects of Competitive Mental Imagery on Mood Recently, research regarding the power of thought in influencing aspects of self, such as confidence, motivation, and self-esteem, has gained rising popularity. These studies suggest that by mentally manipulating our thoughts and environment around us, we can change our emotional status. One application of the power of thought is the question of
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whether anticipating winning or losing can influence affective states relevant to competitive performance; can simply imagining ourselves winning increase the chances of doing so? To explore this question, we conducted an online investigation into whether imagining the outcome of competitive scenarios and the level of investment each participant felt towards that imagined scenario could influence mood, aggression, and risk tolerance. Participants listened to an audio recording of a scenario that varied in outcome (win versus loss) and investment (personal importance versus luck). The participants then completed measures of mood, aggressive cognitions, and risk tolerance. Though aggression and risk tolerance were unaffected by experimental condition, we found that higher mental investment led to increased positive mood and self-assurance, independent of the win or loss. Those in the invested condition reported more intense and lucrative emotional responses, as opposed to participants in the non-invested condition who felt somewhat indifferent to the outcomes. This study suggests that mental imagery and our state of mind when entering competitive scenarios can change our mood, our mindset, and perhaps the outcome of such competitions. We are currently conducting a follow-up study investigating effects of outcome and investment in competition on mood and testosterone levels. Alexander Gremillion 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Santiago Toledo
Studying the Active Site of Nickel-Acireductone Dioxygenase through Nickel & Zinc Analogues: A Structural & Spectroscopic Comparison Study Nickel Acireductone dioxygenase (Ni-ARD) is a metalloenzyme that has the ability to bind promiscuously to contain different metals in its active site, chiefly nickel (Ni-ARD) and iron (Fe-ARD). Previously it was found only in the methionine salvage pathway of plants and bacteria, however it was recently shown to play a function in the mammalian Mus musculus, demonstrating its characteristic dual chemistry. The identity of the metal in the active site determines the function and stability of the metalloenyzme, but the mechanism for the reactivity of Ni-ARD is not currently fully understood. This project seeks to synthesize a family of biomimetic complexes that accurately model the reactivity of Ni-ARD in order to elucidate the mechanism behind its function. A family of biomimetic complexes were synthesized that serve as the most accurate model of the resting state of the active site of Ni-ARD to date. The complexes synthesized in this project made use of metal identity, and structural modifications in order to model differing electronic environments for the active site. From the work accomplished on this project the first accurate biomimetic model of Ni-ARD has been synthesized and fully characterized, as well as an investigation into the reactivity of this biomimetic model. Carlos Gutierrez 9am – 10am
Mabee A Mentor: Moira Martin
Three Virtual Acts of Kindness: A Positive Psychology Intervention Administered in Virtual Reality Positive Psychology is the scientific study of well-being. The theory of Well-Being, developed by Martin E. Seligman, is central to the field of Positive Psychology. This theory argues that flourishing, the act of promoting the development of positive emotions, engagement, positive relationships, purpose, and accomplishments can be achieved by strengthening the properties of its elements. To achieve flourishing, Positive Psychology interventions encourage the practice of character strengths such as kindness. The purpose
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
of this research is to test the effectiveness of the Three Acts of Kindness intervention to increase well-being when administered in a virtual reality environment. The Sims 4 is a life-simulator computer software, which was used to create virtual characters, or avatars, of the participants. These avatars were then video-recorded engaging in either three kind acts (playing with a toddler, feeding a toddler, reading a book to a toddler) or three mundane acts (watching TV, making coffee, brushing their teeth). Participants were randomly assigned to one of the two conditions, which required them to watch the video of their respective avatar. Pre-test and post-test scores for well-being were obtained from each participant before and after they watched the video. Well-being is defined in this research as the combined consideration of scores obtained from the Center of Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CED-D) and the Steen Happiness Inventory (SHI). Participants assigned to the three kind acts condition were expected to have CED-D scores and higher SHI scores than participants assigned to the three mundane acts condition. Carlos Gutierrez, Daniel Williamson 11am – 12pm
Mabee C Mentor: Moira Martin
The Relationship Between Emoji Use & a Person’s Outlook on Life Emoji are the fastest growing language in history since the introduction of the emoji keyboard by Apple in 2011, according to a report by The Emoji Research Team (2015). As a result, digital communication has become abbreviated due to single emoji replacing words and common expressions. Moreover, market research suggests emoji are used strategically by advertising companies and that emoji can accurately represent emotional responses. The study at hand hopes to determine whether a relationship between the use of emoji and optimism exists. For this purpose, measures for emoji use and optimism have been obtained. To address emoji use, participants were asked to answer ten neutral open-ended questions and include and anthropomorphic (human-looking) emoji at the end of each response. Emoji previously categorized as positive, neutral, or negative were then counted for each participant. Optimism was measured with the Life Orientation Test (LOT-R) before and after the ten neutral questions. Pre and post-test measures of optimism were obtained to address any variability in optimism that could have been caused by the ten neutral questions. Finally, a short version of the Positive and Negative Affective Schedule (PANAS-SF) survey was administered to counterbalance for the role of mood on LOT-R scores and emoji use. We expect participants with high LOT-R scores to use positive emoji more frequently than participants with low or near-average LOT-R scores. Allison Hohimer 10am – 11am
Mabee C Mentor: Jimmy Luu
Life Behind The Pine Curtain Life Behind the Pine Curtain was created with the intent of rediscovering home and place. After going through a period of loss in my life I needed to find an aspect of myself through research into the region of Deep East Texas. This projects aims to answer the question of, “”How do people talk about place?””. Specifically, Deep East Texas. This work is not complete, nor do I ever think it will be in a way. Dedicated to my stubborn, straight-laced, and completely true Nana; Joyce Marie Daniel. The work contains two items that seek to answer the question previously posed. Each approach it in a different way. The regional guide consists of my own writing and
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photography. The narrative podcast is my own voice along with others that consider Deep East Texas home. Both works are meant to tell a story about the place I have rekindled my sense of home with. The four sections are present in both pieces; The Meat & Bone, The Pine Curtain, The Connection, The Realization. This exploration into this region has proven at least once thing to me; it’s not about the place, it’s about the feeling.” Mackenzie Hughes 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Beth Eakman
Research About Writing: Writing in the Behavioral Neuroscience Discipline When students choose their college majors, they rarely know what research and writing look like in their disciplines. To better understand how and why research and writing are done in Behavioral Neuroscience, I conducted original research through interviews with a professional, a professor, and an advanced undergraduate student as well as using scholarly and authoritative sources. I concluded that this field requires writers to share information by writing coherently and engagingly in a wide variety of formats including research papers, dissertations, lesson plans, presentations, and even social media platforms such as Twitter and informal blog posts. My analysis also included a discussion of the reasons that authors use particular genres and the relevance of this information for undergraduate students in all majors. I would like to share my work as a poster presentation at SOURCE. Amira Mahler 10am – 11am
Mabee A Mentor: Jason Callahan
American Roulette: How Long Can You Play? American Roulette is a casino game in which players place various types of bets on sets of numbers. A wheel is then spun to determine the winning number; players who bet on this number win their bet amount plus a payout multiplier specific to each type of bet while players who did not, lose their bet amount. Previous research uses Markov chains to compute probabilities of players accumulating a desired amount of money (“success”) or losing all their money (“ruin”) under various betting strategies. We use Markov chains to compute the expected game lengths until success or ruin under similar betting strategies and then explore more dynamic betting strategies. Elizabeth Marx 11am – 12pm
Mabee A Mentor: Jooyoun Lee
Countering Terrorism in Indonesia: Why it is Critical to Reform the 2003 Anti-Terrorism Laws In 2003, Indonesia had one of the most comprehensive counter-terrorism policies in the world, the Anti Terrorism Laws. In response to the deadly Bali bombing of 2002, these Laws brought about increased penalties for those charged with committing terroristic acts. As terrorist attacks increased in Indonesia, it was clear that the Laws had critical gaps when it came to arresting, interrogating, and charging suspected terrorists. It is crucial for Indonesia to reform the Anti Terrorism Laws to correct these gaps to ensure a more streamlined law enforcement response, especially in the wake of the Jakarta attacks in 2016. As terrorism becomes a more globalized issue, it is important for countries to be able to enact counterterrorism policies that are effective and mindful of the population. Indonesia, with 86 percent of the population religiously identifying as Muslim, has shown that counter-terrorism policy does not have to single out a group of people. While there are gaps in the Anti Terrorism
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
Laws of 2003, Indonesia has shown that mindful governance is possible in the wake of the global terrorist security threat. Max Murphy 1pm – 2pm
Jones Mentor: Jennifer Greene
Creating the Martians: A Posthuman Future At this time, human expeditions to Mars are more a question of ‘when’ rather than ‘how.’ Recent plans put forth by private industry leaders have established the goal of reaching the red planet within the decade, and more ambitiously, establishing colonies within the century. Although still in the planning phases, these potential missions represent the realization of a dream first articulated in science-fiction novels of the mid-20th century. Of the most prominent works, Ray Bradbury’s The Martian Chronicles presents an intimate portrait of what a rising civilization on Mars might look like. However, drawing from Earth’s own tumultuous history of imperialism, Bradbury’s colonization of Mars is anything but idyllic. In the novel, Mars’ original inhabitants, a cosmopolitan race of omniscient, telepathic beings are all but eradicated by preliminary waves of explorers—their peaceful ways lost to the sands of the red planet. Believing Mars is theirs for the taking, the following waves of human settlers unwittingly perpetuate the same mistakes that plagued them on Earth. While Bradbury’s sketch of humanity’s attempt to conquer Mars is admittedly bleak, it doesn’t have to be this way. We don’t have to be human on Mars. Beginning a civilization from scratch in a completely isolated environment creates a level playing field from which we can craft ourselves into something completely new. Making life on Mars feasible and prosperous necessitates the development of radical new technologies, who’s to say we can’t apply those technologies to improve the human condition? In this thought experiment, I plan to explore the potential for a transhumanist future on Mars. Transhumanism is a relatively new movement in the field of philosophy, and is a way of thinking about the future that advocates for the advancement of humanity beyond its current capacities. Emerging biotechnologies promise the possibility of extended lifespans and amplified cognitive abilities, as well as increased disease resistance and the ability to manage metabolic rates. When applied in a careful and ethical manner, these technologies have the potential to push humanity past itself and create something greater. The calculated nature of creating civilization on another planet presents the perfect opportunity to field test these technologies, which, if done successfully, would radically alter the future of humanity. We can become the Martians, and we can do it ourselves. Ana Narro 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Lisette Curry
Derivatization, DLLME, and GC-FID Analysis of Mercury in Fish Tissue Fish consumption is one of the main routes of exposure to mercury in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are in the process of revising their 2004 Advisory of Mercury in Fish and Seafood. Current concentrations found in the FDA’s monitoring program correspond to values reported as early as 1990 and as late as 2010. The task of updating and maintaining such a database requires the analysis of a large number of samples. Current methods for analysis of mercury
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in biological tissues require the use of specialized instrumentation such as Cold Vapor Atomic Fluorescence Spectroscopy. For many analytical laboratories this means the acquisition of new instrumentation and training of personnel. Another option is the development of methods that allow the analysis of mercury in biological tissues using instrumentation commonly found in analytical laboratories such as Gas Chromatography (GC). In this project we propose the development of a method for analysis of mercury in fish tissue samples using GC with flame ionization detector (FID). The new method consists of digestion of the fish tissue, phenylation of mercury(II), dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME), and analysis by GC-FID. Samples of mercury in DI water, tap water and lake water have been analyzed following this procedure (without acid digestion) and calibration curves have been constructed. These had correlation coefficients of 0.9981, 0.9623, and 0.9237, respectively, and showed no significant matrix interferences. Following the optimization of the acid digestion step, a calibration curve will be constructed for mercury in fish samples. Dakota Nichols 9am – 10am
Mabee A Mentor: Kelley Coblentz Bautch
Biblical Geography In this research, I evaluate the story of Jael, through three different lenses, comparing and contrasting three different scholars interpretations, keeping in mind the scholars’ social location. Jael was a female warrior in The Bible that murdered an enemy of Israel named Sisera. The story has a controversial nature due to the fact that Jael was not an Israelite and she murdered him in his sleep. These facts create either brave and honorable, or cowardly and dishonorable opinions of Jael’s reputation. First, I study Gale Yee, an Asian-American biblical scholar, who sees Jael as an honorable and strong warrior, regardless of gender or social norms of this time period. Second I evaluate the story of Jael through a male perspective, since Jael’s story in The Bible shows her defying the gender norms for women in ancient times. Next I will introduce my own central Texas Catholic scholarship of how I beleive Jael should be represented. With perspectives from three different spots on the spectrum of our society, an audience could have a more informed reading of the Bible they might not have had before. With each of these three perspectives I plan to create a more wholesome understanding of the story of Jael in order to highlight the importance of knowing where the Biblical interpretations we hear are coming from. With this information, we can potentially apply the teachings of The Bible to the 21st century more accurately.” James Peacock 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Pat Perry
Society Revived: Religious Awakenings and the Advent of Social Change in the 19th Century The 19th century brought about the greatest period of social change in the history of the United States. But social movements that define and solve the social issues of the century do not appear out of nowhere. These movements, including the ones dealt with in the Progressive Era, have many years of buildup, and are simply the culmination of rising tension. There are likely many different factors that led up to the social change of the 19th century, and one of the biggest appears to be the Second Great Awakening. The Second Great Awakening caused a major shift in the attitude of religious movements
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
in the United States towards political and social activism. Many of the social movements that arose in the mid nineteenth century and Progressive Era evolved as a result of the shift in religious tone and the development of social democracy that took place during the Second Great Awakening. Attitudes about social issues including temperance, abolition, and women’s rights all experience change throughout the Second Great Awakening. The new denominations that appeared during this time period shared the belief that the world was not ready for the second coming of Jesus. This paper looks at the groundwork laid by the Second Great Awakening for the social changes that took place in American society, through the clear shift in the manner in which they were addressed. Cherese Perez 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Elizabeth Eakman
Effective Writing in Forensic Science In Forensic Science, scientists and non-scientists communicate to provide information for important, and even life and death decisions, such as whether a defendant is guilty of a crime. However, there is little to no information on the characteristics of good or effective writing in Forensic Science. This report describes this gap in knowledge, highlights the importance of clear scientific writing, and identifies the major characteristics of effective writing in this discipline. To collect data, I conducted interviews with professors at St. Edward’s University, found two sources in the St. Edward’s Munday Library database, and one external source. I propose to present a poster at SOURCE that discusses my original research, my findings, and the implications of these conclusions. Lesley Pettit 2pm – 3pm
Mabee C Mentor: Teri Varner
Housing Security for Domestic Violence Survivors: The Power of Empathic Listening This is a qualitative study conducted to analyze how the competitive housing market in Austin affects survivors of domestic violence. More specifically, this study will discuss the interconnectedness of the foster care system, domestic violence, and homelessness. Primarily, the purpose this study was to find out how the Austin community is currently addressing the problem of housing insecurity for survivors of domestic violence as well. Additionally, this study is meant to identify some possible solutions to this problem on a legislative level Two separate interviews were conducted to gather information about this topic. First, was Eric Samuels, the director the Austin Homeless Network. Second, former child trauma therapist and current associate professor of Social Work Dr. Adam McCormick was interviewed. This study discusses the role that empathic listening plays in dealing with survivors of domestic violence to ensure that they have access to housing and can remain financially stable after leaving their perpetrators. Marcelo Salinas 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Jimmy Luu
Photodrawing It all started in a transition from a drawing phase to the photography world, and as I started to get the hang of my camera and the technical knowledge that surrounds it, I felt that some photos could serve me as a canvas where the pencil could have certain pre-existent guidelines. I then went out to photograph anything that I could feel I could add some drawings to it. After a while, I started to develop different styles as I experimented with
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different tools and themes, but one part of me didn’t want to just stick with the first style that I liked so I decided to create this “”series”” of photo-drawings that had their own rules and themes. I feel that my personality and thoughts are better imprinted when my photography and drawings are as one. I think it as the personal way I see the world around me. Its sharp-eyed aesthetics, its an added value to a good photography, it’s my visual form of magical realism. With a year working around this concept I’ve learned that photography as
it is, in some cases, is just not enough.
Maia Samboy, Kate Dolan, Kay Vo 1pm – 2pm
Jones Mentor: Don Unger
Pride or Hide: A Conversation about LGBTQIA+ Issues at St. Edward’s and in Austin As a project for our Rhetoric and Composition course connected to the Freshmen Studies lecture “Austin Then & Now,” four of us worked as a production team to create a short video about LGBTQIA+ issues at St. Edward’s and in Austin. Our video features interviews with faculty members, students, and local people who self-identify as queer and/or trans. In the interviews, these participants discuss their experiences. In addition to addressing acceptance, tolerance, pride, and being out, the participants discuss the challenges they face in coming together as a community. In this presentation, we plan to show our video in its entirety and then briefly address how this project exemplifies St. Edward’s approach to a liberal arts education and the university’s commitment to social justice. This project prepared us for other classes, such as American Experience and American Dilemmas. It also made us more familiar with the St. Edward’s and Austin communities, more comfortable collaborating on large projects, and more knowledgeable about composing with contemporary technologies. We believe that this presentation will provide the audience with a more complex perspective on what it is like to be a LGBTQIA+ person at St. Edward’s and in Austin, as well as helping them reflect on how these types of course projects shape one’s personal and professional development. Anthony Sanchez 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Santiago Toledo
Structural Analogues of the Active Site of Nickel Acireductone Dioxygenase (Ni-ARD) Metalloenzymes are of interest due to their biological significance as well as their high specificity of reaction. The surrounding functional groups coordinated to the metal cofactor of the enzyme’s active site are key to its function. Biomimetic modeling via the synthesis of small molecule inorganic complexes models of the active site is one way to elucidate the enzyme’s active site structure function relationship. This study focuses on modeling the active site of the bacterial Nickel enzyme acireductone dioxygenase (Ni-ARD). The misregulation of the mammalian analogous enzyme was recently implicated in cancer in rats as well as hepatitis in humans. The synthesis, characterization and preliminary binding reactivity of a Zinc and Nickel structural analogue of the active site of ARD will be presented. These compounds represent the first structural analogues of the resting state of the enzyme. Comparison of these models with similar structural analogues synthesized in our lab and elsewhere will be presented.
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
Paula Santos 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Jimmy Luu
OPTIC: Speculative Design OPTIC speculates a plausible future of storing, sharing, and viewing videos through holographic video-capturing contact lenses. Merging memory with virtual reality, users can engage in a full sight and sound experience. Brady Schuh 11am – 12pm
Jones Mentor: Jennifer Veninga
Explicit, Radical, Crazy: An Exploration of Evangelical Christian Approaches to Identity Within academia, Christian fundamentalism is often conceived of as a sociological phenomenon; because of this, and fundamentalism’s roots as a Christian enterprise against academic theology, much of the theological rhetoric used by fundamentalists remains unassessed by religious scholarship. This does not mean, however, that fundamentalists do not theologize or that such undertakings should not be taken seriously by classically trained theologians. This project, thus, explores the attempts of evangelical fundamentalists to build theologies. Specifically, the publications and homilies of David Platt, Matt Chandler, and Francis Chan (three popular theological leaders from this Christian movement), will be analyzed in regard to their respective understandings of the relationship between personal and Christian identity. Within this framework, Chan believes that Christian identity supersedes all personal identity. Chandler, though, thinks Christian identity should be a core element of one’s person which informs and enhances all other aspects. Alternatively, Platt interprets Christian identity as undermining and redefining personal identity. These varied perspectives on the relationship between Christian and personal identity reveal a major distinction between evangelical fundamentalist theologies and those of more mainline Protestants. While many mainline theologies seek to variously describe the relationship between personal and Christian identity, Chan, Chandler, and Platt all describe the relationship as a conflict and deem Christian identity the ‘winner.’ This fundamental, philosophical distinction between theologies raises many questions concerning the ways in which people incorporate Christianity into their larger perspectives on self. Additionally, this study provides a framework for future academic work on fundamentalist theologies.” James Shelby 11am – 12pm
Mabee C Mentor: Rachael Neal
Faculty Perceptions The landscape of education in the U.S. may undergo dramatic changes as the private sector is explored for solutions to the issues of disparity in finance, quality, and access. In Texas, where we implement a complex ISD system, there have been accusations that the property taxation scheme creates inherent educational inequity. Current literature suggests that these inequalities positively correlate with low socio-economic status and race. From an institutional and legislative standpoint, it has been very difficult to adequately address these issues via the current public system. Therefore, school choice and voucher systems have become more central to the debate on intervention. However, many are concerned, with good reason, about whether these methods are truly viable and sustainable solutions.
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If we are to see the proliferation of privatized education, its potential benefit must be reinforced by research-based evidence. My project aims to explore faculty perceptions about the impact they are making on their students. I plan to produce a mixed methods study on a charter school that emphasizes a college readiness curriculum by conducting a survey with faculty members. Do they feel that they have the resources to effectively prepare their students for continuing education. Are they satisfied with student behavioral intervention. Is their school better serving the needs of the students than surrounding public institutions. What do the students struggle the most with and what assistance do faculty members need to support their efforts. These are some of the question I hope to answer through my research. Ultimately, I hope to gain a better understanding of faculty attitudes towards private education and the challenges that are encountered. Oral Presentation Nick Stiles 2pm – 3pm
Mabee A Mentor: Jessica Boyette-Davis
This is Your Brain on Morality: New Answers to Old Questions For more than two millennia, people have debated the nature of right and wrong, good and bad. Philosophy and theology have largely had a monopoly on this conversation, mainly focusing on what ought to be counted as moral or immoral behavior: “good” is whatever increases aggregate happiness; “good” is not encroaching on individual rights; “good” is doing X, not doing Y. The relatively new fields of moral psychology and moral neuroscience hope to add to this ancient conversation, but instead of seeking to make normative statements about what is or is not morally good, they aim to describe all of the mechanisms involved when people deliberate morally salient stimuli. This presentation introduces this new scientific endeavor by highlighting one particular theory within moral psychology (Moral Foundations Theory) and what supporting evidence neuroscience provides for that theory. Crisel Suarez 2pm – 3pm
Jones Mentor: Jason Callahan
Tiling & Tetris Previous research shows that only rectangles with both sides multiples of four can be tiled without gaps using the Tee tetromino from the popular video game Tetris. Subsequent research examines the rest of the rectangles, showing that rectangles with both sides at least twelve can be tiled with no more than nine gaps using the Tee tetromino and conjecturing that the number of gaps required in tilings using a Kink tetromino increases without bound as the sides of the rectangle increase. We prove this conjecture and a similar result for the Square tetromino and explore applications to Tetris. Gabriel Tavares Calderaro 1pm – 2pm
Mabee A Mentor: Rodrigo Nunes
Save The Tapajós River: Dam Construction in the Amazon Forest The Amazon Forest is one of the most important fresh water systems in the world; it is home to one of the biggest levels of biodiversity and natural resources, making it one of the current development frontiers on Earth. In recent years, the Brazilian government has planned and started to build series of hydroelectric dams along the Amazon’s major tributaries to expand its energy supply. However, these projects disrupt the unique ecosystems and threaten the Native and traditional communities along the river banks. One of the major tributaries of the Amazon River, the Tapajós River, is the current battleground where natives are fighting the
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
most for their rights to life and freedom, resisting ferociously against these projects. This research intends not simply to advocate against the construction of hydroelectric dams in the Amazon and elsewhere, but to also show alternatives to their construction and how an action in the United States can cause an effect in a remote part of Brazil. Anja Vukicevic 1pm – 2pm
Mabee C Mentor: Rachael Neal
Selfie Culture and Teen Girls Are there darker implications when we scroll past endless selfies on Instagram? Never before have adolescent girls had access to a platform where they can compare themselves to thousands of other young women instantly. Although selfie culture can allow for body positivity, it can also promote unrealistic expectations for some teens. For others it can be an addictive experience that provides a portal of compliments and reassurance in one’s physical attractiveness. Research has been conducted in the past to show the slippery relationship between mental health and selfies; however, this research explores how teenage girls support one another online through their responses to each other’s selfies. This content analysis analyzes how teenage girls prioritize their values, and the aspects of femininity in their peers they choose to reinforce. For example, do girls’ bikini pictures receive more affirmation through likes and comments than pictures of accomplishments, such as scoring the winning goal at a soccer game? Findings from this research offer a holistic understanding of what it means to be a woman in the dominant culture, and how youth prepare to take on this role. Ryan Wheeler 11am – 12pm
Jones Mentor: Kelly Green
Flipped!: Flipped Classroom Design as Pedagogical Strategy for Teaching Counseling Practices to Undergraduate Audiences The current report is a pedagogical example of using a flipped classroom design to teach counseling at the undergraduate level. Some of the implications for teaching counseling to undergraduate students are that entry level jobs are becoming available to graduates with only bachelor’s degrees. However, new graduates lack the hands-on experience necessary to hold those positions. While a counseling course provides the opportunity to fill that gap, one of the specific challenges is giving students valuable, goal-oriented experiences. The goal of the current study is to evaluate using flipped classroom design to teach counseling to undergraduate students by comparing student feedback from a traditional lecture-style class and a flipped classroom. A flipped classroom uses class time to practice and discuss material learned outside of class. Although more preparation is necessary, this style shifts the focus of class time from lecturing to completing hands-on activities and getting realtime feedback from the instructor. Results collected from student evaluations indicated that flipped classroom was more effective. Students gave higher ratings for group work, instructor’s lecture style and teaching methods, as well as indicating that they benefited from the instructor illustrating course material with her own clinical experience. Students reported higher stimulated interest and inspiration to learn more about the field. The evaluations also indicated that students felt challenged by a highly educational course that was consistent with their expectations. Results indicate that the flipped classroom design yielded a more impactful educational experience than a traditional lecture-based classes.
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Ryan Wheeler 1pm – 2pm
Mabee A Mentor: Mary Rist
Old Theories, New Tricks: Neosophistic Theory and Contemporary Pedagogy with Comprehensive Annotated Bibliography In questions of rhetoric and modern pedagogy, most of the credit is given to Aristotle and other classical Greek philosophers. However, a group of ancient Western thinkers and teachers should receive some credit based on their postmodern, forward thinking. The Sophists endorsed more worldly views and alternate conceptions of truth than most philosophers of Ancient Greece. Plato most famously questioned the Sophists’ techniques and challenged their theories on moral education. However, in the modern era, contemporary scholars have brought the Sophists and their theories back into the conversation. I will discuss the role of Sophistic influence on modern rhetoric and pedagogy and reevaluate Sophistic teaching for contemporary education systems. Some scholars discuss relevant historical reconstruction of Sophist theories by neosophistic scholars and the useful appropriation of their theories. Others question whether Sophistic rhetoric should even be appropriated to current pedagogy. Neosophistic scholars unfavorably compare the Sophistic model of rhetoric to the classic Hegelian model used by Plato and Aristotle. The multidisciplinary influences of Sophistic rhetoric is essential for contemporary pedagogy influenced by accessible information via the Internet and globalization. Many scholars acknowledge that language was key feature of Sophistic rhetoric and should be part of neosophistic pedagogy. Scholars also discuss the salience of the term Kairos in terms of the situational and contextual relevance of rhetorical discourse. Because these elements were too postmodern, Sophist thinkers were unpopular in ancient Greece. Today, as the world integrates and globalizes, perspectives and disciples overlap forming new opinions and driving social change. Worldwide, and starting conversations about tolerance, acceptance, religion, and culture. Each of these appropriated Sophistic theories may enhance pedagogy, expand the scope of rhetoric studies, and deepen the need for rhetoric studies. Gabrielle Wilkosz 12pm – 1pm
Mabee B Mentor: Beth Eakman
Doomsday Preppers and the Alt-Right: How Magazine Coverage of Contemporary Times Alludes to Apocalyptic Literature While apocalyptic literature is rooted in antiquity, the genre experiences periodic surges in popularity during times of political unrest and social uncertainty. With the increased media coverage of the alt-right movement, an “offshoot of conservatism mixing racism, white nationalism and populism” (Associated Press 2016), and the controversial placement of alt-right leader Steve Bannon in the White House, respected magazines have covered an array of apocalyptic themes. From The New Yorker’s “Doomsday Prep for the Super-Rich,” to Vanity Fair’s “Steve Bannon hints at Master Plan” and Time’s “Stephen Bannon and the Coming Crisis in American National Life,” communities in American society have come to view contemporary times as dualistic, finite, and often, apocalyptic. My project analyzes these long-form articles through the lens of apocalyptic literature and eschatology in Hebrew scripture. I will compare the political and social content as relates to established conventions of the genre, drawing from key examples of deuterocanonical literature like The Book of Daniel and 2 Maccabees. My project will also pull from the methods of Dr. Frances Flannery, an expert in modern radical apocalypticism.
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SOURCE ABSTRACTS
I feel that the unusual intersection of apocalyptic literature and legitimate journalism offers a rich opportunity for close examination with the potential to tell us more about our fears and prejudices as a society. Michael Williams 2pm – 3pm
Mabee C Mentor: Rachael Neal
The Diluted Power of Education: The Difficulties of Being an Educator and Child Care Provider in the 21st Century At some point in time we have heard the term “knowledge is power�. Knowledge is the foundation upon which education surfaces in order for us to construct the world in which we live in. Throughout our lives we are constantly learning and applying knowledge through the form of education not only for academic purposes but also as a social construct as we connect with fellow students and instructors. Furthermore, education has also become an endeavor that has been capitalized over the past decades as national and global competition has increased. It is sufficient to say that education is a popular and competitive endeavor that cannot be avoided if anyone wishes to advance themselves financially, economically, socially, as well as processing a cumulative mindset open to different ideas and perspectives. With this in mind, it can be argued that educators and child care providers are not given the adequate repute they deserve for being the front-runners in the field of educating our children. The study I conduct explores the challenges faced by the staff of Breakthrough Austin, when dealing with working with middle school and high school students in the Austin area. The purpose of this study is to illustrate the hindrances the staff confront as child care providers, which is depicted in the data gathered through a survey. The data collected may be used to infer any changes that should be made in the future to help support child care service providers and educators across the nation.
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@SEUSOURCE