My current research focuses on the promotion of mathematical, scientific, and health literacy.  Disseminating information and fostering relationships with professionals have become more accessible in the digital age.

 

For these initiatives, I am utilizing different learning methods to present information ranging from interactive Prezi presentations (please see ESL site under "Study") to rewriting subject notes (in topics such as calculus and organic chemistry) in a more user friendly format (please see Math/Science under "Study" above).

 

By studying my clients' and students' learning and progress each week, I have developed ways to maximize the person's ability to retain and apply the information.  What I've observed is that forming a connection to the person's goals and keeping a session comfortable and light-hearted helped decrease anxiety and increase engagement to the material (i.e. help make the information applicable to their interests).

 

My goals include:

1. Increasing mathematical, scientific, and health literacy among the general population

2. Examining factors that can influence a person's ability to access and retain information

3. Helping people become more engaged in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields and STEM courses

4. Promoting the development of interest in the STEM fields and courses once engagement has been achieved

5. Encouraging individuals to play an active role in managing their health (e.g. asking questions and reading health related information)

 

Even if they don't plan to pursue a career in a STEM field, my goal is to help them appreciate the courses for their current level of math and science.  Foundations such as algebra, statistics, and basic health sciences are important and frequently encountered daily life.

 

Although individuals might not need to go up to engineering calculus or medical pathology, they can find basic information helpful.  This can be achieved by increasing access to relevant and comprehensive materials and guidance from healthcare professionals in order to increase their knowledge and improve their personal lives (e.g. Why it is important for women after 40 years of age to get screened for breast cancer).

 

Examples such as understanding how to control their health (e.g. monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar, engaging in exercise, and reducing stress) or perform calculations when adjusting information (e.g. simple financial and budgeting computation or determining nutritional needs for children versus adults) can be learned by everyone.