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2023-2024 BEACoN Research Projects
The BEACoN Research Mentoring Program exists to educate, empower, and advocate for underrepresented students and provide them with funded undergraduate research opportunities working one-on-one with faculty.
Selected students will work with faculty during Winter and Spring quarters (10 hrs/week) and receive a $2,000 quarterly stipend ($4,000 total) distributed via financial aid for their time gaining research experience and participating in professional development events within the BEACoN Program. Applications are now open and being accepted until 9 pm on Sunday, November 19.
Applications are now closed.
Click to view projects by college:
- CampusWide DEI Projects
- College of Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences
- College of Architecture & Environmental Design
- College of Engineering
- College of Liberal Arts
- Bailey College of Science & MathematicS
- Orfalea College of Business
Campuswide DEI Projects
Ali Dehghan Banadaki
(He/him/his)
dehghanb@calpoly.edu
Electrical Engineering
Research project Title:
Fostering Diversity and Mental Health in HSI STEM Communities: A Pathway to Inclusion and Success
Research Project Description:
My research project, titled 'Empowering Diversity in STEM and Promoting Mental Health: Exploring the Intersection of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and STEM Education,' delves into a multifaceted exploration of the challenges and opportunities within HSIs concerning Latinx/e students in STEM fields. In the first aspect, we investigate how HSIs can provide a supportive and inclusive environment for Latinx/e students, who have historically been underrepresented in STEM disciplines. Through interviews, surveys, and comprehensive analyses, we aim to uncover the factors that influence classroom experiences, mentorship opportunities, and overall success within the STEM framework.
Simultaneously, our project addresses the vital issue of mental health among college students, with a specific focus on Latinx students. We seek to understand the unique stressors and mental health challenges they face while pursuing STEM degrees within the context of HSIs. By conducting surveys, interviews, and examining support systems, we aim to identify strategies and resources that can bolster mental well-being and resilience within this demographic. Our holistic approach aims to contribute to the broader dialogue on diversity, equity, inclusion, and mental health support within higher education, ultimately striving for a more inclusive and supportive academic environment.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will be a key team member, responsible for:
Literature Review: Conducting a comprehensive review of relevant literature on HSIs, STEM education, and Latinx/e student experiences to inform the research.
Data Collection: Actively participating in data collection by conducting interviews, surveys, and assisting with participant recruitment.
Data Analysis: Collaborating in the analysis of collected data, identifying trends and key insights in both qualitative and quantitative data.
Research Coordination: Assisting in project coordination, including scheduling, documentation, and tracking progress toward research objectives.
Mental Health Focus: Specifically, for the mental health aspect of the project, the scholar will help identify relevant resources, analyze mental health-related data, and explore strategies to enhance student well-being.
Reporting and Presentation: Contributing to the creation of research reports and presentations, synthesizing findings, and helping communicate results effectively.
Collaboration: Working closely with the research team to foster a collaborative environment and contribute insights.
Ethical Conduct: Ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines in all research activities, including maintaining participant confidentiality and sensitivity.
Time Management: Efficiently managing time to meet project deadlines and milestones.
Adaptability: Being open to learning new research methods and approaches as the project evolves.
The BEACoN Research Scholar's contributions will be vital in advancing our understanding of HSIs, STEM education, and the mental health of Latinx/e students, ultimately contributing to positive changes in higher education institutions.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
Research Methods: Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including survey design and data collection.
Data Analysis: Skills in data coding, thematic analysis, and statistical analysis using relevant software tools.
Literature Review: Ability to critically assess existing research and synthesize information for informed decision-making.
Data Management: Experience in data entry, organization, and documentation, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
Ethical Research Practices: Understanding of ethical considerations, including informed consent and participant confidentiality.
Project Coordination: Project management skills, including scheduling, team coordination, and progress tracking.
Communication Skills: Improved ability to communicate research findings effectively in both written and oral formats.
Mental Health Awareness: Insights into mental health challenges faced by students and familiarity with available resources.
Critical Thinking: Enhanced critical thinking skills for analyzing complex data and drawing meaningful conclusions.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to evolving research needs and methodologies.
These skills will not only benefit the research project but also provide the scholar with valuable capabilities applicable to various academic and professional pursuits.
Required qualifactions:
No specific course but the BEACoN Research Scholar should have a genuine interest in scholarly activities related to mental health and STEM majors within the Hispanic community. This interest and passion for these specific research areas will be valuable for their engagement and success in the project.
Preferred qualifications:
A person with a STEM background is preferred who loves to work and communicate with other people with a Hispanic background.
Ahmed Deif
(he/him/his)
adeif@calpoly.edu
Industrial Technology and Packaging
Research project Title:
Capturing and Characterizing Microaggressions on CP Muslim Community and How they Impact their sense of Belonging
Research Project Description:
This study will capture and characterize the different forms of microaggressions that the Muslim community at Cal Poly experience and how they impact the community’s sense of belonging. The research data will be conducted in two phases. Phase I will focus on developing and designing survey questions that can identify demographic variables of the Muslim community, discuss microaggressions they had experienced, and rate their sense of belonging. Phase II will be comprised of individual interviews with selected participants that further explore their experience. Interviews will be transcribed and coded using a content analysis. Across the two phases, quantitative, mixed-method, and content analyses will be conducted. Characterization of microaggressions will include a qualitative analysis of cross tabulating demographic variables with the number and basis of microaggression. The frequency, type, and basis of microaggressions will also be explored. The results from this research will target outcomes. First, a better understanding of themes of impact microaggression has on CP Muslim community’s sense of belonging (facilitators, obstructers, and changes in belonging). The second outcome will be geared towards suggestions for macro-interventions and micro-interventions to CP leadership and community on how to address this issue.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The student will be expected to:
1- Build a background on the the topic of microaggression
2- Gather data (phase I and II)
3- Share in data analysis
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
Background in sociology or ethnics study is preferred.
Ability to gather data from surveys and follow up
Basic descriptive statistical skills.
Required Experience/Coursework:
N/A
Preferred Experience/Coursework:
N/A
Anuraj Dhillon
(she/her)
adhill06@calpoly.edu
Communication Studies (CLA)
Megan Lambertz-Berndt
(she/her)
lambertz@calpoly.edu
Communication Studies (CLA)
Research project Title:
Navigating Microaggressions: Unearthing Belonging and Muted Experiences Among Marginalized Campus Community
Research Project Description:
During the pandemic, working parents not only dealt with the challenges posed by the merging of the home and office but individuals with marginalized identities were disproportionately impacted both at home and office and probably experienced being muted at the workplace (Dhillon & Lambertz-Berndt, 2023; Lambertz-Berndt & Dhillon, 2023). Dhillon and Lambertz-Berndt (2023) explored the relational maintenance strategies for couples and their findings revealed that women’s experiences drastically differed from men for messages of assurance based on the growing number of job loss for women in the workforce. Furthermore, working mothers in higher academia revealed that by creating resources intended to support them, institutions further created additional barriers (Lambertz-Berndt & Dhillon, 2023). Pausing one's tenure clock ignored the social and personal repercussions such as a lack of earned compensation, a lack of women in leadership roles, a lack of support to keep and sustain grants, and a lack of understanding of how the “second shift” has not gone away; rather, has only been amplified. Given that many academic mothers indicated their displeasure with the institutional resources, it is highly likely that academic mothers were not consulted while developing these “helpful” resources to support academicians during the pandemic.
Based on the research above and national trends, working mothers in higher education are in “survival mode,” making it impossible to focus on themselves and instead all energy and time is placed on their families and work. While the above research helped to illuminate the challenges of working mothers in higher academia, most participants identified as white, cisgender, straight women. The proposed research project will focus specifically on marginalized individuals and mothers in higher academia such as women of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Based on our personal experiences, we seek to underscore the additional barriers experienced by this population such as additional service work, negotiating identities, starting families, or building social networks, etc. Furthermore, considering that the pandemic has led to an increase in xenophobic and anti-oppressive commentary across the nation, this project will explore how faculty of color have been dealing with microaggressions both on and off campus within the community. This project will not only synthesize the experiences of marginalized communities as they transition to the CalPoly campus and SLO community but will also seek to identify ways in which CalPoly (as an organization) can address the challenges faced by this population. More specifically, how can CalPoly ensure the integration of marginalized individuals at a historically PWI campus, and what can CalPoly do to promote the voices of marginalized individuals and working mothers when making policies?
For this project, we will employ a mixed-methods approach where we will conduct a survey and interviews to collect data from the population of interest. The project will involve data collection, data analyses through statistical methods and thematic analyses, and reporting results via a research report.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
BEACoN research scholars will be extremely valuable and instrumental to the completion of this project. They will be involved with the project from the planning phase to the reporting phase. Research scholars will gain invaluable experience in cutting-edge research methodologies, including both quantitative and qualitative data and analyses. Students will help the researchers with literature search, study design and IRB protocol, questionnaire, recruitment, data collection, and data analyses. Throughout this process, students will closely work with the researchers as they collect and summarize the data using statistical softwares such as SPSS and excel. Next, students will also be engaged in transcribing interview data and generating themes. Finally, students will help with the reporting of the results through data visualization, creating word clouds, etc.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
Research scholars will gain proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative research methods. They will learn survey design and interviewing techniques for data collection, utilize Qualtrics for questionnaire creation, and perform statistical analyses using SPSS. Furthermore, scholars will develop skills in synthesizing existing research to shape hypotheses and research questions. They'll also master the art of transcribing interviews, identifying themes, and conducting thematic analyses. Ultimately, they will extract valuable insights from the data to craft compelling arguments for change. This comprehensive mentoring will equip research scholars with the knowledge and tools to make a real-world impact
Required qualifications/coursework:
Students must be enthusiastic about social scientific research preferably in the field of communication and advocacy. Although students do not need to have any prior experience, coursework in empirical research methods from a CLA department is preferred. Finally, working with students who are motivated, organized, and responsible makes the research process much more enjoyable and efficient.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
We would prefer if the student is junior standing or above and has taken a few upper level electives in their respective majors, which involved researching scholarly sources or peer reviewed research articles. It would also be great if the scholar has taken a research methods course (either quantitative/ qualitative/ humanities) or statistics based course.
Alexa Loken
(she/her)
aloken@calpoly.edu
Communication Studies
Research project Title:
ResearchCorps: The Untold History of BEACoN Research Projects and Stories from the Program
Research Project Description:
By documenting the untold history of the BEACoN research program, and sharing these compelling stories, "ResearchCorps: The Untold History of BEACoN Research Projects and Stories from the Program," aims to inspire future generations of researchers, educators, and community leaders to engage in similar initiatives that bridge the gap between academic research and real-world impact. Additionally, it hopes to serve as a valuable resource and insights for program evaluation and improvement, ensuring the continued success and relevance of BEACoN in the years to come.
This project will delve into the unique stories, inspiring projects, and transformative experiences of both students and mentors who have participated in the BEACoN program throughout its existence. The program's untold history deserves recognition, as it represents an inspiring journey of discovery, learning, and community engagement; it encompasses Cal Poly’s “Learn By Doing” motto perfectly!
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The student will be expected to help create and conduct surveys and questionnaires. Largely, the student researcher will assist in conducting in-depth interviews (and note taking) about stories from the past alums of the BEACoN program.
The research will focus on interviewees past research projects, methodologies, findings and outcomes.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will gain skills in creating and conducting primary research, in the form of surveys, in-depth interviews, and questionnaires. Additionally, some secondary research and qualitative analysis for subject matter comprehension will be utilized.
Required qualifications:
Basic communication (active listening), writing and research skills in order to successfully complete surveys, interviews and questionnaires.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
An upbeat attitude and curiosity about research.
College of Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences (CAFES)
Erin Gorter
(she/her/hers)
ekthomps@calpoly.edu
Agricultural Education and Communication
James Bingaman
(he/him/his)
bingaman@calpoly.edu
Agricultural Education and Communication
Research project Title:
Exploration of Media Coverage and Lived Experiences of Female Intercollegiate Rodeo Athletes at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
Research Project Description:
This research project aims at exploring the Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo female intercollegiate rodeo athlete through the lens of Social Capital Theory (SCT) (Bourdieu, 1985). Noted as one of the most winning programs in National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association history, the program boasts highly competitive men and women’s teams (Cal Poly, 2023), but there is little known about the athletes themselves. Specifically, the researchers are interested in knowing more about how the perspectives of female athletes, in this non-traditional sport.
This research project will be conducted in two parts to explore the lived experience of female intercollegiate rodeo athletes and how media coverage plays a role in these experiences. First, we will conduct a quantitative content analysis exploring media coverage of female intercollegiate rodeo athletes. Content analysis will provide information on what media coverage exists, and focuses on, concerning the sport of intercollegiate rodeo. Media representations, especially that of gender, can influence perceptions, attitudes, and opinions surrounding female athletes, potentially impacting the day-to-day experiences of those athletes. Second, we will delve into the lived experiences of female intercollegiate rodeo athletes via a qualitative investigation exploring the dimensions of SCT (structural, cognitive, and social). The qualitative piece will include both the use of photovoice and semi-structured interviews to gain generous insight into the lived experiences of these female intercollegiate athletes.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
This project will include two BEACoN Research Scholars. The role of the BEACoN Research Scholars in this project is to actively engage in the conducting of a mixed methods project exploring media coverage and lived experiences of female intercollegiate rodeo athletes. Each Scholar will be cross trained in quantitative content analysis as well as qualitative research methods.
The Scholars will be expected to participate in quantitative content coding and analysis of media coverage concerning intercollegiate rodeo. Specifically, Scholars will learn how to draft a codebook, effectively code media material, calculate intercoder reliability, conduct basic statistical analyses, and create data visualizations. For the qualitative component, Scholars will assist in the development of, scheduling, observation, and coding of semi-structured interviews. The Scholars will also engage in photovoice analysis.
Scholars, in collaboration with two faculty mentors, will aid in the creation of academic abstracts for research conference submission (1 per Scholar), prepare research posters for conference presentation (1 per Scholar), and submit two articles as co-authors for publication.
What skills will the BEACoN Research scholar gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will gain experience in conducting a mixed methods research study in its entirety. This includes conducting a literature review, employing quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, preparing materials for conference submission, presenting at a research conference, and submitting research for publication.
Required courses/experience:
Candidates should be proficient using Zoom platform and have strong, reading, writing, speaking, and organizational skills.
Preferred courses/experience:
Experience or interest in non-traditional intercollegiate sports, news media coverage, and sociologic phenomena.
Moses Mike
(he/him/his)
mmike@calpoly.edu
Agricultural Education and Communication
Research project Title:
Gender-Based Differences in Agricultural Communication- Producing the 2023 California FFA Livestream
Research Project Description:
The purpose of this project is to investigate the gender-based experiences of participating in a multimedia production environment within the agricultural industry. In April of 2023, students in the agricultural communications program participated in a live production of the California Future Farmers of America State Conference. The group of 8 students (four male, four female) participated in different capacities across four days, including panelists, interviewers, and production specialist among other roles. While the project leader provided context and expectations for the group, many of the main roles were self-selected. The researchers in this study will evaluate the experiences of the students and determine if the experiences aligned with expectations of the students, as well as ties to previous research on gender roles in production environments. The BEACoN student in this research project will collect and analyze the focus group data for the manuscript to follow. Additionally, the beacon student will be mentored on writing research papers, and presenting research according to their needs and desires.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN student in this research project will collect and analyze the focus group data for the manuscript to follow. Additionally, the beacon student will be mentored on writing research papers, and presenting research according to their needs and desires.
What skills will the BEACoN Research scholar gain:
qualitative data analysis- The Scholar will explore the tenets of qualitative data collection and analysis, specifically on focus group data collection.
project planning- the scholar will also learn the factors associated with project planning in the context of academic research.
Required courses/experience:
Scholar must be willing to learn interpersonal communication skills associated with focus group settings.
Nicole Ray
(She, her, hers)
nray04@calpoly.edu
Agricultural Education and Communication
Research project Title:
Exploring Teachers’ Perceptions and Implementation Behaviors of Phenomenon-Based Agriscience Instruction
Research Project Description:
This research project explores California Ag Teachers' use and impressions of an asynchronous online module on the topic of phenomena in agriscience instruction. A significant number of Califorina's over 95,000 FFA members are enrolled in an agriscience pathway, many taking course like Ag Biology, Ag Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Ag Science. These courses reflect a combination of Career Technical Education Standards and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The NGSS represents many shifts in how teachers are expected approach science instruction, one of them is phenomenon-based instruction. Phenomenon helps bring relevance and rigor to classrooms through grounding lessons in authentic real-world examples of science in action. Considering the gender and racial inequity within STEM fields, phenomenon-based instruction is positioned to inspire and prepare ALL learners for the careers and informed citizenship they deserve. While it’s clear that phenomenon-based instruction is beneficial for learners and can be a driver for equity in the workplace for students who aspire to STEM careers, the path for agriscience teachers to implement this approach is unclear. Further, agriculture credential programs have limited time to expose students to the idea of phenomenon-based instruction, and practicing teachers have varying exposure and implementation levels. A recent collaborative effort between Fresno State and Cal Poly stands to make progress in supporting agriculture teachers in this need by enhancing their access to high quality teaching resources, as well as professional learning opportunities that will enhance learning for their students. The online course that will be studied in this project was designed to provide opportunities for teachers of all skill levels to develop their confidence in their ability to teach agriscience lessons that include authentic agriculture context using phenomenon-based instruction.
Project Objectives
-Describe participants' use of the phenomenon in agriscience learning module.
-Explain the variance in the pre and posttest assessments in the module.
-Describe participant's suggested improvements of the module.
-Describe participants' self-reported implementation behaviors relating to phenomenon agriscience.
-Explain the variance in participants self-reported phenomenon-based instruction implementation behaviors.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
In this research project, the student researcher will conduct interviews with participants following the interview protocol. They will also work with their mentor to organize and analyze data from the module along with the interview data using statistical and coding tools (ex – Excel, SPSS) where appropriate. Students will work with the mentor to report the findings of the research with two lenses. First, making recommendations to the module creators on how the module can be improved. Second, reporting findings to the scientific community through one or more poster manuscripts (and poster development and presentation if accepted to a conference), as well as a peer reviewed journal article manuscript.
What skills will the BEACoN Research scholar gain:
Data analysis and reporting using descriptive statistics.
Familiarity with human subject's research process and protocols including following IRB approved protocols in conducting a research project from start to finish.
Experience authoring academic manuscripts for posters and peer reviewed journal manuscripts.
Experience developing presentations for sharing findings through slides and research posters.
If accepted to a conference, experience presenting a research poster at a regional or national research conference.
Increased self confidence in conducting research, which will be especially useful for those who plan to support their future students through science and agriscience fairs.
Required courses/experience:
Interest in education (agriculture or science).
Preferred courses/experience:
Strong time management, communication and critical thinking skills.
Mohammad Sadek
(He/Him/His)
mosadek@calpoly.edu
BioResource and Agricultural Engineering
Research project Title:
Performance evaluation of autonomous vegetable harvester
Research Project Description:
California's Central Valley produces about three-quarters of the nation's vegetable supply. This $47-billion agriculture industry is currently trying to bring technological innovation up to warp speed before it runs out of low-wage immigrant workers. Mechanical harvesters have been adopted for many other high-value crops to overcome labor dependency. However, vegetable harvesting is way behind in mechanized solution. Most of the machines require highly skilled operators, which require skilled labor, training, and proper maintenance. Cal Poly BRAE department has designed a low-cost autonomous harvester that could reduce the requirement for highly skilled operators and reduce further labor dependency.
The performance of this machine needs to be tested at the laboratory and field level. Students will be involved in test sept up and performance evaluation of the harvester. Performance evaluation will include vegetable cutting speed, harvest quality, harvest precision and power consumption. The test data will be compared with the manual harvest data for machine performance evaluation. This project will provide valuable solutions to the produce industry, manufacturing industry and growers to overcome the current labor crisis.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
1. Help graduate students to set up the lab and field testing
2. Assist faculty member and graduate student gather lab and field test supplies
3. Collect and analyze data during lab and field testing
4. Report writing
5. Present the result in CAFES Spring symposium
What skills will the BEACoN Research scholar gain:
1. Training in the field of agricultural machinery and automation
2. Laboratory and field test experimental design
3. Data collection, analysis, and interpretation of the result
4. Data presentation
Required courses/experience:
STEM background
Preferred courses/experience:
Agricultural Production
Sandy Shen
(she/her/hers)
yeshen@calpoly.edu
Experience Industry Management
Research project Title:
VR Hotel Experiences for Promoting Sustainability Messages and Creating Accessibility
Research Project Description:
The importance of an inclusive hotel experience cannot be overstated. It goes beyond simply complying with legal requirements; it encompasses creating an environment where all guests, regardless of their backgrounds, abilities, or needs, feel welcome, comfortable, and valued. VR can provide virtual tours of hotel properties, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to explore the facilities, rooms, and amenities before booking. This can help them assess whether the hotel is suitable for their specific needs. VR can also offer 360-degree previews of accessible rooms, showing detailed layouts and features like roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered counters. This helps travelers with disabilities make informed choices when booking.
This research project aims to test the design of a VR hotel experience. The VR platform has been designed already, and our research team will invite participants to wear an eye tracker and skin conductance sensor to explore the virtual hotel. A short survey and interview will be conducted after the eye-tracking experiment. The findings will provide insights into the design of VR hotel experiences and generate best practices for delivering sustainability messages in a hotel setting.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Undergraduate students will be working on this study and assisting with data collection, data analysis, and dissemination. Students are vital for the success of this project, and funding will support their involvement and education in this research project. To be more specific, the student's responsibilities/learning opportunities are include:
• Search the library database and collect literature related to VR hotel experience, sustainability message, and inclusive experiences
• Write a review of the literature
• Assist the faculty mentor in collecting and analyzing data
• Draft the conference or peer-reviewed journal with the faculty mentor
• Disseminate the project outcomes through conference or peer-reviewed journals publications
What skills will the BEACoN Research scholar gain:
By the end of this research program, the BEACoN Research Scholar will be able to:
• Write a review of the literature using the academic writing approach
• Learn about the use of cutting-edge technology (e.g., eye tracker and skin conductance sensor)
• Master the techniques of conducting interviews and collecting surveys
• Develop qualitative and quantitative skills
• Gain experience in interpreting and graphical representation of the results using different tools (e.g., Excel, SPSS)
• Sharpen their problem-solving, critical thinking, presentation, and communication skills through writing and presenting research papers
Required courses/experience:
No experiences/courses are required. BEACoN Research Scholar will be expected to have a desire to learn about the use of cutting-edge technology (i.e., eye tracker and skin conductance sensor) and have a passion for providing a virtual environment to provide a more inclusive environment.
Preferred courses/experience:
If the BEACoN Research Scholar has experience in collecting literature from the library, writing literature review, and conducting surveys and interviews, that would be preferred. However, these are not the required skills, and Faculty Mentor can provide instructions.
Ashraf Tubeileh
(he/him/his)
atubeile@calpoly.edu
Plant Sciences
Research project Title:
Improving Vegetable Crop Nutrient Uptake Through Plant Stimulants
Research Project Description:
Meta-analysis studies have shown that timely nutrient and disease management represent the most important reasons for the yield drag in organic crop production systems (e.g., Seufert et al., 2012). With the chronic lack of tools available for organic producers, any new tool to help with nutrient and disease management might present a step towards better yields. Biostimulants refer to a wide variety of commercial preparations that are purported to increase plant health and vigor, including humic/fulvic acids, seaweed extracts, botanical extracts, mycorrhizae and plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) (Du Jardin, 2015).
Several soil fungi and bacteria have been demonstrated to positively affect plant growth through different mechanisms. Strains of the soil fungus Trichoderma harzianum have been shown to solubilize phosphorus (Altomare et al., 1999) and control diseases (Howell, 2003). There is a multitude of biostimulants on the market. Plant extracts have been known to enhance physiological processes in plants, such as photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, sink capacity, antioxidative enzymes production, and secondary metabolism in plants, contributing to the quality improvements of agricultural products. For example, extracts from Moringa plant usually include phytohormones, minerals, secondary metabolites, and bioactive compounds, all contributing to plant health and growth (Yuniati et al., 2022). Plant extract biostimulants represent a tool that has seen renewed due to the inability to use synthetics in organic systems to enhance plant health and fight diseases. Recent preliminary research has shown that combining pepper extract and the fungus Trichoderma harzianum has resulted in benefits exceeding either one alone (Smith and Tubeileh, unpublished). This project proposes to test combinations of pepper extract and Trichoderma harzianum with different fertilizers on vegetable crops in terms of growth, health and yield.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Student tasks include setting up experiments, preparing pots, transplanting, technical assistance, taking readings on plants, soil and plant tissue sampling, and sample analysis.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
They will learn how to design experiments, use specific research equipment, organize spreadsheets for data collection, and assess plants. They will be familiarized with common fertilizers and crop production inputs. They will be exposed to basic statistical analysis.
Required qualifications:
Basic ability to follow instructions, basic communication and organization skills, knowledge of MS Excel.
Preferred qualifications:
Basic plant science/botany and soil science classes
Priya Verma
(she/her/hers)
pverma@calpoly.edu
Natural Resources Management and
Environmental Sciences (CAFES)
Research project Title:
Mapping Groundwater Monitoring Networks for Sustainable Resource Management in California
Research Project Description:
Groundwater is a critical natural resource in California, providing a substantial portion of the state's water supply for agriculture, industry,
and domestic use. Effective groundwater management relies on accurate data collection from monitoring sites distributed across the state's diverse hydrogeological regions. This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the spatial distribution and accessibility of groundwater monitoring sites in California. Using geospatial analysis and data from various sources, including state agencies, local water districts, and research institutions, this study will develop a database of groundwater monitoring sites. The research will investigate trends in the distribution of monitoring sites, highlighting regions with robust monitoring networks, and identifying areas where data collection may be limited. The results of this research provide valuable insights for policymakers and water resource managers aiming to enhance groundwater management in California. By identifying gaps in monitoring coverage and assessing data accessibility, this study contributes to the ongoing efforts to sustainably manage California's groundwater resources in the face of increasing demands and climate variability.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The Research Assistant will be responsible for gathering data related to groundwater monitoring networks in California. This may include collecting data from various sources, such as
government agencies, research institutions, and environmental organizations. They will ensure the data is accurate, up-to-date, and relevant to the project's objectives.They will then organize and manage the collected data. This involves creating databases or spreadsheets, maintaining data quality, and developing data management protocols to ensure consistency and accessibility. The Research Assistant will work use the data collected along with geospatial tools and software, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), to map groundwater monitoring sites and assess their spatial distribution. They may create maps and visualizations to represent the data effectively. They will also be responsible to conduct a literature review to gather background information on groundwater management in California, relevant regulations, existing monitoring networks, and best practices.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The BEACoN research scholar will gain a diverse set of skills and experiences relevant to environmental science, geospatial analysis, data management, and sustainable resource management. Some key skills they may acquire are:
1) Geospatial Analysis -- The scholar will develop proficiency in geospatial tools and techniques, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), to analyze and visualize groundwater monitoring data, hydrogeological features, and spatial trends.
2) Data Collection and Management -- They will learn how to collect, manage, and maintain groundwater data from various sources, ensuring data accuracy, consistency, and accessibility.
3) Environmental Policy Awareness -- The project may involve navigating and understanding groundwater regulations, policies, and compliance standards, providing insight into the regulatory landscape related to groundwater management in California
4) Data Interpretation -- They will learn to interpret complex datasets, identify trends, and draw meaningful conclusions.
5) Report Writing -- The scholar will practice documenting their findings and insights in reports, improving their ability to communicate technical information to various audiences effectively.
Required qualifications:
Basic GIS course such as LA/NR 218
Preferred qualifications:
Advanced GIS course such as NR 418
Pei Zhang
(she/her/hers)
pzhang11@calpoly.edu
Experience Industry Management (CAFES)
Research project Title:
Crafting Equitable Human-AI Collaborative Systems: The Case of Service Robots in Hospitality
Research Project Description:
Background: In the bustling world of the hospitality industry, collaboration between workers and AI technologies has emerged as a rising focus, creating a research niche where human skills, capabilities, and experiences meld with the precision and efficiency of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Among them, the service robot is one of the increasingly adopted AI assistants in hospitality. While initial research has shed light on employee perceptions towards AI, management decision-making, and domain task fit for collaboration in hospitality, a clear gap remains, indicating that optimal collaboration between hospitality employees and AI is still under exploration, especially when it comes to understanding the power balance among frontline workers (i.e., those working with AI to provide service and complete their job), consumers (i.e., those using AI for their consumption experience), and technology developers (i.e., those developing and designing AI for better user experience). The current research will use the design and adoption of hospitality service robots as an avenue to pivot towards constructing a new framework that encompasses the multidimensional facets of human-AI collaboration, filling the gap in the current understanding of the power dynamics among key players in the ever-evolving human-AI collaboration in hospitality.
Research Objectives: To fill the gap, the current research aims to accomplish the following objectives through a mixed-method qualitative and quantitative research design.
1. To investigate the specific functions and tasks that are most suitable for workers and service robots in a collaborative setting.
2. To explore how power dynamics across the three parties can be optimized to achieve a more balanced and effective collaboration, as well as enhanced customer experience.
3. To design and implement effective collaborative processes that promote the best use of service robots while upholding human values.
4. To identify best practices and guidelines for communication, trust-building, and decision-making in human-AI collaboration.
5. To contribute to the development of the CTD (Communication-Trust-Decision) framework for human-AI collaboration that can be applied across different domains and contexts in the experience industry.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
1. Using academic literature search databases such as Google Scholar, EBSCOhost to collect papers on relevant topics and conduct literature review.
2. Communicating and working with industry partners in Robotics such as Bear Robotics, Inc., Relay Robotics to recruit research participants (e.g., hospitality frontline workers) through the companies' client networks.
3. Schedule and co-lead qualitative interviews as co-interviewers or note-takers. Assist with Zoom set up, technology monitoring and follow-up emails with the interviewees.
4. Converse, clean, and organize qualitative interviews from audio data to textual data. Make sure data are securely stored and managed during the research period.
5. Analyze qualitative data using Qualitative data analysis software such as MAXQDA.
6. Assist with the development of quasi-experiment surveys on Qualtrics. Help with recruiting participants from Prolific (i.e., consumers), through robotic companies' networks (e.g., employees), and from Cal Poly/CSU students majoring in software engineering, computer science, and user experience/user interface design.
What skills will the BEACoN Research scholar gain:
1. Complete a systematic literature review and write the literature review adheres to the standard of academic writing in social science.
2. Design, develop, and conduct qualitative in-depth interviews. Evaluate the success of the interviews and improve through the process.
3. Learn by practicing coding techniques manually and through hands-on softwares (e.g., MAXQDA).
4. Navigate quantitative survey design tools such as Qualtrics successfully. Design quasi-experiments, monitor data collection, and collect data through the platform.
5. Overall, accumulate valuable experiences and improve essential skills in professional communication (e.g., emails correspondences, Zoom meeting, Slack communication, in-person research meeting), critical thinking (e.g., research design and development), time and project management, data analysis, and scientific writing and presentation.
Required experience:
1. Strong interest in human-AI collaboration research
2. Strong interest in diversity and equity issues related to technology advancement in today's reality (e.g., How can tech designers make sure they’re listening to frontline workers who are using the tech, particularly underrepresented worker population?).
Prefered experience:
1. Great communication skills and prior experience with qualitative interviews or focus groups.
2. Prior experience or knowledge with Qualtrics and/or MAXQDA.
College of Architecture & Environmental Design
Aaron Liggett
(he/him/his_
aliggett@calpoly.edu
Landscape Architecture
Research project Title:
Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Injustice
Research Project Description:
Increasing urbanization and the worsening impacts of climate change have exacerbated urban injustices, particularly in densely populated urban areas. These injustices manifest in various forms with severe ecological, infrastructural, and social impacts. With over 94% of its population living in urban areas, California is particularly vulnerable to these challenges. The state is already experiencing the repercussions of a changing climate, with more frequent and severe extreme weather events such as heatwaves, intense storms, and prolonged droughts. These impacts hit urban areas the hardest, especially those with extensive impervious surfaces and limited vegetation. These neighborhoods, often within marginalized communities, can be up to 10 °F hotter than nearby more vegetated communities, with more air pollution and reduced water quality. Furthermore, inadequate stormwater and transportation infrastructure heighten flood risks and impede mobility. These challenges have severe social consequences, adversely affecting health, safety, and overall quality of life. These burdens disproportionately fall on disadvantaged communities, resulting in social, infrastructural, and environmental injustices.
Urban environments are complex ecosystems comprised of people, their cultural values and behaviors, infrastructure (e.g., buildings, transportation, and energy systems), and urban ecology with underlying biophysical processes. All collectively shape the urban ecosystem within which society operates. Nature-based solutions (NBS) are sustainable planning and design practices that take a holistic view of the urban ecosystem when proposing strategies to address socio-environmental issues. NBS advocates for an integrated design approach incorporating natural features and processes into the built environment while promoting equity and resilience.
The objective of this research is to develop methodologies for analyzing urban injustice in California and begin offering potential solutions. By adopting a data-driven, quantitative approach that combines extensive Geographic Information Systems (GIS) spatial analysis and critical mapping, the research aims to identify opportunities within the most vulnerable urban communities to implement NBS. Data visualization will play a pivotal role in recognizing patterns and providing a comprehensive view of the physical infrastructure within urban environments and its impact on ecological and social vulnerabilities. This equity assessment will be a crucial tool for guiding subsequent decision-making processes in implementing multifunctional NBS strategies and addressing urban injustices.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The student's tasks include conducting literature searches to locate peer-reviewed journal articles about case studies on the factors contributing to urban injustice. They will also gather spatial data and contribute to developing methods for conducting GIS analysis to map patterns of injustice.
In addition, students will gain knowledge about nature-based solutions that confront urban injustices and will work on developing design typologies for implementing these solutions. They will create visual representations to communicate the various types of nature-based solutions and their measurable ecological and social outcomes. Ultimately, students will develop an interactive GIS Story Map to share their findings with the public.
What skills will the BEACoN reseacher gain:
The student researcher will acquire skills in conducting literature searches and performing critical and quantitative data analyses. They will be trained in using geoprocessing tools and techniques for creating maps and data visualization. Additionally, they will practice approaching design with a focus on DEI and learn how to measure the tangible results of design solutions.
Required qualification:
The student must have successfully completed courses in GIS and digital
graphic communication. They should have excellent critical thinking and analytical skills and an interest in learning about urban injustice.
Preferred qualifications:
A third or fourth-year standing landscape architecture or city and regional planning student is preferred, however, students from other majors will be considered. They should be proficient in using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and 3D modeling software.
Zahra Rasti
(she/her/hers)
zrasti@calpoly.edu
Architecture (CAED)
Sussan Einakin
(she/her/hers)
Computer Science
seinakia@calpoly.edu (CENG)
Research project Title:
Mapping as an Agent for Change: Empowering Social Justice Initiatives
Research Project Description:Women's rights are inextricably tied to land and place. In 2022, the Women Life Freedom movement in Iran ignited these research questions to explore how architecture and urban design can be powerful tools for promoting social justice.
This research discovers the impact of user-generated digital content, such as videos and images, and social media coverage of protests in raising cultural awareness and understanding of the women's rights movement in Iran.
Also, it aims to answer critical questions, such as whether a spatial approach to documenting and visualizing specific events and protests can benefit lawyers, artists, and social activists in their fact-finding and analysis efforts. Research questions try to respond to how land and place can be activated and authored by a collective voice motivated by a powerful social movement with a single purpose: advancing gender equity.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Work collaboratively with Zahra Rasti to:
1. Understand relationships between architecture, urban design, and social justice.
2. Analyze and synthesize societal and political events using a spatial approach.
3. Develop skills using tools such as image and video analysis, 3D modeling,
event reconstruction, and timeline development.
4. Understand how to merge data created by student purveyors of the built environment with public user-generated content to create cohesive info.
5. Develop a manual that collectively, publicly, and safely empowers people.
6. Understand public spaces and their use as a platform for social justice.
7. Learn how to build a network of social justice advocates and use allied disciplines to organize, advocate, and protest to exercise free speech.
What skills will the BEACoN research scholar gain:
These skills collectively equip the BEACoN Research Scholar to engage in interdisciplinary research effectively, analyze visual data, create 3D models, construct event timelines, and develop comprehensive documents or platforms for social justice advocacy. Additionally, they will gain an understanding of the practical tools and technologies used in the field, enhancing their capacity to contribute to the research project and advance social justice through innovative approaches.
Required qualifications:
Scholars must be able to digitally draw proficiently in Rhino, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop. Passion about material economies and building assemblies will make this endeavor mutually enjoyable. Reliability, attention-to-detail, and ability to assertively communicate in a collaborative setting are also required.
Preferred qualifications:
Third-year standing as an architecture, CRP (city and regional planning), political science, and department of computer science and software engineering are preferred.
Additional courses in statistics, computer science, research methods, sociology, and ethnic and gender studies are appreciated but not required.
Jennifer Shields
(she/her)
jeshield@calpoly.edu
Architecture (CAED)
Research project Title:
Architecture and Neuroscience: Improving and Evaluating Multi-Sensory Experience in Sites of Cultural Heritage.
Research Project Description:
This project will explore the use of audio and visual overlays (including Augmented Reality) on existing historical sites to improve the multi-sensory experience and contextual understanding for all visitors, while also supporting people with cognitive or sensory impairments. Working with staff at Hearst Castle, we are planning an exhibition in the Visitor Center. The façade of Casa Grande at Hearst Castle includes numerous architectural antiquities acquired by William Randolph Hearst in Europe, and incorporated into the design by Julia Morgan. The 15th century Wildmen statues flanking the front doors are in need of conservation, which will occur in-situ (they will not be removed). Our new exhibition will entail constructing full-scale Wildmen, and using video projection to show both the historical and secondary contexts of the statues. We will use video and audio overlays to offer additional information about these antiquities, while providing visitors who have visual impairments with audio information, and vice versa. Additionally, not all visitors to the Visitor Center access the hilltop to see Hearst Castle and the Wildmen in person when they visit San Simeon.
In addition to testing materials and fabrication methods for the sculptures and the projections, we will be looking at ways in which we can measure neurological and physiological responses to the installation (using, for example, mobile EEG, galvanic skin response, eye tracking, and questionnaires) in order to evaluate the efficacy of the installation for people without and people with various disabilities. The results of this installation and evaluation would inform the design of the Casa Grande scaffolding (with Augmented Reality) when it is time for the in-situ restoration to take place.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Scholar would begin by assisting in a literature review related to these technologies and their applications to cultural heritage. The Drawing to the Future Lab at Politecnico di Torino’s Department of Building, Structural, and Geotechnical Engineering has relevant experience - this is where I spent my sabbatical in the spring. We will have Zoom meetings with PhD students there to guide our research. The Scholar will summarize relevant literature as an annotated bibliography.
The BEACoN Scholar would then experiment with technologies like augmented reality and video projection, EEG, eye tracking, and galvanic skin response (when we determine which technologies would be the most viable) to develop protocols for our proposed project at Hearst Castle. The Scholar would also assist in identifying relevant grants and preparing these grant applications.
What skills will the BEACoN reseacher gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will gain skills in research and literature review to determine the extents of the existing discourse on the topic. They will also gain skills in the development and application of various technologies for augmenting the built environment, and measuring human responses to that environment. The goal is to develop a protocol for analyzing the neurological and physiological data with MatLab. The BEACoN Research Scholar will also seek out grants to support the project's phases and prepare the grant applications.
Required qualification:
The BEACoN Research Scholar must have an attention to detail and
precision in their work, have good time management, and be proficient in Excel and Word. The Scholar must be able to summarize and synthesize information in writing from various sources, and prepare clear and concise written text for grant applications.
Preferred qualifications:
It is preferred that the BEACoN Research Scholar be from one of the following majors: Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Psychology, or Computer Science. A familiarity with MatLab and facility with technology is also preferred.
Carmen Trudell
(she/her/hers)
ctrudell@calpoly.edu
Architecture (CAED)
Research project Title:
Visualizing Value Hierarchies in Construction Materials and Assemblies
Research Project Description:
The design and construction of Architecture is intertwined with natural resources at every turn, and like most post-industrial era markets, it is deeply embedded in linear economies. The linear economy can be summarized by the pithy slogan “take, make, dispose” where natural resources are extracted, turned into products, and are then discarded after they are no longer useful. In recent decades, the fragility and destructive nature of current modes of economic development can no longer be embraced as advanced or desired. Therefore, researchers in many fields are encouraging a mode of development that aligns more closely with natural systems, coined the circular economy.
This research project will continue work that was started with two BEACoN mentees last year. One of the primary goals of the circular economy is to “circulate resources at their highest value” (ellenmacarthurfoundation.org). This project works to unpack how we quantify and communicate the value of construction resources, such as materials and building products. This information will make inform architects and building design teams of the relative value of resources compared to other resources, and across the life of a single resource. A draft of a value visualization diagram has been started, but now the project will develop from concept to application. This involves finding verified data on the economic value of resources through life-cycles stages, from initial processing to end-of life, and depicting this information in a compelling and accessible manner.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will collaboratively work with Carmen Trudell to:
• Continue research begun in the 2022-23 BEACoN Scholar program
• Establish criteria for selecting a set of significant building materials to include in this study
• Identify sources of domestic and international data related to the materials of study, which may include data sourced through literature review.
• Develop algorithms for normalizing data across a range of construction materials
• Develop tools for obtaining data where there are gaps, such as interviews or questionnaires
• Develop a method of representing the material supply-chains for the selected projects for exhibition
• Refine graphing of data in order to make it useful for architectural designers
What skills will the BEACoN research scholar gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will have a learn-by-doing research experience using common techniques such as the literature review, interviews, and first-hand observation and recording.
Scholars will also gain experience in working collaboratively through effective workflows for sharing information and digital drawings. Students will also practice the skill of drawing, diagramming, and communicating complex information graphically.
Required qualifications:
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including knowledge of working with formulas, and building equations. Reliability, attention-to-detail, and ability to assertively communicate in a collaborative setting.
Preferred qualifications:
Passion about material economies and building assemblies. Abiity in Adobe Illustrator is preferred.
College of Engineering
Ali Dehghan Banadaki
(He/him/his)
dehghanb@calpoly.edu
Electrical Engineering
Research project Title:
Fostering Diversity and Mental Health in HSI STEM Communities: A Pathway to Inclusion and Success
Research Project Description:
My research project, titled 'Empowering Diversity in STEM and Promoting Mental Health: Exploring the Intersection of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and STEM Education,' delves into a multifaceted exploration of the challenges and opportunities within HSIs concerning Latinx/e students in STEM fields. In the first aspect, we investigate how HSIs can provide a supportive and inclusive environment for Latinx/e students, who have historically been underrepresented in STEM disciplines. Through interviews, surveys, and comprehensive analyses, we aim to uncover the factors that influence classroom experiences, mentorship opportunities, and overall success within the STEM framework.
Simultaneously, our project addresses the vital issue of mental health among college students, with a specific focus on Latinx students. We seek to understand the unique stressors and mental health challenges they face while pursuing STEM degrees within the context of HSIs. By conducting surveys, interviews, and examining support systems, we aim to identify strategies and resources that can bolster mental well-being and resilience within this demographic. Our holistic approach aims to contribute to the broader dialogue on diversity, equity, inclusion, and mental health support within higher education, ultimately striving for a more inclusive and supportive academic environment.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will be a key team member, responsible for:
Literature Review: Conducting a comprehensive review of relevant literature on HSIs, STEM education, and Latinx/e student experiences to inform the research.
Data Collection: Actively participating in data collection by conducting interviews, surveys, and assisting with participant recruitment.
Data Analysis: Collaborating in the analysis of collected data, identifying trends and key insights in both qualitative and quantitative data.
Research Coordination: Assisting in project coordination, including scheduling, documentation, and tracking progress toward research objectives.
Mental Health Focus: Specifically, for the mental health aspect of the project, the scholar will help identify relevant resources, analyze mental health-related data, and explore strategies to enhance student well-being.
Reporting and Presentation: Contributing to the creation of research reports and presentations, synthesizing findings, and helping communicate results effectively.
Collaboration: Working closely with the research team to foster a collaborative environment and contribute insights.
Ethical Conduct: Ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines in all research activities, including maintaining participant confidentiality and sensitivity.
Time Management: Efficiently managing time to meet project deadlines and milestones.
Adaptability: Being open to learning new research methods and approaches as the project evolves.
The BEACoN Research Scholar's contributions will be vital in advancing our understanding of HSIs, STEM education, and the mental health of Latinx/e students, ultimately contributing to positive changes in higher education institutions.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
Research Methods: Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including survey design and data collection.
Data Analysis: Skills in data coding, thematic analysis, and statistical analysis using relevant software tools.
Literature Review: Ability to critically assess existing research and synthesize information for informed decision-making.
Data Management: Experience in data entry, organization, and documentation, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
Ethical Research Practices: Understanding of ethical considerations, including informed consent and participant confidentiality.
Project Coordination: Project management skills, including scheduling, team coordination, and progress tracking.
Communication Skills: Improved ability to communicate research findings effectively in both written and oral formats.
Mental Health Awareness: Insights into mental health challenges faced by students and familiarity with available resources.
Critical Thinking: Enhanced critical thinking skills for analyzing complex data and drawing meaningful conclusions.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to evolving research needs and methodologies.
These skills will not only benefit the research project but also provide the scholar with valuable capabilities applicable to various academic and professional pursuits.
Required qualifactions:
No specific course but the BEACoN Research Scholar should have a genuine interest in scholarly activities related to mental health and STEM majors within the Hispanic community. This interest and passion for these specific research areas will be valuable for their engagement and success in the project.
Preferred qualifications:
A person with a STEM background is preferred who loves to work and communicate with other people with a Hispanic background.
Kirk Duran
(He/him/his)
kduran02@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering
Research project Title:
Fair Recruitment: Exploring Racial Bias in ATS Systems for Cal Poly Graduates
Research Project Description:
In today's technology-driven recruitment landscape, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) play an indispensable role in filtering and shortlisting candidates for job positions. While these systems promise efficiency and objectivity, there is growing concern about potential biases embedded within their algorithms, especially when it comes to racial disparities. This project, titled "Towards Fair Recruitment: Probing Racial Bias in Applicant Tracking Systems at Cal Poly," aims to thoroughly investigate the presence and extent of racial bias in ATS algorithms by holding a constant educational background, that of Cal Poly graduates.
By focusing on Cal Poly, a renowned institution with a diverse student body, we seek to isolate the variable of race and assess its impact on ATS outcomes. Using a controlled set of fictitious resumes that differ primarily in names typically associated with specific racial or ethnic groups, we plan to submit these to multiple ATS platforms and systematically document their responses. Through this method, we intend to identify any consistent patterns of bias against certain racial or ethnic groups. The findings of this research hold significant potential to influence the refinement of ATS algorithms, making them more equitable. Furthermore, by shedding light on these biases, we aim to promote awareness among employers, encouraging a more holistic and inclusive approach to hiring that goes beyond algorithmic recommendations.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Literature Review:
Collaborate on reviewing relevant studies on ATS biases and algorithmic fairness, identifying pertinent technologies or techniques.
Data Management:
Use Python for automated generation of standardized fictitious resumes.
Manage a structured database, likely using SQL or no SQL, to efficiently handle resumes.
ATS Interaction:
Submit resumes to ATS platforms and employ Python-based web scraping tools to structure extracted feedback.
Data Analysis:
Utilize Python's Pandas for preliminary data analysis, highlighting potential bias patterns.
Visualize results using tools like Matplotlib or Seaborn to clarify insights.
Machine Learning (Stretch Goal):
Explore the potential of basic machine learning models to predict ATS feedback and understand biases. Given the project's constraints, delving deeply into this aspect may be ambitious and could extend beyond the project's timeline.
Documentation:
Document methodologies and tools used, ensuring transparency.
Present findings in paper and/or presentation
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
1. Data Management:
Skill: Handling and organizing datasets.
Application: Using SQL, the scholar will manage structured data, essential for data-driven projects.
2. Programming and Automation:
Skill: Scripting for automation.
Application: Through Python, the scholar will automate tasks like data extraction, a key skill in modern research.
3. Web Scraping and Data Extraction:
Skill: Retrieving data from web sources.
Application: The scholar will extract ATS feedback, gaining proficiency in web data acquisition.
4. Data Analysis:
Skill: Interpreting datasets to identify patterns.
Application: Using Python's Pandas, the scholar will analyze ATS responses, learning to derive insights from data.
5. Visualization:
Skill: Representing data visually.
Application: With tools like Matplotlib, the scholar will convert data insights into clear visual representations.
6. Basic Machine Learning (Stretch Goal):
Skill: Introduction to predictive modeling.
Application: The scholar might explore simple machine learning models, understanding the basics of algorithmic prediction.
7. Documentation:
Skill: Maintaining clear research records.
Application: The scholar will document methods and findings, ensuring research transparency and reproducibility.
Required qualifactions:
CSC 365: Databases, can be concurrent.
Good understanding of python.
Preferred qualifications:
Completed a Statistics Course. CSC 466, 480.
Amanda Emberley
(she/her/hers)
acemberl@calpoly.edu
Mechanical Engineering
Research project Title:
Learning from Failure in Engineering: Investigating how Engineering Students Respond to Failure
Research Project Description:
Learning from failure is an essential component of both learning and practicing engineering. However, failure is often stigmatized and avoided in engineering education. This project aims to better understand how to support students throughout their engineering education to help them learn from their failures, rather than become frustrated or discouraged by them. The project will build on prior research in students’ responses to failure experiences to specifically analyze students who respond to failure in different ways and build on these experiences to help students in similar situations.
The Beacon Scholar will be directly involved in collecting data from students, which will consist of surveys and interviews about students’ experiences. The scholar will also be involved in the organization and analysis of the primarily qualitative data collected from these sources.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The Beacon Scholar will be directly involved in the data collection and analysis. This will first entail working with the faculty mentor to develop survey and interview protocol and getting approval with the Institutional Review Board to conduct the research. Concurrently with this work, the students will read literature on the importance of failure in engineering and engineering education and develop an understanding of how failure is currently addressed in engineering education. Once the data collection protocol is approved, the student will assist with that data collection, including conducting interviews with students (along with the faculty mentor) and organizing data from the surveys and interviews. The student and faculty mentor will work together to analyze the data using thematic analysis of the qualitative data and will write up the results to share with faculty and students.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will gain skills in developing plans for a research project, using search tools to find relevant research literature, reading and understanding research articles, writing summarizes of that research, as well of gaining understandings of survey tools and how they can be used, and how survey and qualitative tools are used. The student will also develop skills in communication, both oral and written, and organization of data sets.
Required qualifactions:
None, all skills needed can be developed during the research experience
Preferred qualifications:
Willingness to develop written and oral communication skills, experience with challenging STEM courses that have included failure
G. Andrew Fricker
(he/him/his)
africker@calpoly.edu
Social Sciences
Jonathan Daniel Ventura
(he/him/his)
jventu09@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering
Research project Title:
Mapping Social Issues in California using Big Data and Geoinformatics
Research Project Description:
California is a large, diverse, dynamic and economically important state with a wide range of social isses. Issues like social justice, poverty, housing, pollution, immigration, changing demographics are all highly structured in space and time. Populations of people live and migrate from place to place based on a complex array of push and pull factors. Understanding the spatial structure and temporal dynamics of change are critical to understanding people and the environmental pressures that face marginalized populations. Recent advances in technology have made the collection of large spatial datasets possible, and our project aims to leverage large datasets to study social issues in California. This research project aims to examine our state's social issues through the lens of Big Data and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or Geoinformatics. The BEACoN research scholar will learn how to analyze spatial spatial data and map social topics. The BEACoN scholar team will have considerable leeway in choosing which aspect of 'social justice' they wish to map depending on their background, specific interests in case studies, marginalized populations, environmental stressors, and social movements. The topic of the research is left intentionally vague, so the BEACoN scholar can choose the social topic they want to research and map. The mentorship team will help guide the scholars towards realistic research questions, explore data, teach spatial tools and provide mentorship. Our research team is a partnership between the Social Sciences Department and the Department of Computer Science and Sofware Engineering, with outside collaborators in Biology and Economics. We have large datasets about urban forests, urban tree cover, and socioeconomic factors in the state of California that BEACoN students can use, if they choose. The following are a few hypothetical examples of research questions a BEACoN scholar could ask:
What were the spatio-temporal dynamics of the urban forest, and what were the underlying demographic trends in these areas?
Which socioeconomic and environmental factors best predict public health outcomes, and exposure to poillution?
How did political pressure and economic opportunity in the last two decades influence migration from Mexico and Central America?
What is the spatial relationship between tree canopy cover, urban heat islands, toxic waste facilities, pollution and marginalized communities in CA?
The questions above are just a starting point for a conversation between the scholars and mentors to explore socials issues, and can be expanded upon depending on the scholars' interests. The scholar team can pick the aspect of any social issue they want to map, and the mentorship team will teach the data analysis/GIS skills and guide the scholar through the scientific process. In person participation is encouraged, but not required.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Within the broad topic of 'social issues in California', the BEACoN scholar will be central to choosing the topic of the research itself. The scholar will be expected to come up with a research proposal on any social issue in CA they want to study, inlcuding the who, what, when and most importantly, where? After the scholars and mentors have settled on a set of research questions, the scholars will be expected to do an extensive 'data dig' to collect, and organize spatial and non-spatial data on the choosen topic. The scholar team will collectively need to basic coursework in Statistics, Computer Science and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Finally, the scholar team will be expected to write up their results into a publishable manuscript and conference presentation to showcase their research.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The scholars will gain data search and management skills, statistical analysis and Geoinformatics. It's also possible the scholar can gain skills in spatial statistics, remote sensing and field work depending on the research topic. The research scholars will be taught to 'think spatially' and to visualize data in maps, graphs, charts and tables. The scholar will also gain skills in literature review, manuscript preparation, research presentations and the peer-review process. We will also offer opportunities to learn Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) technologies depending on the topic of research.
Required qualifications/coursework:
The scholars must have basic data literacy, and familiarity with Python and/or GIS.
At a minimum the research scholar must take a course in statistics and Python programming, and/or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) such as NR218/GEOG 218 or the community college equivalent.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
Additional courses in statistics, data science, remote sensing,
computer science, software engineering, research methods, sociology, ethnic and gender studies are preferred but not required.
Benham Ghalamchi
(He/him/his)
bghalamc@calpoly.edu
Mechanical Engineering
Research project Title:
Empowering Individuals with Special Needs through Human-Directed Semi-Autonomous Robotic Assistance
Research Project Description:
At the heart of our research project lies a mission to empower individuals facing unique challenges such as paralysis, visual impairments, or the effects of aging. We are pioneering the development of Human-Directed Semi-Autonomous Robotic Assistance, a groundbreaking technology that has the potential to transform lives. Imagine a world where specially designed robots can provide vital support and assistance to those in need, offering newfound independence and freedom.
Our project not only seeks to advance the field of robotics but also addresses real-world issues faced by individuals with mobility challenges and visual impairments. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and collaborative efforts, we are working to create a future where these individuals can enjoy greater autonomy and improved quality of life. Through this research, we are bridging the gap between technology and social impact, demonstrating how innovation can be a force for positive change in our society.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will play a vital role in our Human-Directed Semi-Autonomous Robotic Assistance project. As a valued member of our research, they will actively participate in various aspects of the project, contributing to its development and success. Here are the specific responsibilities and expectations for the BEACoN Research Scholar:
Active Participation in Research Activities: The scholar will be actively engaged in research activities related to the project. This includes hands-on work with robotic systems, data collection, and experimentation. They will collaborate with the research to gather and analyze data, assisting in the refinement and optimization of robotic assistance technology.
Mentorship and Collaboration: The BEACoN Research Scholar will work closely with faculty members and industry partners, benefiting from mentorship and hands-on experience. They will actively collaborate with, sharing insights and expertise, and gaining exposure to real-world applications of their research.
Adaptability and Learning: Robotics research is dynamic and often involves adapting to new challenges. The scholar will be expected to demonstrate adaptability and a willingness to learn. They will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills in areas such as robotics, control systems, and assistive technology.
Documentation and Reporting: The scholar will be responsible for documenting their work, maintaining detailed records, and contributing to progress reports. This documentation is essential for the ongoing success and future development of the project.
The BEACoN Research Scholar's contributions will be integral to our research efforts to advance Human-Directed Semi-Autonomous Robotic Assistance technology. Their work will not only enhance their own academic and professional growth but also contribute to the broader goal of improving the lives of individuals with unique challenges.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will have the opportunity to acquire a diverse set of valuable skills through their involvement in our Human-Directed Semi-Autonomous Robotic Assistance project. These skills will not only be beneficial for their academic and research pursuits but also provide a strong foundation for their future career. Here is a detailed overview of the skills they will gain:
Research Methods: The scholar will develop a strong understanding of research methodologies, including experimental design, data collection, and hypothesis testing. They will learn how to plan and execute research studies in the field of robotics and assistive technology.
Data Collection and Management: They will gain proficiency in collecting, organizing, and managing data generated from experiments and robotic systems. This includes data preprocessing, quality control, and ensuring data integrity.
Quantitative Analysis: The scholar will acquire quantitative analysis skills, including statistical analysis using tools such as Python, R, or MATLAB. They will learn how to interpret data, conduct statistical tests, and draw meaningful conclusions from research findings.
Control Systems and Algorithms: As they work on the development of control algorithms for robotic systems, the scholar will gain expertise in control theory and algorithm design. They will understand how to program and optimize algorithms for robot control.
Technical Proficiency: They will become proficient in using various hardware and software tools commonly used in robotics research. This includes familiarity with robotics platforms, sensors, and simulation environments.
Problem-Solving: Robotics research often involves addressing complex challenges. The scholar will develop strong problem-solving skills, learning how to identify issues, propose solutions, and iterate on designs.
Documentation and Reporting: They will learn to document their work effectively, which includes maintaining detailed lab notebooks, writing technical reports, and contributing to research publications.
Presentation and Communication: The scholar will have the opportunity to present their findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. They will gain skills in delivering presentations and communicating research results effectively.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Our research project involves collaboration with faculty members and industry partners. The scholar will learn to collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary teams, bridging the gap between robotics, engineering, and assistive technology.
Ethical Research Practices: They will develop a strong understanding of ethical considerations in research, including the responsible use of data and ethical implications of technology for individuals with unique challenges.
These skills will equip the BEACoN Research Scholar with a solid foundation in robotics research, data analysis, and technical proficiency. They will be well-prepared to pursue further academic endeavors, engage in research projects, and contribute to the development of cutting-edge assistive technologies.
Required qualifactions:
This project is particularly well-suited for students with interest in robotics
and programming. Students from disciplines such as Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Science are particularly encouraged to apply, as their backgrounds align closely with the skills and knowledge required for this research endeavor.
Preferred qualifications:
Preferred qualifications for a BEACoN Research Scholar include
prior experience with Arduino or other robotics programming and relevant coursework in fields such as robotics, control systems, or engineering.
Javier Gonzalez Sanchez
(He/him/his)
javiergs@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering
Research project Title:
Collaborative Robots to Teach Computational Thinking to Spanish-Speaking K12 Students
Research Project Description:
Latinx individuals face significant underrepresentation in STEM fields due to systemic barriers and gaps in their K-12 science education. These challenges often deter them from pursuing STEM majors, including Computer Science, which is often seen as daunting. To address this, educators need resources to employ interactive teaching methods. Robots, specifically collaborative robots (cobots), offer a valuable means to boost student engagement and teach Computational Thinking skills in real-time. However, educators may lack experience in using robots in their teaching, especially in underserved communities. This initiative seeks to providing tools, resources, and support for interactive and engaging learning experiences using robots.
The project focuses on three key objectives: (1) developing a software framework to enable K-12 students to implement collaborative adaptive behaviors in low-cost robots, (2) creating a set of lessons aligned with learning outcomes, and (3) possibly conducting outreach and assessing the effectiveness of this approach through interactions with K-12 students.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Responsibilities as a student include engaging in Robot Programming, contributing to K-12 Curriculum
Development, and participating in workshops for K-12 education
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
This project provides a unique opportunity for skill development. Through Robot Programming, students cultivate technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities as they navigate programming challenges and engineering tasks. Concurrently, contributing to Curriculum Development fosters creativity and critical thinking as students design innovative educational materials. These roles also enhance communication skills, as students must effectively convey complex ideas in a simple and engaging manner. Participation in workshops not only promotes adaptability to changing educational landscapes but also nurtures leadership qualities, teamwork, and empathy as students interact with K-12 learners, imparting knowledge with patience and understanding.
Required qualifactions:
Should be proficient in Java programming and data structures. A third-year or senior computer CS, CPE, or SE student.
Preferred qualifications:
Completed CSC 307 or 308/309 is a plus.
Hans Mayer
(He/him/his)
hmayer@calpoly.edu
Mechanical Engineering
Research project Title:
Microfabricated Soap Film Frames for Fluid Dynamics Experiments
Research Project Description:
The retraction of liquid sheets has been studied for quite some time in the fluid dynamics literature as their retraction and breakup are related to atomization and the formation of sprays (which have an incredible range of important uses – e.g., agricultural watering and chemical dispersion, fuel atomization, fire suppression, etc.). While a PhD student, the BEACoN Mentor for this project investigated the formation and retraction (i.e., evolution) of straight liquid sheet edges – a challenging experimental task that creates conditions which are more readily analyzed theoretically. That project involved creating liquid sheet edges by rapidly heating and boiling the edge of soap films in contact with ‘frames’ made from commercially available metal wire. The free edges of these soap films that are created are incredibly thin (thinner than a human hair) and retract with high speed (on the order of 1-10 m/s typically). Thus, the experiments involve high-speeds and small-scales that make them difficult to investigate. The findings from these experiments, and those of a similar set of published experiments, which attempted to make definitive conclusions regarding the edge instability mechanisms were inconclusive.
As a continuation of this project, the BEACoN Mentor would like to experimentally explore the evolution of liquid sheet edges from from retracting soap films. However, instead of using wire frames as before, the new ideas is to use metallic frames created at small scales using microfabrication techniques. These are techniques that are employed in the semiconductor processing industry. The purpose of using these techniques is that they will allow for the fabrication of small-scale features. The goal is to control the feature patterns on the soap film frames and to investigate how these patterns influence the instabilities that grow on the edges of the retracting sheets. Previously, using commercially available wires, this control was not possible. It is the objective of the BEACoN project to involve students in developing the design of these microfabricated soap film frames, and to learn to successfully manufacture them using the cleanroom on campus.
This BEACoN project is just one part of a longer and more elaborate NSF-funded multi-year and multi-team project that will involve senior project students building other experimental equipment to interface with the microfabricated soap film frames, a SURP project (Summer 2024) to help develop experimental procedures for the combined experimental equipment and apparatus, and a future MS research student who will perform the final experiments using all of the undergraduate-developed components.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholars involved in this project will be an integral part of a much larger team of students who are all working toward the goal of investigating the evolution of liquid sheet edges as described in the project description. This is a multi-team (senior projects, SURP, BEACoN, MS thesis), multi-year (AY 23-24/24-25), project that has external funding through NSF. As part of this team, the Scholar will be involved in both group and individual tasks (working closely with the mentor during weekly meetings and with other students outside of meeting times), and the degree of involvement in these tasks will be consistent with the 100 hr/quarter time commitment. Complexity of tasks will build as the project progresses. Specific tasks will include the following:
> Performing a literature review to (1) understand some of the basic theory behind the fluid dynamics of retracting liquid sheets, (2) to develop an understanding of the limited number of past published experiments (e.g., experiment materials and methods) that have attempted to investigate the phenomenon, (3) to survey the basics of microfabrication processes as they relate to this project, and (4) determine the appropriate length, depth, and style of a peer-reviewed journal that the resulting work will be published in (e.g., Physics of Fluids or Experimental Thermal and Fluid Sciences).
> Design/CAD photolithography masks for creating the soap film ‘frames’ needed for the experiments. This will build off templates that are already available in the cleanroom. But to complete these designs students will need to understand some of the feature size limitations in our cleanroom and, with the aid of the mentor, perform some basic analysis as to the desired feature properties (e.g., length, thickness, etc.).
> Learn to safely perform the following basic unit processes in the cleanroom: general wafer handling and cleaning, photolithography, wet and dry etching, deposition, profilometry. Learning these processes and using the equipment is going to form a main part of this project and take up much of the scholar’s time.
> Perform qualifying experiments on the microfabricated parts, record results manually and electronically (using spreadsheets, data files, images/movie files, etc.).
> Work on preparing contents for a draft manuscript for a peer-reviewed journal – in particular the ‘Materials and Methods’ section that will document the fabrication of the parts used in experiments. The scholars will prepare an outline of the content at the start of Spring, and work through Spring (while finishing processing/experiments) to create a full draft including all figures and tables. The scholars will also be developing an SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) so that future students can manufacture more microfabricated soap film frames.
> REACH GOAL! If there is time, another task of the project is related to outreach. I would like the scholars to develop some content for social media or college-run websites to generate K-12 student interest in microfabrication. This could involve making some short videos to share online, help develop some window-displays for tour groups that pass by the cleanroom, etc. This is directly tied to the 'broader impacts' of my funding proposal.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
The students will be involved in using microfabrication manufacturing techniques to build parts for a fundamental fluid dynamics experiment. To do this, they will gain experience in the microfabrication laboratory (i.e., cleanroom) that we have on campus, becoming familiar with some basic processing including photolithography (for pattern transfer), etching (for removal of materials), deposition (for depositing materials), metrology (measurements to keep track of whether processing was successful or not), and general cleanroom operations (e.g., safe chemical handling and disposal, experiment record keeping, time management, etc.). The students will be involved in the design of the parts as well. This will give them the opportunity to develop CAD (computer aided drafting) skills, in addition to building on their theoretical and experimental physics and engineering knowledge.
Required qualifactions:
The BEACoN Research Scholars selected for this project are required to have taken basic physics and chemistry courses (e.g., early science courses). It is required that they have taken some lab component to these courses OR have had a lab-based manufacturing class (some kind of shop/lab experience is required). Either Fluid Mechanics (ME 341 or equivalent CE course) OR Thermodynamics (ME 302 or physics-based equivalent) is required. It is also essential that the Scholar have an attention for detail and is interested in lab work as they will be in the cleanroom almost weekly (with the exception of the first few weeks of the project).
Preferred qualifications:
It would be preferable for a BEACoN Research Scholar to have some background in working with Excel and MATLAB (or Phython) for the theoretical and experimental analysis part of the project. This could be gained through basic coursework (or in a CS/ME/PHYS class for the MATLAB or Python aspect). It would also be preferable, but not necessary, to have some basic hands-on laboratory and/or machine-shop experience (“red tag” level would be great – otherwise this could be thought of as added to the ‘skills’ that the student would acquire).
Theresa Migler
(she/her/hers)
tmigler@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering
Research project Title:
Fostering Community and Well-being: Understanding Social Networks and Mental Health in Computer Science and Software Engineering Students
Research Project Description:
The influence of social networks on health and happiness is widely recognized. Research shows that individuals in positive social networks can spread happiness and that cancer survivors with strong social connections experience faster recovery. Conversely, negative social networks can have detrimental effects, such as the increased likelihood of obesity when surrounded by obese neighbors.
Given these insights, we are compelled to examine the social network dynamics within the Computer Science and Software Engineering department. To achieve this, we will conduct a comprehensive survey among students in the Computer Science and Software Engineering department. This survey will not only explore the social network structure but also gather information on students' overall well-being and health. By analyzing our findings, we aim to identify strategies for fostering a healthier and more inclusive environment in a field often perceived as hostile.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will play a vital role in reshaping the social network within the Computer Science and Software Engineering Department using the data obtained from the surveys. They will diligently analyze the survey results and collaborate to develop actionable recommendations aimed at fostering a more inclusive culture within the department.
By leveraging their expertise and insights, the BEACoN Research Scholars will actively contribute to the reconstruction of the department's social network. Their involvement will not only facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the current dynamics but also enable the identification of key areas for improvement.
Through their valuable contributions, the BEACoN Research Scholars will assist in formulating effective strategies to transform the culture and ensure a more inclusive environment for all members of the department.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
As the BEACoN Research Scholar, will have the unique opportunity to enhance their skills in working with graphs and networks. This invaluable experience will provide them with a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics of social networks. By delving into this field, they will also gain valuable insights into the correlation between social networks and mental health and well-being.
Required qualifactions:
N/a
Preferred qualifications:
Experience programming in python and successful completion of CSC 349
Sumona Mukhopadhyay
(she/her/ally)
mukhopad@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering
Zoë Wood
(she/her)
zwood@calpoly.edu
Associate Dean for Diversity and Student Success, College of Engineering
Research project Title:
A Personalized Assistant for Improving Student Enrollment Using Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing
Research Project Description:
1.1 Introduction: The task of accurately forecasting student enrollment at Cal Poly and attracting students especially from underrepresented minority background is challenging due to a number of factors such as gender, classroom size, scholarship opportunities, cost of living, GPA, and student demography. Therefore, to facilitate enrollment process and give students a personalized pathway to enrollment procedure, this project aims to design and develop a student-oriented chatbot named “Enrollment Buddy” with an objective to help students make a more informed decision in enrollment. The project will use historical data containing a huge amount of text and numerical information that is collected from student queries regarding enrollment. This data set contains factors, patterns and correlations that influence enrollment decisions made by students, which are currently extremely difficult to extract and interpret. Thus, Artificial Intelligence (AI)/ Machine Learning (ML) techniques can be used to develop an AI assistant tool such as a chatbot that is trained to detect indicators that influence enrollment decisions at Cal Poly. The chatbot will engage students in a conversation using natural language to respond to questions and provide valuable information tailored specifically to an individual student to guide through the enrollment process. The chatbot will serve as a personal assistant to the student helping to navigate and find accurate and fast answers to their questions, which could include queries about financial aid, available courses, grades or gender equity in their discipline of choice. Use of AI/ML technology for marketing the right information to potential students will improve the turnaround time in making a decision. This unique project unites college of engineering faculty and engineering students to explore the use of AI/ML applied to text data to identify factors that will impact student enrollment.
The research outcome will benefit the students in improving enrollment decision-making by providing a personalized guideline to individual students. The AI/ML solution will support the marketing goals by engaging the prospective student based on their profile and interests. The developed AI/ML system will be trained to respond to questions, deliver correct information and give personalized feedback to enhance enrollment. It will then transfer the student/family to the next point of contact (faculty/staff) to help navigate the enrollment journey. We aim to design an AI/ML enabled chatbot that discovers indicators from the text/natural language data based on interactions with a student.
Methodology: The project will use dataset collected from students that incorporates text information to identify factors that affect the likelihood of enrolling. Most of the time, this data contains patterns and correlations among variables that are invisible to the naked eye but easily detectable by computers through machine learning algorithms. The results derived by the machine learning models provide valuable information, which helps institutions plan and improve their enrollment processes. We will use ML methods to statistically analyze and present personalized report/feedback to students to better equip them with the correct information, skills and expertise needed to enroll. The research outcome will benefit the students in improving enrollment decision-making by providing a personalized guideline to individual students. The AI/ML solution will support the marketing goals by engaging the prospective student based on their profile and interests. The developed AI/ML system will be trained to respond to questions, deliver correct information and give personalized feedback to enhance enrollment. It will then transfer the student/family to the next point of contact (faculty/staff) to help navigate the enrollment journey.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
This project imbibes Cal Poly’s “Learn by Doing” paradigm. Each student will work independently on this project while sharing ideas and working collaboratively as a team. Moreover, some components of this project could be used in senior projects, in classroom teachings, as assignments and small-scale group projects. The learnings from this project will provide a better understanding to students regarding complexities of using real-life datasets in courses such as data mining and machine learning. The students will engage in high quality research and will be motivated to think critically about creating solutions that go beyond classroom teaching.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
Student-centric learning impact: The students working on this project will gain substantial knowledge and hands-on experience in the areas of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). The skill to develop an end to end design of a machine learning project with its complexities such as data cleaning, processing, training and inference will be the learning outcome from this project. The results will allow College of Engineering or the students using the product to make an informed decision regarding enrollment. The knowledge gained by the student through the “Learn by Doing” approach would help the student in their career involving data analytics with a societal impact. By working with real-life dataset and state-of-the art ML techniques, students will apply their skills gathered from the hands-on experience in working on this project that will be immensely helpful in their career.
Required qualifactions:
Basics of linear algebra and STAT.
Preferred qualifications:
Introductory data science courses, programming in Python and ML libraries.
Rafael Guerra Silva
(he/him/his)
rguerras@calpoly.edu
Industrial Technology and Packaging
Javier Gonzalez-Sanchez
(he/him/his)
javiergs@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering (CENG)
Research project Title:
Computer Vision for Human-Robot Interaction and Collaboration
Research Project Description:
Although industrial robots are a common feature in many industries, collaborative robots (cobots) are becoming increasingly common for different applications. Cobots are well-suited for tasks that require human-like dexterity, flexibility, and responsiveness, with the high speed, precision, and repeatability of traditional industrial robots.
Nevertheless, safety, trust, and communication in human-robot interactions are critical challenges that must be addressed. While cooperation comes naturally to humans due to our capacity to communicate and understand the intentions of other humans, it is necessary to provide robots with similar capabilities. The use of sensors and AI can provide robots with some capabilities to interact with humans, but new paradigms that enable more intuitive types of communication could be advantageous. Can we leverage current technologies to bridge the human-cobot gap to improve safety, trust and communication in an industrial environment?
This project focuses on exploring computer vision technologies to enhance human-robot interaction, primarily examining human-robot interfaces and cognitive and adaptive response.
Expected outcomes included:
• Developing software components in an object-oriented programming language that will be reused and extended in future stages.
• An exploration of methods for integrating computer vision and data analysis for applications in human-robot interactions.
• Applying machine learning tools and reasoning components to human-robot interaction.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Literature Review (20 hours). Students will perform a literature review to learn the basic theory behind cobots, with an emphasis on interfacing technologies.
Training (20 hours). Students will be trained in using equipment and software for robot programming using open-source tools. Teachers will provide additional training as needed.
Human-Robot Interface (20 hours). In addition to programming tools and interfaces, robots receive information about their surroundings via different types of sensors, which will provide data to make decisions and interact with humans. The student will explore the use of sensors, with special emphasis on cored technologies for computer vision.
Human-Robot Interface (20 hours). Although basic sensors (position, light, distance, motion caption, etc.) can be used to control robot operation, more advanced technologies such as computer vision, gesture and speech recognition could be used to help robots understand human intention. Students will explore the use of these technologies and the integration of sensors and software.
Human-Robot Interface (20 hours). Sensors enable human-to-robot communication; However, effective communication is a two-way path. Hence, it is necessary to explore the role of feedback through actuators and how they can be used to collaborate more effectively with users.
Human-Robot Interface (20 hours). Integration of all input-output devices, including those specifically designed for human-robot interaction will be set up to perform simple tasks. Benchmarks will be determined and used to test the performance of the robotic system.
Testing adaptive behavior (20 hours). The team will use an assessment of priorities for multiple scenarios involving human-robot interaction. The team will explore different technologies and their potential application in the industrial environment.
Case Study, Wrap-Up and Assessment (20 hours). The tool will be assessed with structured guidance to document a case study. At the end of the week, we will have developed a small cobot project using open-source code and human-robot interface technologies.
Final Report (20 hours). The students will write a short paper discussing the state of the art, our findings, and future work.
What skills will the BEACoN research scholar gain:
This project includes as an essential goal advancing undergraduate students' professional development, particularly by exposing them to:
(1) Exploring devices and interfaces used to program (and interact with) robots, including computer vision interfaces: gesture-based and posture-based affect recognition, eye-tracking;
(2) Explaining what it takes to gather, filter, and integrate affective data from a variety of sources and the challenges of Machine Learning applied to robot programming;
(3) Integrating data from a variety of sources and correlated stimuli for human-robot interaction;
(4) Developing adaptive intelligent systems; (5) Producing new ideas based on a systematic review of milestone papers in the field.
Furthermore, the student will be part of a software development project, providing them with the opportunity for learn-by-doing, in addition to developing organizational skills and basic training in scientific communication.
Required Experience/Coursework:
CSC 307 or CSC 308/309
Preferred Experience/Coursework:
Experience programming in Java, Arduino or Rasberry Pi. Hands-on experience with computer vision and/or related technologies.
Dev Sisodia
(he/him/his)
dsisodia@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering
Research project Title:
Empowering Limited English Proficiency K-12 Students in Computing: A Networked Robotics Educational Initiative
Research Project Description:
The lack of diverse voices in the field of computing underscores the need for innovative solutions. To tackle this issue head-on, we propose the creation of a networked robotics education platform, enriched with a multi-language component. The goal of our platform is to democratize computer science education, enabling young learners from varied backgrounds, even those without prior programming or computer science exposure, to engage meaningfully. Our initiative specifically targets local K-12 schools catering to underprivileged students, and we plan to augment these efforts through immersive summer camp sessions designed to impart essential computer science concepts. Together, we hope these initiatives will play an admittedly modest yet meaningful role in shaping a more inclusive and diverse future within the realm of computing.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Tasks:
1) Essential knowledge gathering and literature survey:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will familiarize themselves with essential knowledge for the project, such as basic computer science education concepts, block-based programming environments, and robotics. They will also review papers related to this project.
2) Continue updating Spider World:
We are currently using Spider World, a block-based programming framework, to teach introductory programming concepts. Over the summer, we updated Spider World to include a Spanish-language component. The BEACoN Research Scholar will continue updating this component to make it multilingual by providing support to other languages spoken by limited English proficiency K-12 students in the local area, such as Mixteco.
3) Connecting Spider World programs with networked robots:
Over the summer, Dr. Javier Javier Gonzalez-Sanchez's team began building the robotics environment we plan on using in this project. The BEACoN Research Scholar will connect Spider World to this robotics environment, so that commands can be sent from the Spider World graphical user interface (GUI) to individual robots in the environment to be processed and translated to physical actions.
4) Developing lessons:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will help brainstorm multilingual lessons (Spanish and English) for different classroom settings to effectively teach the basic computer science concepts identified in the knowledge gathering step. This is the final step in completing the educational framework.
5) Outreach and assessment:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will help perform targeted outreach activities to local K-12 schools serving underrepresented students and assess the platform in these schools.
6) Paper writing:
Throughout the life of the project, the BEACoN Research Scholar will document their activities, enabling a smoother paper-writing process. Near the conclusion of the project, the focus will shift towards synthesizing these materials into a cohesive paper suitable for submission to an appropriate venue.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar undertaking this project will acquire a diverse skill set essential for educational research and technology integration.
Firstly, they will develop skills in knowledge gathering and literature survey, honing their ability to navigate essential concepts in computer science education, block-based programming environments, and robotics. Through this, they will gain a deep understanding of the foundational principles crucial for the project's success.
Additionally, the scholar will acquire expertise in software development by updating Spider World, transforming it into a multilingual platform catering to various languages like Spanish and Mixteco. This involves not only programming skills but also an understanding of linguistic nuances, making their expertise multidimensional.
Furthermore, the scholar will master the intricacies of connecting software applications with physical systems, a valuable skill involving the integration of Spider World with networked robots.
The development of engaging, multilingual lessons demands creative pedagogical skills and an understanding of diverse learning needs, enhancing their abilities in educational content creation.
The scholar will also gain expertise in outreach strategies, learning how to engage effectively with local K-12 schools, especially those serving underrepresented students.
Lastly, the scholar's proficiency in documentation and synthesis will be enhanced, crucial for the process of paper writing.
Overall, this multifaceted experience will equip the BEACoN Research Scholar with a holistic skill set, spanning software development, educational content creation, outreach, and research documentation.
Required qualifactions:
Some level of programming proficiency is required. Specifically, concepts taught in CSC 101, 202, and 203, is required.
Preferred qualifications:
Some level of systems programming and networking is preferred. Specifically, some concepts taught in CSC 357 and 364 is preferred.
Some level of Spanish and/or Mixteco proficiency is preferred to help develop the multilingual component of our educational framework.
Liz Thompson
(she/her/hers)
lscheme@calpoly.edu
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering (CENG)
Lynne Slivovsky
(she/her/hers)
lslivovs@calpoly.edu
Computer Engineering (CENG)
John Oliver
(he/him/his)
jyoliver@calpoly.edu
Computer Engineering (CENG)
Andrew Danowtiz
(he/him/his)
adanowit@calpoly.edu
Computer Engineering (CENG)
Bridget Benson
(she/her/hers)
bbenson@calpoly.edu
Engineering Dean’s Office
Jane Lehr
(she/they)
jlehr@calpoly.edu
Director of Research Engagement, Ethnic Studies, Women's, Gender & Queer Studies (CLA)
Research project Title:
Breaking the Binary
Research Project Description:
This revolutionary project will involve both students and faculty in a process of transforming the Computer Engineering (CPE) department at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and potentially engineering education as a whole, through rejecting binaries or dualisms commonly used to create hierarchies in engineering thought and practice. The activities in this project will ask faculty and students to actively engage in dismantling the binaries by identifying and breaking down oppressive norms. Instead, they will embrace a complex coexistence; develop new skills in co-creation of holistic learning experiences and inclusive cultures; and evolve personal and professional identities that are constantly challenged and often in flux. The work is based on a “Critical Collaborative Educational Change” model which maps individual and group change to critical consciousness, values and beliefs, actions, and collective well-being in order to break the binaries in our culture, policies, and curriculum. Activities in the project include workshops and critical dialogs which will inform curriculum and course redesign, critical mentoring with faculty and students, and finding and changing department policies and practices by working with a student advisory board. The research will inform the engineering education community about the need and path to significant transformation.
The three broad goals of the project are to 1) Enhance critical consciousness and expand group capacity through workshops and critical groups dialogs, 2) Interrupt structures that inhibit action by deepening relationships between and among students, staff, and faculty, and 3) Dismantle and reimagine the department by identifying and understanding structures of oppression impacting the individuals in the department. The proposed plan offers an opportunity to research how faculty and students engage in the dismantling of oppressive engineering learning structures. The work will draw attention to the connection between departmental culture and individual and collective well-being. Through the project activities the team will gain insights into how educators translate their new ways of knowing, being, and relating to the design of tangible curricular artifacts (courses, assignments, physical spaces) and visible behaviors (pedagogical style, caring, interpersonal connections), as well as understandings of how students respond to the more visible components of the new program. We will answer the following: (1) As we engage in the activities described in this proposal, how will the CPE department culture reject binaries that commonly create hierarchies in engineering thought and practice, and embrace a learning culture that is holistic and integrated? (2) To what extent does the Critical Collaborative Education Change Model help students, staff, and faculty navigate, respond to, and engage in critical organizational change? (3) What are the impacts of a holistic environment on individual growth and social cohesion? This project includes a strong vision for change, qualified team, connection to research, and a faculty development plan.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will join an active engineering education research group with professors Lynne Slivovsky (CPE), Liz Thompson (IME), Jane Lehr (ES/WGQS), Andrew Danowitz (CPE), John Oliver (CPE), Associate Dean Bridget Benson, and Cal Poly undergraduate/alumni researchers. They will gain experience in research methods and design, interview protocols, qualitative analysis, communication skills, and research paper writing. They will:
* Learn about our research methodology and the IRB process
* Participate in a literature review
* Conduct student interviews and/or focus groups
* Develop qualitative data analysis skills
* Contribute to research team meetings and meeting facilitation
* Co-author conference papers and journal articles
What skills will the BEACoN Research scholar gain:
This project will be an exceptional opportunity for a small group of BEACoN Research Scholars to gain expertise in engineering education research. Anticipated skills our mentees will gain are related to: research methods and design, interviewing and conducting interviews and focus groups, qualitative and quantitative analysis, data presentation and data management, and written and oral communication. They will have the opportunity to develop skills and capacities related to leadership, self-efficacy, knowledge of personal strengths and assets, and confidence in their future career plans. Wwe hope to be able to support them to attend and present their work at an engineering education conference.
Required courses/experience:
Students with experience (through coursework or other training/experience)
in either statistics/quantitative data analysis OR qualitative data analysis
Preferred courses/experience:
* Students with interest in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
* Interest and prior experience with perspectives and frameworks utilized in areas including Science and Technology Studies, Ethnic Studies, Women’s, Gender and Queer studies, or related areas. Interest and prior experience may be demonstrated by course work, club or other co-curricular participation and/or knowledge gained via lived experiences.
* Passionate about and committed to the co-creation of more just, diverse, and inclusive STEM learning environments and cultures.
* Students with interest in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
* Interest and prior experience with perspectives and frameworks utilized in areas including Science and Technology Studies, Ethnic Studies, Women’s, Gender and Queer studies, or related areas. Interest and prior experience may be demonstrated by course work, club or other co-curricular participation and/or knowledge gained via lived experiences.
* Passionate about and committed to the co-creation of more just, diverse, and inclusive STEM learning environments and cultures.
Jenny Wang
(she/her/hers)
jwang96@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering
Xuan Wang
(he/him/his)
xwang12@calpoly.edu
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
Research project Title:
Generative AI-Enabled and DEI-Integrated application for Multi-Material 3D Printing of Human Body Parts
Research Project Description:
Within the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, a narrative of unmet needs persists, predominantly featuring underserved populations. These communities, often burdened with limited resources and opportunities, grapple with a stark reality—access to essential healthcare solutions remains a formidable challenge. Among these underserved populations, particularly low-income and minority groups, the obstacles loom even larger. The need for affordable and accessible healthcare solutions, especially in cases of amputation, becomes increasingly critical. Alarming statistics reveal that African Americans and Latinxs face amputation rates four and 1.5 times higher than their white counterparts, respectively.
In this poignant backdrop, our journey takes flight—a mission rooted in the resolve to mend these disparities. We envision a world where the marginalized, the underserved, and the disadvantaged can readily access affordable, personalized life-transforming body parts. Guided by the remarkable potential of Additive Manufacturing or 3D Printing technology and harnessing the creative prowess of Generative AI, we set out to rewrite this narrative. We're weaving the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) into the very essence of our project, crafting a user-friendly graphic user interface (GUI) that transcends linguistic barriers and welcomes individuals of all abilities. This transformational journey isn't just about technology; it's a pledge to break down barriers, ensuring that healthcare is profoundly personalized, breathtakingly affordable, and unequivocally equitable for all, especially those underserved populations in healthcare.
With your partnership, we embark on a narrative of change, empowerment, and transformation—a narrative where diversity is celebrated, equity is unwavering, and inclusion is the cornerstone of every innovation. Join us in crafting a future where healthcare is a beacon of hope, a testament to the boundless potential of humanity. Together, we'll harness Generative AI, 3D Slicer—an open-source software package—and the dexterity of robotic arms to revolutionize healthcare and make it accessible to all.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholars, selected from diverse academic backgrounds in Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering (IME), Mechanical Engineering (ME), Biomedical Engineering (BMED), Electrical Engineering (EE), Computer Science (CS), and Software Engineering (SE), will assume pivotal roles in our project. Their responsibilities span across various phases of our research initiative. Here's a detailed overview of their roles and expectations:
1. Literature Review and Research Gap Identification:
- Conduct an in-depth literature review encompassing key subjects, such as the integration of DEI and accessibility principles in healthcare application design, challenges related to healthcare disparities, the role of Generative AI, and the impact of 3D Printing technology in healthcare.
- Identify research gaps within these domains, with a specific focus on areas where previous studies may have left unanswered questions or unexplored opportunities for innovation, especially concerning DEI and accessibility considerations.
2. Problem Formulation and Methodology Development:
- Collaborate closely with project mentors to formulate well-defined problem statements, addressing critical aspects like (1) DEI and accessibility in healthcare application UI/UX design, (2) Harnessing the potential of 3D Slicer (an open-source software for image transformation and analysis), (3) Integration and application of robotic arms in the 3D printing process, (4) Establishing an efficient supply chain network for 3D-printed materials suitable for mimicking human body parts, and (5) Building a knowledge base and integrating OpenAI APIs.
3. Solution Implementation and Experimentation:
- Engage in the hands-on implementation of proposed solutions, which may involve the design and optimization of supply chain networks.
- Contribute to the planning, execution, and analysis of experiments aimed at validating and refining the proposed solutions.
- Collect and analyze data, interpreting results to make informed decisions.
4. Research Dissemination:
- Collaborate on the dissemination of research outcomes by creating peer-reviewed conference or journal papers.
- Develop effective communication and presentation skills to convey findings to both academic and broader audiences.
5. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
- Foster collaborative efforts with scholars from diverse academic backgrounds, leveraging their unique perspectives and skill sets to enrich the project.
- Actively participate in cross-disciplinary discussions and brainstorming sessions, fostering creativity and innovative problem-solving.
6. Project Team Participation:
- Assume integral roles within the project team, actively contributing to discussions, meetings, and project milestones.
- Embrace a proactive approach to address any challenges and seize opportunities that arise during the project's course.
7. Skill Development:
- Acquire practical research experience in a real-world setting, enhancing technical and analytical proficiencies.
- Develop a deeper understanding of the intersection between technology and healthcare, with a particular focus on mitigating healthcare disparities.
8. Commitment to DEI and Accessibility Principles:
- Embrace and embed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles into the project, especially when designing user-friendly interfaces to ensure accessibility for individuals from all backgrounds.
By embracing these roles and responsibilities, the BEACoN Research Scholars will not only gain invaluable research experience but also play a pivotal role in advancing the project's mission to improve healthcare accessibility for underserved populations through innovative technology solutions.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholars participating in our project will gain a wide range of skills that are both specific to our research focus and broadly applicable to various research and professional contexts. These skills will empower them to make meaningful contributions to the project and prepare them for future academic and industry endeavors. Here's a detailed elaboration of the skills they will acquire:
1. Literature Review and Research Methodology:
- The scholars will learn how to conduct thorough literature reviews, identifying and evaluating relevant sources in the domains of Generative AI, 3D Printing technology, healthcare disparities, and accessibility principles.
- They will understand the principles of research methodology, including problem formulation, hypothesis development, and research design.
2. Data Collection and Management:
- Scholars will acquire practical skills in data collection, selecting appropriate data sources, and developing data collection protocols.
- They will learn how to manage and preprocess data, ensuring data quality, organization, and storage.
3. Quantitative and Qualitative Data Analysis:
- Depending on the nature of the research, scholars will gain proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques.
- They will learn statistical methods for quantitative analysis, including hypothesis testing and regression analysis.
- Qualitative analysis skills may include thematic coding, content analysis, and narrative analysis, depending on the project requirements.
4. Experimental Design and Implementation:
- Scholars will engage in experimental design, learning how to plan and conduct experiments in a controlled manner.
- They will understand the principles of experimental variables, control groups, and data collection in experimental settings.
5. Data Visualization:
- Scholars will develop expertise in data visualization, using tools like Python libraries (e.g., Matplotlib, Seaborn) or data visualization platforms like Tableau.
- They will learn how to create clear and effective data visualizations to convey research findings.
6. Technical Proficiency:
- Depending on the project's technical aspects, scholars will gain proficiency in relevant software tools and technologies. This may include Generative AI frameworks, 3D Slicer for image analysis and transformation, and programming robotic arms.
- They will learn how to operate and troubleshoot technical equipment and software.
7. Research Dissemination:
- Scholars will develop skills in communicating research findings. They will learn how to write research papers, reports, and presentations.
- They will practice presenting their work to academic and non-technical audiences, honing their presentation and communication skills.
8. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
- An important aspect of the project is interdisciplinary collaboration. Scholars will gain experience working effectively within diverse teams, learning to leverage different perspectives and skill sets.
9. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Principles:
- Our project emphasizes the integration of DEI principles into research and technology development. Scholars will develop a deep understanding of inclusive design, considering the diverse needs of users from various backgrounds, abilities, and languages.
10. Accessibility Principles:
- Scholars will learn about accessibility principles and how to design technology solutions that are usable by individuals with disabilities.
Required qualifactions:
The BEACoN Research Scholars in our project will benefit from a diverse range of experiences and coursework that will prepare them for the unique challenges and opportunities presented by our research focus. While we do not require specific prior experiences or courses, we highly value the following qualities and backgrounds in our prospective scholars:
1. Interdisciplinary Interest: We welcome scholars from a variety of academic backgrounds, including but not limited to Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering (IME), Mechanical Engineering (ME), Biomedical Engineering (BMED), Electrical Engineering (EE), Computer Science (CS), and Software Engineering (SE). An interdisciplinary mindset and an eagerness to collaborate across fields are highly valued.
2. Passion for Healthcare and Technology: Scholars who are passionate about the intersection of healthcare and technology, with a particular interest in addressing healthcare disparities and promoting inclusivity, will find our project particularly engaging.
3. Research Enthusiasm: An eagerness to engage in research, whether through prior coursework, internships, or personal projects, is beneficial. Scholars should have a strong desire to explore cutting-edge technology solutions and contribute to innovative research.
4. Data and Analytics Skills: While not mandatory, some background or coursework in data analysis, statistics, or data management can be advantageous. These skills will be valuable in conducting research and analyzing data effectively.
5. Diversity and Inclusion Awareness: Given the focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles in our project, an awareness and appreciation for the importance of inclusivity in technology design are highly desired.
6. Technical Proficiency (Preferred): While technical proficiency is not a strict requirement, scholars with prior experience or coursework in areas such as Python programming, Artificial Intelligence, 3D Printing technology, robotics, or software development may have a head start in certain aspects of the project.
7. Adaptability and Curiosity: We value scholars who are adaptable and curious, willing to explore new domains and technologies, and open to learning and growth throughout the research process.
Preferred qualifications:
Designing and Developing User-Centered Interfaces, Data Analytics, Python Programming, Software Design, Full-Stack Development, Robotics, Data Management and System Design.
Alan Zhang
(he/him/his)
zhangas@calpoly.edu
Mechanical Engineering
Research project Title:
Design of Upper Limb Tensegrity Exoskeletons
Research Project Description:
Robotic exoskeletons can provide an optimal rehabilitation experience for stroke patients. They can be used without a therapist present to enable frequent treatments and reduced costs, and also gather data for accurate feedback of the patient’s progress. However, traditional exoskeletons are expensive, rigid, and bulky. Local forces are amplified across joints loaded in series, leading to overengineered systems with heavy actuators. Cable-driven exoskeletons reduce the weight of the system by fixing all actuators at a rigid base, but at the cost of a more complex mechanical structure.
Tensegrity structures are composed of stiff rods and elastic cables suspended in a flexible tension network. They are lightweight, compliant and have the unique ability to dissipate local forces across the global system. In particular, the biotensegrity model proposes that all biological systems exhibit tensegrity-like characteristics across multiple scales. Compared to traditional biomechanical models, it is a more accurate representation of how motion emerges from natural forms. Their inherent properties have several key advantages when used in rehabilitation exoskeletons: 1) the light weight and natural compliance reduce the power consumption required to operate the system; 2) the system stiffness and pretension can be individually tuned to accommodate the user’s needs; 3) the flexible impact-resistant properties can protect users in the event of collisions and falls; and 4) the system can be built with off-the-shelf components to reduce costs and provide accessible devices for low-income communities.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will first augment the existing design framework for social justice by researching the local context and structural inequalities surrounding access to assistive medical devices. Potential tasks include characterizing user needs, risk and cost analyses, and healthcare access in low-income communities. Once the design metrics are established, the BEACoN Research Scholar will build suitable tensegrity configurations through rapid prototyping and then characterize their performance in experiment. The work will contribute to a new data-driven framework for the long-term goals of the work: advancing the capability of automated tensegrity system design and contributing low-cost, custom tensegrity devices to the next generation of assistive medical devices.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
The student will gain skills in human-centered design methods, CAD and rapid prototyping, sensor and microcontroller programming, design of experiments, data analysis, and technical communication.
Required qualifactions:
N/a
Preferred qualifications:
Mechanical design (ME 328-329), data analysis, rapid prototyping and machine shop, microcontroller programming.
College of Liberal Arts
Farah Al-Nakib
(she/her)
falnakib@calpoly.edu
History
Research project Title:
Analyzing U.S. Newspaper Coverage of Post-Liberation Kuwait (1990-91)
Research Project Description:
The United States’ role in the first “Gulf War” of 1990-91 is most widely recognized in relation to the U.S.-led allied military campaign to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation (also known as Operation Desert Storm). However, American interventions and interests in Kuwait both during and after the liberation from Iraqi forces in February 1991 went beyond just the immediate military objectives of ousting Saddam Hussein’s army from Kuwaiti territory. The U.S. also played an important diplomatic role in shoring up the domestic and international legitimacy of the Kuwaiti leadership, both by publicly supporting Kuwaiti popular demands for the restoration of the national parliament and constitution after the liberation (both of which had been suspended in 1986 by Kuwait's rulers, well before the Iraqi invasion in August 1990), and by quelling human rights abuses committed by Kuwaiti vigilantes against Palestinians and other vulnerable civilian groups in the lawless aftermath of the liberation. Both efforts were essential to preserving the U.S. administration’s justification to the American (and global) public on the need for military intervention in Kuwait on the moral basis of liberating a would-be Middle Eastern democracy from an invading authoritarian regime. The U.S. also had a vested economic interest in Kuwait’s reconstruction efforts, beginning with the enormous undertaking of extinguishing Kuwait’s 735 oil well fires and trickling down to various construction and import contracts made available to small U.S. businesses.
Due to these myriad concerns, there was a large U.S. media presence that remained in Kuwait in the months after the war ended to report on Kuwait’s economic, social, and political recovery. Newspapers like the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and Washington Post had some of their most prestigious correspondents deployed to Kuwait in 1991, who wrote prolifically and in much detail on how Kuwait was progressing (or not) after the war. They reported on human rights issues, domestic political conflicts between Kuwait’s government and opposition groups, Kuwaiti government shortcomings in both the restoration of democracy and the pace of reconstruction planning, the activities of and opportunities for U.S. companies in rebuilding Kuwait, and numerous other issues. The nature and extent of U.S. non-military interventions and interests in Kuwait’s immediate post-war period have never been fully examined in the existing scholarship on Kuwait’s history, nor have the ways in which American newspapers shaped public discourse about Kuwait—which had dominated the nascent 24-hour news cycles throughout the months of Iraqi occupation from August 2, 1990 until February 26, 1991—in the aftermath of liberation.
This project focuses on just that: examining what American newspapers were writing about Kuwait during the occupation but particularly after it’s liberation from Iraqi forces in late February 1991, after which foreign journalists were permitted to enter the country. We will explore the topics they chose to focus on, how they reported the news, the viewpoints they amplified or promoted (from both American and Kuwaiti perspectives), and the impact all this coverage had both domestically (in Kuwait) and internationally. This project is one portion of a larger project that also includes the examination (by a research assistant in Kuwait) of Kuwaiti newspapers that were published in exile during the occupation and inside the country immediately after the liberation, as well as the Iraqi propaganda newspaper that was circulated in Kuwait during the occupation. Examining and comparing the discourse and news coverage of the Iraqi invasion and occupation of Kuwait and its aftermath from these three very different vantage points creates opportunities to research and reexamine various aspects of the history of the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in new light.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Under my mentorship, the BEACoN Research Scholar will locate, organize, and analyze American newspaper articles on Kuwait’s post-invasion recovery and reconstruction from 1990 and 1991, from as many major U.S. newspapers as possible (that are available in accessible online databases). The student will help organize the articles into thematic categories, and summarize their main content. Together, we will analyze the main themes that emerge in these articles, and study the rhetoric and discourse circulating in the U.S. media on the question of Kuwait’s post-liberation recovery and the role of the United States in that process. The student will also have an opportunity to meet virtually with my research assistant who is doing a similar analysis of Arabic language newspapers in Kuwait, to share findings and insights.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
In the process of learning about the history of the Iraqi occupation of Kuwait and U.S. interventions in the Gulf War, the student will gain practical skills in qualitative research methods, including primary-source research, data analysis, and close textual analysis. The student will also gain important professional skills, such as managing projects, organizing data, making deadlines, and collaborating on research. If they speak Arabic, the student will also have the opportunity to practice their language skills with me and our research collaborator in Kuwait.
Required qualifications/coursework:
Some background knowledge on Middle Eastern history and/or American foreign policy history. Experience in conducting research with online databases (e.g. ProQuest).
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
Some technical skills with organizing data (e.g. with Excel).
Alexia Arani
(she/they)
aarani@calpoly.edu
Women's Gender and Queer Studies
Research project Title:
Writing Across Walls: LGBTQ Pen Pal Programs as Abolitionist Praxis
Research Project Description:
This project utilizes the methods and aims of scholar-activism to support LGBTQ people incarcerated in “men’s” and “women’s” carceral facilities in San Luis Obispo. The BEACoN Research Scholar will work alongside their faculty mentor to map prisoner support resources and programs, build relationships with community partners, and ultimately launch a letter writing program that will pair LGBTQ prisoners with local LGBTQ and/or allied pen pals. Pen pal relationships are shown to foster resilience, a sense of self-worth, and social, emotional, and material support for prisoners. This is especially important for LGBTQ people who are often placed at the bottom of the prison's social hierarchy. For pen pals “on the outside,” they are offered meaningful relationships and insight into the reality of incarceration, from the perspective of prisoners with ongoing lived experience. Launching a pen pal program in San Luis Obispo will thus foster political education and community building--essential starting points for prisoner support, advocacy, and broader movements for transformative justice and prison abolition.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will gain experience launching a social justice intervention, from the ground up. They will work with Dr. Arani to map the landscape of LGBTQ prisoner support in San Luis Obispo. They will engage in community outreach to document existing programs, practices, and resources offered to LGBTQ prisoners by state, non-profit, and grassroots entities. They will form meaningful, working relationships with prisoner advocacy organizations in California and the US in their work to gather information on methods and best practices for launching a letter writing program. They will also gain experience working with staff in carceral facilities as we work to sign up LGBTQ prisoners for the pen pal program.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will develop skills that are essential for scholar-activism, advocacy, and community organizing. They will learn how to hone their research skills, assessment methods, and understandings of intersectionality from a queer/trans perspective. This project will serve as a source of professionalization for the Research Scholar, who will regularly communicate and collaborate with state, non-profit, and grassroots entities regarding the development of the pen pal program. The work required of the BEACoN Research Scholar will also sharpen their writing and communication skills and ability to speak to different audiences.
Required qualifications/coursework:
The BEACoN Research Scholar for this project
must have a strong understanding of intersectionality and commitment to queer and trans liberation. They must also display understanding of prison abolition as an analytical framework and organizing praxis. They must have completed at least one course in women’s gender, and queer studies, ethnic studies, or sociology that examines intersectional oppression and/or incarceration and abolition.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
It is preferred that applicants have completed WGQS 302: Prison Abolition. It is also preferred that students have a demonstrated understanding of or relationship with queer and trans communities and incarcerated people.
Dan Castilow
(he/him/his)
dcastilo@calpoly.edu
Ethnic Studies
Research project Title:
Post-Partum Depression in Black Men
Research Project Description:
The postpartum experiences of non-birthing, male-identifying partners have only recently been the subject of academic inquiry and public
health studies. To date, there is little research on the mental health outcomes of Black male parents or the children of male parents experiencing postpartum depression. This research project seeks to expand our understanding of the broader circumstances of postpartum depression in Black men. Specifically, this project seeks to highlight the factors that may contribute to the mental health outcomes of undiagnosed male parents and the effects on their children. Moreover, given the prevalence of medical racism in certain aspects of U.S. healthcare, this project seeks to illuminate the ways that antiblackness may play a role in the disparities in mental health outcomes for Black men.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN scholar will be responsible for the development of an extended literature review of recent scholarship in the field of postpartum depression. With the assistance of the PI, the scholar will also be responsible for the development of refined research questions. Additionally, the scholar will recruit a representative sample of research participants, interview many of the participants, transcribe the interviews, and code the data with the principal investigator. Additionally, the scholar will create surveys and compile the data gathered from the surveys.
Since the goal of this project is a multi-authored publication, the scholar is expected to participate in the writing of the journal article resulting from this study.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The BEACoN Scholar will learn commonly used social science methodologies and research design. These skills included the development of research questions and in-depth guidance on how to submit an IRB application. The scholar will learn more about the ethical data collection standards and the maintenance of research participant confidentiality. Also, the scholar will learn interviewing techniques and interpretation.
Required qualifications/coursework:
N/a
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
It is preferred that the BEACoN scholar have basic interviewing skills and some knowledge of foundational concepts in African American Studies and Gender Studies.
Nikhil Deb
(he/him/his)
ndeb@calpoly.edu
Social Sciences
Research project Title:
A Climate of Disasters
Research Project Description:
Climate change has significantly amplified the frequency of extreme
“natural” disasters worldwide. Paradoxically, these disasters have been leveraged to fuel economic growth and private interests, leading to the commodification of nature and adversely affecting local communities. This project delves into the transformation of Bangladesh's southwestern coastal region into a focal point of what can be termed "a climate of disasters," highlighting the link between climate-induced disasters and land/resource exploitation within the region's agrarian communities. Positioned at the forefront of climate change impacts (Dewan 2023; Paprocki 2021), this coastal area in Bangladesh has become a hotspot for export-oriented commercial activities amidst recurrent and devastating cyclones. The term "climate of disasters" underscores how institutional climate actions exacerbates the destruction of local livelihoods in marginalized societies. This research aims to contribute to the literature by examining how the prioritization of "technical fixes" and economic growth in the global South erodes traditional local climate adaptation methods and exacerbates inequality in the region.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Scholar's main responsibilities include: (1) gathering pertinent peer-reviewed research papers on climate-induced disasters and market-oriented climate initiatives; (2) crafting a comprehensive literature review; (3) brainstorming and identifying similarities in other nations of the global South; and (4) collaborating on a paper for a conference presentation.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
Upon completion of this project, the student scholar will develop a diverse skill set. Firstly, they will master the approach and methodology necessary to create a compelling literature review, addressing the pivotal "so what" question in research. Secondly, through in-depth exploration of pertinent materials, the student scholar will comprehend the consequences of numerous well-intentioned institutional climate actions, enabling them to formulate a well-informed climate justice analysis. Thirdly, the student will employ creativity to discern the myriad long-term and short-term adverse effects of top-down adaptation activities, which exacerbate poverty and hunger in marginalized communities. Fourthly, the student scholar will gain insights into alternative approaches, steering away from the conventional business-as-usual methods, thereby paving the way for the formulation of a global climate justice agenda. Lastly, the student will develop the writing and research skills necessary to become an informed citizen in an age dominated by misinformation and disinformation.
Required qualifications/coursework:
The mentor will provide training to students, equipping them with the necessary skills to undertake this research. An interest in critical climate change research and some basic statistical skills may be necessary prerequisites.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
Interest in writing and reading, a passion for climate change research, and a keen interest in global issues, especially those concerning the Global South, are preferred attributes for this project.
Anuraj Dhillon
(she/her)
adhill06@calpoly.edu
Psychology and Child Development (CLA)
Megan Lambertz-Berndt
(she/her)
ambertz@calpoly.edu
Communication Studies
Research project Title:
Navigating Microaggressions: Unearthing Belonging and Muted Experiences Among Marginalized Campus Community
Research Project Description:
During the pandemic, working parents not only dealt with the challenges posed by the merging of the home and office but individuals with marginalized identities were disproportionately impacted both at home and office and probably experienced being muted at the workplace (Dhillon & Lambertz-Berndt, 2023; Lambertz-Berndt & Dhillon, 2023). Dhillon and Lambertz-Berndt (2023) explored the relational maintenance strategies for couples and their findings revealed that women’s experiences drastically differed from men for messages of assurance based on the growing number of job loss for women in the workforce. Furthermore, working mothers in higher academia revealed that by creating resources intended to support them, institutions further created additional barriers (Lambertz-Berndt & Dhillon, 2023). Pausing one's tenure clock ignored the social and personal repercussions such as a lack of earned compensation, a lack of women in leadership roles, a lack of support to keep and sustain grants, and a lack of understanding of how the “second shift” has not gone away; rather, has only been amplified. Given that many academic mothers indicated their displeasure with the institutional resources, it is highly likely that academic mothers were not consulted while developing these “helpful” resources to support academicians during the pandemic.
Based on the research above and national trends, working mothers in higher education are in “survival mode,” making it impossible to focus on themselves and instead all energy and time is placed on their families and work. While the above research helped to illuminate the challenges of working mothers in higher academia, most participants identified as white, cisgender, straight women. The proposed research project will focus specifically on marginalized individuals and mothers in higher academia such as women of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Based on our personal experiences, we seek to underscore the additional barriers experienced by this population such as additional service work, negotiating identities, starting families, or building social networks, etc. Furthermore, considering that the pandemic has led to an increase in xenophobic and anti-oppressive commentary across the nation, this project will explore how faculty of color have been dealing with microaggressions both on and off campus within the community. This project will not only synthesize the experiences of marginalized communities as they transition to the CalPoly campus and SLO community but will also seek to identify ways in which CalPoly (as an organization) can address the challenges faced by this population. More specifically, how can CalPoly ensure the integration of marginalized individuals at a historically PWI campus, and what can CalPoly do to promote the voices of marginalized individuals and working mothers when making policies?
For this project, we will employ a mixed-methods approach where we will conduct a survey and interviews to collect data from the population of interest. The project will involve data collection, data analyses through statistical methods and thematic analyses, and reporting results via a research report.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
BEACoN research scholars will be extremely valuable and instrumental to the completion of this project. They will be involved with the project from the planning phase to the reporting phase. Research scholars will gain invaluable experience in cutting-edge research methodologies, including both quantitative and qualitative data and analyses. Students will help the researchers with literature search, study design and IRB protocol, questionnaire, recruitment, data collection, and data analyses. Throughout this process, students will closely work with the researchers as they collect and summarize the data using statistical softwares such as SPSS and excel. Next, students will also be engaged in transcribing interview data and generating themes. Finally, students will help with the reporting of the results through data visualization, creating word clouds, etc.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
Research scholars will gain proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative research methods. They will learn survey design and interviewing techniques for data collection, utilize Qualtrics for questionnaire creation, and perform statistical analyses using SPSS. Furthermore, scholars will develop skills in synthesizing existing research to shape hypotheses and research questions. They'll also master the art of transcribing interviews, identifying themes, and conducting thematic analyses. Ultimately, they will extract valuable insights from the data to craft compelling arguments for change. This comprehensive mentoring will equip research scholars with the knowledge and tools to make a real-world impact
Required qualifications/coursework:
Students must be enthusiastic about social scientific research preferably in the field of communication and advocacy. Although students do not need to have any prior experience, coursework in empirical research methods from a CLA department is preferred. Finally, working with students who are motivated, organized, and responsible makes the research process much more enjoyable and efficient.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
We would prefer if the student is junior standing or above and has taken a few upper level electives in their respective majors, which involved researching scholarly sources or peer reviewed research articles. It would also be great if the scholar has taken a research methods course (either quantitative/ qualitative/ humanities) or statistics based course.
G. Andrew Fricker
(he/him/his)
africker@calpoly.edu
Social Sciences
Jonathan Daniel Ventura
(he/him/his)
jventu09@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering
Research project Title:
Mapping Social Issues in California using Big Data and Geoinformatics
Research Project Description:
California is a large, diverse, dynamic and economically important state with a wide range of social isses. Issues like social justice, poverty, housing, pollution, immigration, changing demographics are all highly structured in space and time. Populations of people live and migrate from place to place based on a complex array of push and pull factors. Understanding the spatial structure and temporal dynamics of change are critical to understanding people and the environmental pressures that face marginalized populations. Recent advances in technology have made the collection of large spatial datasets possible, and our project aims to leverage large datasets to study social issues in California. This research project aims to examine our state's social issues through the lens of Big Data and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or Geoinformatics. The BEACoN research scholar will learn how to analyze spatial spatial data and map social topics. The BEACoN scholar team will have considerable leeway in choosing which aspect of 'social justice' they wish to map depending on their background, specific interests in case studies, marginalized populations, environmental stressors, and social movements. The topic of the research is left intentionally vague, so the BEACoN scholar can choose the social topic they want to research and map. The mentorship team will help guide the scholars towards realistic research questions, explore data, teach spatial tools and provide mentorship. Our research team is a partnership between the Social Sciences Department and the Department of Computer Science and Sofware Engineering, with outside collaborators in Biology and Economics. We have large datasets about urban forests, urban tree cover, and socioeconomic factors in the state of California that BEACoN students can use, if they choose. The following are a few hypothetical examples of research questions a BEACoN scholar could ask:
What were the spatio-temporal dynamics of the urban forest, and what were the underlying demographic trends in these areas?
Which socioeconomic and environmental factors best predict public health outcomes, and exposure to poillution?
How did political pressure and economic opportunity in the last two decades influence migration from Mexico and Central America?
What is the spatial relationship between tree canopy cover, urban heat islands, toxic waste facilities, pollution and marginalized communities in CA?
The questions above are just a starting point for a conversation between the scholars and mentors to explore socials issues, and can be expanded upon depending on the scholars' interests. The scholar team can pick the aspect of any social issue they want to map, and the mentorship team will teach the data analysis/GIS skills and guide the scholar through the scientific process. In person participation is encouraged, but not required.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Within the broad topic of 'social issues in California', the BEACoN scholar will be central to choosing the topic of the research itself. The scholar will be expected to come up with a research proposal on any social issue in CA they want to study, inlcuding the who, what, when and most importantly, where? After the scholars and mentors have settled on a set of research questions, the scholars will be expected to do an extensive 'data dig' to collect, and organize spatial and non-spatial data on the choosen topic. The scholar team will collectively need to basic coursework in Statistics, Computer Science and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Finally, the scholar team will be expected to write up their results into a publishable manuscript and conference presentation to showcase their research.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The scholars will gain data search and management skills, statistical analysis and Geoinformatics. It's also possible the scholar can gain skills in spatial statistics, remote sensing and field work depending on the research topic. The research scholars will be taught to 'think spatially' and to visualize data in maps, graphs, charts and tables. The scholar will also gain skills in literature review, manuscript preparation, research presentations and the peer-review process. We will also offer opportunities to learn Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) technologies depending on the topic of research.
Required qualifications/coursework:
The scholars must have basic data literacy, and familiarity with Python and/or GIS.
At a minimum the research scholar must take a course in statistics and Python programming, and/or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) such as NR218/GEOG 218 or the community college equivalent.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
Additional courses in statistics, data science, remote sensing,
computer science, software engineering, research methods, sociology, ethnic and gender studies are preferred but not required.
Brenda Helmbrecht
(she/her)
bhelmbre@calpoly.edu
English
Research project Title:
Searching for Ghosts in California's Missions
Research Project Description:
When I first started teaching at Cal Poly in 2004, I had never heard of a California mission. My interest in our SLO local mission—and, by extension, the twenty other missions along the coast—was inspired by how communities gather around them without necessarily considering the damage these sites have done. Though mission history is built into the state’s fabric, many missions (and their visitors) ignore the political, racial, and religious conflicts inherent in the mission system. While historians have written detailed accounts of the the mission system's history, my research centers on what the actual, physical mission sites teach visitors -- including the many fourth graders who tour the sites -- about the relationship between Indigenous communities and the mission system. In other words, we have official, evidenced based histories, and then we have the histories the missions tell us. And they are not the same.
For this BEACoN project, I want to look specifically at the role that ghost stories play in shaping how we think about mission sites today. In 2009, for instance, the Travel Channel aired an episode of Ghost Adventures that focused on ghost sightings at La Purisima. Even today, visitors still ask to hear ghost stories at La Purisima -- and some employees are eager to share their own ghostly encounters. Mission tourists can even buy the book, "Ghosts of the California Missions," at most mission gift shops.
The research will also delve into the role of ghost stories in southern plantation tours (many scholars argue that California's missions are akin to plantations). This focus on "dark tourism" will ideally lead us to taking tours, including the "Ghost and True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo," which has a focus on the mission. If possible, students could also travel to other missions to experience their ghost tours. For instance, Mission San Juan Capistrano even gives a "Ghost Walk" tour, and Santa Barbara offers a few different ghost tours of the Presidio, which sits next to the mission. Part of the research will involve finding these tours (online or in person) and studying how they continue to be shape our view of California's Indigenous history today.
I want to better understand why we tell ghost stories, what these stories actually reveal about the teller and the eager listener, and how these stories continue to shape mission history.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar's will work collaboratively with Dr. Helmbrecht to:
-- research the role of ghost stories in shaping dominant historical narratives
-- locate scholarship focusing on ghost stories in tourist sites more broadly, including Southern plantations (Tiya Miles's book, "Tales from the Haunted South: Dark Tourism and Memories of Slavery from the Civil War Era," will be a good starting point!)
-- identify local ghost tours to take
-- interview the tour guides to learn about the sources and evidence they use to shape the tours
-- research ghost stories specific to the CA missions
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
-- A facility to locate and closely read information in both the academic and public realms (i.e. academic journals and books, tour company websites, newspaper articles, etc.)
-- A strong interest in critically engaging with the challenging and difficult history of the CA missions
-- The desire to go on local tours and speak to tour guides and tourists
-- Strong writing skills, with an emphasis on rhetoric and persuasion
Required qualifications:
--Completion of GE A2 and A3
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
-- Some understanding of California history and/or California's missions
-- Completion of a CA mission project, perhaps in fourth grade
-- Access to transportation would also be helpful
Marion Hart
(she/her)
mhart03@calpoly.edu
Communication Studies
Victoria Zamora
(she/her)
ezamor12@calpoly.edu
Communication Studies
Research project Title:
Para levantar la voz: Community Advocacy in the Californias
Research Project Description:
Para levantar la voz, is a community engagement project designed to dismantle the barriers between Cal Poly and the historically underrepresented and marginalized communities across California. The initiative aims to uplift and center the perspectives of Latinx/Chicanx, first-generation, and/or working-class students and families from overlooked regions such as the San Joaquin Valley and US-Mexico border. Through this project, Cal Poly students will gain valuable hands-on experience in Spanish-language community advocacy and social justice work by learning how to research and advocate for issues of sustainability, equity, and human rights. This is a unique opportunity for students to build real-world skills in communication, organizing, and civic engagement while giving back. Mentees are encouraged to pay it forward by mentoring high school students who may see college as unattainable. They will learn the value of community-based advocacy and the importance of solidarity with immigrant, migrant, and mixed-status families confronting injustice in rural, agricultural California. The goal is to foster lasting relationships and amplifying voices that too often go unheard, something we believe addresses the lack of Spanish-language advocacy across California.
This initiative epitomizes Cal Poly's “Learn by Doing” philosophy and status as a burgeoning Hispanic-Serving Institution. Students will grow as leaders and changemakers through practice and teaching others. By advocating within overlooked populations, participants will model how skills they have learned at Cal Poly and from community-based participatory research that higher education can empower people to drive social change when paired with advocacy. Too frequently, public universities feel detached from the diverse communities surrounding them. This project seeks to bridge that divide. It aims to validate cultural assets and celebrate community wealth. If students care about inclusion and making Cal Poly a genuinely welcoming Hispanic-Serving Institution, this is an opportunity to get involved. This is a chance to build connections that support first-generation students and showcase the transformative power of education.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
• Students will research, prepare, and advocate for policies that address the sustainability issues in California and Baja California.
• Students will research and document interviews with non-profits and industry organizations in California and Baja California on successful advocacy models.
• Students will document and collect interviews with student advocates on their experiences of advocacy.
• Students will prepare materials for presentations and publication.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
BEACoN Research Scholar will gain experience in the fields of argumentation, community based research and hone their skills in public speaking, critical thinking, research proficiency, and effective communication in Spanish. Scholars will learn to analyze complex issues, structure arguments coherently, and adapt their communication to diverse audiences. Empathic leadership, conflict resolution, and time management will be nurtured through engaging with opposing viewpoints and integrating stakeholder feedback. Ultimately, this project provides the opportunity for Spanish-speaking BEACoN scholars to think critically, communicate persuasively, and engage in constructive discussions in various real-world contexts.
Required qualifications:
COMS 101 and COMS 351. Spanish-speaking, intermediate to advanced fluency
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
Span 233 or any upper division Spanish elective
Thanayi Jackson
(she/her)
tjacks25@calpoly.edu
History
Research project Title:
The Speckled Beauty: A Cultural History of the Transition from Reconstruction to Jim Crow Segregation
Research Project Description:
This project is a social biography of James A. Cutlar. Social biography is an attempt to understand the trajectories of ordinary people’s lives through the systematic application of the categories of social history and world history. It seeks to sidestep the paucity of sources through the application of basic research skills and historical imagination. In this way, writing the social biography of an ordinary individual provides an occasion for historians to sharpen their research skills and improve their understanding of social processes. Social biography puts the social historian’s training to work in locating the plausible social, economic, political, and cultural contexts within which the subject’s life may have unfolded.
We will think about Cutlar as an exceptional example of the transition from Reconstruction to Jim Crow Segregation. Cutlar was a son of Reconstruction, born in the aftermath of the Civil War in 1867 to a prominent Black political family in Reconstruction Wilmington, North Carolina. Black political power was particularly strong in Wilmington and the Reconstruction period particularly long-lasting. Wilmington is also the site of the only recognized political coup in the United States when, in 1898, white supremacists ousted the democratically elected bi-racial city government with terrorism. By the time of the 1898 massacre, James Cutler had moved to New York City, become a popular professional bicyclist at a time when cycling was THE sport, and married a New York it-girl socialite—who was white. His nickname—“The Speckled Beauty.” The marriage captured the attention of the press taking place just one year after the landmark Plessy v. Ferguson case that codified racial segregation. This portion of the study hopes to locate references to Cutlar in newspapers and magazines of the 1890s.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Under my guidance, the selected student will:
• Learn about the early stages of historical research. Together we will organize a research journal and map out a process by which to systematically search for newspapers and magazines that may reference of James A. Cutlar in newspapers from the 1890s.
• Systematically search for references to Cutlar and bicycling in identified newspapers and magazines from the 1890s. This is a tedious and time-consuming job. Students will be responsible for copying and cataloging references to Cutlar as well as keeping a detailed research journal that also catalogs newspaper issues searched with no results.
• Annotate issues. In the research journal, the student will give an overview of what was in the issue overall. What are the hot topics? Is bicycling discussed? Is segregation, race relations, or interracial relationships discussed?
• When necessary and possible, the student will order copies of newspapers not currently available digitally to include in their search.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
This project will teach students systematic research, including how to use library guides to identify sources, maintain a detailed research journal, develop key words, and annotate primary sources. Based on those skills, I will work closely with the mentee to team-think about their findings and build a bibliography of secondary sources based on the journal. This project is envisioned as a mini-think tank. This project wants to hear what the student thinks about their findings.
Required qualifications:
Familiarity and/or interest in Black history, gender history, and the history of sexuality. Ability to read old newspaper print online.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
HIST 202 United States History Since 1865 or ES 242 Survey of Africana Studies or equivalent background or ES 112 Race, Culture and Politics in the United States.
Martine Lappé
(she/her)
mlapp@calpoly.edu
Social Sciences
Research project Title:
Early-Life Adversity, Resilience, and Lived-Experiences of Pregnancy and Parenting
Research Project Description:
Experiences of early-life adversity and their lasting impacts on physical and mental health have become areas of increasing public and scientific attention in recent years. Examples of early-life adversity include child abuse and neglect, exposure to violence, and persistent economic hardship - all of which are significantly shaped by race, class, gender, and other social conditions. This sociological project is interested how people experience, understand, and contribute to knowledge about early-life adversity and health, and how this specifically impacts experiences of pregnancy and parenting in the United States. To address these questions, this project will include in-depth interviews with parents, caregivers, pediatricians, scientists, and child and family advocates and service providers. In addition, we will analyze social science scholarship related to gender, reproduction, and inequity, as well as as media and social media related to adversity, resilience, pregnancy, parenting, and child health. Our goal is to better understand the meanings and impacts that adversity and resilience have in people's lives, how systemic forms of oppression influence pregnancy and parenting, and the policies and forms of social change that can positively impact health across the life course.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar for this project will work with me to conduct and analyze in-depth interviews with parents, caregivers, pediatricians, scientists, and family and child advocates and service providers on topics related to adversity, resilience, and experiences of pregnancy and parenting. Responsibilities will include assisting with recruiting participants, scheduling and follow-up related to the research protocol, preparing and conducting interviews, and cleaning and analyzing qualitative data related to the project. In addition, students will have the opportunity to gather and review key studies related to early-life adversity, pregnancy, parenting, and health inequities and to collect and organize peer-reviewed and popular publications on these topics. The BEACoN Research Scholar may also be asked to review media related to early-life adversity and parenting and conduct a content analysis of key themes in news stories and other resources related to this project. This project will also include opportunities to prepare and present conference presentations and co-author publications.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar on this project will be part of a supportive research team. They will gain knowledge and skills related to feminist sociology, qualitative methods, science, technology and medicine studies, critical public health, bioethics, and experiences of pregnancy, parenting, and inequity in the United States. They will also gain writing, research, and presentation skills and receive training in the ethical conduct of human subjects research, qualitative data analysis, and interdisciplinary research.
Required qualifications:
The BEACoN Research Scholar on this project must be a thoughtful and
critical thinker, have strong writing and communication skills, and must have completed some upper-division course work in one or more of the following areas: sociology, anthropology, science, technology and society, ethnic studies, child development, public health, communications, and/or women's, gender, and queer studies.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
Experience in the following areas are preferred but not required:
Successful completion of SOC 354: Qualitative Research Methods, ISLA 456: Project Based Learning in Science, Technology, and Society Other coursework or training in qualitative research, cultural studies, or media analysis Experience as a parent, caregiver, and/or in healthcare or family services
Alexa Loken
(she/her)
aloken@calpoly.edu
Communication Studies
Research project Title:
ResearchCorps: The Untold History of BEACoN Research Projects and Stories from the Program
Research Project Description:
By documenting the untold history of the BEACoN research program, and sharing these compelling stories, "ResearchCorps: The Untold History of BEACoN Research Projects and Stories from the Program," aims to inspire future generations of researchers, educators, and community leaders to engage in similar initiatives that bridge the gap between academic research and real-world impact. Additionally, it hopes to serve as a valuable resource and insights for program evaluation and improvement, ensuring the continued success and relevance of BEACoN in the years to come.
This project will delve into the unique stories, inspiring projects, and transformative experiences of both students and mentors who have participated in the BEACoN program throughout its existence. The program's untold history deserves recognition, as it represents an inspiring journey of discovery, learning, and community engagement; it encompasses Cal Poly’s “Learn By Doing” motto perfectly!
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The student will be expected to help create and conduct surveys and questionnaires. Largely, the student researcher will assist in conducting in-depth interviews (and note taking) about stories from the past alums of the BEACoN program.
The research will focus on interviewees past research projects, methodologies, findings and outcomes.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will gain skills in creating and conducting primary research, in the form of surveys, in-depth interviews, and questionnaires. Additionally, some secondary research and qualitative analysis for subject matter comprehension will be utilized.
Required qualifications:
Basic communication (active listening), writing and research skills in order to successfully complete surveys, interviews and questionnaires.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
An upbeat attitude and curiosity about research.
Shanae Martinez
(they/she)
smart200@calpoly.edu
English
Research project Title:
Reframing: Writing for Library Sciences
Research Project Description:
As part of ongoing learn-by-doing research to decolonize sites of knowledge production, this project will provide research and writing opportunities within Library Science and archival discourse. For the past three years, I have worked collaboratively with Special Collections at Kennedy Library to broaden representation of historically marginalized student experiences in the Cal Poly archives. This year representation also includes revising archival descriptions that may use outdated and offensive language to describe holdings and developing new ways of inclusive description of physical and digital collections. Recent research in Library Science has turned toward an ethics of care with regard to culturally sensitive holdings, which includes reframing collection descriptions according to current archivists’ theories and methodologies.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
With the guidance of library consultants, the mentee will identify collections with outdated descriptions for revision. Additionally, the student will engage in research on current social justice practices and methodologies and apply this research to develop best practices documentation for the archives to reframe collection descriptions and descriptive metadata in culturally appropriate ways. Such responsibility will require the student to have strong research, communication, and organizational skills; as well as, creative, curatorial, editorial, educational, and social justice interests. Regular communication and weekly check-in meetings with me and library consultants is also expected.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The mentee of this project will gain experience with archival research, library sciences, writing culturally appropriate materials, and how to practice an ethics of care with regard culturally significant archival holdings and library collections.
Required qualifications:Preference will be given to students that have experience (or interest) with writing as resistance, social justice pedagogy, archival research and curation, and creating institutional change. This might be a student interested in humanities, cultural studies, history, communications, or library science with a particular investment in reframing representation in library and museums discourse with strong organizational and communicative skills.
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
Scholarly engagement with intersectional social justice pedagogy, strong research and writing skills, and/or experience working with or within historically marginalized communities.
Joan Meyers
(she/her or they/theirs)
jomeyers@calpoly.edu
Social Sciences
Research project Title:
Inclusive Student Worker Cooperatives: Exploring Opportunities for Undocumented Students
Research Project Description:
Worker-owned cooperatives, a somewhat old-fashioned form of working, have been enjoying a new resurgence in the last 15 years and may prove particularly beneficial for undocumented students and those whose DACA protections are precarious in the current political climate. Worker co-ops are businesses entirely owned and democratically operated by their workers, sharing profits among workers based on each person’s annual contribution of labor to the enterprise. The US Federation of Worker Cooperatives reports that new US-based co-ops have more than tripled since the financial crash of 2008, and estimates there are currently 10,000 workers in 1000 US worker co-ops, which vary in size from the 2500 members of the single Cooperative Homecare Associates in New York City to the 3-6 size of the typical US co-op. Worker co-ops give workers control over what they produce, how they produce it, and when they produce it. This level of autonomy has been demonstrated to not only reduce worker turnover and increase productivity, but also to reduce ethnoracial and gender inequalities in authority and earnings. Although US worker co-ops have, like other workplaces, had a mixed history of inclusion, the post-2008 generation is markedly more diverse and inclusive across gender, race/ethnicity, and citizenship status than ever before. More worker co-op members today identify as women than men, and the proportions identifying as BIPOC are greater than the proportions of the US workforce as whole. Notably, an area of considerable growth has been co-ops comprised primarily of undocumented workers, as co-ops share profits among owners rather than hiring employees and thus do not pose legal barriers for undocumented workers.
Worker co-ops offer a particularly intriguing path to financial stability for those who migrated to the US at an early age and have pursued advanced education. While many of the early undocumented worker co-ops were in low-waged sectors such as housecleaning, child care, and landscaping, a new set of undocumented worker co-ops is centered in professional work such as project management, legal services, bookkeeping, and interpretation. Scholars from public universities such as the City University of New York (CUNY) has worked with local government to develop some of these more professional co-ops. Firmly located with the scholarship of engagement (Boyer 1996), this project seeks to determine the feasibility and value of creating worker co-ops at Cal Poly and potentially across the CSU as inclusive and equitable workplaces for the diversity of CSU students.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
In collaboration with Dr. Meyers, the BEACoN Research Scholar will:
• Gather, analyze, and create an annotated bibliography of existing documentation and scholarship on current and historical undocumented worker co-ops, student worker co-ops, and programs for the development of student worker co-ops
• Provide support to develop and deploy interview protocols for consultation with non-profit and university-based co-op developers regarding best practices and potential pitfalls
• Provide support to develop and deploy interview protocols for consultation with other Cal Poly and local offices such as Cal Poly’s Career Services, the Dream Center, OUDI, and the UndocuAlly group, as well as similar offices at Cuesta and Hancock, and the Central Coast Coalition for Undocumented Student Success
• Systematically analyze interviews and documents to identify likely allies, barriers, and resources for a Cal Poly-centered program of inclusive student worker co-op development and support
• Help outline and draft a report and/or presentations on the feasibility and value of developing inclusive student worker co-ops intended for consideration by Cal Poly and CSU administration
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
• Develop scholarly and public research and data management skills, and refine ability to summarize texts for further use
• Learn and practice qualitative research methods including
—construction of qualitative interview protocols that include not only specific questions but best practices for asking questions and capturing answers;
—deployment of interview protocols across multiple stakeholders in inclusive student co-ops
—mastery of Dedoose qualitative analytic software for interview analysis
• Understand and practice writing and refining concise and public-facing reports that synthesize original and existing research
Required qualifications:
• Solid writing and communication skills
• Some coursework in Sociology, Ethnic Studies, Economics, Communication, and/or Political Science
• Interest in the socioeconomic outcomes of undocumented students
• Willingness to contact strangers for interviews
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
• SOC 355 or other training in qualitative social science research methods
• Familiarity with the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Federal policy
• Familiarity with workplace challenges faced by undocumented minors and adults
• Familiarity with California public policies regarding undocumented workers
Elvira Pulitano
(she/her)
epulitan@calpoly.edu
Ethnic Studies
Research project Title:
A Decolonial Approach to International Education: Insights from a Cal Poly Global Program in Palermo, Sicily.
Research Project Description:
The purpose of this project is to produce a study that contributes to the current debates about decolonizing international education by critically reflecting on a Global Program offered at Cal Poly in summer 2023. Despite on-going debates about the need to decenter and de-universalize international education, current study abroad programs continue to reproduce Western colonial models of power, knowledge, and white supremacy that strongly intersect with questions of privilege, ethnocentrism, and marginalization. Such patterns deserve attentive study upon considering the racialized access that still structure institutionalized systems of higher education including Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo (over 68% of students who participated in U.S. Study Abroad Programs during the AY 2020-21 were white, according to the Institute of International Education's Open Doors Report). The ultimate goal of this project is to consider alternatives to education abroad programming and pedagogies leading to a more inclusive and sustainable future in international education.
This past summer I lead a Global Program in Palermo, in the island of Sicily. While technically part of Italy, the city of Palermo has always been considered the heart of the Mediterranean with its rich, multicultural history spanning millennia. Today the city is once again at the center of cross-cultural debates by welcoming migrants and refugees from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East despite national and European policies of rejection and on-going criminalization of the migration phenomenon. Within this scenario, two associations—Moltivolti and Giocherenda—have emerged from the collaborative effort of migrants, asylum seekers, and locals, designed and structured to offer dignity, creativity, and new models of citizenship and belonging in a globalized world. Cal Poly students who enrolled in the Sicily Global Program had the opportunity to participate in a two-day cycle of activities run entirely by these Palermo-based associations that offered a great lesson in storytelling, decolonial thinking, and collective learning. Through a series of place-based, interactive workshops, the young migrant and refugees became agents of their own stories and showed us the transformative experience of international education when the power shifts to local experts and communities.
This project intends to hire one research scholar among the students who participated in the Cal Poly Global Program. The research scholar will have the opportunity to learn about current debates on decolonializing international education (IE) by producing a literature review of some of the most current scholarship on the subject. They will also engage in some data collection specific to the Cal Poly with regard to the racialization of access to study abroad programs, destination country, and students’ learning activities in such programs. A key component of the research scholar’s participation in the BEACoN project is a personal narrative in which they reflect on their learning experience through the activities conducted by the teams of Moltivolti and Giocherenda in Palermo and how such experience can enable transformative change leading to decolonial possibilities in study abroad programs. Finally, the research scholar will work with Dr. Pulitano to co-author a journal article version of this study to be submitted to one of the premier journals in international education at the end of Spring quarter.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
• Review the current scholarship on decolonial approaches to international education, gain skills in thinking critically about decolonial theories and produce a small bibliography appropriate to the size of a journal article. They will also learn the MLA citation style used in the Humanities.
• Engage in some data collection specific to Cal Poly about the racialization of access to study abroad programs, destination country, and students’ learning activities in such programs.
• Learn to critically analyze these data vis-à-vis the scholarship reviewed.
• Write a personal narrative (8-to pages) reflecting on their learning experience through the activities conducted by the staff members at Moltivolti and Giocherenda in Palermo and describe how such experience can enable transformative change leading to decolonial possibilities in study abroad programs.
• Prepare a journal article version of this study, co-authored with Dr. Pulitano, to be submitted to one of the premier journals in international education at the end of Spring quarter.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
The BEACoN research scholar will gain skills in humanities-based research methods, hone critical assessment and academic writing, and learn how to apply principles of decolonial theory to global education.
Required qualifications:
Participation on the Cal Poly Global Program in Sicily, in Summer 2023
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
At least one Ethnic Studies course where the students have learned a foundational understanding of colonialism and colonialist discourse, immigration, and/or critical race studies, such as (but not limited to) ES 252: Introduction to African American Studies, ES 255: Introduction to Latino/a/x Studies, ES 340: Cultural Production and Ethnicity-the Caribbean, and ES 380: Critical Race Theory.
A deep passion for scholarship, writing, and research would also be ideal.
Yan Shan
(she/her/hers)
yashan@calpoly.edu
Journalism
Research project Title:
The Use of AI-generated Selfies in a Public Service Advertisement (PSA) Targeting College Students
Research Project Description:
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to a collection of technologies that allow computers to stimulate human intelligence to perform a variety of advanced tasks. Recent developments in machine learning have enabled AI to create hyper-realistic and high-resolution images, audio, and video that never existed before. AI-created content, which owes us with its endless creativity and imagination, is now being utilized in design and production process across media and graphic communication industries. There have been several important studies to examine the practices of AI and its impact on the creative process, however, more research is needed to understand AI-created content from the audience perspective. Because average audiences may not understand how exactly AI works, they may not react to AI-created content in the way expected by professionals. This proposed study supplements the existing literature of AI by focusing on how users react and evaluate AI-created selfies, a particular type of AI-created content.
We will design experiments by comparing evaluation towards AI-created selfies versus user-created selfies in the context of a public service advertising (PSA) campaign targeting college students. CP undergraduate students will be involved in this project as student researchers in every aspect including content design and creation, experimental development, data collection and analysis, conference presentation, and publication in peer-reviewed journals. The outcome of this project presents an interdisciplinary approach that will be of interest to scholars of advertising and public relations, public health education, graphic communication, and computer science.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The student will
- collect professional and academic articles about the application of AI in advertising and public relations.
- monitor new trend and development about AI.
- use Midjourney, an image generative AI, to create visual content that will be used in the study.
- use Canva, a graphic design tool, to create mock-up PSA for the study.
- participate in study design and administration.
What skills will the BEACoN researcher gain:
As a BEACoN scholar, student will:
- Learn the newest AI tool and its application in public relations and social media.
- Develop knowledge about AI-generated content and gain ability to assess quality in accessibility, esthetics, and relevance.
- Receive training on research methods, technical writing, and professional communication.
- Apply knowledge in data collection and analysis, and design principles.
Required qualifications:
N/a
Preferred qualifications/coursework:
Preferred courses include introduction to journalism or public
relations, news and public relations writing, graphic design.
It is preferred for student to have relevant experience in journalism, public relations, social media, or graphic design.
Liz Thompson
(she/her/hers)
lscheme@calpoly.edu
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering (CENG)
Lynne Slivosky
(she/her/hers)
lslivovs@calpoly.edu
Computer Engineering (CENG)
John Oliver
(he/him/his)
jyoliver@calpoly.edu
Computer Engineering (CENG)
Andrew Danowtiz
(he/him/his)
adanowit@calpoly.edu
Computer Engineering (CENG)
Bridget Benson
(she/her/hers)
bbenson@calpoly.edu
Engineering Dean’s Office
Research project Title:
Breaking the Binary
Research Project Description:
This revolutionary project will involve both students and faculty in a process of transforming the Computer Engineering (CPE) department at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and potentially engineering education as a whole, through rejecting binaries or dualisms commonly used to create hierarchies in engineering thought and practice. The activities in this project will ask faculty and students to actively engage in dismantling the binaries by identifying and breaking down oppressive norms. Instead, they will embrace a complex coexistence; develop new skills in co-creation of holistic learning experiences and inclusive cultures; and evolve personal and professional identities that are constantly challenged and often in flux. The work is based on a “Critical Collaborative Educational Change” model which maps individual and group change to critical consciousness, values and beliefs, actions, and collective well-being in order to break the binaries in our culture, policies, and curriculum. Activities in the project include workshops and critical dialogs which will inform curriculum and course redesign, critical mentoring with faculty and students, and finding and changing department policies and practices by working with a student advisory board. The research will inform the engineering education community about the need and path to significant transformation.
The three broad goals of the project are to 1) Enhance critical consciousness and expand group capacity through workshops and critical groups dialogs, 2) Interrupt structures that inhibit action by deepening relationships between and among students, staff, and faculty, and 3) Dismantle and reimagine the department by identifying and understanding structures of oppression impacting the individuals in the department. The proposed plan offers an opportunity to research how faculty and students engage in the dismantling of oppressive engineering learning structures. The work will draw attention to the connection between departmental culture and individual and collective well-being. Through the project activities the team will gain insights into how educators translate their new ways of knowing, being, and relating to the design of tangible curricular artifacts (courses, assignments, physical spaces) and visible behaviors (pedagogical style, caring, interpersonal connections), as well as understandings of how students respond to the more visible components of the new program. We will answer the following: (1) As we engage in the activities described in this proposal, how will the CPE department culture reject binaries that commonly create hierarchies in engineering thought and practice, and embrace a learning culture that is holistic and integrated? (2) To what extent does the Critical Collaborative Education Change Model help students, staff, and faculty navigate, respond to, and engage in critical organizational change? (3) What are the impacts of a holistic environment on individual growth and social cohesion? This project includes a strong vision for change, qualified team, connection to research, and a faculty development plan.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will join an active engineering education research group with professors Lynne Slivovsky (CPE), Liz Thompson (IME), Jane Lehr (ES/WGQS), Andrew Danowitz (CPE), John Oliver (CPE), Associate Dean Bridget Benson, and Cal Poly undergraduate/alumni researchers. They will gain experience in research methods and design, interview protocols, qualitative analysis, communication skills, and research paper writing. They will:
* Learn about our research methodology and the IRB process
* Participate in a literature review
* Conduct student interviews and/or focus groups
* Develop qualitative data analysis skills
* Contribute to research team meetings and meeting facilitation
* Co-author conference papers and journal articles
What skills will the BEACoN Research scholar gain:
This project will be an exceptional opportunity for a small group of BEACoN Research Scholars to gain expertise in engineering education research. Anticipated skills our mentees will gain are related to: research methods and design, interviewing and conducting interviews and focus groups, qualitative and quantitative analysis, data presentation and data management, and written and oral communication. They will have the opportunity to develop skills and capacities related to leadership, self-efficacy, knowledge of personal strengths and assets, and confidence in their future career plans. Wwe hope to be able to support them to attend and present their work at an engineering education conference.
Required courses/experience:
Students with experience (through coursework or other training/experience)
in either statistics/quantitative data analysis OR qualitative data analysis
Preferred courses/experience:
* Students with interest in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
* Interest and prior experience with perspectives and frameworks utilized in areas including Science and Technology Studies, Ethnic Studies, Women’s, Gender and Queer studies, or related areas. Interest and prior experience may be demonstrated by course work, club or other co-curricular participation and/or knowledge gained via lived experiences.
* Passionate about and committed to the co-creation of more just, diverse, and inclusive STEM learning environments and cultures.
* Students with interest in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
* Interest and prior experience with perspectives and frameworks utilized in areas including Science and Technology Studies, Ethnic Studies, Women’s, Gender and Queer studies, or related areas. Interest and prior experience may be demonstrated by course work, club or other co-curricular participation and/or knowledge gained via lived experiences.
* Passionate about and committed to the co-creation of more just, diverse, and inclusive STEM learning environments and cultures.
Bailey College of Science & Mathematics
Julia Alber
She/her/hers
jmalber@calpoly.edu
Kinesiology and Public Health
Research project Title:
Examining Strategies for Promoting Tobacco Control Policies in the US
Research Project Description:
This project will align with my sabbatical work and focus on strategies for promoting tobacco control policies. In the US, tobacco is still the leading cause of preventable deaths and disproportionately impacts historically minoritized groups. In order to promote health equity, it is critical to promote policies that would decrease access to tobacco products particularly in areas that have been targeted by tobacco companies.
This project focuses on examining existing data and preparing a larger grant application focused on optimal messaging for promoting tobacco control bans. The project involves analyzing data from a pilot study that examined using storytelling videos to promote support for flavored tobacco sales ban among a sample of US adults. This will involve analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data and preparing the results for publication in a peer-reviewed journal article. The second part of the project is assisting with finding background information and summarizing preliminary results for a grant application. The grant will focus on a larger study that would examine overall support for tobacco control policies in the US, and message strategies to promote the Endgame goals (i.e., ending commercial tobacco sales. This study will provide important information for public health professionals and researchers and public health professionals on identifying strategies for increasing support for tobacco prevention policies at the local, state, and federal levels.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The student will be expected to work with me to set goals for the two quarters in terms of interest and skill development needs. They will be expected to meet with my research team once a week, work independently on tasks, and work directly with other students on the research team. The student will be working with another student on analyzing qualitative data and running statistical analysis based on their existing experience. They will also be expected regularly communicate via email and Trello app when questions arise or more information is needed. Finally, they will be expected to participate in writing up the results and conducting literature searches for the paper background and grant application.
What skills will the BEACoN research schoolar gain:
The student would learn how to analyze and report on qualitative data. They would similarly learn how to analyze and write up results from survey data. They would also enhance their scientific writing skills. Finally, they would gain skills in collaboration
with community partners and teamwork.
Required Qualifications/Coursework:
N/a
Preferred Qualifications/Coursework:
Ideally, completing at least one statistics course would be beneficial. No prior knowledge of qualitative data analysis is required.
Jess Jensen
(she/her/hers)
jjense11@calpoly.edu
School of Education
Research project Title:
Makers in Out of School Time: Identity Development for Future Teachers and STEM-underrepresented Youth
Research Project Description:
Informal learning environments that engage young people in learning outside of the formal classroom and school day have emerged as powerful spaces for youth identity development and skill building, especially for minoritized students. Specific to STEM education, informal learning spaces provide opportunities to explore content and skills in innovative ways that don’t necessarily align to the academic content standards that formal classroom teachers must follow. The flexibility that informal spaces provide can increase interest and excitement in STEM, as well as help children identify with and become comfortable with the ways of thinking, language, and tools used in STEM disciplines. For the last two decades, informal educators have been designing opportunities for youth to learn through making, fueled by the Maker Movement and advancements in technology such as 3D-printers and laser cutters. Educative making is inherently interdisciplinary and often requires that youth use knowledge and skills that transcend one area of STEM. Many studies have demonstrated the positive benefits of educative making on the development of both academic content expertise and 21st century skills, however more research is needed on youth identity development in these spaces, especially for Latinx students.
Therefore, this collaborative project builds from a mobile making project at CSU San Marcos where undergraduate STEM majors and pre-service teachers design and implement maker projects. The undergraduates work with 4th-8th graders from underserved populations in an afterschool program. Cal Poly offers this project to San Luis Obispo County in collaboration with the CESAME program, the Liberal Studies department, the School of Education, and the Bright Futures After School Academic Program, which serves the Lucia Mar Unified School District (LMUSD). This year we will focus on the design, implementation, and evaluation of two afterschool programs engaging Latinx youth in making. This question guides our work: How did participation in the afterschool STEM program impact STEM identity development for Latinx youth, and teacher identity development for undergraduate facilitators? Beacon mentees will help to collect and analyze survey data from elementary students, and collect field notes about what elementary students are learning during afterschool maker sessions. They will also help analyze preliminary data from undergraduate facilitators including coding their field notes.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
'-Support development and trials of two quarter-long sequences of STEM-based maker activities for grades 4-6 students
-Implement maker projects with grades 4-6 students in afterschool programs at two school sites (Oceano and Grover Beach Elementary Schools) winter and spring quarters, both of which primarily serve students from Latinx backgrounds
-Attend research and project implementation meetings with project faculty and other undergraduate mentors
-Develop an understanding of STEM-based makerspace education and issues of inequity in STEM education and careers through a review of relevant literature
-Collect and analyze data on elementary students and undergraduate mentors about their experiences with STEM-based maker projects and their STEM identities
-Conduct interviews and make observations/take field notes during after school STEM maker projects
-Qualitative analysis of surveys, reflections, and interview data, including coding data
-Basic quantitative analysis of survey data
-Write results and prepare a poster for presentation at the CSM student research conference and/or submit a peer-reviewed publication.
What skills will the BEACoN scholar gain:
'-Elementary engineering skills and concepts
-Familiarity with science standards and curricula design
-Primary literature search, analysis, and presentation of summarized results
-Data collection, assessment
-Data analysis and reporting
-Qualitative methodology (including documenting students’ experiences, coding field notes through thematic analysis.)
-Written and oral presentation skills
-Effective STEM communication for young audiences
Required qualifications/coursework:
'-Interest in teaching
-Interest in making or engineering design
-Interest in promoting diversity in STEM
-Must enjoy working with kids!
Preferred Qualifications/Coursework:
'-Any of the following science education courses would be a plus: LS 413, SCM 220, SCM 302
-Familiarity with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
-Experience working/interacting with groups of kids (7-12yo)
-Able to communicate in oral and written Spanish
-Concurrent enrollment in SCM 220 (Availability on Tues/Thur afternoons 3-6pm)
Gita Kolluru
(she/her/hers)
gkolluru@calpoly.edu
Biological Sciences
Research project Title:
Mating Behavior in Livebearing Freshwater Fishes
Research Project Description:
Biologists are eager to generate more inclusion and equity in research settings, in part because understanding biodiversity is enhanced by the involvement of a diversity of researchers. Human interference may impact biodiversity by altering the evolutionary trajectory of species. Keeping animals in captivity, a common practice for biologists, may alter their biology. Artificial selection, the process by which humans selectively breed individuals to have certain attributes, may have even more profound effects. Livebearing fishes in the family Poeciliidae are model species for studying these effects. Many species are difficult to collect or rare in the wild, and research on them relies on captive stocks. Simply being in captivity for long periods without predators and with unlimited access to food may impact the biology of these fishes in ways that impact the research conducted on them. Furthermore, these fish are sometimes artificially selected, which generates color patterns and fins that are “fancy”, and may impact behavior even more meaningfully than just captivity. Our lab studies behavior and morphology of livebearing fishes, and recently we have become interested in how captivity may impact these traits. We focus on mating behavior and aggression.
In non-human animals, males typically maximize reproductive success by mating more, whereas females maximize reproductive success by choosing mates and resisting excessive mating attempts. This generates sexual conflict, which can lead to mating harassment. Mating harassment usually involves males attempting to mate with females more than is optimal for females, sometimes coercively, and females attempting to resist unwanted mating attempts. Mating harassment has been shown to reduce female fitness in these fishes, by reducing foraging opportunities, increasing disease transmission, and circumventing female choice of mates. Captivity in lab settings and artificial selection may affect male mating harassment and the impact of mating harassment on females. Our project involves two livebearer species, the Cuban endemic Girardinus. metallicus and the Gulf coast endemic Poecilia latipinna. For each species, we have individuals from a long captive stock and from a stock more recently acquired from the wild. Our project will address the following questions: 1) Do males harass females? 2) Do females forage less when harassment levels are higher? 3) Do females forage on different types of food (on the ground versus free-swimming) as a consequence of harassment? 4) Do the species and stocks differ in behavior? The study will involve carefully raising the fish to adulthood so we can work with them, designing the experiment and procuring supplies including two types of food, and performing controlled behavioral observations to generate and analyze data addressing the questions listed above.
Should the pandemic necessitate a pivot to virtual research, we have other projects that the student could work on, which would involve extracting data from videos of behavioral trials we have performed in the past to answer new questions. We have a bank of training videos developed during the start of the pandemic that could be used to train the student in animal care tasks, and meetings could be held via Zoom.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The project involves working with a research team of students to care for live freshwater fish and to conduct an experiment. The latter will involve generating and employing detailed protocols to observe the behavior of individual fish within a social group, recording a range of behaviors for each fish, then weighing, measuring, and photographing the fish to obtain body and other size measurements. The student may also measure traits from digital images using ImageJ and Photoshop software, and collate datasets using Excel. These activities will culminate in analysis of data using JMP statistical software, to determine the impact of human interference on mating behavior. All of the above tasks would be conducted in close consultation with me, and with the assistance of a research team of undergraduate students. The student would begin with the crucial task of caring for our live fish colonies. This would involve intensive training by experienced students using a written lab manual. The student would help to care for the fish, maintain healthy tank environments, ensure that conditions are optimal for the fish to breed, and identify and treat health conditions as they arise. In all cases the student will be trained and guided by me and by experienced students in the lab.
What skills will the BEACoN scholar gain:
The student will have the opportunity to gain skills in implementing all aspects of the scientific method, including generating hypotheses and predictions, finding, reading, and citing primary literature, observing behavior in a controlled manner, and analyzing images. The student will also gain quantitative skills in managing data using Excel and statistically analyzing data using JMP software. Our research team will discuss the ecology and evolution of morphological and behavioral traits, such that the student will be able to place our results in the context of the literature and other work in this area of biology. The student will also acquire skills in aquatic animal care and husbandry, recognition and treatment of fish diseases, and testing water quality. The student may also lead a team of students and thereby practice teamwork and leadership skills. Our lab is cooperative and collegial, and we strive to cultivate an inclusive environment, with members of our team helping each other and learning from each other.
Required qualifications/coursework:
N/a
Preferred Qualifications/Coursework:
BIO 263 (Introductory Ecology and Evolution)
Adrienne Lent
(she/her/hers)
ablent@calpoly.edu
Kinesiology and Public Health
Research project Title:
The association between smoker protection laws, cessation behaviors, and socioeconomic status among adult smokers in the US
Research Project Description:
Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the US. Various efforts exist to reduce smoking and protect non-smokers. For example, smoke-free policies started in the 1990s and ban smoking in public places, including bars, restaurants and workplaces. In addition to smoke-free workplaces, many employers have implemented non-hiring policies for smokers to try to eliminate smoking employees altogether. In response, some states have implemented “smoker protection laws”, which make smokers a protected class of individuals who cannot be discriminated against in terms of employment. Previous research has focused on the effect of smoke-free workplaces and found that they are associated with reductions in smoking prevalence. However, there are no studies examining the effect of smoker protection laws on smoking. It’s also unknown how these laws affect the socioeconomic status of smokers, especially in terms of employment. Given the high prevalence of smoking among individuals with low socioeconomic status, it’s important to understand how these laws affect smoking behaviors and economic opportunity, especially among underserved group.
This research project will examine the association between smoker protection laws, smoking cessation behaviors, and the socioeconomic status of smokers in the US. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will be used to see if smokers who live in states with smoker protection laws have differences in quit attempts and socioeconomic status compared to those who live in states without smoker protection laws. Differences in the association between smoker protection laws and employment will be examined to identify groups potentially experiencing disparities.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The BEACoN research scholar will be responsible for assisting with the literature review, data cleaning, data analysis, drafting of a scientific manuscript, and submission of an article as a
co-author.
Student will gain skills/experience with:
The BEACoN Research Scholar will gain an understanding of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They will learn how to clean and analyze quantitative data as well as interpret the findings. They will learn how convey results to a scientific audience.
Required Qualifications/Coursework:
Required experience includes some form of college-level research (e.g., from coursework), writing for a scientific audience, and coursework in statistics.
Preferred Qualifications/Coursework:
Preferred coursework includes the completion of HLTH 318 and HLTH 402 or research methods course.
Jafra Thomas
(he/him/his)
jthoma84@calpoly.edu
Kinesiology and Public Health (CoSAM)
Suzanne Phelan
(she/her/hers)
sphelan@calpoly.edu
Kinesiology and Public Health (CoSAM)
Research project Title:
Investigating Equity and Inclusivity Issues in Patient Health Communication Materials Used in One Mobile Health Unit for Women and
Infants: Identifying Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Research Project Description:
This BEACoN project proposal is for a continuation project, focused on analyzing the suitability of patient education materials written in English and Spanish and disseminated to patients with moderate to high risk of low health literacy (e.g., due to limited English proficiency, low educational attainment beyond middle school years, being low-income causing limited opportunity to develop health literacy). The first goal of any patient educational material should be to promote health literacy, which is the degree content is understood and supports decision-making and behaviors protective to health. Cal Poly’s Mobile Health Unit for Women and Infants serves immigrant/migrant families mainly, and provides bilingual patient educational material selected for quality, such as being culturally appropriate, using plain language (e.g., writing at/below an 8th grade reading level) and using visual aids to convey crucial ideas about health risk and medical treatment options. Moreover, these materials should be more effective at reducing adverse health outcomes through a focus on ways to work towards a healthy lifestyles when managing chronic health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. We are optimistic the materials currently in use are helpful because past Cal Poly Student Health Ambassadors adapted most material from the Medline.gov library, which focuses on providing the public with reader-friendly patient educational material that is credible, and written in English and Spanish (and perhaps in other languages). Systematic investigation, however, is lacking as to the true strengths of the Mobile Health Unit’s patient education materials, not to mention potential areas for improvement. Several studies show that content producers often miss the mark when trying to create easy to read health educational materials that are also credible. This factor underscores the importance of critically appraising patent education materials using coding forms with established reliability and validity. Work from Dr. Thomas’ lab has shown the Suitability Assessment of Materials coding form is a valid and reliable tool to judge quality---that is, if the intended end-users would value materials because they are easy to understand and focus on taking action.
Cal Poly BEACoN student mentees working on this this project would finalizing a coding manual started by previous BEACoN students and pilot test the procedures with practice material, before coding a randomized sample of patient education materials from the Mobile Health Unit's patient education materials library. This project would make several contributions the health literacy promotion knowledge base: (1) few to any studies research mobile health units (2) the extent individuals (especially) students can produce/adapt optimal patient educational materials based on awareness of guidelines alone without a rating-form verification step is unknown and (3) currently the Mobile Health Unit lacks a systematic list of ways to improve their patient educational materials. Moreover, Dr. Thomas’ work in physical activity promotion has not evaluated material in-terms of their cultural appropriateness, since his past research was not for a specific demographic group. This provides an additional contribution since physical activity advice is included in some patient educational materials disseminated through the Mobile Health Unit, but the cultural appropriateness of these materials with content on physical activity is unclear.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
1. Become familiar with the protocol for rating suitability of patient educational material across several categories.
2. Pilot test protocol manual, then use experience to make it easier to use for more reliable coding, if needed (e.g., create decision rule for certain scenarios, add visual).
3. Maintain records using assigned research space and online shared drives (e.g., file folders).
4. Assist in the sampling and coding of the full sample.
5. Maintain an electronic spreadsheet database for coding across each project stage, using coding keys and formatting practices, consistently.
6. Generate a preliminary descriptive summary of the project findings and other outcomes achieved by the start of the 2024 Spring Quarter.
7. Work to develop ability to act independently of faculty mentors in coding and recording data using established research tools and protocols, by asking questions, engaging in reflection, and taking initiative to seek confirmation before moving on to a new step.
What skills will the BEACoN scholar gain:
1. Knowledge and skill in performing quantitative content analysis that is valid and reliable (e.g., using numbers to categorize or rate objects or text).
2. Knowledge and skill in using the suitability assessment of materials coding form, and related computer tools (e.g., reading grade level software) to evaluate written material, which can be applied to other mediums too, such as webpages.
3. Knowledge and skill in professional communication while working on a research project team.
4. Knowledge and skill in data management and integrity by keeping updated records, following instructions, so future analysis or reporting using database data is trustworthy.
5. Knowledge and skill in summarizing descriptive data and identifying implications, using content analysis.
Required Qualifications/Coursework:
1. Demonstrated experience with managing or organizing a co-curricular projects at the high-school or collegiate grade level
2. Demonstrated experience with working independently to complete tasks with expediency and consistent with instructions or guidelines that have been provided.
3. Familiarity with how to perform a basic to advance search of an electronic database or of the Internet to locate information or literature published in the recent to distant past (e.g., periodicals, books, journal articles, videos).
Preferred Qualifications/Coursework:
1. Proficient in speaking Spanish and experience reading and writing in Spanish.
2. An introduction to research methods, such as through an introductory course specific to any discipline or a work-related experience (e.g., volunteer work on a research project).
3. A fundamental course in reasoning and argumentation (e.g., courses that satisfy GE A3).
4. A fundamental course in statistics (e.g., courses that satisfy GE B1).
5. An introductory course on health and physical activity (e.g., HLTH/KINE 250, Healthy Living or HLTH/KINE 255, Personal Health: A Multicultural Approach).
6. Introductory Psychology Course (e.g., PSY 201, General Psychology).
7. Introductory Sociology Course (e.g., SOC 110, Comparative Societies).
Jasmine Nation
(she/her/hers)
jmnation@calpoly.edu
Liberal Studies
Alejandra Yep
(she/her/hers)
yep@calpoly.edu
Biological Sciences
Research project Title:
Aprender Haciendo: Nuestra Ciencia is Our Science
Research Project Description:
Misconceptions plague microbiology education, and most students arrive at college with deep-seated wrongful ideas about the microbial world that are often hard to reverse. Examples of this are faulty understanding of the way vaccines or antibiotics work and the roles of microbes in the human body and the environment. This is so widely recognized that the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) developed a Microbiology Concept Inventory (MCI) to help dispel those misconceptions in science undergraduates. We propose to start much earlier, by developing new and engaging experiments and activities that demonstrate key microbiology concepts for a K-6 audience.
The project has two equally important long-term goals:
1. Microbiology education goal: develop experiments, activities, and accompanying materials that introduce basic microbiology concepts to elementary school students, both engaging them in the scientific process and planting the seeds for a correct understanding of microbiology. We will contribute toward this goal by developing these materials and making them available for K-6 educators.
2. Diversity and inclusivity goal: demonstrate that science is not “owned” by any specific group nor does it happen in a specific language and that everybody can become a scientist regardless of their background. We will contribute toward this goal by developing all materials in English and Spanish and by piloting the experiments in Spanish with students from the immersion school Pacheco Elementary (San Luis Obispo).
This year we will be researching the expanded program that is taking place on Cal Poly campus for the first time in Winter 2023 as a new section of the Learn by Doing Lab. Beacon mentees will help to collect and analyze qualitative data about what elementary and undergraduate students are learning during Learn by Doing sessions conducted entirely in Spanish. We will develop additional curricula for the Learn by Doing Lab along with analyzing data collected from these teaching events.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
This project is highly multidisciplinary by nature, and students will work as part of a diverse group. The role of the BEACoN mentee can be tailored to fit students coming from multiple interests and majors. Depending on the BEACoN mentee’s previous knowledge and preferences, their role will encompass a subset of the following:
- Attend lab meetings and present when relevant (journal club or data presentation)
- Search relevant literature and generate annotated bibliographies
- Identify key microbiology concepts and common misunderstandings
- Develop and test/troubleshoot novel experiments that demonstrate those concepts and can be carried out in a K-6 classroom or at home (without specialized materials)
- Map the concepts and accompanying experiments within the NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards)
- Develop accompanying bilingual materials for teachers and students. These include but are not limited to: introduction and background for teachers/students, materials lists, protocols, handouts, quizzes, games, videos, webpages
- Be part of a group of Cal Poly students guiding K-6 students in carrying out the experiments, interpreting data, and drawing conclusions (this could be done virtually if schools return to virtual instruction)
- Learn the process of qualitative data analysis including designing interview protocols, transcribing, and coding data
- Conduct interviews and make observations/take field notes in Learn by Doing sessions
- Assist with thematic coding of video and interview transcripts
- Write results and prepare poster/talk for presentation at the CSM student research conference or peer-reviewed publication
BEACon Research Scholar will develop the following skills:
'-Microbiology skills and concepts
-Familiarity with science standards and curricula design
-Primary literature search, analysis, and presentation of summarized results
-Working knowledge of reference managing software (such as Zotero or Mendeley) and transcript coding software (MAXQDA)
-Experimental design
-Protocol development and troubleshooting
-Data recording, assessment
-Data analysis and reporting
-Qualitative methodology (including documenting students’ experiences, drafting interview protocols, conducting interviews with other students in a virtual format, transcribing interviews and coding interviews through thematic analysis.
-Written and oral presentation skills
-Teaching skills
-Effective science communication for young audiences
Required Qualifications/Coursework:
- Able to communicate in oral and written Spanish
- Interest in teaching
- Interest in biological sciences
- Interest in promoting diversity in STEM
- Must enjoy working with kids!
Preferred Qualifications/Coursework:
- MCRO224/MCRO221
- Familiarity with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
- Experience working/interacting with groups of kids (5-12yo)
Orfalea College of Business
Bradford Anderson
(he/him/his)
bpanders@calpoly.edu
Business Administration (Accounting and Law)
Research project Title:
Modernizing Antiquated Gender Based Insurance Law for Life Insurance/Annuities in a Non-Binary World
Research Project Description:
Life insurance and annuity policies typically require gender disclosures and impose gender based pricing. Life insurance and annuity applications often contain threatening language about criminal prosecution for insurance fraud and well as policy cancellation if the insurance company deems the gender disclosure to be inaccurate.
This research project will involve examination of these laws, as well as the public policy implications, associated with mandatory gender identification in the context of annuity and life insurance policies.
The stakes are also high regarding what constitutes fraud or misleading the insurer, because criminal prosecution as well as cancellation of the policy are potential outcomes. For example, the current legal and policy environment fails to account for:
(A) A person assigned a particular gender on a birth certificate, but who identifies differently than the birth certificate;
(2) A person who had reassignment surgery, prior to applying for insurance;
(3) A person who has reassignment surgery, after a policy has been assigned (i.e. can the insurer modify the terms and impose additional costs on what was supposed to be a fixed price life insurance or annuity policy?); and/or
(4) A person who chooses to identify as "non-binary" (which currently is not an option on most of these policies and would result in rejection of the application)
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
PART A. The BEACoN Research Scholar will perform research using resources available through Cal Poly, including Westlaw (legal and law related database), litigation databases, news story research and general internet searches. Based upon the results of that research, the scholar will identify relevant documents, policies/regulations, court opinions, and news stories to both identify and analyze the topic. For example, policy papers related to non-discrimination and non-gender based insurance underwriting will be relevant, as well as court cases related to insurance fraud based on gender, etc.
PART B. After identifying research materials described above, the BEACoN Research Scholar will help to analyze, summarize, and offer comparative analysis on the policy issues identified as well as the solutions evident in the research. This analysis will be supported from also reviewing social, economic, political, legal, and related research works.
BEACon Research Scholar will develop the following skills/experience:
The researcher will gain skills in: conducting research on law and public policy materials (judicial decisions,
regulations, and policy perspectives); legal research and analysis; and legal research methodology (including quantitative and qualitative analysis).
Required Experience/Coursework:
REQUIRED:
A. BUS 207 OR other introductory law course (including community college transfer courses).
B. INTRODUCTORY coursework (either Cal Poly or community college transfer course) in social science or ethnic studies.
C. INTRODUCTORY math, quantitative reasoning, or critical thinking coursework.
Preferred Experience/Coursework:
PREFERRED:
A. Intermediate level coursework in social science or ethnic studies.
B. Intermediate level coursework math, quantitative reasoning, or critical thinking coursework.
Ahmed Deif
(he/him/his)
adeif@calpoly.edu
Industrial Technology and Packaging
Research project Title:
Capturing and Characterizing Microaggressions on CP Muslim Community and How they Impact their sense of Belonging
Research Project Description:
This study will capture and characterize the different forms of microaggressions that the Muslim community at Cal Poly experience and how they impact the community’s sense of belonging. The research data will be conducted in two phases. Phase I will focus on developing and designing survey questions that can identify demographic variables of the Muslim community, discuss microaggressions they had experienced, and rate their sense of belonging. Phase II will be comprised of individual interviews with selected participants that further explore their experience. Interviews will be transcribed and coded using a content analysis. Across the two phases, quantitative, mixed-method, and content analyses will be conducted. Characterization of microaggressions will include a qualitative analysis of cross tabulating demographic variables with the number and basis of microaggression. The frequency, type, and basis of microaggressions will also be explored. The results from this research will target outcomes. First, a better understanding of themes of impact microaggression has on CP Muslim community’s sense of belonging (facilitators, obstructers, and changes in belonging). The second outcome will be geared towards suggestions for macro-interventions and micro-interventions to CP leadership and community on how to address this issue.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The student will be expected to:
1- Build a background on the the topic of microaggression
2- Gather data (phase I and II)
3- Share in data analysis
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
Background in sociology or ethnics study is preferred.
Ability to gather data from surveys and follow up
Basic descriptive statistical skills.
Required Experience/Coursework:
N/A
Preferred Experience/Coursework:
N/A
Hamed Ghoddusi
(he/him/his)
hghoddus@calpoly.edu
Finance
Research project Title:
Housing Costs and Inequality in Higher Education Access
Research Project Description:
Do rising housing costs and limited housing options hinder access to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds? Many cities that host higher education institutions worldwide have been experiencing rising house prices, making the topic increasingly urgent and relevant. San Luis Obispo is a prime example where higher housing prices and fewer rental options are creating barriers for students coming from outside the area. Expensive or inaccessible housing results in preferential college access for local students or students with generational wealth, eventually reducing educational justice and diversity within certain higher education institutions.
Capitalization of school quality in local house prices is well understood and documented in the literature. However, the reverse channel of high house price impact on limiting access to higher education and undermining educational justice has received much less attention and has rarely been studied. We propose this project to understand the housing-education nexus better and to develop a set of recommendations to mitigate the gap.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
The student will be involved in all stages of a full research project from conceptualizing to statistical analysis and policy development. Specific tasks for the student involve:
1) Run literature review on the nexus of housing and access to higher education.
2) Work with the mentor to develop conceptual framework and research hypothesis.
3) Collect and organize data on housing indexes and diversity outcomes of higher education institutions over time and space.
4) Run statistical/econometric analysis under the supervision of the mentor.
5) Work with the mentor to review the statistical analysis from causal identification perspective.
6) Run five case studies on policies adopted by other cities to improve access to housing for students.
7) Work with the mentor to develop policy recommendations and draft the final report.
What skills will the BEACoN Research Scholar gain:
The student will gain multiple types of qualitative and quantitative skills that can be highly beneficial for careers in evidence-based policy analysis and consulting.
First, they will be involved in the initial phase of framing an urgent policy question and developing relevant hypothesis through literature review and conceptualization.
Second, the student will have first-hand experience in collecting and organizing original data and running various types of statistical/econometric analysis of the data. They will also gain insights on how to criticize the results from the lens of causal identification and endogeneity concerns and how to look for innovative opportunities to address those concerns.
Finally, the student will work with the mentor to develop policy options and drafting a policy-oriented research report.
Required Experience/Coursework:
Students from multiple majors including:
Economics, Real Estate, City and Regional Planning, Statistics, Public Health, and Sociology can apply for this project. The student is expected to be familiar with data collection process and statical/econometric analysis of data. Examples of courses that offer such skills include STAT 334, STAT 419, and Econ 339.
Preferred Experience/Coursework:
It is preferred if the student has skills and experiences in automated data collection (e.g., through Web Crawling). It is also preferred if the student has taken some social policy or urban/housing economics classes or has internship experiences with quantitative policy research.
Rafael Guerra Silva
(he/him/his)
rguerras@calpoly.edu
Industrial Technology and Packaging
Javier Gonzalez-Sanchez
(he/him/his)
javiergs@calpoly.edu
Computer Science and Software Engineering (CENG)
Research project Title:
Computer Vision for Human-Robot Interaction and Collaboration
Research Project Description:
Although industrial robots are a common feature in many industries, collaborative robots (cobots) are becoming increasingly common for different applications. Cobots are well-suited for tasks that require human-like dexterity, flexibility, and responsiveness, with the high speed, precision, and repeatability of traditional industrial robots.
Nevertheless, safety, trust, and communication in human-robot interactions are critical challenges that must be addressed. While cooperation comes naturally to humans due to our capacity to communicate and understand the intentions of other humans, it is necessary to provide robots with similar capabilities. The use of sensors and AI can provide robots with some capabilities to interact with humans, but new paradigms that enable more intuitive types of communication could be advantageous. Can we leverage current technologies to bridge the human-cobot gap to improve safety, trust and communication in an industrial environment?
This project focuses on exploring computer vision technologies to enhance human-robot interaction, primarily examining human-robot interfaces and cognitive and adaptive response.
Expected outcomes included:
• Developing software components in an object-oriented programming language that will be reused and extended in future stages.
• An exploration of methods for integrating computer vision and data analysis for applications in human-robot interactions.
• Applying machine learning tools and reasoning components to human-robot interaction.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
Literature Review (20 hours). Students will perform a literature review to learn the basic theory behind cobots, with an emphasis on interfacing technologies.
Training (20 hours). Students will be trained in using equipment and software for robot programming using open-source tools. Teachers will provide additional training as needed.
Human-Robot Interface (20 hours). In addition to programming tools and interfaces, robots receive information about their surroundings via different types of sensors, which will provide data to make decisions and interact with humans. The student will explore the use of sensors, with special emphasis on cored technologies for computer vision.
Human-Robot Interface (20 hours). Although basic sensors (position, light, distance, motion caption, etc.) can be used to control robot operation, more advanced technologies such as computer vision, gesture and speech recognition could be used to help robots understand human intention. Students will explore the use of these technologies and the integration of sensors and software.
Human-Robot Interface (20 hours). Sensors enable human-to-robot communication; However, effective communication is a two-way path. Hence, it is necessary to explore the role of feedback through actuators and how they can be used to collaborate more effectively with users.
Human-Robot Interface (20 hours). Integration of all input-output devices, including those specifically designed for human-robot interaction will be set up to perform simple tasks. Benchmarks will be determined and used to test the performance of the robotic system.
Testing adaptive behavior (20 hours). The team will use an assessment of priorities for multiple scenarios involving human-robot interaction. The team will explore different technologies and their potential application in the industrial environment.
Case Study, Wrap-Up and Assessment (20 hours). The tool will be assessed with structured guidance to document a case study. At the end of the week, we will have developed a small cobot project using open-source code and human-robot interface technologies.
Final Report (20 hours). The students will write a short paper discussing the state of the art, our findings, and future work.
What skills will the BEACoN research scholar gain:
This project includes as an essential goal advancing undergraduate students' professional development, particularly by exposing them to:
(1) Exploring devices and interfaces used to program (and interact with) robots, including computer vision interfaces: gesture-based and posture-based affect recognition, eye-tracking;
(2) Explaining what it takes to gather, filter, and integrate affective data from a variety of sources and the challenges of Machine Learning applied to robot programming;
(3) Integrating data from a variety of sources and correlated stimuli for human-robot interaction;
(4) Developing adaptive intelligent systems; (5) Producing new ideas based on a systematic review of milestone papers in the field.
Furthermore, the student will be part of a software development project, providing them with the opportunity for learn-by-doing, in addition to developing organizational skills and basic training in scientific communication.
Required Experience/Coursework:
CSC 307 or CSC 308/309
Preferred Experience/Coursework:
Experience programming in Java, Arduino or Rasberry Pi. Hands-on experience with computer vision and/or related technologies.
Yongcheng Zhan
(he/him/his)
yozhan@calpoly.edu
Management, Human Resources, and Information Systems
Benjamin N. B. Alexander
(he/him/his)
balexa02@calpoly.edu
Management, Human Resources, and Information Systems
Research project Title:
Enhancing Podcast Audience Interaction and Engagement through Generative AI: Investigating the Effects of Automated Instant Response to
Listener Queries
Research Project Description:
Podcasting has emerged as an influential medium for content consumption, allowing for the dissemination of information in a user-friendly format. However, interaction and engagement between the podcasters and the audience remain largely unidirectional and asynchronous. There is a need to explore novel approaches for bolstering real-time interaction and engagement, especially in leveraging advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Generative AI models, such as ChatGPT, offer promise in creating instant, contextually relevant responses to user queries, which can potentially transform audience interaction within podcasts. This research proposes to investigate the role of Generative AI in enhancing interaction and engagement within podcast audiences by automating instant responses to listener queries.
BEACoN Research Scholar's role in project:
• Review relevant literature on generative AI and computer-human interaction (HCI to gain a deeper understanding of the potential roles of AI in supporting audio listeners.
• Develop a prototype to incorporate a generative AI model to facilitate real-time interaction between podcasters and audiences. This will include:
o Selection of appropriate generative AI models;
o Development of an interface for listeners to submit queries;
o Implementation of real-time response and delivery.
• Recruit participants and conduct a survey to collect data to measure audience engagement, interaction, and satisfaction.
• Use statistical tools to analyze the results.
What skills will the BEACoN research scholar gain:
Critical thinking skill: Summarizing literature and building research questions
Programming Skill: Developing a Python program prototype to manage audio data; utilizing generative AI models to process queries and generate responses
Data Skill: Employing statistical models to perform rigorous data analysis
Communication Skill: Compiling concise, coherent result reports for diverse audiences and presenting findings in a suitable and effective manner.]
Required Experience/Coursework:
Basic knowledge of statistics and computer programming (Python)
Preferred Experience/Coursework:
Advanced knowledge of statistical analysis and computer programming (Python)
