Future-Ready Literacy: Equipping Preservice Teachers with Instructional Tech Tools
Gayoung Choi
The rapid evolution of technology has ushered in a new era of literacy, demanding a fusion of traditional teaching methods with innovative digital resources. This research proposal focuses on the integration of instructional technologies into literacy education for preservice elementary teachers, aiming to bridge the gap between established pedagogies and the digital competencies required in modern classrooms. The objective is threefold: to enhance the digital literacy of future educators, to foster inclusive learning environments for multilingual learners, and to empower preservice teachers to create and share digital children's literature. The study will employ a multimodal framework, utilizing tools such as Canva for visual literacy, Padlet and ChatGPT for collaborative and multilingual engagement, and Book Creator for making digital books. Additionally, the project will explore the financial accessibility of these technologies, seeking cost-effective solutions for diverse educational settings. The methodology includes practical, hands-on workshops and interviews with preservice teachers, examining their experiences and growth in digital literacy skills. Participation compensation is provided to acknowledge the valuable insights of these educators, contributing to the study’s qualitative data. Expected outcomes include a set of best practices for technology integration in literacy instruction, enhanced readiness among preservice teachers to employ digital tools effectively, and a comprehensive understanding of the role of technology in supporting multilingual and multimodal literacy development. This research will culminate in a presentation of findings through academic channels, including a doctoral dissertation, poster presentations, and blog dissemination. With a budget of $1,000, this study is an economical yet impactful approach to preparing future educators for the digital transformation of literacy education.
Demystifying Tech for First-Time Users
Michael Burton
Students entering the workforce are faced with problems and challenges we are not yet aware of. They need to be prepared for these challenges and solve them creatively. The first step in teaching students to problem solve is through low-stakes exposure to technology. Specifically, hardware and software challenges that help them understand the possibilities of technology. This project will put students in the primary role as instructor to create low-stakes projects and videos for other students to use while learning technology at the UNL Innovation Studio and in the CEHS VR Sandbox.
Integrating an AI-Driven SaaS Analytics Platform in Retail Merchandising into TMFD Merchandising Curriculum
Na Young Jung
This proposal seeks funding to integrate an AI Software as a Service (SaaS) Analytics Platform in Retail Merchandising like Blue Yonder, RetailNext, or SPS commerce into the TMFD merchandising curriculum. This integration will advance student learning by providing hands-on experience with industry-leading technology, enhancing their understanding and practical skills in category management, assortment optimization, floor planning, and planogram generation. It prepares them for careers in retail merchandising management, aligning with the evolving needs of the retail industry and directly benefiting students by equipping them with relevant, in-demand skills.
Optimizing Sun Protection for Persons with Albinism: The Role of Wearable UV Devices in Assessing Fabric Photoprotection and Promoting Sun safe Behaviors
Taiwo Adejoke Bamidele
This study aims to address gaps in research utilizing ultraviolet (UV) sensors to promote sun-safe behaviors. UV sensors are essential to the study outlined below and will be purchased with the grant if funded. Photoprotection, including the use of sun-safe clothing, is vital in preventing skin cancers, and other debilitating photo dermatoses in Persons with Albinism (PWA). In sub-Saharan Africa, adherence to sun-safe practices among PWAs is hindered by climatic, social, cultural, and economic challenges. The high cost and limited availability of sunscreen make sun avoidance and the use of UV-protective clothing the most feasible options for photoprotection. Unfortunately, sun avoidance is often impractical due to intense all-year-round sunshine, while the effectiveness of clothing depends heavily on the fabric’s Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) and acceptability to the end user. Wearable UV-detecting devices hold promise for enhancing sun-safe behaviors in PWAs by providing critical data on the UPF of their clothing and by evaluating UV exposure in real-time. However, the intersection of UV sensors, personal exposure, clothing, and adaptive behaviors is scarce in literature and there is a need to address these gaps using wearable UV technology in assessing the UPF of fabrics and its effectiveness in encouraging sun-safe practices among PWAs in Nigeria. Consequently, there is limited understanding of the UPF of fabrics worn by PWAs and the impact of wearable UV technology in promoting sun-safe behaviors among them. This study will educate the TMFD students and a specific population on sun-safe behaviors, assessing fabric photoprotection, utilizing wearable UV devices, and providing public health interventions. Key questions include: 1. What is the level of awareness of PWAs about sun-protective clothing and what factors influence the clothing preferences of PWAs in sub-Saharan Africa? 2. How can wearable UV devices accurately measure the UPF of fabrics in vivo thereby guiding better fabric choices for PWAs? 3. How do wearable UV devices influence fabric choice and sun protective behaviors in PWAs? 4. How does wearing UV wearable sensors impact students’ awareness and adoption of sun safety practices?
Hospitality Horizons: Integrating ClassVR in Hospitality Management Education
Vernetta Kosalka
This proposal seeks funding to integrate ClassVR technology into hospitality management classes, providing students with immersive virtual experiences to explore the industry, tourism, and cultural events. The grant aims to enhance student learning and engagement through experiential learning opportunities facilitated by ClassVR.
Thin Layer Chromatography - old methodology perfect for new students
Tomasz Bednarski
One of my favorite techniques I have often used in my research is Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). Although it is a relatively an old technique, it has proven itself to be one of the most promising for lipid separation. Even though in recent years we have introduced much more advanced technologies in our laboratories like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), the freedom that TLC offers to its users is not just simplistic but also versatile and informative. From being able to manipulate the thickness of the silica plate, to the low cost of operating it, TLC has been a go-to methodology for many scientists over the years. TLC requires, and teaches, patience, accuracy, precision, simple calculations, and safety precautions. I strongly believe that teaching TLC to UNL students will greatly enhance their experience and will be beneficial not only for their scientific careers but also to their personal development.
Computational Toys and Robotics for Early Childhood Education
Minji Jeon
Research highlights the cognitive benefits of early exposure to computational toys and robotics in enhancing young learners’ creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration skills (Bers et al., 2014; Hamilton et al., 2020; Yang et al., 2022). This proposal seeks to update and expand the College of Education and Human Sciences’ resources with the latest educational robots and computational toys, focusing on tools designed for K-2 education. By equipping preservice teachers with modern teaching tools, this initiative aims to advance pedagogy and set a high standard in educational technology, preparing students to be leaders in their fields.