19264 research outputs found
Sort by
Embracing Kinship : Integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge into Outdoor Orientation Programs
No full textiii, 14 p.For time immemorial, Indigenous communities have utilized traditional ways of knowing to position themselves in the world, and ultimately be among the most effective stewards of the natural world. One such way of knowing is Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), described as “the knowledge, practice, and belief concerning the relationship of living beings to one another and to the physical environment” (Berkes, 1993). In a time threatened by a fundamental disconnect between humans and nature, much can be learned from the ideologies of TEK. Potential implications of TEK education are extensive but are generally divided into three categories: (a) encouraging ecological stewardship; (b) providing a more holistic sense of belonging; and (c) decolonizing education. Platforms and methodologies for TEK education remain limited. However, Outdoor Orientation Programs (OOPs) as an educational platform offer an avenue of opportunity. Methods of pedagogy can be drawn by referencing previous examples of TEK education in similar fields of biological research and outdoor education, as well as indigenous pedagogy itself, such as storytelling. Engagement with TEK in areas such as OOP experiences is necessary to heal broken relationships between humans and nature, as well as to break down colonial agendas. Still, understanding how to properly foster relationships with Indigenous communities and fundamentally shift preconceived educational and cultural frameworks are areas that must first be prioritized and require additional research
Using a Kinetic Model to Identify Evaporated Gasoline for Forensic Fire Debris Analysis
No full textiv, 15 p.Fire debris analysis involves identification of ignitable liquid residues in fire debris samples collected from crime scenes, as the presence of an ignitable liquid can indicate criminal intent. Fire debris samples are typically extracted using the passive-headspace extraction method, analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the resulting chromatogram compared to a reference collection of ignitable liquid chromatograms. With unavoidable evaporation due to heat from fire, chromatograms of evaporated liquids look different from their unevaporated counterparts. As such, it is necessary to generate a reference collection of evaporated liquids. While liquids can be experimentally evaporated, our laboratory developed a kinetic model to predict evaporation of gasoline. This study evaluated the success of the model in predicting the evaporation level of gasoline samples taken through both the direct injection method and the passive-headspace extraction method. Gasoline was evaporated to different levels by volume using nitrogen sparging and subjected to the passive-headspace extraction method followed by analysis via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The kinetic model was used to predict chromatograms of these evaporated liquids that were then compared to the experimental chromatograms. Strong correlation was observed between experimental and predicted chromatograms for both methods using statistical analysis. The kinetic model was then used to generate predicted reference collections of chromatograms corresponding to gasoline evaporated to different levels. The model successfully predicted the evaporation levels of two blind samples and indicated that a third blind sample did not contain gasoline
Reflecting Identity and Shaping Unity: Exploring the Social, Political, and Economic Dimensions of Nairobi and Dakar’s Art Scenes as Pathways to Transformation and Pan-African Unity
No full text57 p.This thesis explores the contemporary art scenes in Nairobi and Dakar, focusing on their social, political, and economic aspects, while investigating their potential to impact the broader subjects of Pan-Africanism, African identity, and global artistic engagement. Through field research, interviews with artists, and scholarly analysis, the study emphasizes how art in these cities serves as both a reflection of societal realities and a tool for transformation, activism, and cultural diplomacy. The research contrasts Dakar's contemporary art scene with Nairobi's. It addresses significant challenges, including economic instability, reliance on international buyers, and the quest for greater local and international recognition. The thesis also highlighting opportunities for artistic collaboration, policy reform, and regional self-sufficiency. The thesis concludes by offering recommendations for promoting intra-African artistic networks, boosting institutional support, and redefining African art according to its own terms, ensuring that artists can engage with both local and global markets without compromising their narratives and cultural autonomy
Corruption and The KKK : Two Issues That Defined Ulysses S. Grant's Presidency
No full text35 p.Grant's presidency was complicated for the two issues he faced the most, civil rights and corruption. He is often most remembered for corruption as that was the primary focus throughout the 20th century. However, as we are now living in a world where civil rights is still an issue and African Americans are still being mistreated, Grant's work for civil rights and his battle in taking down the Ku Klux Klan is now more of a focus rather than his corrupt administration and is now much more appreciated. The more recent authors acknowledge that civil rights is still an issue and they present Grant's work in this area more than they focus on the corruption within his administration. Grant's legacy was always rising and decreasing in time but in today's world, his reputation is on the upward trend and is continuing in that direction because we acknowledge the fight for civil rights is still continuing and we appreciate the work that Grant has done in that area as he was one of the first to take on that fight
An Analysis of the Implications of the Inflation Reduction Act Regarding Battery and Electric Vehicle Markets in the US
No full textiii, 16 p.Increased concerns for environmental damage caused by humans have forced lawmakers to create protective laws for the environment. One action has been laws that will encourage decreased emissions from vehicles. A newly formed law, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, is such a law. This paper will break down the restrictions of the act, who will be affected by them, and how much will they be affected. We will use welfare analysis to determine winners and losers from the new law. We will find changes in welfare for consumers, producers, government, and the environment to determine whether the Inflation Reduction Act satisfies its goals
Dum Spiro Spero
No full text35 p.I’d like to get this out of the way. I had what some may deem a turbulent adolescence. I don’t like to spend much time on it anymore, because I used to spend all my time on it. It was all I could talk or think about. However, I do think it’s worth this brief prelude. I had a turbulent adolescence. I tell you this because I am of the belief that all the very best works of human expression were made by people who understood, on some level or other, a fundamental truth about creation. In order for it to speak clearly, it must be about the Honest Feeling. The story (or image) holds its own merits, each with its purpose. But those are practical matters. Corporeal. So let’s focus on the feeling, shall we? I had a turbulent adolescence and the story, with all its pain and context, matters little
Mid-Thought : An Exploration of Feelings and Memories with the Help of Printmaking
No full text24 p.This article describes the methodology and ideology present during the creation and completion of Carolyn Ingram’s Senior Individualized Project (SIP). As she explored memories of growing up in Michigan with idyllic imagery to capture moments as well as deal with everyday stressors. Using printmaking, drawing and collage, Carolyn pieced together fragments to create an exhibit of shared nostalgia, peace and reverence for the natural world. The main object of her work was the use of linocut printmaking, where she moved away from using it traditionally with editions to utilize it as a free-flowing painterly tool of monoprint technique. With xerox transfers she merged her snap and shoot film with the softness of paper and printmaking. This sip explores multimedia, handmade paper, family imagery, and nature through traditional and modern printmaking techniques. With the use of multiple mediums, the consistency of mark making, colors, patterns and materials Carolyn created a cohesive sip that welcomed the viewer to slow down and be thankful
On the Experiences of BIPOC at Kalamazoo College : A Studio Photography SIP
No full text23 p.When contemplating my Senior Individualized Project, I decided I wanted to create something that would meaningfully reflect my journey at Kalamazoo College. As a first-generation Latina at Kalamazoo College, I’ve often struggled with a sense of alienation on campus. By involving myself in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) spaces at K, I discovered that many of my peers had similar experiences and feelings. I realized that creating a project aimed at highlighting BIPOC experiences while studying at a primarily white institution (PWI) like Kalamazoo College was something incredibly significant to me. There is an inherent importance to the sharing and documenting of BIPOC experiences at Kalamazoo College. These experiences, whether neutral, positive, negative, or mixed, deserve a safe space to be shared. It is my hope to contribute to the availability of such a space. This project aims to create a photographic catalog of BIPOC individuals at K College accompanied by reflective short stories about their time at the institution. We need a starting reference through which to understand the campus environment, something through which we can catalog both positive and negative experiences, placing emphasis on and acknowledging the latter. Not only acknowledging these experiences but intentionally attempting to discern and establish patterns. It is only when patterns are identified and deemed harmful that the overall society may act upon them to contribute to change. I hope that through this project’s creation, all people on Kalamazoo College’s campus continue to have more open and diverse dialogue about the notable experiences of BIPOC individuals
Integrating Online Learning with On-Campus Coursework: A Pathway to Entrepreneurial Success
No full text6 p.In today’s fast-changing educational environment, combining online courses with traditional on-campus learning has become increasingly important, particularly for those looking to become entrepreneurs. My experience with Coursera has equipped me with essential skills and knowledge in areas such as hospitality luxury brand management, launching an online business, business analysis and process management, and Google Ads for beginners. These online courses complement my studies at Kalamazoo College, where I have engaged in various business-related subjects, including business communication, principles of economics, accounting, and corporate finance. This paper examines the connections between my online and on-campus coursework, highlighting how they together provide me with the necessary tools to start and run my own business
LIFT Off from Detroit to Puerto Rico : A Journey in Finance and Opportunity
No full text15 p.Throughout this essay, I will discuss my time working as a Business Intern for LIFT in Puerto Rico. It is important to note that LIFT’s expansion in Puerto Rico was a key objective: our goal was to replicate the success we had achieved in Detroit. But first, let me explain what LIFT is, what it does, and why it is important. LIFT is an accelerator, convener, and connector within government, industry, and academia, with over 340 members. I like to think of it as a chain connection: as LIFT conducts research to identify issues from the government, we collaborate with industry and academia to find solutions. Focusing on advanced manufacturing, manufacturing processes, systems engineering, and talent development, LIFT identifies areas of improvement across these sectors. As a sponsored non-profit of the Department of Defense, LIFT holds significant responsibility in supporting the military. For example, on December 11, 2017, LIFT conducted a retrofit safety upgrade to reduce fatal rollovers in High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWVs). By reducing the rollover rate by 74 percent, we ultimately decreased the risk of injury to our military personnel. This project sparked my interest in understanding how my experience with LIFT could impact our country. The work done within this company not only develops and deploys advanced lightweight metal manufacturing technologies but also implements education and training programs to better prepare today’s workforce for the future