I've been away from blogging for a while, and I must say I miss it! Perhaps you've missed it, too. I certainly hope so!
In catching up, I wanted to highlight a session that I am co-chairing for the 2014 SACNAS National Conference "Creativity, Vision and Drive: Toward Full Representation in STEM" to be held October 16-18, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Before you read any further, watch this 4 minute video.
A trophic cascade is a change at the top of the ecological system that causes many changes throughout the system. The session, "The Power of Microactions: Active Preparation for Advanced Degrees" is similar--looking at the impact of small scale changes on larger scale outcomes.
An article, Evidence-Based (Simple but Effective) Advice for College Students: Microaction and Macrochange prompted the session. According to the author, Dr. Sung Hee Kim, individuals struggle to make the changes they desire in part because they aim too high. What you need is a significant, doable change that can be incorporated into your lifestyle on a daily basis. For example, if you want to walk more, commit to parking in the back of the parking lot instead of the closest space. The benefits most immediately--you're not fighting for a space and more steps for your wristband pedometer--and in the longer term--walking may improve your body's overall health!
The real strength in a microchange is that it becomes habit with minimal effort, and it allows macrochange in the longer term.
Sci-curious? Here's a few suggestions for your classroom experience.
- Keep a planner
- Bring both a pen and a highlighter to class
- Exchange emails with someone in your class
- Get on a list serve for interships, research experiences or jobs
- Say thank you to the professor when you leave class
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