Learning styles: Individualizing computer‐based learning environments

In spite of its importance, learning style is a factor that has been largely ignored in the design of educational software. Two issues concerning a specific set of learning styles, described by Honey and Mumford (1986), are considered here. The first relates to measurement and validity. This is discussed in the context of a longitudinal study to test the predictive validity of the questionnaire items against various measures of academic performance, such as course choice and level of attainment in different subjects. The second issue looks at how the learning styles can be used in computer‐based learning environments. A re‐examination of the four learning styles (Activist, Pragmatist, Reflector and Theorist) suggests that they can usefully be characterized using two orthogonal dimensions. Using a limited number of pedagogical building blocks, this characterization has allowed the development of a teaching strategy suitable for each of the learning styles. Further work is discussed, which will use a multi‐strategy basic algebra tutor to assess the effect of matching teaching strategy to learning style

Create your own degree: Empowering students to find belonging in science

The Integrated Sciences specialization was introduced in recognition that the university was losing very talented science students who were frustrated by the constraints involved in following a traditional degree program. As such, it is an alternative to a traditional major or honours science program, and gives students the opportunity to design their own curriculum with the mentorship of a faculty member specializing in the chosen field of interest. Because the process of developing a degree program takes time, commitment, and effort, the students are highly motivated and engaged with their curriculum. As a result of the interdisciplinary nature of the program they graduate with a wide breadth of scientific knowledge. Almost all Integrated Sciences graduates go on to professional or graduate schools. The specialization admits approximately 110 students per year, most at the end of their first year. Because of the small size the students develop a strong sense of belonging. This is reinforced by core ISCI courses, a peer mentoring program and a strong student club. The main barrier to introducing a similar specialization at other universities appears to be the need for senate approval of new degree programs. We are fortunate that the founders of the specialization at the University of British Columbia (UBC) negotiated blanket approval for our student\u27s individual programs. This interactive presentation will provide an overview of the Integrated Sciences specialization, discussion on supporting and empowering students throughout their degree, and modes of collaboration and mentorship amongst students, staff, and faculty to create a sense of belonging in science

A Novel Coding-Region RNA Element Modulates Infectious Dengue Virus Particle Production in Both Mammalian and Mosquito Cells and Regulates Viral Replication in Aedes Aegypti Mosquitoes

Dengue virus (DENV) is an enveloped flavivirus with a positive-sense RNA genome transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causing the most important arthropod-borne viral disease affecting humans. Relatively few cis-acting RNA regulatory elements have been described in the DENV coding-region. Here, by introducing silent mutations into a DENV-2 infectious clone, we identify the conserved capsid-coding region 1 (CCR1), an RNA sequence element that regulates viral replication in mammalian cells and to a greater extent in Ae. albopictus mosquito cells. These defects were confirmed in vivo, resulting in decreased replication in Ae. aegypti mosquito bodies and dissemination to the salivary glands. Furthermore, CCR1 does not regulate translation, RNA synthesis or virion retention but likely modulates assembly, as mutations resulted in the release of non-infectious viral particles from both cell types. Understanding the role of CCR1 could help characterize the poorly-defined stage of assembly in the DENV life cycle and uncover novel anti-viral targets

Almanac

"ALMANAC is an artists’ book in which alternative or marginalized knowledge is compiled into a functional resource. While a traditional almanac typically spans an annual cycle for the seasons ahead, the collected works and contained knowledge in this book eschew linear concepts of time in favour of alternate understandings of order within a shared context." -- Publisher's website