2018-2019 Undergraduate Research Club Projects

 

A Comparison of Different Social Media Platforms with Regards to Interpersonal Relationships

Principal Investigator: Alyssa Venn (President)

Co-Investigators:  Destiny Paige, Megan Rigas, Jack Arbuckle, Fatma Aldihri, Amanda Silverman, Kylie Parrish, Natilya Blades

Abstract: Technology has become a major outlet of communication in the modern world, particularly when considering internet-based social networks. Past research has analyzed the effects of internet-based communication on social interactions overall, with many studies indicating that social networks can be beneficial to interpersonal relationships if used wisely. However, while such studies have explored the use of a social media platform as a unified whole, relatively few studies have been conducted with the intent of comparing social media platforms to each other. Thus, this study is intended to analyze how social media platforms compare in terms of users’ social interactions, specifically focusing on the context, frequency, and quality of interpersonal communication.

 

Knowledge about Health Outcomes in College Students

Principal Investigator: Anjie Adeyemo (Vice President)

Co-Investigators:  Brooke Bentley, Cameron Pearson, Margot Aldana, Giovanni Still, Chase Redd, Shaharazad Stephens Muhammad, Nailah Carter, Jeavanie Desarmes, Abeer Osmans, Lora Asberry

Abstract: Research has shown that science-related majors who are exposed to information pertaining to their general and physical health have a better understanding of what is needed for a healthy lifestyle compared to their counterparts in majors outside of the sciences.  Previous research has shown an increase in unhealthy choices amongst young adults, specifically college students. The purpose of this research is to determine the extent to which students in different majors know correct information about their health.

From left: Matthew Fenner, Celessia Cannon, Kaelyn Ireland, Robbie Cronin. National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR), April 11-13, 2019, Kennesaw, GA.

 

 

“How Did You Sleep?” Analysis of Undergraduate Sleep Quality and Duration

Principal Investigator: Robbie Cronin (Treasurer)

Co-Investigators: Kaelyn Ireland, Matthew Fenner, Celessia Cannon

Abstract:  Undergraduate students have been shown to get fewer hours and lower quality sleep over the course of a semester and have variable sleep patterns over the course of an entire academic year. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a difference in sleep quantity and quality among different academic majors as well as over the typical four years of college, measured by class designation. In addition, we will determine if attitudes toward sleep have an impact on the quality and quantity of sleep.