Current Module – Fall 2025
Project Description:
This research module provided an engaging introduction to the Missouri Mortality Project, which uses historical data to explore shifts in mortality causes over time. Based on Epidemiological Transition Theory, the project examines factors that influence human mortality, including public health policies and historical events.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will actively engage in research by analyzing death certificates from a specific Missouri county, covering the years 1910 to 1970, to identify trends in mortality. Participants will learn to read these historical documents, enter data into Excel, and perform basic epidemiological calculations. By the end of the module, students will have gained valuable skills in historical research and data analysis.
2024-2025 Modules
Exploring Artificial intelligence in Action: A Hands-On Experience in Autonomous Navigation
Project Description:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) involves technologies that enable machines to learn, reason, and make decisions, mimicking human intelligence. This capability is transforming industries by automating tasks and solving complex problems. In this module, we’ll explore the evolution and key elements of AI, and examine its integration into innovations like autonomous vehicles, chatbots, and recommendation systems through hands-on experience with the JetBot, a compact AI-enhanced robotic vehicle.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will gain a foundational understanding of key AI concepts through hands-on activities like image data collection and processing. They will train a deep learning model to recognize and follow a designated road path, which will be deployed on the JetBot for autonomous navigation. These interactive exercises will not only enhance programming skills but also deepen insight into data collection, model training, and deployment. Additionally, students will explore the application of these techniques in traffic safety and the broader implications of AI in the transportation industry.
Agriculture Monitoring Lab: A Case Study in Antibiotic Resistance (Needs Revising)
Project Description
A recent food poisoning outbreak linked to antibiotic-resistant bacteria has pointed to a specific farm, creating a key opportunity to improve public health. We plan to use advanced molecular techniques to see if these resistant strains are spreading to neighboring farms. Students will discuss the outbreak’s impact on stakeholders such as farmers, food safety regulators, healthcare professionals, and consumers. By examining guidelines from the CDC and FDA, along with industry standards for antibiotic use in livestock, participants will explore ways to reduce risks associated with antibiotic resistance. This collaborative effort aims to enhance food safety understanding and promote best practices in the agricultural sector.
Learning Outcomes:
Define and describe the risk of an antibiotic resistance in the environment. Gain scientific inquiry skills including generating hypothesis, analyzing results of a molecular diagnostic test, and using results to make conclusions. Consider a real-world issue from the perspective of different stakeholders.