by Taylor Bryant
University of West Georgia Honors student Michelle Michael recently won first place in the oral presentation category at the Albany State Undergraduate Research Symposium in Albany, Georgia. Her research, titled Digital Media to Support Pre-Service Teachers’ Learning about Math Concepts, was first among five institutions statewide and a total of 16 oral presentations.
“This was my first time presenting research, so I was excited for the opportunity, yet nervous,” shared Michelle, a sophomore communications major from Sri Lanka. “I presented on integrating digital resources, especially videos, as online tools to ease the teaching of math concepts to education majors.”
The research idea originated while Michelle worked under Dr. Danilo Baylen, UWG professor of education. “It was Dr. Baylen’s idea, and I worked on the project with him, collecting and analyzing data research on other literature and finally drafting the evaluation report,” she explained. “When I heard about the research symposium, I consulted Dr. Baylen as to whether I should apply, and he willingly agreed and assisted me through the process along with Ms. Rowland from the Honors College.”
“Michelle made us extremely proud,” said Stacey Rowland, manager of undergraduate research. “She was an awesome representation of what undergraduate research at UWG is about. These are the opportunities we love to afford students throughout their college careers.”
“I was unaware that presentations were being judged for awards, so winning first place came as a surprise, but a pleasant one,” said Michelle. “I am happy that this is not just about me, but also my mentor, the department, and the university as a whole being represented through me. This award encouraged me, and I plan to continue succeeding in my educational pursuits.”
Michelle also traveled with other undergraduate researchers to present at the Georgia Undergraduate Research Conference in Statesboro, Georgia, November 14-15, 2014.
Do you have a comment or opinion about this story's topic? Perspective Online wants to hear from you. Submit a letter to the editor at perspect@westga.edu today.
