Scientific Connections: Immersion in Scientific Method RAP Fall 2013

This RAP is ideal for first-year students who have a passion for scientific exploration, creativity and research. 

It is open to students who are declared OR interested in a science, math, or engineering major, specifically for those with a desire to approach their studies from an interdisciplinary perspective.

When you join this RAP you will:

  • Work with accomplished faculty to design and carry out innovative team-projects that emphasize the application of scientific method, with a focus on the connections between math, chemistry, and other fields.
  • Share your living-and-learning experience with a community of high-achieving students who share your interests.
  • Take part in activities that will help prepare you to apply for the  iCONS program for Spring 2014. Check out this great video about iCons!

In this unique RAP seminar you will...

Be immersed in a scientific process that prepares you for future interdisciplinary study:

  • Learn how faculty from different disciplines such as math and chemistry approach similar problems.
  • Work in a small team to identify research problems that could be solved by incorporating elements of math, chemistry, and other fields.
  • Collect dataUse tools from mathematics and statistics for quantitative analysis of your data.
  • Draw conclusions; present and refine your research project.
  • Reflect on your research experience   

Learn and refine important scientific skills:

  • Working in teamsHow science works
  • Developing scientific questions
  • Data collection and analysis
  • How to use the techniques of mathematics and statistics in interpreting data and answering scientific questions

 

Samantha Bell, RAP Mentor Fall 2012

 

There is a great deal of math involved in many science activities and projects so it is extremely beneficial for student joining this RAP to be well prepared to be successful in calculus or a higher level math class.

Join a community of like-minded peers who are motivated to explore the Physical Sciences. You will make connections to faculty, and learn about the goals and opportunities available within the participating departments. 

Visit the How to Join page on this website to learn about the process and important timelines you must follow to become a member of this fantastic program! 

 

Meet the Faculty

Scott Auerbach, Chemistry Professor

Farshid Hajir, Math Professor

Welcome comments from the faculty: 

"Congratulations on joining the Science Connection RAP for Fall 2013.  This is my 4th  year teaching the seminar for this RAP, and I look forward to working again with Prof. Farshid Hajir as we work with you to connect math and science to studying ways to improve the lives of students.  I'm excited to meet you and work with you this coming Fall!"
Best, Scott

"I am looking forward to my second year of working with students in the Scientific Connections RAP.  I'll be joining forces with you alongside Professor Scott Auerbach to form a strong teaching-learning team."  Farshid

Classes

Students will enroll in the following classes, both taught in the residential area:

Fall 2013

"RAP Seminar" (UNIV 190R), 1 credit

AND

"History of Western Science and Technology II"- History 181 (Gen Ed HS), 4 Credits


Spring 2014

"College Writing" - English Writing 112 - will be offered in the residential area

 

Location

Students will live together in Mary Lyon Hall in the Northeast area of campus

Pamela R. Marsh-Williams, Ph.D.
Assistant Provost & Dean

This website is part of Undergraduate Advising & Learning Communities. We provide undergraduate students a variety of opportunities and services designed to facilitate the best academic experience possible. 609 Goodell Building, UMass Amherst.

UA&LC Units: Undergraduate Advising, Residential Academic Programs, Domestic Exchange Programs, Five College Interchange