Professors and graduate students from Washington State University were among more than 1,000 researchers involved in the worldwide effort to detect gravitational waves and confirm Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity. » More …
Studies of faculty development efforts at a liberal arts college and WSU suggest the programs can have an impact on student outcomes.
Intuitively, it makes sense that professors who spend time developing their teaching skills will become more effective instructors — and that that will eventually translate to better student outcomes. Practically speaking, though, the challenges of (and the variables involved in) tracing the effects of professional development on student learning are myriad. That’s probably why the research on the matter is patchy, relying largely on self-reported measures. » More …
The phrase “just kidding” is more than a way to escape a failed attempt at humor. Research by Nancy Bell, WSU associate professor of English, and colleagues found the expression serves at least four distinct functions and plays an important role in maintaining relationships. » More …
The San Diego Archaeology Center holds a pair of extraordinary skeletons. Dating back about 9,500 years, they are among the oldest human remains ever found in the Americas.
A number of scientists would love to study the bones, using powerful new techniques to extract any surviving DNA. » More …
Joe Batt drew a picture on a brick wall in downtown Olympia about a year ago. It was charcoal, life size—featuring a boy with a satellite attached to his head.
Batt, an artist and instructor at South Puget Sound Community College, has been meditating on the impact of Wi-Fi technology and devices on the culture and daily life. In a new exhibition at The Art Center at WSU Tri-Cities, he uses images like the one on the Olympia wall to provoke thought and inspire conversation. » More …