Interdisciplinarity and Inclusivity in Education

Sep 29, 2024

Lecture on Interdisciplinarity, Inclusivity, and World Readiness

Introduction

  • Welcome and thanks to collaborators and panelists.
  • Moderator: Mesa Ogus.

Panelist Introductions

  • Panelists' Backgrounds:
    • Working towards various degrees and involved in different fields.
    • Emphasis on interdisciplinarity and inclusivity.

Panel Discussion Questions

1. Snapshot of Current Work

  • Panelist 1 (Raman Ruth):
    • Business Intelligence at Sergeant Lundy.
    • Projects include process automation with AI and application development for cost data analysis.
  • Panelist 2 (Antonia Roach):
    • Sociology PhD student focusing on race, social movements, and veganism.
    • Engages in data collection and works at a vegan restaurant.
  • Panelist 3 (Michaela Meer):
    • Data Scientist at Mitre Corporation.
    • Works on data privacy projects with the Census Bureau, focusing on protecting privacy and usability.
  • Panelist 4 (Angie):
    • PhD student in Biomedical Informatics.
    • Researches cancer epigenetics and develops immunotherapy.
  • Panelist 5 (Pablo Bazar):
    • Policy Associate at the American Immigration Council.
    • Supports policy team with research, outreach, and volunteer management.

2. Education and World Readiness

  • World Readiness vs Career Readiness:
    • More comprehensive and adaptable.
    • Importance of managing complexities of work and life.
  • Impact of Education:
    • Exposure to interdisciplinary work and handling tough conversations.
    • Importance of relationships with faculty and peers.

3. Connection Between Current Work and Honors College

  • Use of Interdisciplinary Skills:
    • Integration of varied perspectives in business intelligence.
    • Confidence and skills in handling complex projects.
  • Research and Collaboration:
    • Impact on current careers and projects.

4. Interdisciplinarity, Collaboration, and Inclusion

  • Relationship:
    • Intrinsic connection among these concepts.
    • Importance of collaboration and inclusion in interdisciplinary work.
  • Critical Skills:
    • Communication and understanding limits.
    • Inclusion requires intentionality and accountability.

Audience Questions

Balancing Honors College and Major

  • Approaches:
    • Integrate honors courses with major work.
    • Utilize resources and faculty support.

Advice for Current Students

  • Engage and Build Relationships:
    • Attend events and engage with faculty.
    • Importance of networking and utilizing resources.
  • Explore Opportunities:
    • Take diverse courses and participate in research.
    • Be adaptable and open to new experiences.
  • Self-Care and Balance:
    • Learn limits and manage workload effectively.

Closing

  • Encouragement to engage in World Readiness Mentoring Network for continued growth and support.

Key Takeaways:

  • Interdisciplinarity and inclusivity are crucial in education and career.
  • Building relationships and engaging with diverse opportunities enhance world readiness.
  • Adaptability, communication, and understanding one's limits are essential skills.