SOA Research Series Talk: Dr. Susan Sprecher, “Engaging Teams of Social Science Students in a Research Laboratory Experience: The Benefits to the Team, the Participants, and the Faculty Member (and some Research Findings!)”
As part of the Sociology and Anthropology Research Series, distinguished professor of sociology Dr. Susan Sprecher will deliver a presentation titled, “Engaging Teams of Social Science Students in a Research Laboratory Experience: The Benefits to the Team, The Participants, and the Faculty Member (and some Research Findings!)” for our first talk of the semester.This event is free and open to all.“Ever since the SOA department acquired lab space on the 2nd floor of Schroeder, I have been involving teams of students in conducting experimental studies on the getting-acquainted process. One goal has been to address research questions about weak-tie social connections and the getting-acquainted process. However, an equally important goal for me has been to mentor students in the research process. This will be a two-part presentation. In the first part of the presentation, I will discuss the value of offering social science undergraduate students research experiences, including preparing them for an ever-changing work environment which often requires data literacy. Many “soft skills” are also enhanced by a team experience in a research laboratory, including collaboration and team-building. I will also provide tips from my own experiences which may help others who are working with teams of undergraduate students. Second, I will present a research paper from data collected in the lab. This paper examines how even a minimal social interaction can boost mood and feelings of social connection and belonging, and presents information on how conditions of the interaction and individual difference variables (e.g., shyness) moderate the degree to which the interaction can increase mood and feelings of social connection.“
