The Cato College of Education Research Symposium is an inaugural event that showcases the research of both faculty and graduate students. While it was originally intended to be held in a face-to-face environment, Scott Kissau, interim associate dean and event organizer, was able to work with college team to bring students and faculty together in a remote environment amidst the global coronavirus pandemic.
Participants of the event submitted a summary of their research as a digital poster that was later attached to a virtual forum on Canvas. Spectators could view, critique and ask questions about the work of their colleagues.
“I think the online event helped us all to regain some sense of normalcy in what is otherwise an unprecedented time. It underscores, in my mind, our resiliency, and the message that we can adapt and get through this together,” said Kissau.
Student participants also said they found the event rewarding.
“I thought it gave everyone a great opportunity to communicate and see each other’s work. It was just as impactful, if not more so, because I could reply to all my colleagues instead of standing at my own poster and missing that opportunity,” said Bryndle Bottoms, a graduate student in the Cato College of Education.
Though the format of the event changed, participation held steady. The symposium drew a total of 68 submissions and 131 participants, with 42% being faculty and 58% graduate students.
“The online version of the symposium was so well organized! I commend Dr. Kissau and his team for pulling it off. It was refreshing to feel connected to others and their research in this time,” said student Nina Bailey.
The Cato College of Education extends thanks to Florence Martin, Bobby Hobgood, Bree Bradley and Ed Conway for their contributions to organizing the symposium.