White Paper: Addressing Complexity in Writing Intensive Course Assignments

A central tenet of the WI courses at our university is the inclusion of “at least one writing assignment addressing a question for which there is more than one acceptable interpretation, explanation, analysis, or evaluation.” To interrogate how this element emerges in writing assignments, we designed a research study based on data from 300+ WI course proposals.  As we worked through our analysis, we asked the following question: How do WI assignments engage students in the complexity of their disciplines?

How has the Covid-19 pandemic affected mental health for college students?

High suicide rates and reports of poor mental health have been prevalent issues for many years. The Covid-19 pandemic made these issues increase at an alarming rate.

Let’s Talk About Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are a painful hinderance to young athletes. It is important that parents know how to best prevent them.

Hunting for Changes in Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) in a Mine-Impacted Stream

The intent of this research is to shed new light on a historic topic by analyzing how the quality and quantity of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) changes along the Lone Elm Stream. Dissolved organic carbon is an important nutrient source for aquatic organisms.

Using Trail Cameras to Study White-Tailed Deer Vigilance Behavior Within an Agroforestry Landscape

To understand how deer navigate and behave across agroforestry systems, 14 wildlife camera traps were installed within five natural (edge, open, wooded) or farmed (orchard, pasture) environments

Write up the Road

At the University of Missouri, excellence is among the values that guide students, staff and faculty alike. To help Tigers continue to excel, the Campus Writing Program (CWP) recently hosted a retreat in nearby Rocheport. The two-day, overnight program allowed 19 faculty, staff and graduate students to network and dive into their writing — free from distractions.

James Watson’s The Double Helix: Inaccurate and Insightful

The Double Helix has become notable for its unique focus on the more tawdry, personal details of the lives of scientists as well as for its dramatic exaggeration of certain personalities and events.

Rituals: The Liminality of Death

Rituals creates a space that recalls traditional practices surrounding the death of a loved one.

Leaving Church, Learning Love: Experiences of Queer Women in Purity Culture

Evangelical Christian purity culture is a sexual ethic that emphasizes gender conformity, modest dress for girls and women, and the importance of maintaining “purity” or “virginity” until heterosexual marriage.

Evaluating Rainfall-Runoff Processes in Missouri Watersheds

Watershed simulation models are valuable tools to evaluate the impacts of changing weather patterns and land management on the hydrologic cycle.