Volker Thoma, University of East London – Recognizing Faces
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The way the brain processes faces, especially familiar faces, is still something of a mystery. Volker Thoma, a psychologist at The University of East London, is working to improve our neurological and psychological understanding of facial recognition. Dr Volker Thoma…
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Leah Levac, University of Guelph – Community Vitality Index
How can we best improve communities as a whole? Dr. Leah Levac, a political scientist at The University of Guelph, is attempting to answer that questions through the creation of a vitality index that measures well-being. Dr. Leah Levac is…
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Steven Barger, Northern Arizona University – Relationships & Depression
Do the people who surround you have sizable impact on your mental health? Dr. Steven Barger, a psychologist at Northern Arizona University, details the connection between depression and personal relationships. Dr. Steven Barger is a professor of psychological sciences at…
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William O. Stephens, Creighton University – Stoic Philosophy & Death
The fear of death is one of the most gripping and palpable sensation humans feel. Stoic philosophers like Epictetus, however, have a different view of our inevitable end. Dr. William O. Stephens, professor of philosophy and classical & near eastern…
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James Pivarnik, Michigan State – GPAs & Gym Memberships
How deep does the mind/body connection go? Dr. James Pivarnik, an epidemiologist at Michigan State University, profiles a specific correlation between hitting the gym & hitting the books. Dr. James Pivarnik is a professor at Michigan State University, in the…
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Brian Southwell featured on The Best of Our Knowledge
As always, host Bob Barrett selects an Academic Minute to air during The Best of Our Knowledge. Each week this program examines some of the issues unique to college campuses, looks at the latest research, and invites commentary from experts…
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Radu Sporea, University of Surrey – Technological Nomenclature
Every commercial for new electronics is packed with flashy tech terminology meant to entice you into thinking you need this new device. Radu Sporea, professor of engineering at The University of Surrey and The Academic Minute‘s resident technology expert, analyzes…
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Jean M. Twenge, SDSU – A Corrision of Trust
As a population, it seems we’re growing less and less trusting. Dr. Jean M. Twenge, psychologist at San Diego State University, is studying our growing suspicions. Jean M. Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University, is the author…
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Steven Soifer, University of Memphis – Paruresis
Certain afflictions are embarrassing to discuss. Because of this, they remain untreated and can often worsen. Dr. Steven Soifer, professor of social work & chair of the department at The University of Memphis, profiles shy-bladder syndrome. Dr. Steven Soifer received…
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Gary Small, UCLA – Teens and Screens
Smart phones are everywhere these days. It seems anywhere you turn, you’ll find someone with their head metaphorically buried in their mobile device. They may be checking their social media profiles, googling something or even looking up directions – but…