A short-lived perennial in the mustard family, Arabidopsis lyrata is often used in studies of plant ecology and evolution due to its high level of morphological and genetic polymorphism. A. lyrata can also grow in disturbed or disadvantaged habitats, such as on nutrient poor serpentine soils high in heavy metals. We aim to provide insight into local adaptation and evolution through examining genetic differences and similarities between A. lyrata populations growing in the same geographic area but in differing habitats, on granitic and serpentine soils in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Using amplification through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of selected microsatellite loci (highly variable regions of the genome), determination of microsatellite allele composition, and statistical analysis, we will determine whether serpentine soil populations are genetically closer to each other, despite geographic distance, or if they are the result of local adaptations of granitic soil populations.
The purpose of this case study was to gain experience as a consultant-in-training for preparation as a future school psychologist, specifically with the Classroom Check-Up coaching model (2020), via teleconsultation. This model follows five problem-solving steps to improve student engagement. After the consultant collected virtual class observation data on four occasions and provided performance feedback, the consultee, a fourth-grade teacher, identified increasing her use of behavior specific praise as an area of desired improvement. The short-term use of the model demonstrated a substantial increase in the teacher’s use of behavior specific praise in her online classroom. Lessons learned from utilizing Classroom Check-Up (2020) through tele-coaching, implications, limitations, and possible future directions for research will also be discussed.
Economic development has accelerated in Lancaster city at a pace not seen in many years. New progress has brought new attention to the unsheltered residents living in and around the Binn’s Park area in the business improvement district. With Lancaster’s diversifying pool of stakeholders and residents, it is critical that all sides collaborate effectively to ensure the humanization, rather than criminalization, of the homeless population. This research project aims to look at established recommendations, identify best practices and apply them to the local issues that are currently impacting unsheltered homeless population in Lancaster City. Policies need not be crafted for those living in the Binn’s Park area, but rather can be created with their voices included. Including the voices of those impacted by homelessness, can empower them as human beings who deserve a say in their own futures. Those individuals who have experienced homelessness or are currently homeless, should be considered key stakeholders in the development of future action plans. This project will examine ways in which this can be done on a local level.
