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Research > Student Research Symposium 2012
Student Research Symposium 2012 |
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Times |
Student Presenters |
Topics |
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9.30a.m. |
Dr. Eslyn Jones, VP, Student Affairs |
Welcome |
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9:40-9:55a.m. |
Leeia Hutcheson & Gabriel Hudson |
Daddy Q to
Quincy Parker: the Evolution of a Bahamian Composer |
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9:55-10:10a.m. |
Marquel Wallace, Perry McHardy, Alexander Emenyonu &
Anyiah Smith |
The Economics of Junkanoo A Quantitative Analysis |
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10:10-10:25a.m. |
Tyrea Palmer, Khiry Adderley, Perez Rolle & Carl
Sands |
The Economics of Junkanoo:
a secondary analysis. |
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10:25-10:40a.m. |
Phillip Rolle, Chanel Rolle
& Thurman Johnson |
Clement Bethel and Cleophas Adderley: Classical to
Calypso |
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10:40-10:55a.m. |
Cyd Ferguson, Palincia Hunter, Tamara Wiltshire,
Oria Ambrose & K'lisa Whitfield |
The Economics of Junkanoo:
A Secondary Analysis |
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10:55-11:10a.m. |
Shante Graham, Antorn Forbes, Shelley Coakley, Lanique
Bethel & Bernica Davis |
The Importance of Junkanoo
to The Bahamian Society and Economy |
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11:10-11:25a.m. |
Ashley Knowles, Dylan
Stewart & Ferron Grant-Ingraham |
The Music Journey of Franz Hepburn: From
The Bahamas to the world |
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11:25-11:40a.m. |
Niaya Moss, Inga Collie, Tenielle Lightbourn & Robyn
Rolle |
Economics of Junkanoo:
Focusing on Venue |
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11:40-11:55a.m. |
Ranice Arnette & Crashan
Johnson |
A look at Caribbean and Classical Composers: Three
Compositional Techniques |
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11:55-12:10p.m. |
Dauran McNeil |
An Investigative Study into
the Use of Discipline and Classroom Management as it Relates to the Ministry
of Education's Rules and Procedures |
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12:10-12:25p.m. |
Kelly-Ann Tracey |
Unspoken Secretes |
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12:25-12:40p.m. |
Damicko Hanna |
Transparency of Information From Government
Agencies |
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12:40-12:55p.m. |
Rozanna Horton & Mychalla Higgs |
Cemeteries: Is the Dead
Competing for Space with the Living? |
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12:55-1:10 p.m. |
Kelli
A. Rolle |
College Students' Attitudes
Toward Mental Illness |
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1:10-1:20p.m. |
Judges' comments |
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1:20p.m. |
Dr.
Eslyn. Jones, VP Student Affairs |
Awards |
Judges: Ms. Virginia Ballance, Nursing and Health Sciences Librarian; Dr. Toni Francis, Assistant Professor/Head of Department, B.A. English Programme
Abstracts
Daddy Q to Quincy Parker: the Evolution of a Bahamian Composer
Level: 100
Advisor: Dr. Christine Ganglehoff, Assistant Professor, Music
The purpose of this study is to show the effects of migration on a Bahamian composer's music. We plan to determine whether or not being exposed to other cultures can affect a composer's work. Using a transcription of an interview done in our music history class, we will examine the effects of migration on Quincy parker's music. We will also include different field recordings showing an interview done with him as well as a performance of his work, "The Bitch's Waltz". All of this information will be presented on the blog page Tumblr. We will include highlights of our interview with Quincy Parker. He began his music career in the Bahamas at 100 Jamz radio station. He was later offered a chance to work at a local record company making beats and racks. Also during this research we found that Quincy didn't have a strong background in music -- he stated that he only got involved in music because he went away to study to it. If he had stayed in The Bahamas, he would have become so involved in music. He eventually went off to school and majored in classical guitar. He states that he went into the auditions not knowing how to play the guitar, but quickly learned and mastered it. He said that if he had not left the Bahamas he would never have gotten where he is now. His advice is that if you want to be something, it is best to broaden your horizons by traveling abroad.
The Economics of Junkanoo A Quantitative Analysis
Level: 200
Advisor: Dr. Nicolette Bethel, Assistant Professor, Sociology
This paper describes the economics of Junkanoo from a quantitative standpoint. This study was conducted by college students in 2009 (SOS 200- Social Research Class). This is a broad study which allows us to measure the impact of Junkanoo on the Bahamian economy. This study is also informative in illustrating the overall actual costs and revenue of Junkanoo. It discusses the overall quality of the parade and the various elements that contribute to it. These elements include music, costumes, choreographed dance, loyalty to a particular Junkanoo group and the overall experience. It also involves a complete consideration of all the elements that make up the Junkanoo fun.
Surveys were distributed as a research tool. Surveys were handed out to College students and they were asked fill out and hand it back immediately. The participants were given closed questions with a predetermined set of responses. They were also given the option to “add other”. Overall there were 291 persons surveyed between the ages of 18-25, with most being females.
This study finds that the major elements, such as music, dance, costumes, and loyalty to a particular group all make up the overall experience of the parade. Therefore, these major elements contribute to the overall quality of the parade. Study shows that music had the greatest interests among the participants, followed by costumes and then dance. This goes to say that the majority of the people who attend the Junkanoo event are most captivated by the music. The vibrant colors and themes of the various costumes sparked the view of the parade. This study also suggests since the music and costumes draw the most attention they give a balanced effect towards the choreographed dance. These three elements go hand in hand.
The Economics of Junkanoo: a Secondary Analysis
Level: 200
Advisor: Dr. Nicolette Bethel, Assistant Professor, Sociology
A study on the “Economics of Junkanoo” has been conducted by the Social Research class at The College of The Bahamas. The purpose of this research is to find ways in which the cultural festival of Junkanoo can generate revenue, and to examine the beneficial manifestations of such a cultural parade. More specifically, secondary analysis has been carried out on the results gathered in 2009 from a survey.
The results analyzed were based on questions pertaining to the organization of the Junkanoo parade such as the starting time, group arrangement, wait time between groups and the release of official results. In the re-analysis of the results, it was found that 66.3% of the persons thought the wait between groups was long, 25.4% said it was about right and 8.3% thought it was too short. In regards to more entertainment being placed between major groups, 68% agreed that entertainment should be placed between, 8.8% of the persons thought that music should not be placed between the groups and 23.3% took a neutral stance on the matter. Furthermore, 68% of the persons surveyed agree that the groups should align themselves so that every section can be accompanied by music, 14.5 disagreed with that notion and 16.7% assumed a neutral stance on the idea. Moreover, 80.8% agreed that the results of the Junkanoo parade should be official when announced, 6.9% disagreed with that notion and 12.3% were neutral and undecided in the matter. Hence, it can be inferred from such findings that the concept of Junkanoo, particularly in terms of a potentially revenue generating festival, needs to be restructured in its many aspects.
It was also interesting that the eruption of the world financial and economic crisis provoked a drop in global demand and a contraction of 12 percent in international trade. However, world exports of creative goods and services continued to grow, reaching $592 billion in 2008— more than double their 2002 level, indicating an annual growth rate of 14 per cent over six consecutive years. This is confirmation that the creative industries hold great potential for developing countries that seek to diversify their economies and leapfrog into one of the most dynamic sectors of the world economy.
Clement Bethel and Cleophas Adderley: Classical to Calypso
Level: 100
Advisor: Dr. Christine Ganglehoff, Assistant Professor, Music
Throughout this project we would analyze classical works written by Bahamian composers; Clement Bethel and Cleophas Adderley, focusing on the Caribbean themes they used. Cleophas Adderley has written a Bahamian opera entitled “Our Boys” and numerous pieces for the Bahamas National Youth Choir, which he also directs. His music consists of many Calypso, Junkanoo and Goombay rhythms, especially in his bass lines. Similarly, the late Edward Clement Bethel produced, composed and arranged numerous cultural productions both at home and abroad. He was the founding president of the Nassau Music Society and he also founded and directed the Renaissance Singers. He composed the folk opera “Legend of Sammie Swain”, which was performed for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by command in 1985, at the Caribbean Heads of Government Conference. He died at the young age of 49 in 1987, on August 24th. This presentation will illustrate how both composers utilized various techniques with the intent to infuse an Afro-Caribbean appeal and feeling to Classical music; for example, timelines, syncopation and rhythmic ostinato.
The Economics of Junkanoo: a Secondary Analysis
Level: 200
Advisor: Dr. Nicolette Bethel, Assistant Professor
Junkanoo in The Bahamas has carried a bulk of economic significance and continues to be beneficial economically in society today. The research study that we are now currently focused on deals with the ‘Economics of Junkanoo.' The purpose of the study is to evaluate the economic costs and benefits of this prestigious festival, whether it may be financial or cultural. Our investigation into the Economics of Junkanoo, led to a secondary analysis in which the main objectives were to analyze the length of time in which persons have either attended or watched Junkanoo and to evaluate each surveyed participant's perception of the overall quality of the parade. The research findings will enhance and help to expand information about Junkanoo in the Bahamas while at the same time, making researchers and the general public more knowledgeable of the topic. An analysis of the field data was examined, decoded and utilized from raw data provided from a research Survey conducted in 2009 on Junkanoo. The strategy utilized were to compare age to the change in quality, compare household income with quality of parade and attendance, compare what attracts people to Junkanoo to the quality of the parade, and compare age to the number of parades watched or attended. These aspects involved the use of qualitative and quantitative methods to fix or enhance the data. The implications encountered were ensuring that the data being analyzed were as accurate and plausible as can be. That challenge was overcome by carefully re-analyzing the data. The information retrieved will reveal methods to keep our cultural industries stable and a major contributor of economic advances in The Bahamas.
The Importance of Junkanoo to The Bahamian Society and Economy
Level: 200
Advisor: Dr. Nicolette Bethel, Assistant Professor, Sociology
Junkanoo is a very important aspect of Bahamian culture. It is celebrated every year and it seems to have a strong impact on the society and economy. The purpose of this presentation is to analyze the responses of Bahamians from the age of eighteen years and older. They were asked to rank the following categories: tradition, visual appeal, music, national pride, creativity, venue, time of night, competition, entertainment value and opportunity to make money to the importance of Junkanoo parades. Through secondary analysis of the Survey conducted in 2009, we have seen that Tradition has been of most importance to many of the participants. However, it has also showed importance in other aspects of what Bahamians' concept of Junkanoo really is.
This research will illustrate different areas in which Junkanoo can be viewed and the objectives Bahamians have towards its celebration annually. Our analysis has also shown that Junkanoo is very much still alive, even after all these years. Firstly, take into consideration the high level of economic support that Junkanoo has on local vendors, who during the Junkanoo season have the opportunity of selling foods, drinks etc to persons during the parade. Local businesses e.g. clothing stores, shoe stores, hairdressers and barbers etc., also benefited economically from Junkanoo; because Junkanoo is such an important aspect in the social lives of persons they seldom spend hundreds of dollars beautifying themselves for this event. Also persons working in business e.g. ferries, airplanes and car rental companies also benefit economically because Junkanoo sometimes cause persons to travel to different family islands, spending hundreds of dollars for accommodations such as hotels and food. Much of this money sometimes comes from persons' very own pockets. We must now use this cultural gift to assist in the development of our economy by possibly advertising Junkanoo on an international level. The exposure of Junkanoo will allow our culture to touch a larger market, who will appreciate Junkanoo just as much as we do. This economic advantage will allow Bahamians to see that as it relates to our culture. Junkanoo is unique and should be treated as an art of cultural celebration. If this exposure is a success, the money can be used to first replenish the treasury that does most of the funding for this parade every year. Then it can be put towards other areas and can be an official and sustainable boost for our striving economy.
The Music Journey of Franz Hepburn: From The Bahamas to the World
Level: 100
Advisor: Dr. Christine Ganglehoff, Assistant Professor, Music
The purpose of this project is to shed light on a Bahamian composer, Franz Hepburn a bass baritone singer, who has gained accomplishments on an international level. Our aim is to educate Bahamians of a musician, who does not live in his native country, but has made a name for himself on a global scale. We also hope to encourage young Bahamians to not only seek success on a local level, but also reach for global achievements.
Our research consisted of a study of his life as a musician, both as composer and performer. We analyzed three compositions: Bahama Moon, Exuma Blue, and Five Pertinent Questions First Movement (Where Have You Been?). We were fortunate to conduct an interview with the musician during his visit to New Providence; he talked about his evolution as an international composer and performer. We also had the opportunity to attend a performance at The Atlantis, Paradise Island. Franz Hepburn performed with Jack Foley, a tenor, and Joanne Callender, a soprano. Secondary sources, such as YouTube and other web sources were helpful in our research.
We discovered that his path toward international recognition was unorthodox. His unconventional way as a performer showed in his unusual compositions. He incorporates both classical and European derived techniques in his compositions. He also wrote compositions that reflect his Caribbean heritage.
There are many Bahamian musicians who are recognized world-wide for their art, but the Bahamian public is not aware of who they are. This project is to inform Bahamians that there are indeed accomplished Bahamians and to make information readily available.
Economics of Junkanoo: Focusing on Venue
Level: 200
Advisor: Dr. Nicolette Bethel, Assistant Professor, Sociology
Cultural growth and innovation is necessary for culture to maintain constant attractiveness to the citizens of a country. In The Bahamas, emphasis is placed on Junkanoo as one of the main aspects of Bahamian culture in which extra effort is placed. For that reason, the discussion will address the issues and results of the data collected from the SOS200 class of fall 2009, the research findings of the UNCTAD Report, and the importance of Junkanoo according to Kenneth Bilby. These were used to compare and contrast factors affecting perceptions of the venue, including demographics such as age, gender, social status and income. In addition, reference to any similarities or differences among other Caribbean countries will be made. Research will be given in a statistical form and figures and diagrams will be provided as well. Based on the figures given, we are assessing the countering aspects surrounding the reasoning for the venue of Junkanoo becoming a major factor in this. This is just one ideal and theory base as to what this group will cover, which is the counter-acting responses based on gender and its control on the Bahamian perception of Junkanoo. Summing up, all other aspects will relate to the economics of Junkanoo, the importance of Junkanoo, its contributions and the overall affects of Junkanoo on the Bahamian people, to ensure that this cultural element remains reflective of the people. Finally, our extensive research shows that the new National Stadium has become a potential location for the relocation of Junkanoo. As a result, “will spectators be willing to accommodate and support Junkanoo in a new venue?” is the question asked.
A look at Caribbean and Classical Composers; Three Compositional Techniques
Level: 200
Advisor: Dr. Christine Ganglehoff, Assistant Professor, Music
The purpose of this study is to find information about composers from the Caribbean, their compositional techniques, and how some composers incorporate their cultural identity into their pieces. One of the compositional techniques is the usage of folk rhythms or melodies – this can be heard in the music of Haitian composer Julio Racine and Bahamian composer Cleophas Adderly. Haitian composer Ludovic Lamothe and Jamaican composer Fredric Cowen use techniques by which they project their musical heritage to show the spiritual melodies and dance forms by composing music in a folk idiom (for example, merengue). Another technique includes composers who prefer to focus more on classical form rather than cultural themes. These include the Bahamian Franz Hepburn and the Trinidadian Dominique Legendre, both of whom currently reside in the U.K. We will begin by describing the different types of musical techniques, followed by brief biographical information on each of the composers. We will then focus on one work from each of the composers to demonstrate his/her compositional style, in particular their use (if any) of folk themes. This will demonstrate how three composers from the same region each use a unique approach to composition to create an appealing form of music. Finally, we will perform a work by Bahamian composer Franz Hepburn.
An Investigative Study into the Use of Discipline and Classroom Management as it Relates to the Ministry of Education's Rules and Procedures
Level: 300
Advisor: Ms. Margo Blackwell, Associate Professor, Education
Purpose of the Study
The public school system in The Bahamas has experienced many challenges over the past years, particularly as it relates to discipline and classroom management. Therefore, this study sought to analyze a group of teachers of a particular public school to find out their views and perspectives on classroom management. The study also considered the new procedures and rules regarding student discipline put forth by the Ministry of Education in its Safe School Handbook.
Research Method
The design format for this investigative study took the form of ten-survey questions. The questions were formatted in a way for responses to be in the form of yes or no answers. It was designed this way for accuracy, simplicity and convenience for its participants.
Findings & Implications
This research project unveils vital evidence that could support the improvement of our education system. Such vital evidence was where majority of teachers felt that they were not fully consulted concerning the Ministry of Education's new rules and procedures. Many of them admitted the rules and procedures were not effective in managing their classroom. Also a majority of teachers admitted to still physically disciplining their students and to agreeing that physical discipline is an effective method of discipline. Findings also revealed that teachers are not seen or observed as authority figures on their school campuses, which could be contributed to the increase of behavioural issues with our students.
This research can provide a great deal of discussion, town hall meetings and the stimulus for change within our education system. In addition, research of this kind is very relevant and important for our country today concerning the challenges that our education system is facing today.
Unspoken Secrets
Level: 300
Advisor: Dr. Nicolette Bethel, Assistant Professor, Sociology
For my research project I had decided to conduct a thorough investigation on the effects of rape and incest on the female survivor. The purpose of this report is to spread awareness about the high levels of rape and incest within the Bahamian society. Secondly, it is my endeavour to provide a channel for survivors and the family of victims to relate their stories of living with the emotional scars of a sexual trauma. The two main methods used to obtain the needed information will include interviews and questionnaires. The surveys will be both online and in person. Rape and incest are very sensitive topics and therefore I had chosen to use anonymous questionnaires. Having questionnaires online will allow me to reach a large amount of females. In person surveys has allowed me to observe the reaction of the participants. The second methodology used is interviews. The interviewees will include victims, the family of survivors, and persons whose professions involve interaction with those who were affected by such sexual abuse.
My research is incomplete. However, the findings that I have found thus far are invaluable. To my surprise from the questionnaires that I have conducted on campus shows that 80% of the female students know of a victim or are victims themselves. Most of the attackers were either family or someone that they knew. In the majority of cases the attack was never reported. From the analysis of the responses it shows that the most common effects of rape and incest include depression, eating disorders, and flashbacks.
Transparency of Information from Government Agencies
Level: 300
Advisor: Dr. Nicolette Bethel, Assistant Professor, Sociology
The issue in question is the transparency of government agencies in The Bahamas. This research seeks to clarify the degree to which the governments of The Bahamas with holds information concerned citizens want to know. The research model tests this by giving three testable research questions one a general question in terms of how the agency is run. The second a question of some numeracy most likely information not held without some control to access. The third question the most sensitive is a question concerning the annual budget with breakdowns of spending plans. Whether information to these three questions is readily available to the general public will gauge how secretive various government agencies are. Information is a principal ingredient in good decision making and thus should be handled with the utmost respect.
Findings
Still work in progress.
Implications
Still work in progress.
Cemeteries: Is the Dead Competing for Space with the Living?
Level: 400
Advisor: Mrs. Sandra Burrows, Assistant Professor, Geography
The purpose of the research is to determine if the space allocated for cemeteries is encroaching on the space needed by humans. Through questionnaires, it was found that the attitudes of Bahamians towards burial have contributed to an increasing amount of space being allotted to the dead. In addition, the viability of cremation was addressed in these questionnaires as an alternative to burial, so as to tackle the issue of space allocation. Interviews were also conducted with funeral home directors to obtain present and future trends and the preference of their customers with regards to burial. Field work was conducted to assess the amount of space currently allocated to cemeteries and the amount of space available, in order to determine whether it adequately serves the needs of an expanding population.
Through research it was revealed that the cemeteries examined utilized a significant 78.63 acres of space on the island of New Providence. It was also found that 13 out of 16 of the studied cemeteries or 81% of the cemeteries were filled and the remaining three had sufficient amount of space to accommodate more burials. The funeral home interviews revealed that the Bahamian public had a strong preference for burial over cremation and the 300 questionnaires confirmed this preference while also demonstrating that culture plays a large role in determining the way space is allocated. This conclusion was formulated because the questionnaire showed that some Bahamians are very superstitious in their beliefs concerning the dead. Moreover, it displayed that many Bahamians have a high regard for the dead.
Based on the results obtained, it has been determined that cemetery space will continue to be a societal priority because of the cultural norms in The Bahamas. Therefore, the battle for space between the dead and the living will continue.
College Students' Attitudes toward Mental Illness
Level: 400
Advisor: Dr. R. Roberts-Hanna, Associate Professor, Biology
Mental illness is not a new phenomenon, neither is it selective. In The Bahamas, there has been a 100% increase (411-809) in mentally ill outpatients from 1990-2006 (Community Counseling and Assessment Centre, 2008). This statistic illustrates a growing and alarming problem, which is perpetuated by fear and ignorance (Theophilus, 2011), as mental illness is a culturally accepted taboo. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to survey college student attitudes toward mental illness, based on Taylor and Dear's 1981 Community Attitudes toward Mental Illness (CAME) questionnaire. The CAME determines and measures 4 dimensions of attitude toward mental illness – Authoritarianism & Social Restrictiveness (measures negative attitudes) and Benevolence & Community Mental Health Ideology (measures positive attitudes). Each dimension was measured using the Likert scale: 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree) (Browne, 2010). The dimensions that possessed the highest scores would indicate the attitude of the respondents. 167 surveys were processed and statistically analyzed. Scores for Benevolence were highest representing 71% of the sample, Community Mental Health Ideology followed with 43.1%. 29.1% of the sample possessed Authoritarian attitudes and 19.1% were Socially Restrictive. These results demonstrate that attitudes toward mentally ill persons were mostly positive. It is envisioned that this study will promote critical research and education as well as encourage the much needed dialogue pertaining to mental health here in The Bahamas
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