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Now a psychology student at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Schaaf has been researching drunken driving. Two of her studies measured how effective victim impact panels are in fostering more empathy from those caught driving while intoxicated. Research shows the more empathy offenders have, the less likely they are to re-offend, she said.
“I am still appalled at how many people die every year from alcohol-related traffic accidents, and I’m hoping this research will show that intervention needs to happen,” she said.
The public can learn more about her work and that of more than 100 other graduate and undergraduate UW-L students Friday during its 11th annual Celebration of Student Research and Creativity.
“The event is to celebrate the accomplishments of graduate and undergraduate students,” said Vijendra Agarwal, associate vice chancellor for academic affairs and head of campus research.
The event includes posters and oral presentations, along with gallery exhibits. Students from diverse departments at UW-L will display and talk about research on everything from exercise science to art history.
UW-L student Nelson Johnson is studying the work of African artists after apartheid ended in South Africa in 1994. Under apartheid, black African artists were suppressed politically, culturally and economically, Johnson’s project abstract explained. He intends to observe and collect art that arose after apartheid fell and incorporate it into his own work.
Research leads to teaching and learning beyond the classroom, allows for deeper understanding on a given topic and expands opportunities for graduate school, said Vijendra. Plus, it gives students the experience of doing research, from writing a grant proposal to presenting the results.
Schaaf will be in Madison today presenting her work at the Capitol Rotunda for a UW system-wide research event. She also will attend the National Conferences on Undergraduate Research in Salisbury, Md., in April and present at the Midwestern Psychological Association in Chicago in May.
Most of the students presenting at UW-L on Friday have received research grants from UW-L, including Schaaf.
“I can’t stress how much this experience has given me a passion for research,” said Schaaf. “I’m looking for jobs that allow me to do research. It is an amazing experience to create something and watch it grow.”
If You Go
KJ Lang can be reached at (608) 791-8226 or klang@lacrossetribune.com.
