Projects by year
Social Science
What's Happening with Homelessness in San Francisco
By Cal C.
This research paper addresses the urgent problem of Fentanyl abuse, particularly among the homeless population. The abstract provides a vivid description of the drug's devastating effects and highlights a common theme in existing research: a lack of long-term solutions. The literature review underscores the dangers of Fentanyl, including its ease of concealment in other substances, and... Read More
Social Science
A Comprehensive Examination of Regulations and Apprenticeships in the Body Modification Industry
By Lee B.
This research paper delves into the pervasive issue of a toxic culture within the body modification industry, particularly in tattoo and piercing shops, where traditional values often act as gatekeepers, excluding those less privileged and allowing unsafe practices to persist. Despite recent improvements in regulations, many piercing artists work in unregistered shops, lacking community... Read More
Humanities
N/A
By Emerson S.
This research delves into the portrayal of women in slasher films, focusing on the correlation between sex and violence and assessing the impact of the Me-Too movement. It argues that these films often present women as disproportionately violent and sexualized, perpetuating harmful stereotypes. The study assumes and tests the persistence of the correlation between sex and violence, while also... Read More
Social Science
What protective factors can be used to more effectively safeguard adolescence from the dangers of social media, without impeding their independence?
By Kyle W.
In this research the goal is to address concerns regarding the negative correlation between internet use and adolescent mental health. Collaborating with experts like Erin Angell, narrative research will be conducted through interviews with mental health professionals. These interviews will explore topics ranging from the influence of the internet on adolescent mental health to parenting... Read More
Social Science
Factors that Influence Memorability and Triggers that Aids the Recalling of Positive Childhood Experiences
By Joy O.
The goal is to explore the factors influencing the memorability of childhood memories and the triggers that facilitate their recall. The study will primarily help the understanding and the exploration of what makes a memory memorable. While there is a considerable body of research on the theoretical aspects of childhood memory, the application of this research in real-life settings seems... Read More
Social Science
Water Equity For All: A deep look into health Inequalities local indigenous tribes face due to lack of clean reliable water
By Ami S.
The aim is to address the alarming health disparities among Native Americans, focusing on their lack of essential resources, particularly access to clean water. The research is motivated by the significant health gaps observed, with Native American men and women experiencing much shorter lifespans than their white counterparts. A Narrative Research approach will be employed, conducting... Read More
Social Science
Compared to teenage boys, what are the negative impacts that social media can have on the developing teenage girl brain, and how can they result in mental health and medical illnesses?
By Martina K.
The study delves into the struggle for validation and empowerment, emphasizing the potential consequences, such as lack of self-confidence, depression, and body dissatisfaction. The research aims to spread awareness and identify healthier behaviors in using social media. The goal is to provide a more individualized and qualitative perspective on the impact of social media, contributing to a... Read More
Social Science
Promotion of Proper Waste Sorting and Single-use Waste Reduction in a Bay Area School Through Collaborative Campaigns and Educational Media
By Emily L. Phoebe M. Floyd Neesen. Talya S.
For our service project, we aim to improve students’ waste-sorting and disposal behaviors on a high school campus. The overwhelming amount of trash littered on school grounds has caused frustration for staff and students alike, including ourselves. We designed posters with reminders for students to dispose of their trash and created waste-sorting guidelines that displayed images of school-... Read More
Social Science
Gender Norms in a Modern World
By Siri S.
This study will explore how gender norms impact the perspectives of Palo Alto residents regarding women's roles in society. Recognizing the ongoing relevance of gender norms in various aspects such as careers, economic status, safety, and opportunities, the study seeks to gather insights from both men and women. The project will employ Content Analysis and Correlation Research, focusing on... Read More
Social Science
Testosterone Regulations for Transgender Female Athletes
By Takumi W.
This research paper examines the contentious issue of transgender athletes' inclusion in collegiate sports, with a focus on Lia Thomas, a University of Pennsylvania swimmer. The study addresses the lack of understanding and consensus on this topic by investigating biological differences and social justice implications. The abstract highlights the controversy surrounding Thomas's success and... Read More
Social Science
Non-anatomical influences on female athlete injury rates
By Elsie P.
Research investigates the underrepresentation of top female soccer players in recent World Cups due to a common major injury, revealing a significant gap in understanding female athlete injuries. While conventional explanations attribute higher injury rates to anatomical differences, the argument is made that vital non-anatomical factors are being overlooked. Existing literature exposes a... Read More
Social Science
School-to-prison pipeline and mass incarceration of African Americans
By Keala H.
The focus is on investigating the concerning trend of African American students facing limited resources in schools and the potential link to juvenile detention. The United States' staggering incarceration rates, especially affecting minorities, highlight a pervasive issue. African Americans, constituting 13% of the population, make up 38% of the prison population, facing extended periods in... Read More
Social Science
Effectiveness of California Ethnic Studies Curriculum on Teenage Antisemitism
By Ori C.
With a rise in antisemitism linked to conflicts in the Middle East, especially on college campuses, understanding and addressing this issue is crucial. The study focuses on the potential gap in education regarding Jewish history and antisemitism, proposing a survey-based approach to measure the effectiveness of a specific lesson within the curriculum. The hypothesis suggests that students... Read More
Social Science
Impact of Open Sexual and Racial Identity on Athletes Careers in Sports
By Hasan M.
This research paper delves into the persisting issue of discrimination in sports, particularly concerning racial and sexual identity, despite organizational efforts for inclusivity. It explores the impact of discrimination on minority athletes, focusing on the potential connection to mental health issues. The central question is whether openly expressing racial and sexual identity affects... Read More
Social Science
How we can better support teachers' mental health to better education and experience for both students and educators
By Alisa S.
The goal is to address the escalating issue of K-12 educators facing mental health challenges, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pressing problem impacts both educators and students due to increased stress and workload. While extensive research has been conducted on students' mental health, the study's purpose is to raise awareness about teacher mental health. Its... Read More
Social Science
Consequences of Climate Change on Native Hawaiians
By Bella D.
This research paper investigates the consequences of climate change on Native Hawaiians, emphasizing its impact on the state's housing crisis. The engaging hook presents Samantha DeCorte's concerns about fire hazards in Waianae, highlighting the growing threat posed by climate change. Native Hawaiians, already grappling with housing challenges, face disproportionate effects from climate-... Read More
Social Science
How Schools Can Best Support Educators and Parents to improve the social emotional learning of teenagers coming out of the pandemic?
By Jade R.
Recognizing the potential negative effects of the pandemic on both academic and non-academic skills, Rothbaum's study focuses on finding effective solutions through empirical research. The research design involves evaluative research to measure the effectiveness of SEL programs, considering the increased parent distress and its impact on child behavior. The study's purpose is to identify... Read More
Social Science
40%: The Process of Designing Sustainable Affordable Housing Units
By Kali R.
This research paper highlights the pressing issue of inadequate sustainable practices in affordable housing, with over 40% of global emissions originating from real estate and a significant portion of Americans lacking access to affordable housing. Despite advancements in sustainable architecture, there is a noticeable gap in integrating these innovations into affordable housing designs,... Read More
Social Science
Student Success: Is Scoring high on the SAT All About smarts?
By Eliza G.
The impact of wealth on standardized testing, particularly addressing the success gap between low and high-income school districts. The rationale stems from the observation that standardized testing has become more reflective of wealth than intelligence, contributing to disparities in educational opportunities. The study compares the Palo Alto Unified School District, known for its high... Read More
Social Science
Treatment of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women Cases in California
By Ella B.
This research paper explores the concerning issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) in California, emphasizing the inadequate response and lack of attention to these cases. Despite a notable increase in MMIW cases, law enforcement remains unresponsive, hindered by the absence of a centralized database. The paper argues for urgent legislative reform, highlighting the shortcomings... Read More
Social Science
Dear Zuck, You Suck!
By Allie D.
This research paper delves into the parallels between Facebook and Big Tobacco, spotlighting the potential harm posed to teenagers' mental health by platforms like Instagram. Despite Section 230 protection, whistleblower Frances Haugen's revelations about Facebook's awareness of Instagram's negative effects on young people's mental health underscore the need for external regulation. The paper... Read More
Social Science
Youth Voter Turnout in California
By Nadia S.
This research paper focuses on the critical issue of low youth voter turnout in California, specifically examining disparities across counties. The abstract stresses the central role of voting in democracy and highlights historical trends of reduced participation among young citizens. The study is driven by a concern for social justice, emphasizing the underrepresentation of youth in the... Read More
Social Science
N/A
By Olivia L.
The research paper delves into the detrimental impact of the sexualization and objectification of queer women, particularly sapphics, in both real-world interactions and media portrayals. The study highlights the prevalence of discriminatory comments and stereotypes perpetuated by straight individuals, mainly men, contributing to a negative image of the LGBTQ+ community. The focus is on the... Read More
Social Science
The Impacts of Economic Stressors on Child Brain Development and Academic Performance
By Sirisha M.
This research paper delves into the repercussions of household stress on child development in low-income families, particularly in Mississippi, the poorest state in the US. The study highlights the existing positive correlation between family income and children's academic and behavioral outcomes. It emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of wealth disparities... Read More
Social Science
The Benefits of Latinx Youth Increasing Positive Media Representation
By Lucianna P.
The goal is to explore the vital connection between real-world biases and the portrayal of Latinx communities in the media, with a specific focus on the impact on youth growing up in a society influenced by biased stereotypes. Despite the increasing diversity in narratives, the Latinx community still lacks nuanced and authentic representation, perpetuating stereotypes. The survey will assess... Read More
STEAM
The Potential of The Implementation of Artificial Intelligence into Healthcare
By Jonathan Y.
This research paper explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare to improve accessibility and efficiency, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. It addresses issues like delays in healthcare due to stressed systems, time-consuming diagnostic processes, and equipment limitations. The focus is on examining how AI can enhance diagnostic speed and... Read More
Social Science
Instilling Environmental Activism and Waste Management Awareness in Bay Area Middle School Students Through Upcycling Artwork Projects
By Evelyn S. Yue Z. Hyunchan A. Kwan M.
Lack of conviction to act upon an issue is equivalent to ignorance of the problem. Even though plenty of people are aware of the ever-expanding ramifications of the prevalent use of plastic resources, they idly go on without addressing it. Microplastics are an imminent and prevalent issue that harms humans and our environment. Yet, there is a lack of awareness or urgency to respond to the... Read More
STEAM
Digitizing Indigenous Knowledge: AI Bias Reduction and Cultural Preservation
By Griffin S.
This research paper explores the imperative to digitize indigenous knowledge (IK) to counter the underrepresentation of indigenous communities in Artificial Intelligence (AI). With 5% of the global population being indigenous, holding diverse cultures and languages, there is a risk of losing their rich heritage amid technological advancements. The paper contends that digitizing IK can preserve... Read More
Social Science
The Disadvantages to Black Americans
By Aspen S.
The research investigates the impact of the test-optional trend in college admissions on Black Americans. Amidst increasing competition for college spots and a significant rise in applications, concerns about fairness arise. Wealth disparities among students, influencing access to test preparation resources, add complexity to the issue. Post-pandemic, more than 80% of U.S. colleges have... Read More
Social Science
The impact of screen time on children’s social emotional abilities
By Claudia W.
The study explores the relationship between screen time and children's social-emotional development. Amidst rising technology use, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding its potential long-term effects on children's social skills is crucial. Existing studies often focus on physical or psychological impacts, overlooking the specific influence on social interactions. Through... Read More
STEAM
N/A
By Anna T.
In this research project, the focus is on improving the effectiveness of cancer detection and treatment using hybrid molecule Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Quantum Dots (N-GQDs). Motivated by the pressing need to enhance current cancer diagnosis and treatment methods, given cancer's status as the second leading cause of global death, the study aims to address the limitations of existing diagnostic... Read More
Social Science
Increasing Awareness of the LGBTQIA Community Through the Implementation of Literature Featuring Positive Queer Representation Into Bay Area Middle School English Curriculum
By Nicolas D. Jaya U.
To enhance understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community among middle school students in the Palo Alto Unified School District. The purpose is to address the existing gap in acceptance between cisgender heterosexual (cishet) and queer students. Drawing inspiration from Katherina A. Rimes's study, the potential of positive representation in boosting self-esteem among queer students is... Read More
STEAM
Automated Detection of Suboptimal Fat Suppression
By Sauram V.
The aim is to investigate the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in assisting MRI technologists to identify insufficient fat suppression. The problem arises when the MRI detects fat tissue due to inconsistent magnetic fields during imaging, leading to unclear images that must be re-imaged, causing inconvenience for both patients and radiologists. The research questions focus on... Read More
Social Science
Mental health in elite gymnasts from adolescence to olympics; a changing relationship
By Ellery A.
Investigating mental health challenges faced by elite gymnasts, focusing on the impact from adolescence to their professional years. Inspired by the notable case of Simone Biles during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where mental health issues led to her withdrawal, this study delves into the broader issue affecting many elite gymnasts. The primary goal is to understand the relationship between... Read More
Social Science
How are Cambodian garment workers' health impacted from their industry’s pollution compared to non-garment workers?
By Harrison D.
The research focuses on Cambodia's garment industry, a crucial economic contributor exporting billions annually, yet posing environmental threats. With an alarming 140,000 tonnes of waste produced yearly, including toxic materials, the industry's pollution directly affects the health and livelihoods of workers. Approximately 64% of garment workers have experienced climate change impacts, such... Read More
Social Science
Improving Female Portrayal in Video Games Through Examining the Industry
By Charlotte I.
The persistent issue of gender inequality in the gaming industry. Despite some progress, stereotypical portrayals of women in video games, such as the 'damsel in distress' trope and sexual objectification, continue to prevail. The absence of female representation in game development exacerbates this problem. The study seeks to explore how increasing the number of female game designers can... Read More
Social Science
Decreasing Food Insecurity in the Bay Area Through a Food Drive at a Bay Area High School
By Jonah W. Alfredo G. Thierry S.
The overarching goal of our project is to reduce food insecurity in the Bay Area by running a food drive at a public high school. According to Second Harvest Food Bank, 1 in 4 people in Silicon Valley suffer from food insecurity. Notably, in our public school district in Silicon Valley, we implemented food drives during elementary school. However, we observed a discontinuation of these... Read More
Social Science
Analysis of the evolution of Sindhi Identity during the Partition of India
By Abhivir I.
Focused on the socio-cultural impact on Sindhi Hindus, who fled Sindh due to religious persecution, my study addresses the profound loss of land, family, and cultural ties of Sindi Hindus caused by the 1947 Partition of India and seeks to find the evolution of the identity of this displaced community. I employ a literature review by exploring the trauma resulting from the Partition and its... Read More
Social Science
N/A
By Ari S.
My research paper delves into the concerning health disparity among Native Americans compared to the wider U.S. population. Despite tribal efforts, Native Americans face significantly higher health issues, as revealed by a 2017 study indicating a considerable life expectancy gap. I focus on the critical factor of inadequate essential resources, particularly the lack of reliable access to clean... Read More
Social Science
Cultural Influences on Asian American Healthcare Decision-Making
By Melinda H.
The Asian American population has rapidly grown since 2000, yet health-related research within the community remains scarce. Only 0.17% of NIH-funded research from 1992 to 2018 focused on health outcomes among AAPI communities in the United States. The objective of this project is to explore the extent of how cultural beliefs influence healthcare decisions among Asian American patients, and... Read More
Social Science
How turmeric biomolecules’ molecular structure allows for extensive usage in various fields
By Aareev P.
This scientific literature review provides an overview of turmeric, focusing on its botanical characteristics, historical significance, molecular composition, extraction methods, and medicinal properties. Turmeric, known for its distinct health and culinary properties, holds cultural and medicinal importance, with curcumin being its key bioactive compound. Extraction methods range from... Read More
Social Science
Boosting Literacy and Wellbeing in First Grade Students Through High School Buddies
By Violet T. Hannah F. Maryanne H.
The goal of our project is to enhance literacy among elementary school students, primarily first graders, through cultivating a foundation of enjoyment for reading. Our project proposal is grounded in two essential elements of literacy education: enjoyment and consistency. To achieve this, we have partnered with a first-grade class at Juana Briones Elementary School. Each week, we will lead... Read More
Social Science
Why San Francisco has a housing crisis and how the city is working to solve it
By Sofia D.
San Francisco faces a severe housing crisis due to soaring living costs, leading to a shortage of affordable homes. Despite building efforts, the demand for affordable housing surpasses the supply, resulting in homelessness and strained communities. This research investigates the root causes, including the impact of land use policies, social injustices, and historical discriminatory practices... Read More
Social Science
New Historicism and Virginia Woolf: The Erasure of Queer Identities from History
By Eloise D.
The absence of acknowledgment of LGBTQ individuals in history, particularly in textbooks, perpetuates the erasure of queer voices and contributes to societal misconceptions. The root causes and contemporary implications of this censorship, considering factors such as societal stigma, biases, and language use, are investigated. Drawing on New Historicism, existing literature, letters, and... Read More
Social Science
Bias in the Current Artificial Iintelligent Facial Recognition Algorithms
By Ruge J.
The focus is on the prevalent issue of bias within facial recognition technology (FRT) algorithms. The research aims to understand the root causes of bias in AI facial recognition algorithms, exploring hypotheses related to imbalanced training data, algorithmic flaws, historical societal biases, and underrepresentation in the technical career field. To investigate this, quantitative analysis... Read More
Social Science
Forgotten Women: A Study on Women of Color’s Exclusion in Reproductive Rights and Discussions in USA
By Ekaterina O.
The goal is to illuminate the impact of the overturning of Roe v. Wade on marginalized communities, particularly black women. Through qualitative interviews with experts in the field, the study addresses the lack of humanized, personal perspectives in existing research on abortion rights, emphasizing the importance of considering intersectionality. The ultimate goal is to generate data that... Read More
Social Science
A Comparison of Pre-Existing Opioid Overdose Solutions and Their Effect On Homeless Populations of Large Cities
By Salome C.
This research paper focuses on the alarming rates of opioid abuse, particularly linked to fentanyl, within San Francisco's homeless population. The study aims to investigate the specific challenges posed by fentanyl and identify effective measures to address them. Recognizing the need for larger-scale interventions, the paper discusses the shift from punitive to harm reduction strategies, such... Read More
STEAM
The Future of Video Games in Education
By Marissa T.
Acknowledging the outdated nature of current educational systems and the rising popularity of video games among students, the focus is on the future of serious games in K-12 education, and finding out what features make them effective. The research questions center on the viability of video games as an educational option and the characteristics that make them effective teaching tools. The goal... Read More
STEAM
Automated Detection of Cars for the Visually Impaired to Cross Roads
By Sangeet S.
Recognizing the limitations of existing apps designed for crosswalks, this research focuses on developing an innovative solution—a mobile app that utilizes computer vision to detect moving cars on the road and alerts users through vibrations about the safety of crossing. The rationale behind this project stems from the increasing population of legally blind individuals and the need for... Read More
Social Science
Establishing a Connection in Teens and Elderly Through Intergenerational Events Held at Lytton Gardens Assisted Living
By Lia O. Samhita K. Namya K.
Our project is creating an intergenerational event program at Channing House, a local retirement home, with teen volunteers, in order to alleviate loneliness in both the teens and the elderly and create lasting bonds.To achieve this, we would have events once a month, including arts and crafts, a tech workshop, and karaoke, all things that are known to alleviate stress and form connections. We... Read More
Social Science
Low Numbers of Female First Responders– Investigation on Firefighting/Law Enforcement
By Juanpablo C.
This research paper aims to address the underrepresentation of female first responders, particularly in firefighting and law enforcement, by exploring the root causes and potential solutions. The low number of women in these professions is a persistent issue attributed to gender biases, health disparities, and mental health challenges. The study will employ a narrative research approach, using... Read More
Social Science
Improving the Lives of LGBTQ+ Students through Educating the Adults in their Lives
By Samuel F. Olivia S.
As queer high schoolers, we both noticed the lack of awareness of the LGBTQ+ community in middle schools. As such, we saw the Social Justice Advanced Authentic Research class as our chance to implement meaningful change within our middle school community. The goal of our project is to increase awareness of the LGBTQ+ community by guiding middle school students in a lesson addressing a literary... Read More
Social Science
N/A
By Laird O.
The research paper delves into the enduring Israel-Palestine conflict and its profound impact on Palestinian human rights. Originating in the establishment of Israel in 1948, the conflict persists with ongoing violence and destruction. Despite international interventions, issues like forced displacement and settlement construction continue, and proposed solutions remain unimplemented. The... Read More
STEAM
eDNA sequencing on forest diversity
By Sam L.
The project revolves around training supervised machine learning models to predict plant alpha diversity using environmental DNA (eDNA) data. With a dataset spanning 325 global locations, the models are trained on various environmental factors alongside eDNA sequences. One model incorporates all available eDNA data, while the other focuses solely on taxonomically identifiable sequences. By... Read More
Social Science
The Influence of Policy on Player Safety: The NFL and Social Justice
By Jason A.
This research paper examines the pressing issue of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) in the NFL, addressing the organization's perceived lack of responsibility towards player health. Focusing on the impact of repetitive head trauma, especially on African American players, the study aims to understand how NFL policies influence player safety and access to medical care. The literature... Read More
STEAM
Current Biotechnological Advances to Degrading Plastic–a Solution to Plastic Pollution
By Laura C.
Plastic pollution is found everywhere in the environment due to its incapability to decompose. Plastic also poses health risks with microplastics entering the food chain and potentially causing issues like fertility problems and inflammation. The motivation behind this study arises from the shortcomings of current plastic waste management methods, such as recycling and incineration, and their... Read More
Social Science
Coach Education and the Mental Health of Female Athletes: A Dyadic Relationship
By Kiana F.
The objective is to explore the correlation between coach education on mental health and the mental well-being of female athletes. The lack of coach education on mental health contributes to challenges faced by athletes, as coaches may not recognize signs of distress or know how to support their players effectively. To address this gap, a correlational research design is proposed, employing a... Read More
Social Science
The Correlation Between the U.S.’s Mental Health Care System and Crime Rates:
By Sophie R.
This research investigates the impact of deficiencies in the U.S. mental health care system on the disproportionate representation of individuals with mental illness in prisons. Notably, those with psychiatric disorders are ten times more likely to end up in prison rather than receiving proper care. The study underscores the critical need to address the current shortcomings in mental health... Read More
Social Science
Individual Narratives of Incarcerated Peoples & Successful Rehabilitation in the US
By Nico L.
Guided by a social justice perspective, the study believes that reentry programs and inmate treatment play crucial roles in shaping rehabilitation outcomes. The existing problem involves inadequate ethical treatment, rehabilitation methods, and post-release support for inmates, contributing to high recidivism rates. The rationale lies in challenging the traditional, uniform approach to... Read More
STEAM
Projections of Mineral Demands and an Ethical Future
By Sabine C.
The goal is to investigate the current ramifications of the rising demand for minerals like lithium, copper, cobalt, and nickel due to the growing mobile and electric vehicle infrastructure. As technology rapidly advances, the demand for eco-friendly energy sources, such as lithium-ion batteries, has surged. This research seeks to uncover the economic, environmental, medical, and social... Read More
Social Science
How can artificial intelligence technology positively contribute to solving college student homelessness for future public policy solutions in California?
By Karen T.
Despite undoubtedly being the most prosperous state, the Golden State no longer appears that way for a vast number of its residents. The worsening problem of Californian homelessness has plagued people’s well-being for decades and is only continuing to trickle down to affect youth, ultimately causing systemic problems to further permeate through younger generations while destroying youth... Read More
Social Science
Navigating the Complex Interplay: Chronic Stress, Hormone Dynamics and Management for Women's Menstrual Irregularities
By Chloe C.
This research paper investigates the significant but often underestimated impact of stress on women's menstrual cycles. It highlights how stress, particularly chronic stress, can disrupt hormonal mechanisms, leading to irregularities in the menstrual cycle. The study emphasizes the role of cortisol release from the adrenal glands in influencing key hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone,... Read More
Social Science
The Effect of Zoning Regulations and Exclusionary Zoning in Palo Alto
By Sahil S.
The research addresses the alarming surge in the American housing market, attributing the issue to restrictive state and local policies hindering the development of multi-family homes. Zoning regulations, identified as a major contributor to rising housing costs, not only limit housing supply but also perpetuate discriminatory practices, particularly against lower-income and minority... Read More
Social Science
Birds of a Feather: An Exploration of Diversity in Birdwatching
By Athya P.
The focus is on addressing the underrepresentation of people of color in the field of birdwatching and ornithology. The exclusion hampers data collection and perpetuates a violent history within the field. To tackle this issue, a proposal is made to organize a dedicated birding group in the Bay Area, specifically for people of color, aiming to cultivate a sense of belonging and community. The... Read More
Social Science
Representation of Minority Artists in Museums
By Charlie W.
This research paper explores the underrepresentation of Black American artists, particularly Black female artists, in American museums, examining its impact on social justice and democracy. Employing content analysis, the study focuses on major San Francisco art museums to assess how they represent minority artists. The literature review emphasizes the crucial role of art in fostering social... Read More
Social Science
The effect of zoning regulations and exclusionary zoning in Palo Alto
By Sahil S.
This project aims to address the challenges posed by heavy zoning regulations in Palo Alto and propose solutions to mitigate their effects. Palo Alto has encountered issues with zoning regulations, particularly in housing, leading to inflated prices and housing segregation. The study will investigate the relationship between zoning policies and rising residential costs in metropolitan areas,... Read More
Humanities
Aristotle and Hampshire, a Comparative Analysis
By Janus L.
The lack of literature comparing Aristotle with niche contemporary philosophical fields, especially those emphasized by Hampshire, is a significant gap that this paper seeks to address. Through content analysis using sources like JSTOR and EBSCO Host, the study will delve into the lives, backgrounds, political positions, and philosophical stances of both philosophers. The research will employ... Read More
Social Science
Housing and Healthcare Policies in the Bay Area for Low-Income, Undocumented, and Other Underrepresented Communities.
By Maya M. Zara M.
The Bay Area housing crisis often takes the form of tenant injustices such as wrongful evictions, discrimination, and displacement. Though there are tenant protection laws, these laws are largely inaccessible to lower-income and immigrant tenants. This became the foundation for the birth of our youth organization, BAYTREE (Bay Area Youth for Tenants’ Rights Education and Empowerment), which... Read More
Social Science
N/A
By Mae C.
This research paper focuses on the unjust treatment of inmates in private prisons and the questionable financial practices associated with these facilities. Private prisons, highlighted in an undercover investigation, exhibit higher levels of violence and are hastily implemented to meet the growing demand for prison cells. The study seeks to compare the treatment of inmates in private and... Read More
Social Science
iSocial: What are the effects of in-person social communities versus social media engagement on teenage mood, attention, and motivation?
By Joshua K.
This project investigates the effects of in-person social communities and social media engagement on the mood, attention, and motivation of teenagers. The research will involve three experimental groups at Palo Alto High School, representing in-person socialization (Drama Club), active social media use (Chess Club), and passive social media use (3d Engineering Club). The quasi-experimental... Read More
STEAM
What did the SAG AFTRA strike imply towards the future projection of creativity for actors within the Asian American community as opposed to less oppressed groups in its current state and projection of growth?
By Matthew A.
My research explores challenges faced by actors, especially minorities, in the film industry, emphasizing the 2023 SAG AFTRA Labor Union Strike's impact on working conditions. Despite progress, new threats, particularly from AI technology, pose risks to Asian American representation. The literature review underscores the need for improved Asian American visibility, addressing historical... Read More
Business
Regulatory Challenges in the Food Industry: Impact on Small Businesses
By Nazira M.
Small businesses have a vital role in fostering entrepreneurial growth and the creation of new jobs in numerous business industries. Regulations ensure consumer protection, safety, environmental conservation, and market stability. However, they can also create delays in business operations, limitations on capital access, and increased costs for small businesses. This investigation delves into... Read More
Social Science
Know the Facts, Save Lives: Raising Awareness about the Dangers of Fentanyl in a Bay Area High School
By Gwen B. Clea D. Severiano O.
Our action research project seeks to educate youth at our public high school about the dangers of fentanyl, addressing its rising prevalence in the Bay Area and its potential devastating impacts on our community. We chose to do this project as this issue has impacted youth and continues to be a rising issue. Over the past 20 years, 89.6% of deaths from fentanyl and opioid poisoning happened to... Read More