UROP Project

Spatial Navigation Skills in Parkinson's Disease – A Meta-Analysis.

meta-analysis, psychology, parkinson's disease, spatial navigation
Research Mentor: Dorota Kossowska-Kuhn,
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: kuhn@psy.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: ZOOM
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote
Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Wednesday, September 6th, 12:00 pm- 1:00 pm https://fsu.zoom.us/j/6673437216
Thursday, September 7th, 12:00 pm- 12:30 pm, 1:30pm- 2 pm https://fsu.zoom.us/j/6673437216

Project Description

A meta-analysis is a statistical method that combines results from multiple studies on a particular topic to provide a summary estimate of the standardized effect size. We plan to determine not just whether (statistical significance), but how big a difference there is between cognitively healthy older adults and people with Parkinson's Disease (PD) for navigation accuracy. By conducting a meta-analysis, we can get a better understanding of a research question than just by looking at individual studies. Preparing a meta-analysis requires a thorough understanding of research methods and statistical analysis. As an undergraduate student, this is an opportunity to hone your research and analytical skills, which will be valuable not just in your academic studies but also in your future career.
Dementia exerts a significant influence on both global societies and individuals. Among the various types of dementia, Alzheimer's Disease (AD) stands as the most prevalent. Spatial disorientation emerges as one of the initial indicators of AD. Our aim in conducting this meta-analysis is to substantiate whether spatial navigation abilities are likewise compromised in individuals afflicted by Parkinson's Disease.

Research Tasks: - literature review
-data collection
- data coding
- data analysis

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: No specific skills are required.

Mentoring Philosophy

My mentoring philosophy revolves around empowering undergraduate students to excel in their project work through a combination of ownership, accountability, shared experience, and interactive learning. I believe in fostering an environment that nurtures their growth and encourages independent thinking.
I emphasize giving mentees ownership of their work by involving them in project decisions, from goal setting to execution. This not only bolsters their confidence but also instills a sense of responsibility for their outcomes. I promote accountability by setting clear expectations and milestones, enabling them to track their progress and take pride in their achievements.
Drawing from my own experience, I share stories of challenges and successes, illustrating the real-world applications of their efforts. This bridges the gap between theory and practice, enhancing their understanding and motivation. I also encourage open dialogue, where questions and ideas are welcomed, creating an interactive platform for collaborative learning.
I understand that each student is unique, with varying skills and aspirations. To accommodate this, I tailor my guidance, offering guidance that aligns with their interests and goals. I provide resources, recommend reading materials, and suggest relevant workshops, fostering holistic development.
In conclusion, my approach to mentoring undergraduates centers on nurturing their autonomy, cultivating responsibility, leveraging shared experiences, and fostering an interactive learning ecosystem. By doing so, I aim to not only support their immediate project objectives but also to equip them with lifelong skills for success.

Additional Information


Link to Publications