Touchpoint 1
A peek inside the brains of ‘super-agers’
What is it?
Scientists are trying to figure out why some 80-year-old plus people have excellent memory. They believe super-ager brains atrophy at a lower rate. They studied all their behaviors and think super-aging has to do with strong social relationships more than diet or even exercise.
Potential message to students:
Do you buy the argument that some can eat TV dinners and watch TV all day and still have excellent memories? Why do you think social relationships are so important? Do you think there is a lesson for high school students to maybe increase their number of friendships?
Touchpoint 2
Robots vs. Animals: Who Wins the Race in Natural Settings?
What is it?
Similar-sized robots cannot run faster than the same size animals. Scientists think this is because animals combine their biological systems to perform optimally whereas robots don’t have this internal cooperation. Turns out robots can have fast forward and backward movement, but struggle with the side-to-side movements while running.
Potential message to students:
How long do you think it will take before robots can run twice as fast as similar animals? Do you think manufacturers should just keep building better robots or take a step back and see how they can make robots more like animals?
Touchpoint 3
Birdwatching can help students improve mental health, reduce distress
What is it?
College students who birdwatch appear to have less stress. They believe birdwatching is even more effective than taking a walk in nature.
Potential message to students:
Should we hang birdfeeders outside our classroom windows, close to school doors, and even near the athletic fields? Do you think it would help? Would you hang one at home outside your window or in the backyard?