Systems thinking, interdisciplinary research projects,
and creative
problem solving are ways to frame modern chemistry curricula to inspire
the next generation of scientists, engineers, teachers, and citizens
to use their skills and education to create a sustainable future.
By integrating planetary boundaries, green chemistry, and the UN sustainable
development goals, we use a systems thinking approach in undergraduate
education and outreach to a range of diverse populations to drive
discussion, exploration of scientific principles, and teach students
how they can use chemistry to solve the distinctive challenges of
the anthropocene. Interdisciplinary research projects employ critical
thinking, problem solving, and creativity as part of the scientific
method. Translating undergraduate research in nanotechnology, renewable
energy, and sustainability into lesson plans and engaging in outreach
to diverse populations promotes equity in science education and encourages
underrepresented groups to seek careers in a scientific field. Community
college students act as role models in outreach as they teach chemistry
using a systems thinking approach, connect sustainability to STEM
careers that can make a positive impact on local communities, and
show underrepresented groups that they are needed in these disciplines.
Engaging, interdisciplinary laboratories used in outreach, such as
the synthesis of algae biodiesel, making paints from natural resources,
sustainable agriculture and engineering, and DNA origami, access all
aspects of systems thinking. Using systems thinking as a framework
in science education and outreach teaches students the significance
and relevance of chemistry while creating a platform for women and
underrepresented groups to learn how important their representation
is to contribute to a sustainable, equitable future.
Hope theory (Snyder, 2002) posits that highly "hopeful" individuals are more successful in attaining their goals primarily due to the cognitive interplay between pathway and agency thinking or the ability to not only produce the necessary routes to a goal but also the motivation to actively pursue the routes created. Bernardo (2010) attempted to extend the theory through the incorporation of external factors that may contribute to an individual's level of hope thereby altering the highly internalized characteristic of hope. Although previous literatures have established the positive role of hope across different settings, there are relatively few studies on locus of hope as a whole. The current paper proposes to contribute to the expanding knowledge on locus of hope through setting possible research directions on the predictive capabilities of locus of hope as a whole on subjective well-being.
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