Research Edge

Presentation Date: 20^th September 2024

Author: Dr. Susannah S. French

Title: Psychological Responses to a Changing Environment: A Reptilian Perspective 

Abstract: Disturbances in an animal’s environment, including anthropogenic change, can affect how it acquires and uses limited resources to respond to stress, reproduce, and fight disease. Humans have significantly impacted wildlife populations in a variety of ways including urbanization, climate change and even tourism. To better understand how human-induced changes affect animals in nature, we are using a variety of approaches to monitor and experimentally test relationships in several lizard species, including Bahamian rock iguanas. A synthesis of physiological, demographic, and genomic results will be presented from a combination of field and laboratory studies. This work will provide a better understanding for how species respond and even adapt to environmental change, and provide insight for conservation and management of endangered species.

Presentation Date: Friday, 12^th April 2024

Presentation 1 

Author: Dr. James Carmichael

Title: Proposing Ethical Guidelines for using Generative AI Tools in Preparing and Assessing Software Engineering Coursework and Examinations

Abstract:  This article reports on a comparative empirical study in which two groups of university students were observed over the course of a 15-week semester as they attempted to fulfill the requirements for the successful completion of an introductory level course in computer programming.  The potential benefits of incorporating GPT-AI technology as a learning aid was evaluated by comparing the progress of the student group provided with GPT-AI access as opposed to the other group not equipped with such tools.  It was observed that – in terms of achieving stated learning objectives – the group which was given access to GPT-AI technology for the completion of their coursework assignments performed significantly better than the group taught via traditional methods not incorporating GPT-AI.  It is to be emphasized, however, that the student group benefitting from the GPT-AI resources were subject to certain restrictions and guidelines concerning the preparation of coursework assignments and invigilated examinations.  It is the assertion of this research team that these guidelines constitute a prototypical ethical frame work to develop best-practice procedures for the formulation of learning outcomes and assessment procedures in the area of teaching computer programming languages in particular and software engineering in general.

Presentation 2

Authors: Dr. Tarah McDonald
Dr. Thalia Mikclewhite

Title: “From the Time I was Small….”: Exploring Teaching Choice Amongst Pre-Service Teachers in The Bahamas 

Abstract: This study examined the factors (motivations and perceptions) influencing Bahamian teacher career choice using Factors Influencing Teaching Choice scale (FIT-Choice scale; Watt & Richardson, 2007). The study utilized a survey design methodology using purposive sampling technique. The data obtained was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and findings obtained were compared with existing literature. Implications, recommendations, and recruitment strategies for teacher preparation programs within a Bahamian context are discussed.

Presentation Date: Friday, 15^th March 2024

Presentation 1 

Author: Mrs. Lesvie Archer

Title: Estimating the Cost of Middle-Class Life in The Bahamas 

Abstract:  While a country’s middle class typically indicates its overall economic wellbeing, little research exists on the financial challenges of living middle-class in The Bahamas. This study estimates the cost of middle-class life in The Bahamas. It operates as an extension of The Bahamas Living Wages Study (2021) because it embraces the Anker and Anker Living Wages methodology to estimate the cost of maintaining a decent standard of living on two islands. Findings reveal that sustaining a middle-class lifestyle for a family of four (2 adults and 2 children) costs around $9,100 per month in New Providence and $8,050 per month in Grand Bahama. These findings offer useful insights into quality of life debates and policies related to the cost of living on different islands in The Bahamas.

Presentation 2

Author: Yahya Luqman

Title: The Origin, Preservation, and Translation of the Holy Quran

Abstract: The Holy Quran is the sacred scripture for nearly 2 billion Muslims around the world.  Revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over 1,400 years ago, it has stood the test of time and remains to be one of the most verifiably authentic religious texts.  The revelation of the Holy Quran began in the Islamic calendar month of Ramadan which is traditionally known as the month of fasting.  The month also has a significant role the both the origin and preservation of the Holy Quran.  In modern times, the Quran has been translated into many languages.  The translations of the Holy Quran printed with the Arabic text balance the need for greater understanding of the Quran as well as its authentic preservation.

Presentation 3

Authors: Dr. Douglas Barkey
Mr. Christian Justilien
Dr. Christine Kozikowski
Dr. A. Marie Sairsingh
Dr. Nicolette Bethel

Title: Junkanoo Colours: Inside the Shack

Abstract: In Junkanoo Colours, photographer Douglas Barkey explores the annual cycle of Junkanoo through images created during a season’s residency with the Colours group. Accompanied by interviews with Junkanoo practitioners, such as Colours founder Christian Justilien, and essays authored by anthropologists, art curators, creative writers, spectators and Junkanooers, the photographs capture the creative process and people creating costumes, choreography, and music, as well as the spectacular Boxing Day rush.

Presentation Date: Friday, 16^th February 2024

Presentation 1 

Author: Dr. Mayuri Deka

Title: Why Care? Re-Thinking Dei in Bahamian Leadership within the Literature Classroom 

Abstract:  The sharp rise in Corporate interest and action on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the last few years is on the decline in the face of economic uncertainty, dwindling profits and geopolitical shifts. However, the questions raised in movements such as #MeToo and Black Lives Matter remain, even in the Bahamas. As ethno-racial and religious divisions intensify, DEI principles could play a crucial role in not only encouraging a more inclusive workplace but also improve employee engagement, performance, collaboration, recruitment, retention, innovation, customer satisfaction, and brand awareness. The use of literary texts in promoting empathic thinking by imaginatively placing oneself in the other’s experience while envisioning their affective responses could reinvigorate the DEI principles. The literature classroom is a dynamic space that allows diverse empathy-based exercises and promotes prosocial thinking. Focusing on DEI principles through literature would allow Bahamian businesses not only to include diverse ethno-cultural demographics with a vision of equality but also drive substantial business results.

Presentation 2

Authors: Dr. Ancilleno Davis

Title: Place-Based Learning: Science Education, Practice, and Equity in the Bahamian Archipelago.

Abstract: Changes to Bahamian legislation have created uncertainty in the scientific community. Researchers that formerly studied our islands and biodiversity have moved to other jurisdictions. This has reduced or removed funding for various projects. Taxation and financial regulations have also resulted in educational trips retreating from The Bahamas. These challenges are super imposed on existing logistic challenges of educating Bahamians and visitors in our archipelago. Despite these challenges, more Bahamians can participate in higher education due to government subsidies and The University of The Bahamas development of science degree programs. I explore the distribution of educational institutions, professional expertise, and support infrastructure throughout The Bahamas. This research will advise the development of programs and courses to develop scientific capacity in The Bahamas.

Presentation 3

Authors: Mr. William J. Fielding

Title: The Enduring Harsh Reality of Harsh Punishment of Children

Abstract: The use of corporal punishment on children is common in The Bahamas. While its use is part of the raising of children, parental figures seem unaware of the potential long-term harm they risk inflicting upon their children. Higher levels of corporal punishment in childhood are linked with adult aggression, which is linked to domestic violence and sexual abuse, which is in turn linked with perpetuating the use of corporal punishment on their own children. In addition, given that, the home environment is a key factor in school success (Collie-Patterson, 2008), violence in the home can be detrimental to learning. The use of corporal punishment is associated with reduced executive functions – critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making – all aspects of daily living. Data from a recent study on aggression and other studies from The Bahamas suggest that the use of corporal punishment on children is a cause for concern for the development of the nation.

Presentation Date: Friday, 19^th January 2024

Presentation 1 

Author: Miss Anycia Collie (Student)

Title: Analyzing Gender Diversity and its Effects on Financial Performance: A Study of Selected Bahamian Publicly Listed Companies

Abstract:  This research delves into the impact of gender diversity on financial performance within Bahamian publicly listed companies. Through rigorous analysis employing benchmarks like Return on Equity (ROE), Return on Assets (ROA), and Price-to-Book Ratio (P/B), the study vividly illustrates the correlation between female representation in leadership and superior financial outcomes. Notably, companies with higher female representation exhibited stronger growth, prudent asset utilization, and remarkable adaptability, especially during challenging periods such as the 2020 global pandemic. The study’s compelling findings advocate for creating inclusive corporate cultures that embrace diversity as a catalyst for innovation and resilience. By closing the gender gap in leadership positions, businesses can harness untapped potential, elevate decision-making, and foster sustainable growth in the dynamic business landscape of The Bahamas

Presentation 2

Author: Dr. Williamson Gustave

Title: Comparative Analysis of Soil Health in Backyard Farms in The Bahamas

Abstract: The Bahamas faces significant food insecurity, stemming from insufficient food and agricultural infrastructure, coupled with a heavy dependence on imports. To address this issue, The Bahamian government has been promoting backyard farming among homeowners, recognizing its potential to alleviate the problem. However, the success of such initiatives hinges on the health of the soils involved. This study conducted a comprehensive comparative analysis of soil health in backyard farms across multiple Bahamian islands. Key indicators, including nutrient availability, pH, salinity, water-holding capacity, and organic carbon, were examined. Surprisingly, none of the 38 analyzed soil samples met the optimal range for all selected indicators. Contrary to expectations, soil treated with synthetic fertilizer did not demonstrate higher nutrient availability compared to naturally fertilized or unfertilized samples. Correlation analysis highlighted a positive relationship between organic carbon and water-holding capacity, while negative correlations were identified between pH and nitrogen, as well as organic carbon and pH. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing pH levels and enhancing water-holding capacity to bolster soil health in The Bahamas, emphasizing the need to increase organic carbon content.

Presentation 3

Author: Dr. Danny Davis

Title: Transformation of the Childhood Immunization Registry: Bahamian Case Study

Abstract: Bolstered by its success of the COVID-19 vaccine distribution mechanism and database, The Bahamas mounted an aggressive post-pandemic effort to implement an electronic registry for childhood immunization data.   Similar implementation efforts are documented in the literature as occurring in health systems across the globe. The electronic immunization registry in The Bahamas is fully operational in all public clinics and most private clinics that administer vaccines. This presentation highlights the successes and pitfalls encountered while implementing a national immunization registry in an archipelagic small island state.  It also explores the initial impact of the electronic registry to improve defaulter and coverage rates, and to ultimately improve public health.

Presentation Date: Friday, 17^th November 2023

Presentation 1 

Author: Dr. Veronica Ferguson

Title: Exploring the Experience of Research and the Building of Research Capacity at the University of The Bahamas

Abstract:  At the University of The Bahamas (UB), significant opportunities and constraints are associated with developing research capacity. The study used a qualitative grounded theory research design and the perspectives of Appreciative Inquiry. A sample of 18 staff members shared their beliefs and experiences via semi-structured interviews. Data were collected from interview transcripts, my researcher’s journal, memos, and institutional documents. The conceptual understanding that emerged from the data analysis indicated that UB academics were constantly working through institutional constraints to accomplish research and improve as professionals. Key empirical findings show that UB academics were forming their identities and were in pursuit of scholarly improvement. By embracing the cycle of continuous improvement, scholars and practitioners at UB were perpetuating a positive feedback loop of scholarly improvement, the pursuit of academic excellence, the enhancement of attitudes, behaviours, and intellectual skills. 

Presentation 2

Authors: Mr. Cedric C. Decius (Student)
Dr. Kristen Brochu-De Luca
Dr. Jelena Z. Andrjic

Title: Ecological Study of Algae in Lake Killarney, Nassau, The Bahamas

Abstract: Lake Killarney is the largest lake in New Providence, The Bahamas. A shallow brackish lake that provides many different types of unique environments to a variety of organisms. We examined the biodiversity of microalgae using the Shannon diversity (SD) index. Our focus was on two types of communities, benthos and phytoplankton. Samples were collected from July to September 2022 in three locations: Coral Harbor, John F. Kennedy Drive and Munnings Road. A multi-parameter Water Quality Sensor (Carolina Inc.) was used to measure pH, conductivity, and total dissolved solids. An OMAX 2000 microscope was utilized to facilitate the counting and identification of algae, along with “TopView” imaging computer program for micrographs. Statistical analysis was done using the R computer program. High SD index values suggest a rich biodiversity and therefore a healthy and functional ecosystem with low pollution. Low SD index values suggest minimal or poor biodiversity, most likely due to one or more sources of pollution. The highest SD index value of 2.016 was recorded for phytoplankton in August (JFK Drive), and for benthos, the value was 1.77 in August (Munnings Road). Statistical analyses suggest that for the benthos model, pH is negatively correlated with SD index and TDS is positively correlated with SD index. In the phytoplankton model, both pH and TDS are negatively correlated with SD index. The most abundant microalgae are diatoms (Bacillaryophyta) and cyanobacteria (Gleocapsa, Oscillatoria). Based on SD index only, we can conclude moderate pollution for Lake Killarney.

Presentation Date: Friday, 20^th October 2023

Presentation 1 

Author: Miss Logan T. Scavella (Student) 

Title: The Relationship Between Brand Equity and Customer Retention in Mobile Telecommunications Among University of The Bahamas Students

Abstract:  The mobile telecommunications market in The Bahamas is entering the maturity stage of the product life cycle. As a result, there is no more room for growth, as smartphone penetration in The Bahamas is approximately 98%, and there are no new clients to acquire. Therefore, investigating the connection between brand equity and customer retention is significant, especially as the demand for mobile technology increases among the upcoming working class. Since the University of The Bahamas students are a part of the future working class it is essential to focus on this segment of people. This study utilised a correlational research design incorporating both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Data was collected from a sample size of 357 students using a self-administered questionnaire of 28 questions

Presentation 2

Authors: Dr. Jason K. Styles
Dr. Lisa J. Knowles

Title: Why Become a Learning Organization: Measuring the Dimensions of Learning at The University of The Bahamas

Abstract: In the 21st century, higher education institutions (HEIs) seek to remain relevant in a rapidly changing social and cultural landscape, knowing that innovation is critical to the ongoing viability of the organization. As a result, HEIs need to adapt to changes through continuous learning, thus fostering new regulatory paradigms which considerably grow among educational organizations. In this paper, a cross- sectional, data collection methodology utilized an adapted 21-item version of the Dimensions of Learning Organization Questionnaire (DLOQ). Furthermore, the selected instrument employed investigates the perception of university staff, faculty, and administrators in the organizational learning culture in a Bahamian higher education institution, namely the University of the Bahamas.

Presentation Date: Friday, 15^th September 2023

Presentation 1 

Author: Dr. Anastasia Brown 

Title: Bahamian University Administrative Staff’s Perceptions of Management Style Change: A Descriptive Study-Centered

Abstract:  This qualitative descriptive study explores how the administrative staff at a college in The Bahamas described the transition from a traditional leadership model to a transformational change style of leadership. The theoretical foundations were based on change management, transformational change, and transformational leadership. The study comprised two research questions designed to explore the administrative staff’s perception of change and the factors that affected it. The study sample included 46 participants who completed questionnaires, 10 participants who completed the one-on-one interviews, and 5 participants who participated in a focus group.

Presentation Date: Friday, 17^th February 2023

Presentation 1 

Author: Dr. Joseph Ferguson

Title: Are You Feeling Lucky?

Abstract:  In this talk we will analyze the current 3-ball lottery number system in The Bahamas.  The number of ways to select a 3-digit number is calculated using the mathematical counting techniques of permutations and combinations.  A comparison between “number houses” in The Bahamas and across the United States is done to indicate any possible differences in frequency of play and potential winnings that may be paid.  Over the years our research shows there is a set of numbers, if played consistently can greatly improve the chance of a win in The Bahamas.  A third-degree polynomial regression technique is used to predict the success rate of a set of numbers based on previous results.  The model is then used to determine the likelihood of success if played again.  

Presentation 2

Authors: Dr. Mark Stephens
Dr. T. Emre Yildirim
Dr. Ziman Zhang

Title: ‘Geojournalism’ – A Growing Movement and its Application in Higher Education

Abstract: Geojournalism is a growing movement at the intersection of both eco- and data journalism, that combines digital media technology approaches to create online platforms that provide scientific evidence for stories and narrative context for data. However, given its novelty there appears to be little formal recognition of “Geojournalism” in an educational/academic context.  In this paper, we outline and review tools and techniques, and platforms that can be effectively applied by educators and learners to investigate and report on geographic and environmental issues. Outputs are included, resulting from a unique collaboration between Geography and Journalism faculty and students at the University of The Bahamas. This study further assists in the promotion and formalization of Geojournalism in environmental communication and higher education.

Presentation Date: Friday, 27^th January 2023

Presentation 1 

Author: Dr. Schyonne Adderley

Title: The Moderating Role of Openness to the Experience on Employee Mobility’s Influence on Job Security and Employee Retention

Abstract:  Human and Career mobility in the hospitality and tourism sector has been used to identify mobility patterns of workers in different regions around the world for career growth and personal development from the inception of expatriation. This consequently shows how internal mobility opportunities can mediate the relationship of employee organizational behavior and their intent to stay with the organization. Therefore, this study sought out to examine the influence of employee global mobility on job security and employee retention. Paired t-tests were applied to examine the responses of 148 luxury hotel employees in The Bahamas through a scenario-based experiment. This paper experiments for the first time with a hybrid of the combination with expatriation or mobility the purpose of personal and management development, talent management, employee retention and job security. This research takes on the position of challengers of seasonality, whose model was introduced by Jolliffe and Farnsworth in 2003.

Presentation 2

Authors: Dr. Williamson Gustave
Dr. Carlton Watson

Title: Prevalence of Arsenic Contamination in Rice and the Potential Health Risks to the Bahamian Population

Abstract: Tourism and financial services are the twin pillars of The Bahamian economy.  The Financial services sector is experiencing tremendous change driven largely by regulatory initiatives and technological innovation.  The purpose of this study is to explore the perspectives of senior executives in this context on organizational readiness for change and its perceived impact.  The changes taking place int eh operating environment have required financial institutions to adapt.  As financial institutions transform to respond to increased global pressure, individuals feel the effects.  Resistance to change has been acknowledged by researchers as a significant barrier to successful organizational transformation.  This study focuses on change readiness as an identified precursor for successful organizational change.  The results of the study will be discussed with suggestions for the way forward.

Presentation Date: Friday, 18^th November 2022

Presentation 1 

Author: Dr. Anne Ulentin

Title: Gender-Based Violence in The Late 19^th/Early 20^th Century Bahamas

Abstract:  This presentation focuses on L.D. Powles, who is remembered for his 1888 memoir, The Land of the Pink Pearl, in which he described his tenure as magistrate and provided a colourful depiction of the social, cultural, economic, and political life in The Bahamas.  Powles exposed deep-rooted racial and class divisions and the racially structured institutional order which characterized Bahamian society in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.  Aside from challenging issues of racial injustice, Powles exposed the widespread existence of gender-based violence in the Bahamian community, white and black alike, and the lack of enforcement of an access to justice for women and girls.  His narrative not only opens up a discussion on views and gender-based violence but also on the tone of the societal and legal response to acts of violence against women and girls at the time.  

Presentation 2

Author: Dr. Tanya McCartney

Title: Perspectives on Leading Change: Exploring Change Readiness Strategies Used in The Bahamian Financial Services Sector

Abstract: Tourism and financial services are the twin pillars of The Bahamian economy.  The Financial services sector is experiencing tremendous change driven largely by regulatory initiatives and technological innovation.  The purpose of this study is to explore the perspectives of senior executives in this context on organizational readiness for change and its perceived impact.  The changes taking place int eh operating environment have required financial institutions to adapt.  As financial institutions transform to respond to increased global pressure, individuals feel the effects.  Resistance to change has been acknowledged by researchers as a significant barrier to successful organizational transformation.  This study focuses on change readiness as an identified precursor for successful organizational change.  The results of the study will be discussed with suggestions for the way forward.  

Presentation Date: Friday, 21^st October 2022

Presentation 1 

Authors: Dr. Clare Bowen-O’Connor
Dr. Elizabeth Lynch

Title: Managing Post-Dorian Forest Recovery through Community-Based Engagement

Abstract:  Hurricane Dorian, a category 5 storm, had a devastating impact on the land and human resources of Grand Bahama. The social impact of such storms lasts for many years. Recovery efforts often focus on the land resources with little emphasis on the impact of these efforts on the local populations who suffer significant economic loss. University of The Bahamas in collaboration with University of Wyoming have been working together to foster community-based engagement while implementing forest recovery measures. In May 2022, we trained students on ethnographic methods, plant identification and growth performance measurements. In August, we hosted planting events with local volunteers to help with transplanting and monitoring. Our participatory approach will feed into the development of a long-term management plan that involves stakeholders from project inception through completion.

Presentation 2

Author: Dr. Jesús A. Meza-Morales

Title: Introduction to the Teachers’ Opinions and Attitudes Towards Teaching & Learning Spanish in The Bahamas

Abstract: Despite the fact that The Bahamas thrives on foreign tourism, it is noted that there is no explicit and well-established language policy towards foreign languages.  This is a preliminary, introductory research to obtain evidence and contribute towards a diagnosis of the situation of teaching and learning Spanish in The Bahamas.  The Purpose of the study was to learn more about Spanish teachers in The Bahamas, their training, what they have studied, where they teach and the number of years they have been teaching.  Additionally, the researcher sought to learn about Spanish teachers’ opinions and perceptions in The Bahamas, the local system, the skills of students, Teachers’ Pan Hispanic awareness, etc.  The results of the study will be discussed with suggestions for the way forward.

Presentation Date: Friday, 23^rd September 2022

Presentation 1 

Authors: Mr. Kemi Alexander Jones
Mrs. Cherran Weech-O’Brien

Title: The Impact of Shocks to the Tourism Sector on Household Consumption: Evidence From The Bahamas

Abstract:  This paper presents empirical evidence of the impact of shocks to the tourism sector on household consumption in The Bahamas, a country following a tourism led growth (TLG) development strategy. While significant research has been conducted on the ability of tourism to reduce poverty in developing countries, little analysis has been conducted surrounding the impact on household consumption when tourism shocks are experienced. Additionally, little knowledge exists of the impact on consumption as tourism accounts for an increasing share of output. This paper utilizes OLS and VAR model of quarterly multivariate time series of the Bahamas National Statistical Institute data of household consumption for the 2015-2020 period while controlling for total output, tourism sector output, exports and private savings. Preliminary results indicate that broad economic growth supports increased household consumption. However, the results also suggest as tourism output increases, domestic household consumption declines, possibly due to a crowding out effect. The preliminary results signal significant areas for public policy reform.

Presentation 2

Author: Dr. Amin Kabir

Title: Monitoring Saharan Dust Transport over Nassau Using a Laser and a CCD Imager

Abstract: During June, 2020 Saharan dust was observed to cross the Atlantic Ocean from the Sahara Desert. NASA GEOS-5 model showed its origin over the Saharan Desert in early June and its progress through the Atlantic Ocean, passing over the Bahamas and the US in late June. Using optical remote sensing technique, we were able to detect the passing Saharan air layer over Nassau. An imaging Lidar system, where the vertical laser transmitter and detector are widely separated, has been developed and used to monitor the dust transport and altitude-dependent aerosol distributions. A CCD camera with wide angle lens takes a digital image of the laser beam from the side, capturing the aerosol and molecular side scatter from all altitudes at once without the need for scanning. The altitude of the scatterers is determined from the geometry of the laser/detector setup without the need for expensive timing hardware.  

Measuring Aerosol Extinction and Aerosol Optical Depth in The Bahamas Using a Camera-Laser Remote Sensing System
A. Kabir1, N. C. Sharma2, E. Knowles1, C. Bain1, S. Gagnon2, J. Fagnoni1, J. Barnes3 

1Department of Physical and Earth Sciences, University of The Bahamas 

2Department of Physics and Engineering Physics, Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT, USA 

3NOAA/ESRL/Global Monitoring Division, Boulder, CO, USA 

Department of Physical and Earth Sciences
University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: amin.kabir@ub.edu.bs 

Research Edge Working Paper Series

 DO TEACHERS INFLUENCE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS’ CREATIVITY? THE EXPERIENCE OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN THE BAHAMAS 

William J. Fielding1 & Pandora Johnson
Office of Institutional Strengthening and Accreditation and Academic Affairs,
University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: william.fielding@ub.edu.bs

Office of Academic Affairs,
University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: pandora.johnson@ub.edu.bs 

ENGAGING THE DEMOCRATIC SPIRIT: TEACHING EMPATHY WITHIN THE LITERATURE CLASSROOM

Mayuri Deka
English Studies
University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: mayuri.deka@ub.edu.bs 

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OCEAN INCURSIONS INTO THE CARIBBEAN PINE (PINUS CARIBAEA) FORESTS ON GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND: IMPACT ON SOIL CHEMISTRY, VEGETATION PROFILE AND AQUIFER SALINITY

Andrew Moxey
University of The Bahamas, Freeport, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas
Email: andrew.moxey@ub.edu.bs

SPINTRONICS: THE DAWN OF QUANTUM COMPUTING VIA SINGLE ELECTRON “SPIN” STATES

Tyler Lehman Adams
Continuing Education & Lifelong Learning, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: tyler.adams@ub.edu.bs

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RESPONSIBLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN SMALL ISLAND DESTINATIONS: LIGHTHOUSE POINT, ELEUTHERA DEBACLE

Vikneswaran Nair
Graduate Studies & Research, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: vik.nair@ub.edu.bs 

ASSESSING SUSTAINABILITY IN SMALL ISLAND DEVELOPING STATES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT TOOLS AND THEIR APPLICABILITY TO SMALL ISLAND DEVELOPING STATES

 Stacey Wells-Moultrie
University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: stacey.moultrie@ub.edu.bs 

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REAL OPTIONS OF A STOCK FOLLOWING A JUMP DIFFUSION WITH REGIME SWITCHING

Moussa Kounta1 & Sidney Larrimore
Department of Mathematics, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: moussa.kounta@ub.edu.bs & sidney.larrimore@ub.edu.bs

CREATING THE TINGUM COLLECTIVE CHAPBOOK: SEAGRAPES IN THE TIME OF MOONS

Tiffany Austin
English Studies, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: tiffany.austin@ub.edu.bs

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INCLUSIVE EDUCATION: A WORKING MODEL FROM MALAYSIA

Banu Devi1, Janice Kreiner2 & Anne Subashini3
1Continuing Education & Lifelong Learning, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
2Faculty of Social & Educational Studies, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas 3SEGI University, Malaysia
Email: banu.devi@ub.edu.bs1, janice.kreiner@ub.edu.bs2 & nsivanathan@hotmail.my3

ARTISTIC RESEARCH IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Christine Gangelhoff1, Paul Jones2 & Christian Justilien3
Department of Visual & Performing Arts, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: Christine.Gangelhoff@ub.edu.bs1, paul.jones@ub.edu.bs2 & Christian.Justilien@ub.edu.bs3

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THE PINK FLAMINGO CRUISE LINE SERVICE

Oshima Cartwright*, Daniella Eugene, Joshua Newry, Ashli Osbourne, Tariel Smith & Sophia A. Rolle†
Department of Hospitality & Tourism Management, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: *oshimacartwright@hotmail.com, †sophia.rolle@ub.edu.bs

A COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM DEVELOPMENT ON THE ISLAND OF SAN SALVADOR

Anthony Adderley, Marshowl Adderley, Shadrica Johnson*, Wayne Miller, Chad Munnings, Rashinique Rolle & Sophia A. Rolle†
1Department of Hospitality & Tourism Management, University of The Bahamas, Nassau, The Bahamas
Email: *ladyshad393@hotmail.com; †Sophia.Rolle@ub.edu.bs

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4 November 2016

Valaria Flax, Assistant Professor, Mathematics, Physics and Technology

Topic: A Conversation With…

Abstract: ‘A CONVERSATION WITH’ Lecture Series, with Valaria Flax, Assistant Professor in Architecture, Michael Edwards, Lecturer in Art, and Guest Speaker, Mr. Michael Diggiss, Architect, MD& Associates Co. Ltd, offers presentations with note-worthy members of our community; linking us to our history, highlighting our present and exploring the future of ART, ARCHITECTURE and CULTURE in The Bahamas. The lecture series provides an innovative approach to the learning environment; this platform allows the audience to not only listen and learn, but to engage with speakers in an informal setting.

Creative Nassau was formed in 2008 by the late Jackson Burnside III along with a group of passionate Bahamians who wished to showcase their unique Bahamian culture to the world, whilst actively developing a Creative Tourism model to ensure that by the year 2020 more persons will travel to The Bahamas to experience its art, culture and heritage rather than just its sun, sand and sea. We will host two of Creative Nassau’s members: Pamela Burnside – wife of Jackson Burnside, owner of Doongalik Studios Art Gallery, co-founder of Creative Nassau. Patricia Glinton-Meicholas – author, president of The Bahamas Association for Cultural Studies (BACUS), cultural advocate, founding member.

11 November 2016

Dr. Christine Gangelhoff, Assistant Professor, Music, Communications and Creative Arts

Topic: Dancing about architecture: The mysterious nature of research in the arts.

Abstract: The arts are not typically associated with research. This view is held by the general public and surprisingly often within academia. Policies on research are often designed for the sciences and related disciplines, while projects in the arts do not fit the mold and are sometimes met with skepticism. Many European Institutions are addressing this issue by creating specific Arts Research Centres that expand the view of what qualifies as research.

Using an ongoing research project around Caribbean composers, Dr. Gangelhoff will present various aspects of research in the arts, discussing both content and process. This presentation will demonstrate how interdisciplinary, collaborative research in the arts.

18 November 2016

Jesper Elzinga, Environmental Engineer, Van Oord Dredging and Marine Contractors, The Netherlands

Topic: ReefGuard: An industry led approach to assisted reef rehabilitation – Intermediate Results Bahamas 2016 Experiment

Abstract: In 2010, Dutch dredging and marine contractor Van Oord launched a Coral Rehabilitation Initiative known as ReefGuard (2010 – 2016). Its aim is to enhance the assisted rehabilitation of degraded natural coral reefs by out-planting (tens to ultimately hundreds of thousands) ‘lab’-cultured juvenile corals obtained from natural coral spawning events. A key challenge is to demonstrate that already proven small-scale coral breeding techniques can be scaled-up and applied in the field to promote environmental gain around marine infrastructure projects. Throughout the four executed ReefGuard pilots thus far, the ReefGuard team has executed coral rehabilitation experiments with various coral species of the genus Acropora. Acropora is a genus of coral species which is prolific around the world and notably includes the endangered Elkhorn and Staghorn corals. During the ReefGuard pilots in the Bahamas, Van Oord has been executing rehabilitation experiments with Acropora palmata (Elkhorn coral).

On the 9th of September 2016 Jesper Elzinga of Van Oord presented an introduction to the ReefGuard’s main operational principles and future outlooks. Furthermore, the setup of the aquaculture experiment currently conducted in the Bahamas was discussed. During this aquaculture experiment the ReefGuard team aims to increase coral growth and survival rates by altering the aquaculture periods, water quality and feeding regimes of several subsets of juvenile Elkhorn corals. This second ReefGuard presentation serves as a platform to present the intermediate results from this experiment and further the discussion of coral rehabilitation in The Bahamas.

14 October 2016

Dr. Philip Smith, Assistant Professor, English Studies

Topic: The Journal Publication Process

Abstract: Dr Philip Smith has worked in every aspect of the academic publications process; as a publisher, book editor, journal editor, author and reviewer. He will give a presentation on journal publishing and detail how to select the right venue for your article; how to prepare a manuscript for submission, what editors look for in a paper and how to handle reviewer feedback.

21 October 2016

Dr. Nicolette Bethel, Assistant Professor, Social Sciences

Topic: Commodifying a Festival in The Bahamas: Junkanoo or Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival?

Abstract: In 2013, recognizing the growth of carnival tourism around the Caribbean, the Bahamian Prime Minister announced the establishment of a “Bahamian Mardi Gras”. Rather than stemming from Junkanoo, this festival was modelled on Trinidadian Carnival, using purchased costumes, soca music and sound trucks during a daytime road march. One rationale given was that the festival’s purpose was to attract tourist dollars, and that tourists were more familiar with carnival than with Junkanoo. Faced with mounting public criticism, however, what had initially been called Bahamas Carnival was renamed Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival. The first such event, widely promoted to an international market, took place in May 2015.

This study draws on mixed-methods research conducted in the lead-up to and during the first Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival, and tests the claims made by organizers that Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival was instituted to attract visitors and increase foreign exchange receipts. It demonstrates that in spite of the focus placed on designing and marketing Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival expressly for and to international tourists, international tourist attendance and expenditure were lower than anticipated. It grapples with the question of why the Bahamian government saw fit to import an entirely new festival model rather than investing in the existing festival of Junkanoo, and considers questions of authenticity and festival tourism.

28 October 2016

Paul Deluca, Assistant Professor, Chemistry, Environmental Life Science

Topic: The value of preserving natural habitats: A new katydid species for The Bahamas

Abstract: The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera) was established in 2009 and is operated by the Bahamas National Trust and funded by the Leon Levy Foundation. It is the first national park on the island of Eleuthera. A primary mission of The Preserve is the promotion of biodiversity, conservation and environmental awareness. In 2012, a project was initiated to characterize arthropod biodiversity in the park. As of 2015, a total of 307 species of arthropods has been collected. The majority of species are insects (89%), followed by arachnids (8%), crustaceans (2%) and myriapods (1%). In addition, a new species of katydid (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) was discovered here in 2013. This find represents the first new katydid species discovered in The Bahamas, and current evidence suggests this species may be endemic to the Bahamian Archipelago. Additional research is planned to more fully map the distribution of this species and its congenerics throughout the Greater Antilles. The Eleutheran species bears a striking turquoise-colored face that is absent in the other two species in the genus. This feature is hypothesized to be an anti-predator adaption which allows individuals to conceal themselves within foliage to avoid detection.

2 September 2016

Dr. Nathan L. Dawson, Assistant Professor, Mathematics, Physics and Technology

Topic: New Experimental and Theoretical Approaches for Better Optoelectronic Materials

Abstract: Optoelectronic materials are an important part of our current way of life. Our global civilization relies on these materials for energy harvesting, communicating over long distances, and accessing information through the world wide web. These are but a few of the applications that require such materials, where better optoelectronic materials are necessary to make new state-of-the-art devices. Cellulose nanocrystals are shown to make environmentally friendly scaffolds for disordered nanoparticle arrays and cavity polaritons are observed in bio-based porphyrin-sophorolipid molecules inside weak cavities. The current gap between the theoretical limits of the hyperpolarizability of optoelectronic materials and experimentally determined values will be discussed. Theoretical techniques will be introduced to help explore what attributes new materials might require to breach this gap.

9 September 2016

Jesper Elzinga, Environmental Engineer, Van Oord Dredging and Marine Contractors, The Netherlands

Topic: ReefGuard: an industry led approach to assisted reef rehabilitation with ‘lab’-cultured juvenile corals obtained from natural coral spawning events

Abstract: In 2010, Dutch dredging and marine contractor Van Oord launched a Coral Rehabilitation Initiative known as ReefGuard (2010-2016). Its aim was to enhance the assisted rehabilitation of degraded natural coral reefs by out-planting (tens to ultimately hundreds of thousands) ‘laboratory-cultured’ juvenile corals obtained from natural coral spawning events. A key challenge was to demonstrate that proven small-scale coral breeding techniques could be scaled-up and applied in the field to promote environmental gain around marine infrastructure projects. The ReefGuard, (an innovative mobile laboratory), was developed to ensure the availability of a controlled environment to facilitate fertilisation, primary settling and initial outgrowing of the larvae before outplacement.

After its construction in 2013, ReefGuard was applied in three field trials. The first two trials were executed near Ningaloo Reef in Coral Bay Australia (2014 and 2015). The third trial was executed in Coral Harbour on New Providence, Bahamas (2015). The trials involved three species of Acropora corals, in-situ as well as ex-situ gamete collection, and employed 10, 36 and 20 settlement tiles respectively. Tiles with settled larvae were placed in the field as part of a scientific survival experiment. ReefGuard design, including its use in up-scaling consecutive breeding steps, settlement and mortality rates encountered and the practical aspects crucial in bringing this technology toward industry operating standards will be presented. Additionally, planned activities for the 2016 ReefGuard Bahamas campaign will be shared and discussed with the audience.

16 September 2016

Valaria Flax, Assistant Professor, Mathematics, Physics and Technology and Mr. Patrick Rahming, Professional Architect

Topic: A Conversation With…

Abstract: ‘A CONVERSATION WITH’ Lecture Series, with Valaria Flax, Assistant Professor in Architecture, Michael Edwards, Lecturer in Art, and Guest Speaker, Mr. Patrick Rahming, Architect, offers presentations with note-worthy members of our community; linking us to our history, highlighting our present and exploring the future of ART, ARCHITECTURE and CULTURE in The Bahamas. The lecture series provides an innovative approach to the learning environment; this platform allows the audience to not only listen and learn, but to engage with speakers in an informal setting.

Mr. Rahming has a special commitment to the cultural and economic development of The Bahamas. Over the past 45 years, his efforts have resulted in the construction of numerous significant buildings, the publishing of two books of poetry, one book of philosophy, four albums and several singles of original music; three of his original plays have been staged at the Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts. He has been awarded the Governor General’s Awards for Design Excellence for the NIB Buildings in Nassau and Freeport and the conversion of the Balmoral Hotel to the Le Meridien Royal Bahamian Hotel in Nassau.