BEHAVIOURAL ECONOMICS - Mousa

Behavioural economics (BE) is a relatively new field, combining the fields of psychology and economics. Traditional economics assumes everyone is ‘rational’ and will make the perfectly rational decision in every situation. BE acknowledges that humans are irrational, but they are predictably irrational. This predictable irrationality can be used to “nudge” behaviour. In this workshop, we will discuss BE principles such as confirmation bias, overconfidence, the “hot-hand” fallacy in basketball etc. Students will walk through the process of applying BE principles to “nudge” users to do something and influence their behaviour. After this workshop, you will be a better haggler, better understand why certain countries have higher organ donation rates, and be able to apply these principles in everyday life. You will also be able to recognize BE principles being applied all around you to influence your own behaviour!

PLANT PALOOZA! - Grace

Why do pines have cones? Why do ferns have brown dots on the underside of their leaves? As Dobzhansky said: “Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution.” In this workshop, we’ll be learning about the evolutionary history of land plants. Starting with the basics, we’ll be exploring what evolution means and dispelling common misconceptions. We will then explore the traits of major groups of plants and learn about the “race to canopy”. We’ll take a walk around Waterfowl Park to collect plant specimens. We’ll learn how to press, dry, and mount the specimens so you will have some keepsakes to take home!

THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE REVOLUTION - Yasna

Since our current educational model is poorly equipped to educate students on the technological developments in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), this workshop will aim to do just that. SHADs will be able to share their current perceptions of the impact of AI and automation, learn about the technologies that are currently in development and, most importantly, brainstorm how these advancements will impact their future career prospects. SHADs should be ready to debate and engage in meaningful discussions about how AI will affect the human experience. The AI revolution is already here, and it is important that SHADs are aware of this when planning for their futures. No prior knowledge is needed!

BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP - Caroline

It's time to think like an entrepreneur! In this workshop you will explore the ins and outs of business and entrepreneurship, create products and reflect upon your own entrepreneurial skills. This workshop will give Shads the opportunity to work as a company to create products for specific types of consumers! By taking this workshop you will get in touch with your creative side as well as set goals and self-reflect along the way!

TRIP PLANNING; DO YOU KNOW HOW TO PLAN THE TRIP OF YOUR DREAMS? - Cara

Do you have a place you’re dying to go to but no idea how to get there? In this workshop I’ll give you the tools to design your perfect trip so that you can make that dream a reality. First, we’ll discuss the pitfalls of being unprepared for a trip, how to create an itinerary, and how to make sure your trip is a success. Then, you’ll get into small groups and be given time and guidance on how to design your ideal trip. Finally, you’ll share your trip plan with the rest of the group and teach them about the country you’re going to. Throughout the workshop I’ll point out tips and tricks that I’m hoping you didn’t know you didn’t know. You should leave feeling much more confident about HOW to actually take the a fantastic trip and also learn a thing or two about other countries.

3D PRINTING - Nick

This workshop will provide YOU with the opportunity to dive into the world of 3D modelling, an increasingly useful skill as 3D printers are becoming cheaper and more common across STEAM disciplines. Learn the basics of Fusion 360, one of the most popular professional tools for 3D rendering and modelling, through exploration of the many functions that the program has to offer. We’ll start by working through a tutorial then branch off to explore and create within the software. By the end you’ll have a creative and useful designs of your own, which will then be 3D printed over the next few days!

FUN WITH IMPROV - David

Life doesn’t come with a script; we just have to figure it out as we go. This workshop will cover the basics of improvisation. We will play some games, come up with some stories, and maybe even do a short performance. Improv isn’t about trying to be funny; it’s an exercise in active listening, teamwork, and generative brainstorming (that also ends up being funny most of the time). Absolutely no experience necessary!