Scientific research, provides a platform to exercise creativity, critical thinking and collaboration. It involves having an open mind, patience, dedication and an eye for detail, in order to be able to hypothesise, test, analyse and deduce. Although it is quite a generalist term to use, it encompasses in its core, new ideas. Ideas that make us more aware of how the world around us works. Ideas which could potentially revolutionise our thinking and our actions. Ideas could open gateways to better and informed lives. These ideas have therefore become inextricably involved in our evolution, as a species itself. Research when successful, has given rise to to great scientific discoveries and inventions, which over the years has impacted development and change in countries, firms and lifestyles. And this aspect of scientific research, is to stay for many years to come.

The human relationship with science is complicated. Today’s generation thrives off science, and research has helped us discover more about ourselves, our surroundings, our past and our future. It has provided us with the foresight to take precautionary measures. However, the knowledge, which research provides us with, is merely a tool – how we use it to shape our future, is in our hands. And while so many of us reap the benefits of science and technology everyday, not always are we appreciative of the effort that goes into it.

During my summer vacations, I got a true flavour of research when I worked on the utilisation of Calcium Carbide as a substitute for acetylene in ring opening reactions of epoxides, over a month. Every day involved conducting multiple experiments, always being cautious about the seemingly insignificant details. It was intelligent trial and error, with deductions made at each step, yet, it was still trial and error . Hence, the likelihood of obtaining favourable results were expectedly low. This enabled me to truly understand the hours of hard work, dedication and perseverance is needed to conduct research despite the innumerable obstacles in the way. A true eye opener, this experience has only increased my respect for the sciences, and my desire to pursue them.

This would a CAS experience, as it involved working in a focused manner, at a problem, with the aim of arriving at a solution (as the final product) which was then presented to other intellectuals, who were very well versed in the respective field. The link to my research findings, and  the presentation preparation are attached.

 

CAS learning outcomes highlighted:

  1. Increased their awareness of their strengths and areas for growth.
  2. Undertaken new challenges.
  3. Planned and initiated activities.
  4. Worked collaboratively with others.
  5. Shown perseverance and commitment in their activities.
  6. Developed new skills.
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