Norwich Health Tech Seniors Conduct Research in BrainDance Competition

he Norwich Technical High School Health Technology seniors conducted quantitative experimental scientific research studies to enter in the BrainDance competition sponsored by the Institute of Living/Hartford Healthcare (IOL), in Hartford, CT. This competition is designed to decrease the stigma of mental illness. The projects are judged by clinicians and researchers at the IOL based on relevance to the stigma, creativity, accuracy of information, and scientific rigor. They worked diligently on their research project; it occupied the 1^st semester of the school year.  In addition, they learned how to conduct a research study, analyze data, write a research paper utilizing proper APA format, and create a research poster. They certainly demonstrated scientific rigor and really understood the importance and necessity of implementing evidence-based practice in healthcare.

The winners presented their research study and poster at the 15^th Annual BrainDance Awards Ceremony on April 26, 2016.  The awards were presented by:

• Jimmy Choi, PsyD: Senior Scientist, IOL
• Godfrey Pearlson, MD: Director, Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center, IOL
• Nancy Hubbard, LCSW: Director of Outpatient and Ancillary Services, IOL

Noelis Guzman, Kaitlyn Stripling & Ashley Varjenski: 1^st place winner in the Academic category, and won a prize of $500.00.  “Education’s Impact on Perceptions About Borderline Personality Disorder”

Following the awards ceremony the students had the opportunity to tour the Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center and the Myths, Minds and Medicine Museum. In addition, they participated in a panel discussion with mental health professionals affiliated with the IOL.