First annual CNS-ASU Winter School deemed a success

Early this January, 14 graduate students and junior faculty from across the world were invited to Arizona to participate in the first annual CNS-ASU Winter School. The participants, hailing from a variety of disciplines, received a detailed introduction to CNS-ASU research methods and projects during the week-long retreat. At the end of the week, the participants presented on ways to integrate principles of real-time technology assessment and anticipatory governance in their own work.

Hosted at Saguaro Lake Ranch, the Winter School was an opportunity not only for the participants to learn more about particular research methods used by CNS-ASU, but also to get an academic immersion experience away from the urban centers that house many universities. 

Following alongside the research programs of CNS-ASU, the winter school participants did training in bibliometric analysis used in RTTA 1, statistical analysis for RTTA 2, Socio-technical integration research methods as in RTTA 3, and future scenario development from RTTA 4. In addition, faculty gave introductory material and exercises related to nanoequity and nanotechnology in urban development, representing CNS-ASU's two thematic research clusters.

In addition to rigorous academic sessions, there was also time socialization and the great outdoors. CNS-ASU's Ira Bennett and Jameson Wetmore led the "Nano Around the World" card game made popular at S.NET 2011, and the students often spent their free time hiking the trails surrounding Saguaro Lake Ranch. CNS-ASU faculty and graduate students were on hand to provide mentorship and answer any questions throughout the week.

The feedback from the students was positive all around, and CNS-ASU is excited about offering a similar Winter School experience in years to come. Photos from the week are available online.