Apeiron: Briefing of various student works

James Gorman

Students showcased a wide range of research at Washburn University Friday, providing a unique educational opportunity for the local community.

The 23rd annual Apeiron featured a full day of creative and scholarly presentations from several disciplines. Students presented research on a variety of topics, including social issues, fine arts, literature, science and media.

A team of four computer science majors shared their progress developing a software version of the board game, Settlers of Catan. The students demonstrated their software and then discussed their successes and shortcomings.

“We would have liked to create a Washburn-themed version of the game,” said Jonah Phelps-Roper, a member of the team of programmers.

Across campus, students donned name badges and carried poster tubes as they made their way into the Memorial Union to exhibit research projects en masse. The crowded room buzzed as students answered questions from curious faculty, students, family and community members.

Michaela Conley, an education major and photographer, presented her research on visual storytelling. She said Apeiron is an opportunity to share her work with others.

“Since the first cave paintings, humans have used art to tell stories,” said Conley.

Conley said the research helped her to understand how to develop her own style in photography.

Attendees eating pork sliders nodded enthusiastically while students described research methods.

At the far end of the room, Madison Dressman, a junior studying psychology stood in front of a poster outlining her research that sheds light on the efficacy of eyewitness testimony. She said witnesses and jurors should be aware of the inconsistencies of memory. Dressman plans to attend Washburn Law school.

“My research shows the benefits of a psychology degree to law school undergraduates,” Dressman said.

More than 100 students presented at this year’s event.  Apeiron is a Greek word meaning “unlimited.”