Congratulations to the recipients of the 2017-18 NOCCCD Innovation Fund Grant! In total, close to $100,000 will be distributed to develop and implement the great ideas from the following individuals:

Liliana Barabas, Fullerton College
Telescopic Astronomical Observations and Undergraduate Student Research at Fullerton College

This program aims to establish an astronomical observation program at Fullerton College That will train students to operate computerized telescopes and make direct observations that will allow them to engage in undergraduate research in astronomy. 

Behzad Izadi and Henry Hua, Cypress College
Cybersecurity Youth Education Program: CyberPatriot Training and Competition

The purpose of this proposal is to develop and implement a comprehensive training and mentorship program to attract MS and HS students to the Cybersecurity field. It involves students preparing for and participating in a CyberPatriot competition sponsored by the Air Force. 

Eric Bladh, Cypress College
Geographic Technology Initiative – Drones

Students will learn practical application of Drone Collection and Analysis Techniques. This will be done in conjunction with Great Parks in the City of Irvine to determine current land use and health.

Arturo Ocampo, District Services
Inclusive Excellence Curriculum Development Seminar

The goal is to provide faculty with the tools and guidance to be able to integrate diversity, multiculturalism, and inclusion into their course content. This will be done through a one-week seminar with a cohort of 12-16 faculty. The first half of the seminar will involve learning about the social dynamics of being the “other.” The second half of the week will focus on imbedding diversity and multicultural content in a course taught by the participant.

Kendra Velasco, Cypress College
Paradigm Shift in Dental Biofilm and Stain Removal

The goal of this project is to increase student skill attainment, speed, and competency in detail biofilm (plaque) and stain removal utilizing therapeutic use of air polishing technique. Currently, the students use traditional handpiece polishing that removes biofilm and stain 4-6mm under the gums in the same amount of time. The innovation technology will increase the students’ time and efficiency in biofilm and stain removal. Steps to achieve the goal are:

A) Purchase the five (5) Air Flow and Piezo Units;
B) Incorporate the use of the innovative Air Flow and Piezo units into the curriculum;
C) Measure competency in removing 4-6mm of biofilm and stain with goal of increasing clinical competency from 75% to 85%. Introducing this innovative technology will produce more successful students in clinical skills and will improve the acquisition of jobs within the community. 

Jason McPheron, District Services
Enhanced Early Alert-Using Predictive Analytics to Enhance Student Success

Using any appropriate student data, this project will use predictive analytics to identify patterns that signal at-risk behavior. If successful, this data can be forwarded to relevant parties, and existing early alert systems.

J. Janaki Parikh, Fullerton College
#H.O.R.N.E.T.S.L.A.B.

Research shows that play-based learning is highly engaging and extremely effective in adult learning environments. #H.O.R.N.E.T.S.L.A.B. project offers a complete overhaul of the anthropology lab curriculum. This would be achieved by providing the resources to modernize anthropology lab instruction to keep pace with the 21st century practices by incorporating a holistic, student centered and play-based learning environment while maintaining rigorous expectations for student achievement. In doing so, this project fulfills our District’s values of high standards and adaptability. Leaning modules will include analysis of human biological variation in comparative, cross-culturally based exercise, as well as forensics-based modules.  

Regina Rhymes, Cypress College    
Computers for Learning Communities: Puente and Legacy Programs

The Puente and Legacy programs are requesting funds for laptop computers. Learners will use the internet and technology to increase their confidence, independence, and productivity as learners. The benefits of incorporating laptops into students’ learning include re-energizing teachers, curriculum and learners. The enhanced educational experience for students increases confidence, capability with technology and preparation of skills needed for the 21st century. 

The NOCCCD Innovation Fund was designed to encourage and provide financial support for faculty and staff in developing and implementing new ideas, methods or practices that will improve the quality and efficacy of education, programs, and services throughout the District. Proposals complement the District’s Vision, Mission and Values Statement, as well as the District-wide Strategic Directions. Recipients have one year to implement their proposals, and will present information to the Board of Trustees at the conclusion of their programs.

The NOCCCD Innovation Fund ad-hoc workgroup reviewed, scored, and recommended the eight proposals above for funding, which Chancellor’s Staff unanimously approved on May 2, 2017.