About the Project
The GIRRL study, which uses novel bio-behavioral measures such as probabilistic learning tasks, eye tracking, and oral glucose tolerance tests, aims to better understand how the brain and body direct behavior. This research requires the development and integration of novel hardware and software to gather data, as well as computational methods to analyze the data. This dual-pronged project combines computational research, advancement of computational learning, and outreach between the University of Wyoming (UW) and Central Wyoming College (CWC). The overall goal of this project is to further develop and support computational and computer science learning and research at UW and CWC using an active research project.
Aim 1: Implement hardware and software development for the GIRRL study into the Software Development Skills II course at CWC.
Aim 2: Develop a data analysis pipeline in Python for the GIRRL study.
CWC Involvement
To engineer a computer-controlled electro-mechanical device that reliably and consistently dispenses a single piece of candy and reports when the candy is taken, we will utilize collaborative efforts and skills in areas such as 3D design/printing, software development, electronic design/assembly, quality assurance, and documentation. We aim to produce a unit that is easy to use, maintain, and operate consistently. These efforts will support the success of research in growth insulin resistance and reinforcement learning, as well as offer opportunities for use in other research projects.