My research on Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in Sub-Saharan Africa was an enlightening and transformative experience that spanned eight weeks. This research courtesy of DSSRF not only deepened my understanding of a critical health issue but also equipped me with valuable digital research tools and fostered meaningful interactions with peers and coordinators. Reflecting on this journey, I will explore the key aspects of my research, the digital tools and skills I acquired, the collaborative environment, and the overall impact of this experience on my personal and professional growth.One of the most significant findings was the lack of awareness and early diagnosis, which often leads to severe complications and high mortality rates. I also discovered that while there are promising interventions, such as newborn screening and hydroxyurea therapy, their implementation is hindered by limited resources and healthcare accessibility.
I had the opportunity to learn new tools that helped enhance and visualize my data. Zotero was instrumental in managing and organizing my research sources. It allowed me to efficiently collect, categorize, and cite articles, ensuring a well-maintained bibliography. This tool helped me stay organized and streamlined the process of referencing during my writing. ArcGIS Online Tools (Mapping and StoryMaps): Using ArcGIS for mapping and creating StoryMaps was a transformative experience. These tools enabled me to visualize the geographic distribution of SCD cases and identify regional disparities. The interactive StoryMaps helped in presenting complex data in an accessible and engaging manner, making it easier to communicate my findings to a broader audience. Writing blog posts on WordPress was a valuable exercise in science communication. It taught me how to distill complex research findings into concise and reader-friendly content. Blogging also provided a platform to raise awareness about SCD and engage with a wider community.Creating timelines with Timeline JS helped contextualize the historical and current aspects of any research topic; however I did not utilize this in my project but I hope in the near future to use this tool. The additional workshops and feedback sessions were crucial for honing my research skills.
Collaboration and teamwork were central to my research experience. Interacting with peers allowed for the exchange of ideas, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Working on group projects and participating in discussions enriched my understanding of different research approaches and methodologies. This program underscored the importance of teamwork and the value of diverse perspectives.The support and guidance from coordinators were invaluable. Their expertise and mentorship provided direction and clarity throughout the research process. I particularly appreciated their feedback sessions, where they offered constructive criticism and encouraged innovative thinking.
This research program has significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. On a personal level, it has deepened my empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with SCD in Sub-Saharan Africa. Professionally, I have acquired a robust set of research skills, from data analysis to digital storytelling, which will be invaluable in my future endeavors. Looking ahead, I am excited to apply the knowledge and skills gained from this program to future projects. I am particularly interested in continuing research on public health issues and exploring the use of digital tools for data visualization .
Reflecting on my research experience, I am grateful for the opportunity to delve into a critical health issue and develop a comprehensive skill set. The combination of in-depth research, digital tools, and collaborative interactions has profoundly shaped my understanding and approach to digital projects. This experience has not only enriched my academic journey but also reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact through research and advocacy. This is the link to my research https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/4d20159825684642bf08a6cf967190f6