Uci Open (audio Podcasts)

Floods are the most destructive of natural disasters, on average affecting 100 million people globally. Drones can be used as very cost effective mapping devices, gathering fine resolution data on a site's terrain, landcover, and even its infrastructure. This information is necessary to build models capable of predicting flood hazard at scales of streets and individual homes. Learn how the UCI Blum Center for Poverty Alleviation is working to create a fleet of drones to benefit developing countries. Series: "Zot Talks" [Show ID: 32396]

3D printing can create large amounts of plastic waste. William Amos and Aldrin Lupisan of UC Irvine have created a system to recycle and reuse that waste for new material. By turning plastic waste into a locally based plastic supply chain they are innovating technology while reducing environmental impact. Series: "Zot Talks" [Show ID: 32395]

By focusing on a current water issue, students in public schools learn the science behind the problem and then exercise the scientific method in determining a unique solution to the problem with their classmates.  The students develop team work and communication skills while figuring out innovative ways to problem solve- skills that are beneficial beyond the classroom.  Series: "Zot Talks" [Show ID: 32394]

Should your art send you to prison? Rap lyrics are increasingly turning up as evidence in courtrooms across the country. The fictional characters portrayed in violent gansta rap songs are often a far cry from the true personalities of the artists behind them, yet uninitiated audiences easily conflate artist with character and fiction with fact. On a broader scale, using rap lyrics as evidence in criminal cases also raises questions about artistic freedom, freedom of speech and the rights of all citizens to receive a fair trial. UC Irvines Charis E. Kubrin, Ph.D and Adam Dunbar explore these issues. Series: "Zot Talks" [Show ID: 31368]