Over Spring Break, students were not the only ones to escape the West Texas weather! COBA professors Dr. Phil Vardiman and Dr. Ian Shepherd headed to Hawaii to attend a NBES conference(National Business and Economics Society). The NBES is a multidisciplinary academic and professional organization focusing on the promotion of interdisciplinary research of both a theoretical and practical nature. Scholars and practitioners in the fields of Finance, Accounting, Marketing, Management, Information Systems, Operations Research, Economics, Public Administration, Psychology, and other related fields gathered to discuss research in the various fields, encourage the promotion of access in all of these disciplinary areas, and broaden their overall knowledge in business school academics. AACSB requires practitioners in their accredited schools to publish in their areas of expertise.
The two professors were able to attend breakout sessions as well as listen to experienced speakers, including Dr. Peter Christofferen, an author and award winning professional in the areas of research and economics. Dr. Shepherd and Dr. Vardiman also served as session chairpersons for the breakout sessions involving teaching and management.
Dr. Shepherd states, “A major takeaway from the conference is the revitalization of my interest in many topics surrounding research and teaching in economics.” Dr. Shepherd is currently working on ways to promote the use of technology inside and outside of the classroom. He is aiming to incorporate new ideas for teaching methods for students, including video and other visual elements. Both professors came away from the conference with a nice tan as well as goals to help students expand their knowledge and expertise in the classroom. What better way is there to spend the break?!
Dr. Ian Shepherd presents his findings in research and development in a breakout session at the NBES Conference in Hawaii.