Core Concepts & Methods
Build scientific and technical fluency in nanoscale connectomics from motivation through analysis methods.
Fadel: Knowledge, Skills
Pathways: technical foundation, methods depth, analytical reasoning
This section introduces two core training frameworks used throughout NeuroTrailblazers:
MERIT Model
- Mentoring Exceptional Researchers to Innovate and Thrive — a six-stage approach that mirrors the scientific method from selection through career transition.
- Stages: Selection, Orientation, Skill Development, Independent Research, Advanced Research, Career Transition.
- Evidence base: Lopatto (2007) on undergraduate research experiences and Duckworth et al. (2007) on persistence.
Professional Pathways Workshops
- Interactive workshops that demystify hidden curriculum from orientation to future planning.
- Integrates Fadel et al. (2015) four-dimensional education: knowledge, skills, character, and meta-learning.
- Historically aligned with COMPASS framing; now presented as a broader pathways support layer.
Both frameworks complement each other: MERIT structures research progression while pathways workshops develop resilience and professional habits.
Visuals and downloadable guides coming soon.
Educational Models Across Tracks
These models help instructors support learners in technical methods, research execution, and professional growth.
Research in Action
Apply concepts in practical workflows, quality control, tools, and reproducible research operations.
Fadel: Skills, Meta-learning
Pathways: research workflow, reproducibility, project execution
Career & Community
Navigate hidden curriculum, mentorship, professional growth, and inclusive research identity development.
Fadel: Character, Meta-learning
Pathways: mentoring, professional growth, hidden curriculum