Sample interview questions: How would you approach studying the impact of air pollution on individuals’ cognitive abilities?
Sample answer:
How would you approach studying the impact of air pollution on individuals’ cognitive abilities?
To study the impact of air pollution on individuals’ cognitive abilities, I would adopt a multifaceted approach that encompasses both quantitative and qualitative methods:
1. Observational Studies:
- Conduct longitudinal cohort studies to track cognitive function over time in individuals exposed to varying levels of air pollution.
- Utilize standardized cognitive assessments to measure changes in attention, memory, processing speed, and executive function.
- Collect data on air pollution exposure through personal monitors or ambient air quality monitoring stations.
2. Experimental Studies:
- Design controlled experiments to isolate the effects of air pollution on cognition.
- Expose participants to different levels of air pollution (e.g., clean air, filtered air, polluted air) in a laboratory setting.
- Measure cognitive performance before, during, and after exposure using validated assessments.
3. Neuroimaging Studies:
- Employ functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) or electroencephalography (EEG) to examine brain activity and neural connectivity in individuals exposed to air pollution.
- Investigate changes in brain regions associated with cognitive function, such as the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.
4. Qualitative Research: Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/7_0_16/Environmental%20Psychologist