Training rural/underserved youth to understand and pursue scientific careers

University Of Montana, Missoula MT

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Students living in rural and frontier areas are oftentimes at a disadvantage, in that they do not always have easy access to hands-on educational programs that might stimulate their interest in the sciences. The inquiry-based science education program that we are proposing in this application will train students in the scientific process based on real- world air pollution issues, giving them the tools necessary to conduct hands-on research. Based on our successful Air Toxics Under the Big Sky program, one of four sub- projects in our original SEPA, we will develop the Clean Air and Healthy Homes Program (CAHHP). Through three Aims, we will test the overall hypothesis that CAHHP can be used in rural, underserved areas to effectively educate students in the scientific process, raise their interest in science and science careers, and increase their awareness of environmental impacts on human health. We will test this hypothesis with the following Aims: 1) Develop an inquiry-based, student directed, learner centered program (CAHHP) that will allow students to test relevant real-world questions in science; 2) Implement CAAHP into rural, underserved areas of Montana, Idaho, and Alaska in collaboration with our regional partners; and 3) Establish a professional development program for teachers interested in environmental health sciences. Through Aims 1 and 2, we anticipate that students participating in CAHHP will have increased interests in science, as well as an increased interest in science as a career. Through Aim 3, we will provide professional development training to teachers, enhancing the science education that students receive within the classroom. Our over-arching goal is to provide educational opportunities to nearly 4,300 students from 51 schools located within rural and underserved areas of the northern Rocky Mountains, and within remote Alaska Native Villages. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE (provided by applicant): This project will implement the Clean Air and Healthy Homes Program into rural/underserved areas of Montana, Idaho, and Alaska, and provide a strong professional development program for teachers.