The Living and Learning Science Retention Program(LALSRP)

Saint Augustine'S College, Raleigh NC

Investigators

Abstract

The Living and Learning Science Retention Program (LALSRP) at Saint Augustine's College is designed to facilitate entry into the junior year by providing a support system for entering freshmen and sophomore science, mathematics and computer science (SMC) majors. A comprehensive approach to provide a support system will be accomplished by implementing the following objectives: 1. To revise and update curriculum to incorporate cooperative learning which will enhance study skills and generate independent learners; 2. To provide participants with intramural research experiences which will increase their analytical reasoning skills and provide hands-on laboratory experiences; 3. To build students' confidence so that they can successfully pursue an undergraduate degree in science and technology by providing positive role models, mentors and a strong academic support system; 4. To assist participants in the understanding of the process involved in pursuing a degree in science and technology by offering seminars, workshops and field trips; and 5. To enhance and develop faculty participants by providing research and curriculum development opportunities. In order to accomplish the stated objectives, the program will consist of five components: (1) Curriculum Enrichment which will include a Pre-freshman Summer Bridge Program, Enrichment Center and a Village of Science and Technology (VOSAT); (2) Undergraduate Research Experience; (3) Seminars and Workshops; (4) Scholarships and (5) Faculty Development. This program will enhance the living and learning community on the campus of Saint Augustine's College. It will serve as a model that can be replicated across the campus and can also be applied to other disciplines. It is anticipated that by the end of the 5-year funding period, the number of SMC graduates at Saint Augustine's College will increase 2 fold. In five years the campus will have an established infrastructure to support the transition of freshmen into the junior year. The dormitory VOSAT in particular, will stimulate scientific and technological discussions among majors and nonmajors on the campus. This proposed Living and Learning Science Retention Program will support 30-50 students each year and impact approximately 1,400 undergraduate students who reside on the campus of Saint Augustine's College. This program will serve as a model that can be replicated on any campus that has a minority based population.