Tribal Colleges and Universities: Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology Enhancement

Fort Peck Community College, Poplar MT

Investigators

Abstract

Project Summary Fort Peck Community College (FPCC), a tribal college, is located on the Fort Peck Reservation in northeastern Montana. FPCC provides academic and vocational programs and community service to the 10,000 members of the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes and area residents. In 1999-2000, FPCC had an average enrollment of 233 students. Approximately 85% of the students are Native American - nearly all are enrolled members of the Sioux and Assiniboine Tribes. In June 2000, there were 30 graduates with Associate Degrees. Of these, only 4 (13%) were in science, mathematics, engineering and technology (SMET) disciplines. Curriculum Enhancement: Objectives and Anticipated Outcomes 1-1. By Fall 2003, all entering students will be advised to enroll in appropriate levels of SMET courses based on assessment scores and previous achievement. 1-2. By Fall 2004, instructors will have integrated technology into 6 introductory SMET courses. 1-3. By Fall 2005, instructors will have integrated technology into 6 advanced SMET courses. Faculty Development: Objectives and Anticipated Outcomes 2-1. Each year, two SMET instructors will attend one regional or one national conference specifically focused on integrating technology into courses according to national standards. 2-2. By Spring 2005, all eight SMET instructors will have completed one semester of faculty exchange or sabbatical at another academic institution or national laboratory. 2-3. By Fall 2003, each SMET instructor will have designed and implemented a Web- based course based on national standards. Undergraduate Training: Objectives and Anticipated Outcomes 3-1. By Fall 2003, student enrollment in SMET courses will increase by 10%. 3-2. By Fall 2004, ten students will be selected for internship placement in local sites. 3-3. By Spring 2005, five students will graduate with SMET majors and/or transfers to four-year institutions. 3-4. By Spring 2006, five students will enter SMET careers. Expected Impact. This project will impact the college and reservation in several ways. Implementation of an appropriate system of assessment and student placement in beginning SMET classes will increase the completion rate to 70%. The addition of the computer laboratories and wireless communication will increase the FPCC capacity to offer additional SMET classes and research and increase enrollment in advanced SMET classes by 10%. As a result of the student internships, the percent of SMET majors entering math, science and technology careers is expected to increase by 10%. The students assigned to internships will become aware of career opportunities in math, science and computer technology especially in the region. The addition of the Web-based courses, especially advanced courses, will further increase enrollment and course completions. Involvement of the Advisory Committee will increase potential training and service opportunities. FPCC will enter into partnerships with tribal businesses and private companies for training and education especially in computer applications.