The CSULB Geoscience Diversity Enhancement Program (G-DEP)

California State University-Long Beach Foundation, Long Beach CA

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT THE CSULB GEOSCIENCE DIVERSITY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM (G-DEP) Underrepresentation of minorities in the geosciences is a recognized problem, and little is known about the specific cause of or solutions to the problem. The California Sate University, Long Beach (CSULB) Departments of Geological Sciences, Geography, Archaeology, Anthropology, and the Environmental Sciences and Policy degree program proposes to created an innovative, collaborative partnership with several community colleges and local high schools to improve the research and educational experiences of underrepresented students in the geoscience disciplines. The G-DEP model leverages the resources arising from of CSULB's involvement in the Long Beach Educational Partnership. In addition, G-DEP builds on interdisciplinary activities among CSULB's Geography, Geology, Archeology, Anthropology and Environmental Science disciplines to create a working prototype for a comprehensive, integrated Earth Sciences program. Underrepresented students will be encouraged to learn science by actively participating in geoscience research. They will be more adequately prepared to become undergraduates, and more sufficiently supported as they matriculate. With a firm commitment to dissemination of lessons learned, G-DEP will advance the literature on models that promote participation for underrepresented groups in geoscience research and education, particularly for the comprehensive, urban university.