Ka`imi`ike: Explorations in the Geosciences for Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders [Track 2]

University Of Hawaii, Honolulu

Investigators

Abstract

The Ka'imi'iki program builds on a pilot Track 1 OEDG effort to engage Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander undergraduate students in geoscience degree programs and careers. Pathways into the fields of geoscience are being encouraged through an exploratory summer institute where local geoscientists showcase their careers and research. Ten students will participate each year in the 3-week summer institutes, which will feature instruction on use of geotechniques such as GIS, remote sensing, and GPS technologies; field trips to geologically interesting sites, including the Big Island volcanoes; visits to the laboratories of UH researchers in the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST); and presentations by scientists working with NOAA and USGS, among others. Cultural connections to Native communities and locally important features are being integrated with Western science concepts. Students are being recruited from freshman and sophomore classes within the University of Hawaii system and area community colleges, with particular emphasis on those who have undeclared majors or an interest in geoscience degrees. Paid internships with professional geoscientists and scholarships will be provided to a subset of students who wish to continue in these fields following the summer institute. Through project activities, students will become more aware of geoscientist role models and job opportunities within the Hawaiian Islands.