CAREER: Multi-scale interactions of air pollution, urban growth, and equity - integrated research methods and informal science teaching

University Of South Florida, Tampa FL

Investigators

Abstract

0846342 (Stuart) The objectives of this project are to (1) build an integrated toolset for investigation of air quality equity in developing urban areas, (2) advance knowledge on air quality equity and the impacts of growth on equity in the Tampa area, and (3) design a science museum exhibit that enhances interest of girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Research activities will include development of capabilities for air pollution modeling at multiple scales with the CMAQ and CALPUFF models, for local passive sampling and analysis (of NOX, benzene, 1,3-butadiene, and acetaldehyde), for urban growth modeling, and for integration and geospatial analyses. These will be applied to estimating spatial patterns of air quality around Tampa, to determining current equity effects by comparing air quality with population distributions, and to studying impacts of two alternative future urban growth patterns (suburb-oriented versus "smart growth" development). Educational activities will involve development of an exhibit for a nearby science museum in Tampa. The exhibit will use inquiry-based learning techniques to teach content. Evaluation of the exhibit will be designed to assess the effectiveness of enhancing the interest of girls in STEM. Research and education activities will be integrated by including research results in the exhibit content and in the PI's courses, by involving several students in project research and in exhibit development, and through student writing on project activities for both research and education journals.