Rural students learn basics of science, math, campus life

Submitted by Amy Hartley
Phone: (907) 474-5823
04/16/07

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UAF image courtesy Geophysical Institute

Lori Schoening, education and assessment coordinator at the Geophysical Institute, assists students as they assemble model meteorological rockets during a Science & Math Enrichment Program that took place in 2006.

UAF image courtesy Geophysical Institute

A student examines the leaves of a plant under a microscope at the Institute of Arctic Biology’s greenhouse during a Science & Math Enrichment Program that took place in 2006.

Thirty rural students will visit the University of Alaska Fairbanks for a two-day intensive program aimed at polishing their science and math skills. Students from the villages of St. Michael and Stebbins will visit research institutes, and participate in hands-on activities guided by scientists, as part of the annual Science & Math Enrichment Program.

Students will learn about global climate change at the International Arctic Research Center, delve into the multidisciplinary research at the Geophysical Institute, and tour the Institute of Arctic Biology’s greenhouse to understand the water cycle and greenhouse effect. Also, students will build and launch models of meteorological rockets and tour Poker Flat Research Range.

Beyond immersion into science and math activities, the SMEP experience provides students a feel for campus life. For many, this will be their first trip away from family and into an urban setting. This exposure is important because a majority of Alaska Native students from rural villages drop out of college during their first year, due to unfamiliarity with their new environment and problems adjusting to city life. Organizers of the program hope SMEP will spur students to pursue science careers and attend college at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

The Science & Math Enrichment Program is coordinated by the Geophysical Institute and funded by the International Arctic Research Center and the National Science Foundation.

CONTACT: Amy Hartley, Geophysical Institute information officer: (907) 474-5823, or via e-mail at amy.hartley@gi.alaska.edu