Abstract Detail

Teaching Section

Clevinger, Jennifer [1].

Incorporating Undergraduate Biology Majors into Botanical Outreach in Elementary Schools.

Three modules have been developed for undergraduate biology majors to teach botanical topics to elementary school children. Each module contains five investigative stations pertaining to the topics of seed dispersal, native trees and biomes. The seed dispersal module focuses on children testing different seeds to discover if they are best adapted for wind, water or animal dispersal. Children collect and record data that can be discussed later in follow-up activities with their classroom teachers. The native tree module includes a passport for the children to stamp leaves of local species as they learn about diagnostic characteristics that allow for identification of these tree species. The biome module highlights 5 specific biomes and features experiments on root adaptations, surface temperature of vegetation, and camouflage. Prior to visiting the elementary school, each college student is given a script and assigned to a particular station. During the visit, one to two college students lead each station as groups of 5-6 children rotate through the stations. The script facilitates training of the college students, so that they are ready to step into their stations upon arrival at the elementary school. Each module has been designed to correspond to grade-level state standards. Every session begins with the college students introducing themselves and describing their career aspirations, which also corresponds to a state standard on science careers. Undergraduate biology majors can be recruited from college courses and extracurricular activities such as science clubs and honor societies, especially those with a service requirement. Students become proficient in their botanical topic and are introduced to the field of education. Feedback from the elementary school teachers and 1000+ children has been consistently positive and over 50% of the college students have returned to teach a second module.

Broader Impacts:

1 - Walsh University, Division Of Math And Sciences, 2020 E Maple St NW, North Canton, OH, 44720, USA

Keywords:
Botany Education
outreach
investigative activities
Undergraduates.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Sections
Session: 27
Location: Delaware A/Hyatt
Date: Tuesday, July 10th, 2012
Time: 9:15 AM
Number: 27003
Abstract ID:667