The goals of "CSI: Arkansas" are twofold: to improve the science pedagogy (including the use of technology) employed by mid-South Delta region high school teachers and to improve science and technology learning by students with a concomitant increase in the number of students who enter post-secondary education, particularly those who chose STEM/IT career preparation. Workshops for teachers and students will be presented using forensic sciences as an integrating theme. Forensic sciences allows teachers to integrate an inquiry-based approach to pedagogy through a wide variety of activities. Work-force skill development for students will also be facilitated by engaging in team-based problem-solving activities. Teachers will receive mentoring during the year and will engage in a variety of follow-up activities. Parents and school counselors will also be invited to participate in sessions, to help give them tools to encourage students to continue in post-secondary education, and specifically in STEM career preparation.
