9450071 SCHMITT The University of North Dakota proposes to implement a three-year experimental program designed to increase science and math studies for Native American students with disabilities who are in the fourth and fifth grades. The program will have participation of staff from the College for Human Resources Development, the Center for Teaching and Learning, the School of Engineering and Mines, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Graduate School, and Native American Programs. The project is designed to increase the awareness of parents, school personnel, college faculty, and students of the educational and career options in math and science open to Native American students with disabilities. Efforts will be made to enhance the curriculum, teaching strategies, hands-on and culturally-appropriate experiences, and counseling options for these students. Computers, the necessary adaptive equipment, and training in their use will be made available to the students. The project will increase the team building and liaisons among school personnel, college faculty, parents, and professionals in math, science and engineering. This interaction should result in permanent changes to the infrastructure of the school system and the curriculum and opportunities open to the students. The project will involve a summer institute for school personnel, parents, faculty, and mentor/role models and two institutes involving these persons and 30 fourth and fifth grade disabled Native American students from schools on or near reservations. A hands-on, culturally appropriate project will be designed and implemented in each participating school.***
