Title: GK-12 Fellows: Linking Urban Water Quality with Science Education in the Chesapeake Watershed. Institution: Christopher Newport University PI: Dr. Gary Whiting, Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Science
Public Abstract
This GK-12 project goals are to: a) broaden the contextual framework of graduate fellows? research; b) enhance the fellows ability to effectively communicate how science functions; c) bring excitement of doing science into high school student experience, and d) have high school students apply their findings directly to benefit the environment and society. An inquiry-based teaching approach will be used by fellows to guide 9th grade teachers and students in developing field sampling and spatial analysis skills to address critical ecological issues impacting the local Chesapeake Bay. High school students will design and build field gear, sample local ponds and lakes, geospatially analyze (GIS) their results across the city?s landscape (Web-linked), and take their results into the neighborhoods surrounding these watersheds to encourage the businesses and residents to be aware of their actions on water-quality and make recommendations for improvement. The GK-12 project is a partnership between Christopher Newport University, the five high schools of Newport News Public Schools (NNPS), the Engineering Department for the City of Newport News, and HR STORM, a committee of the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission.
This project will set the stage for increased recruitment of minorities into science fields with the recruitment of Fellows from historically black colleges and universities and the prevalence (over 65%) of minority students in the participating high schools. The project activities, tools and partnerships will be a model for other universities and communities to address local and regional environmental problems while educating their students and residents.
