With the need to increase minority representation in science, specifically in the polar sciences, the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) developed an innovative field research experience entitled International Polar Year- Research and Education Opportunities in Antarctica for Minorities (IPY-ROAM). As part of a US National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, twenty-eight participants including undergraduate students, graduate students and teachers completed a semester long online course and performed a research project in Antarctica within the areas of ecology, geosciences, policy and education. The purpose of this study was to assess the personal and professional benefits that participants believed they attained through this experience, and explore if the program encouraged students to purse a graduate education in the sciences or provide scientific literacy to their community with respect to the Polar Regions.

Results/Conclusions

Preliminary comparisons between pre-trip and post-trip surveys completed by participants indicated a significant increase in 8 out of 10 interpersonal skills and 3 out of 9 professional skills (paired sample t-test; p < 0.05). Data generated from this program may serve as a measurement tool to justify further investment in field research programs for students at the poles, and to refine programs to enhance these desired effects.