Inspiring future ecologists through experiential education

Background/Question/Methods

Archbold Biological Station (ABS) is a non-profit facility dedicated to long-term ecological research, education, and conservation based in rural Highlands County, Florida. In a county where science subject-matter standardized test scores are regularly below average, supplemental education programs may be critical to foster interest in biological sciences. To further scientific literacy and encourage high school students to consider a career in biology, the Plant Ecology Program at ABS has developed a High School Research Assistantship (HSRA) program. Since 2007, ABS researchers have provided research experience to local students by incorporating them into a variety of projects focused on the long-term demography of rare plants, fire ecology and restoration ecology. Students have the opportunity to be involved in a rich educational experience by learning data collection methods, practicing data management skills, reading scientific literature, and developing independent projects.  Furthermore, students participate in designing an ecological curriculum and teaching 7-12 year olds attending ABS ecology summer camp. To conclude the program, each student presents a summary of his or hers experience to fellow researchers.

Results/Conclusions

The High School Research Assistant (HSRA) program at Archbold Biological Station (ABS) has been successful in recruiting a diversity of students county-wide. To date 70% of participants have been female and 40% under-represented minorities. Students complete pre- and post-program assessments to evaluate changes in knowledge and attitude towards science and to assess skills gained from their experiences. Overall, student responses improved a mean 18% (range 9-33%) on basic questions about evolution, conservation, ecology, and botany. Additionally, students rated a mean 24% (range 5-45%) increase of their own knowledge and experience in ecological research. While responses to attitudinal questions about ecology and potential careers in science remained similar pre- and post-experience, most students gained an average of 2-4 skills in using research equipment. Ultimately, the HSRA program has become an integral part of the Plant Ecology Program at ABS and has proved to be a valuable tool to broaden youth participation in the field of biological sciences.