Empowering youth currently underrepresented in STEM through authentic
science research on local environmental challenges
Abstract
For youth with limited role models in the STEM fields, and restricted
summer research opportunities resulting from a lack of financial
resources and academic connections, the opportunity to participate in
academically connected, community based science research programs can be
incredibly empowering. Providing these opportunities is critically
important but it takes purposeful work, persistent outreach and strong
community networks. We note that while providing these opportunities is
incredibly rewarding, but there is a lot of work both up front and
ongoing. This work is itself rewarding when networks are humming and
enthusiasm for involvement is high, but it can be challenging when
ceilings are hit and walls seem to arise unexpectedly. “Early
Engagement in Research: Broadening participation through engagement in
authentic science research” builds a regional network of summer
research experiences for high school students underrepresented in STEM,
starting from a successful model that has provided high school summer
field research opportunities for New York City youth for over a decade
(Secondary School Field Research Program). The program is developed
around regional partnerships between various combinations of academic
institutions and research centers, community environmental and education
centers, state cooperative extensions, high schools and school networks,
state and local park systems and land management groups. Each location
has a unique approach, but all include some similar attributes. Each
tackles an authentic science research issue that affects the local
community such as microbiology in the local streams and microplastics in
the local bays and biology, and each includes peer and near peer
mentoring for the students along with a scientist mentor. Encouraging
professional development of each student is central to the program.
Technical instruction includes the use of scientific instruments and
equipment, data recording and interpretation. Professional discussions
include how to successfully read and dissect a science journal article,
how to create and present a science poster and most importantly how
build a network for themselves in STEM, and how to help us work with
them to support the diversity that is needed for all of science to be
inclusive and ultimately meet the needs of our future.