Scientists in Residence
What is the Scientist in Residence program?
The Scientist in Residence Program (SiR) at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) is a partnership between UTMSI scientists and the Port Aransas Independent School District (PAISD). The goals of this program are to:
- increase enthusiasm for science learning among K-12 students
- enhance scientific communication and teaching skills in participating graduate fellows
- increase environmental outreach/education in the community
How does it work?
Each year, 1-2 UTMSI graduate students are selected to serve as Scientist in Residence. The fellow’s job is to work with teachers (4th/5th and/or 8th grade) and fellow scientists to develop activities that enhance student learning and love for science. Although collaboration is a key part of the process, fellows work in the same classrooms year-round, allowing them to develop a relationship with every student and create a truly unique learning opportunity.
Examples of what we do…
- elementary school science fair
- mock-conference poster sessions
- regular environmental surveys & sampling
- data analysis and presentation
- scientific method practice & development
- peer evaluation of scientific work
- maintaining a scientific notebook
- Field excursions to local habitats (e.g. marshes, mangrove forests, rivers, beaches, water treatment centers, forestry areas)
- evaluating sources of marine pollution
- question & answer sessions with scientists/environmentalists
- water quality monitoring
- parent & student science nights
- field instrument techniques (e.g. YSI SONDE, refractometer, Van Dorn water sampler, wind meter, nutrient test kits, secchi disk, etc.)
- original, hands-on activities in alignment with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) criteria
For information on applying for the Scientist in Residence Program or on current Scientists in Residence activities/opportunities, contact Dr. Ken Dunton.
