Education

Students Take an Active Role as Scientists and Service Learners

Eighth grade students in Brendan Casey’s science elective class at Joan MacQueen Middle School are proving to be major participants in an insect survey for Wright’s Field. Collaborating with entomologist (aka “bug expert”) Michael Klein, the students use the preserve located behind their school as an outdoor classroom. The result: their findings and data become a part of the Back Country Land Trust’s management plan, as well as part of a larger database for scientists working on the Multiple Species Conservation Program for San Diego County.

Confirming the presence of the Sun Spider (Order Solpugida) was a coup for one young scientist. Common to grasslands, this nocturnal species usually requires the use of a pitfall trap during the night for documentation. However, the student scientists documented the Sun Spider during daytime school hours, and validated the belief they were present on Wright’s Field. Students also provided evidence for additional organisms that have been added to the invertebrate list.

BCLT is sponsoring this service learning opportunity, and is excited by the student’s enthusiasm, professionalism and the data they have accumulated. Recently, this Service Learning partnership was expanded: using funds from the Alpine Union School District’s Character Education Grant, chaired by Boulder Oaks educator, Liz Meade, the students now have access to Sony DSLR Alpha cameras with 100mm Macro lens to document their discoveries.

Educators interested in service learning at other sites may contact Liz Meade for assistance and mini-grants, or the Back Country Land Trust, Director of Education, Ann Pierce (619-722-6281) for collaborative opportunities.

For more about Service Learning visit: www.nylc.org

Other Projects: Bugs and Butterflies