Students Explore Space Science & STEM Careers at the Campbell Creek Science Center
Making observations, asking questions, testing ideas, having fun, and working together are some of the science skills that more than 650 students around Anchorage practiced this summer thanks to the GSK-funded, a global healthcare company, Science in the Summer program. This program, offered in collaboration with the Franklin Institute, helps increase children's value of and confidence in doing science and pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) careers, especially for children from backgrounds currently underrepresented in STEM fields. Additionally, this grant provided opportunities for new partnerships and stronger community engagement for the BLM Campbell Creek Science Center (CCSC), helping the site meet strategic objectives.
Throughout the summer, the CCSC environmental education instructors visited students at their program sites for engaging lessons exploring STEM careers. CCSC program coordinators connected with existing and new partners to deliver 45 programs during June and July. This year’s program partners included Boys and Girls Clubs of Alaska, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, Anchorage School District English Language Learners, Campfire Alaska, and more.
The 2024 Science in the Summer theme, Be a Space Scientist!, peaked students’ interest in complex science themes such as ultraviolet radiation, soil science, and volcanic processes through the lens of space exploration. Instructors also included games to keep the programs light and help students hone their observation and problem-solving skills.
The three hands-on STEM lessons put students in control of their learning with an inquiry-based approach. Each lesson focused on a different career including, planetary geologist, astrobiologist, and space suit designer. To get their astronaut “space-ready” they tested different materials to determine which would be best for designing a space suit to protect astronauts from ultraviolet radiation. They also learned how BLM Alaska specialists use personal protective equipment, such as Nomex clothing, to stay safe in hazardous conditions like wildland fires or when working near helicopters. During a modeling activity with Play-Doh, students practiced the work of a planetary geologist. They explored how the volcanic processes on Mars mirror those on Earth and learned about BLM-managed rare earth mineral deposits found near volcanic areas in Alaska. Finally, a soil science activity had the budding astrobiologists test different soil samples to determine if they contained life (yeast). This activity connects to the work BLM specialists do to monitor soil health throughout the state.
Observation and scientific inquiry formed the foundation of each lesson. Students’ confidence in science grew throughout the course of the programs. Fun workbooks and stickers accompanied activities and allowed students to record their data and observations and acknowledge the science skills they practiced.
The Science in the Summer program goal of increasing participation of traditionally underrepresented audiences in STEM fits seamlessly into the mission of the BLM CCSC - to engage all learners in outdoor experiences that increase their appreciation, connection, and stewardship of Alaska's public lands and natural and cultural resources. As a result of these programs, the next generation of BLM specialists learned that anyone can be a STEM professional and that they use science skills in many parts of their everyday lives.
For more information about Campbell Creek Science Center and the programs offered visit: https://www.blm.gov/learn/interpretive-centers/campbell-creek-science-center