Bidirectional capacity building in the development of inquiry based educational materials, classroom activities and pedagogies that enhance science education, promote health and stimulate careers in science, medicine and public health across future generations

In order to meet current challenges in K-12 science and technology education, biomedical researchers have partnered with rural teachers and administrators to develop novel educational materials and implement programs aimed at increasing academic rigor through use of inquiry based, hypothesis driven science in the classroom. Effective educational programs are designed to expand science and health knowledge and provide a foundation for life long learning. These collaborative efforts include the adaptation of “real-world” science problems and applications into a usable classroom format, while also addressing district, state and national educational requirements. This approach makes science more relevant to students and is ultimately designed to enhance recruitment and increase the diversity of the scientific, medical and public health workforce. An added benefit is that students and teachers help translate current research findings, thereby increasing scientific literacy, promoting healthy behaviors and promoting development of long-term public health strategies in their communities. The program also includes the Environmental Health Science Summer Institute (SI), a weeklong professional development conference for K-12 teachers that features materials and workshops developed at some of the nation's leading research institutions. Participating teachers report increased confidence in teaching science and EHS as well as measurable improvement in student achievement, ultimately fostering enhanced career preparation and success. Over the past 8 years, the SI has impacted over 125,000 Texas students.