What
are you doing this summer?
Join us for
University on the Prairie: Where Can Science Take You?
Tuesday, August 5 - Thursday, August 7, 2008
This intensive, hands-on experience is your chance to explore
career opportunities in four science-based areas:
Healthcare, Food Science, Environmental Science, and Engineering.
University on the Prairie takes students in grades 8-10 through three days of engaging hands-on experiences that will show you what you can do with your science education. Sixty students will be selected to participate. Students will explore a variety of career opportunities in four science-based areas important to this region using interactive learning in classrooms, labs and the great outdoors at the Southwest Research and Outreach Center at Lamberton, Minnesota.
The three days of learning, fun and activities will end with a closing celebration for participating students, their families, teachers, faculty and media. The University Physics Force, a display of final projects, a short program and picnic will all be part of this celebration.
The cost to participate in University on the Prairie is $50. Payment will be collected after acceptance into the program.
How do I apply?
What will I learn in the four science-based areas?
I am a teacher. How can I be involved?
Who is bringing this opportunity to southwest Minnesota?
I have questions about University on the Prairie. Who can
I contact?
What will I learn in the four science-based areas?
Environmental Science: Big Roles for Little Organisms
Millions of tiny creatures live in the soil, water, and on plants and make life
as we know it possible. The Environmental Science section will introduce students
to some of these organisms that live, largely unseen, in the world around us.
They range in size from big butterflies and earthworms to microscopic bacteria
and fungi. Some are predators and parasites, some are scavengers and decomposers,
some are food for other organisms, and some turn nutrients into forms that plants
and animals can use. Many of the fruits and vegetables we eat require pollination
by insects. Some organisms are useful in medical research and disease prevention.
Some organisms are harmful or destructive and can affect crops, food or possessions,
and spread diseases to humans and livestock. The organisms we will study have
tremendous diversity in color, shape, size, and function. Get ready to explore
a whole new part of the great outdoors!
Health Science: Smiles, Drugs and the Computerized
Patient
More than 300 careers in healthcare will be possible for you when you start
with a good science education. Explore the careers of dentistry with engaging
hands-on activities. Discover that pharmacists are a critical part of modern
healthcare and do much more than count pills. Experience how high-technology
is transforming the training of nurses and the whole healthcare team by interacting
with a simulated patient. See and touch the tools of healthcare guided by experts.
Come prepared to learn, have fun and be amazed!
The CSI of Food Science: Composition, Safey, and Investigation
Have you ever wondered how many different foods there are in a supermarket?
How can food scientists come up with so many different flavors, shapes, and
colors? Come and try some of the exciting ways food processing companies use
to make their products appealing, flavorful, and healthy. Learn about the intriguing
function of food composition, try some quick food testing methods, and make
your own new product.
The Science of Engineering: Water Pumps, Wind Anemometer
and More
Engineering is a people-centered occupation. While this may seem surprising,
you will discover why it is so during this program. You'll build a water pumping
system, wind anemometer and wind generator during the three days. You'll see
first-hand how mathematics and science play integral roles in engineering and
how engineering plays an integral role in sustaining and improving the lives
of people around the world. Join us for a front row seat to learn about and
participate in the world of engineering.
I am a teacher. How can I be involved?
We
would like to invite you to consider applying for one of eight
associate teacher positions as part of University on the Prairie. The associate
teachers play a very important role in the overall success of University on
the Prairie. Through this position you will work closely with the University
of Minnesota faculty who are the primary educators for the four different tracks.
You will be assigned a group of students and rotate through the four tracks
assisting the faculty with their teaching. It becomes a great professional growth
experience. One of the requirements of becoming an associate teacher for University
on the Prairie is attending a one day workshop at the Southwest Research and
Outreach Center on Monday, July 28, 2008. The workshop will start with lunch
at 11:30 am followed by an orientation for University on the Prairie including
presentations about track curriculum, expectations of associate teachers, and
other activities designed to prepare you for this enriching experience. A $100
stipend will be paid for attendance at this workshop. In return for your help
with the three days of University on the Prairie you will receive a $100 stipend
for each day, mileage reimbursement and continuing education credits. Several
school districts provided school cars last year and associate teachers drove
participants to the Southwest Research and Outreach Center from their school
districts. The opportunity to work alongside university faculty members and
teacher colleagues from the region while gathering new curriculum ideas for
your classroom, are some of the most valued benefits of this experience.
University on the Prairie is developed by the University of Minnesota:
Partnering with the Southwest / West Central Service Cooperatives.
University on the Prairie is funded by:
I have questions about University on the Prairie. Who can I contact?
Contact the University on the Prairie Executive Committee
Pauline Nickel, Southwest Research &
Outreach Center; Phone: 507-752-7372
Kathy Huntley, Southern MN Area
Health Education Center; Phone: 320-231-4375
Susan Anderson, Southwest Research
& Outreach Center; Phone 507-641-8338
Wendy Foley, Southern MN Area
Health Education Center; Phone: 320-231-4375