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The mission of NSF STEP includes broadening access to science fields.
The scanning electron microscope is used in this context to inspire an excitement for science and technology.

 

As part of an ongoing partnership with Mesquite ISD, Research Coordinator Dr. Jennifer Baggett assisted in the presentation of the NSF STEP Outreach Program at the Conference for the Advancement of Science Teaching (CAST) in November 2007.
   
With the kind assistance of representatives from Hitachi, Linda Dailey and Kevin Cronyn, Dr. Baggett demonstrated how easy it is to prepare and present a targeted science lesson using the TM-1000.
Shown are teachers from Brownsville, TX, testing out their own samples on the Scanning Electron Microscope and talking about how they can work with community colleges in their area to develop a program like Project Pathways.
 

Dr. Baggett assisted as Mesquite ISD Science Curriculum Coordinator Dr. Joel Palmer and Science Facilitators Jan Wilson and Patty Tanamachi presented their results and suggestions for the use of a Scanning Electron Microscope in elementary, middle and high school classrooms.

The workshop was presented on Nov. 16, 2007, at the annual Conference for the Advancement of Science Teaching (CAST) for the Science Teachers Association of Texas.

It was designed to show public school teachers how external demonstrations, particularly those using high-tech equipment such as the TM-1000 can excite students about science and yet still work within the existing Texas Essential Knowledge & Skills (TEKS) Curriculum.

 

 

Eastfield operates a dual credit program that includes a “Home School Connections” outreach that has been recognized by the Texas Home School Review.

Eastfield’s dual credit programming represents a long term partnership between Eastfield and over twenty-five area high schools and hundreds of home schools. The purpose of these programs is to increase the number of students engaged in academic programs leading to a successful career.

Each year, over 1300 high school students participate in dual
credit offerings, with over half of them taking College Algebra, Biology, Chemistry, Trigonometry, and Physics.

NMHS teacher and student
North Mesquite H. S. teacher Jill Hollaway and student Danielle Goody prepare specimens using the TM-1000.

Since many of the dual credit courses are conducted on-site in the area high schools, professional development and collaboration among STEM teachers and faculty is critical.

Project Pathways will enhance the effectiveness of dual credit offerings by ensuring high school STEM teachers, the community and university STEM faculty participate in interdisciplinary curriculum enrichment retreats and workshops.

These gatherings equip participants with knowledge and skills to incorporate more inquiry-based learning modules into the curriculum and to discuss ways to support the seamless transition of students from high school to community college and on to four-year institutions.

These efforts will help ease the transition of dual credit students who take STEM courses on the college campus.