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Abstract Detail


Recent Topics Posters

Jones, Jay H. [1], Darling-Novak, Stacey A. [2], Weaver, Kathleen F. [2], Garcia, Jerome V. [2].

Botanical Components of a Multifaceted Approach to Enhance STEM Enrollments and Retention.

This contribution focuses on the botanical components of a multifaceted "pipeline" designed to enhance enrollment and retention in STEM disciplines. This initiative is unusual in that it includes components that target high school and community college students through ULV graduating seniors. Each element of the project is described, including experience gained through implementation. The overall effectiveness has been high, with some components far exceeding stated objectives. The Biology program freshman enrollments increased 39% above the general increase in freshmen enrollments in 2010/11 over 2009/10. Enrollments in first year Plant Biology courses more than doubled over the course of the project. Retention and transfers were enhanced through curricular modifications and research involvement. Botanical components were included in all phases of the project. Outreach to K-12 students included exposure to light and SEM imaging of archeological, paleobotanical and modern plant materials. Career fairs aimed at high school and undergraduate students also included plant related professions. Summer science camps and summer research participation programs received high reviews on student evaluations, and subsequent enrollment in STEM programs was high. It is hoped that the successes associated with this project will help others increase interest and enrollments in PlantBiology and other STEM disciplines.

Broader Impacts:


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1 - University of La Verne, Biology and Chemistry, 1950 Third St., La Verne, CA, 91750, USA
2 - University of La Verne, Biology, 1950 Third St., La Verne, CA, 91750, USA

Keywords:
undergraduate education
Outreach
STEM Education.

Presentation Type: Recent Topics Poster
Session: P
Location: Khorassan Ballroom/Chase Park Plaza
Date: Monday, July 11th, 2011
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PRT004
Abstract ID:1009


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