Biennial Report Book 2007.indb - Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) programFor over 20 years, the Institute has offered research experiences to undergraduatestudents. Working closely with a mentor, students spend the summer workingon a hands-on independent research project. Our formal assessments show thatthe REU program leads to an increase in student self confidence, critical thinkingskills, and future career success. (Berkowitz)The Changing Hudson Project: Connecting students with scienceUsing real data and current ecological findings, Institute staff and practicingteachers are working together to create a web-based resource for high school andcommunity college educators. The Changing Hudson Project features lesson plansthat enable teaching about ecosystems, including how they change, and whatthese changes mean for the future. (Harris, Berkowitz)Pathways to ecosystem literacy: A learning progressionIn a collaborative effort with Millbrook Central School District, Instituteeducators are developing a learning progression that engages K-12 students inecological understanding. This project was presented with a Green AchievementAward by Dutchess County Executive William R. Steinhaus. (Notin, Berkowitz)Investigating urban ecosystemsWorking with the Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES), educators, and classroomteachers, the Institute is developing curriculum materials and on-goingprofessional development to teachers across Baltimore. The goal: to encouragemiddle and high school teachers to investigate the ecology of metropolitanBaltimore through BES data and their own research. (Gordon, Berkowitz)Cornelia Harris10