Science
on Patrol
Contact: Bonnie
Brownstein - bonnie@isof.org
Science
on Patrol (SOP) is a project designed
to promote interest and achievement in science
by providing youngsters compelling problems
(‘crimes’) they can solve by applying
the scientific processes and skills actually
used by crime scene investigators to solve
crimes. This approach capitalizes on the high
level of interest in forensic science. This
informal science project is aimed squarely
at raising the level of participation and achievement
in science for adolescent females and other
members of underrepresented minority groups
by achieving these goals:
1.
Using research-based strategies to attract
and retain underrepresented minorities,
particularly females, in informal science
programs;
2. Increasing their interest and achievement in science
knowledge and skills; and
3. Raising their awareness of and interest in science-based
careers.
SOP
is a project of the Institute for Schools of
the Future and the New York City Police Athletic
League, in collaboration with Detectives of the
New York City Police Department.
This
project will roll out through an existing structure:
PAL centers in the Bronx in Year One, in PAL
centers throughout New York City in Year Two
and in PAL centers across the country in Year
Three. Interdisciplinary teams comprising PAL
instructors, educators, police detectives, instructional
designers, and scientists will work collaboratively
to:
1.
Develop, field test and revise a minimum
of 12 crime scenarios for the youngsters
to solve;
2. Develop additional course materials, including a
Facilitator’s Guide, the Science on Patrol website,
a Student Activities Kit which includes realistic case
folders for each of the ‘crimes,’ and a
manual for mentors and/or volunteers;
3. Increase the participants’ capacity to apply
science knowledge and processes to solve real world
problems; and,
4. Build the capacity of instructors to implement compelling
and challenging problems in environments that are gender-neutral,
promote collaboration, encourage problem-solving and
reflect both research and best practice for increasing
participation and achievement in science-based areas.
Research
on the under representation of females in mathematics,
science and technology has clearly demonstrated
that the culture and context of K-16 schooling
lies at the heart of the issue, yet the literature
shows these factors are alterable.
Science
on Patrol is an innovative Project
that links science knowledge and skills with
the real world applications of forensic specialists
in a highly motivating course of study for
middle school students. The key element, however,
is the use of research-based findings to shape
learning environments specifically designed
to attract and retain females and other underrepresented
minorities to advanced study of science and
science-related careers. Science on Patrol
integrates all factors that promote success
for female and other underrepresented minorities
in an integrated and coherent manner to create
learning environments that are friendly to
the target population.
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