Building a culture of health in the green
Together, let's create a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Mathematics) educational program for adults & 7th - 12th graders!
Addressing air and soil quality in rural underserved communities through participatory learning and action
Challenge: The Southwestern US is particularly vulnerable to climate change and the spread of metal(loid) toxicants through wind dispersion. Lines of communication across age groups are needed to build community governance models, networks, and capacities to address these pressing issues.
Approach: Community and youth-led advisory boards will provide critical platforms for traditionally underrepresented community members to learn about and participate in environmental health decision-making. Summer camps and certification programs will be implemented beginning Summer 2024 to increase environmental health literacy and data literacy in adults and youth. All data produced by this program will be shared with and among community members.
Impact: By creating spaces for dialogue and community building efforts in rural and underserved areas communities, this project aims to build a culture of environmental health and justice. We hope that our efforts will increase understanding of local environmental and social issues as well as foster public participation in environmental decision-making.
Boosting environmental health literacy for 7th-12th graders
1
Provide students with the tools, skills, and support to document, reflect upon, and communicate environmental science.
2
Collect environmental samples following clear data collection protocols to assure accurate results.
3
Present results clearly back to the community in the form of Photovoice and precisely visualized graphics.
Join a training program to build your STEAM skills
Beginning in May of 2024, researchers and students at the University of Arizona will conduct summer training programs for promotorés, residents, teachers, and 7th-12th graders within rural communities of Arizona. Individuals who complete the summer camps will receive certification in skills useful to future careers and work in their communities. The certification programs will be rooted in public participation through:
- Scientific research
- Science communication
- Visual art
The summer certification program focuses on science education programming in rural Environmental Justice communities. Addressing science education in these areas increases individuals’ understanding and engagement with their local environment and community. Through summer camps and certification programs, participants will increase their:
- Ability and comfortability in learning and doing science
- Understanding of the scientific process
- Skills related to measuring and recording data
- Ability to follow data collection protocols
- Ability to communicate environmental issues
Lastly participant’s environmental monitoring data will inform policy initiatives and town planning.
More Details Coming Soon!
Youth Training Adult Training
Are you a part of the Cobre Valley community? Would you like to work part time (10hrs/week) for the STEAM in Action project? Apply through the link below!
