Benefits of STEM Mentorship: Introducing Microbiology Research to High School Students
Abstract
Bacteria Unearthed is an NSU initiative to bring together high school and college students to participate in Tiny Earth: an international consortia of researchers searching for novel microorganisms and antibiotics to combat antibiotic drug resistance. Our group developed a STEM mentor program as a catalyst for students to significantly increase academic performance. The program allows high schoolers to become part of the global research community. These high school students enrolled in their microbiology classes are supported by undergraduate students who have experience working with Tiny Earth. Through this experiential learning, it is expected that there will be improvements in organizational, leadership, academic, and personal growth skills in a mutually beneficial relationship. Survey results of the high school microbiology classes have shown that mentors are a valuable asset to the classroom as they directly engage students in the content and have a positive effect on students’ interests in STEM careers as well as a positive impact on students’ perception of science disciplines. Mentoring relationships additionally provide mentors with increased self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. As we work together, we will conduct additional surveys to determine gains made by high school students and college mentors.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. Aarti Raja, Wilford Miranda
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-6-2022 12:00 PM
End Date
4-7-2022 5:00 PM
Benefits of STEM Mentorship: Introducing Microbiology Research to High School Students
Alvin Sherman Library
Bacteria Unearthed is an NSU initiative to bring together high school and college students to participate in Tiny Earth: an international consortia of researchers searching for novel microorganisms and antibiotics to combat antibiotic drug resistance. Our group developed a STEM mentor program as a catalyst for students to significantly increase academic performance. The program allows high schoolers to become part of the global research community. These high school students enrolled in their microbiology classes are supported by undergraduate students who have experience working with Tiny Earth. Through this experiential learning, it is expected that there will be improvements in organizational, leadership, academic, and personal growth skills in a mutually beneficial relationship. Survey results of the high school microbiology classes have shown that mentors are a valuable asset to the classroom as they directly engage students in the content and have a positive effect on students’ interests in STEM careers as well as a positive impact on students’ perception of science disciplines. Mentoring relationships additionally provide mentors with increased self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. As we work together, we will conduct additional surveys to determine gains made by high school students and college mentors.
