Student–Scientist Partnerships at Work in Hawaii

Abstract

This study describes three biology research projects conducted by University of Hawaii graduate students participating in the NSF-funded GK-12 program that employed the assistance of middle or high school students. Two studies focused on sample collection: middle-schoolers collected sand-diving fish (Crystallodytes cookei) to support a histologic study of sex change and high schoolers helped catch hammerhead shark pups (Sphyraena lewini) to support a population genetics study. In a third study, high schoolers collected behavioral data involving habitat choice by a small, cryptic fish (Omobranchus rotundiceps). We have examined these studies to assess not only the usefulness of student help in data or sample collection, but also the educational benefit to the students providing the help. Researchers can benefit by collecting large amounts of samples or data in a relatively short time. At the same time, these partnerships can also improve the scientific literacy of student helpers if they are embedded into ongoing science instruction, as in two of the projects described here. By engaging students in authentic research projects, we have found that excitement and engagement are increased and that students, having a chance to experience science as science is practiced, can increase their content and skills knowledge. When educational and scientific goals are carefully aligned, the student-scientist partnerships described are mutually beneficial.