Team Salamander and its Evolution as the Longest-Running Group-Studies Initiative at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Abstract

Since 2004, over 750 students have participated in Team Salamander, the longest-running group-studies experience at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC). Like most curricula, Team Salamander is based on predetermined benchmarks that have to be met. However, rather than following the traditional syllabus-based lecture/laboratory model, the program is a hands-on cooperative experience that encourages students to become independent and forward-thinking. Ultimately, we strive for participants to become natural-science practitioners and informed citizens, and several program participants have continued on to graduate or professional school in natural-science disciplines. The Team Salamander program has contributed to UTC by teaching students to think creatively and connecting them with community partners. Specifically, Team Salamander has constructed a framework that provides students with job skills through hosting workshops on wetland conservation, participating in regional bioblitzes, and training visiting scientists. Team Salamander equips and empowers its members to facilitate change by encouraging them to become practicing scientists and community leaders that positively impact others.