Nature's Timekeepers is a participatory science program focused on understanding seasonal changes in woody plants across the range of climate zones that flank Lake Superior. Funded by ASPB & the NSF. Check out our website about it and learn more about our program and our Lake Superior Phenology Network!
Minnesota Phenology Network - Regional chapter of National Phenology Network.
Boulder Lake Environmental Center - Educational and outdoor center that has many citizen science opportunities.
As biologists, I believe we should strive to engage people in science both inside and outside of the classrooms. By promoting educational programs and involving the broader public in participatory science, we can increase science literacy and help people connect with their natural environment.
We have volunteered for and been involved in a variety of outreach and educational programs over the years. Here are some non-profit organizations and programs that have impressed us with their dedication to science education and their ability to connect people with their natural surroundings. Also check out some of our favorite online science education resources!
Below you will find programs our lab group or collaborators are involved in:
Superior Citizen Science. Great resource for local projects and programs.
Wolf Ridge. Amazing K-12 environmental learning center.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. This and many other state run programs offer great opportunities for people to connect with their local natural areas.
Great River Greening. A non-profit that organizes community-based restoration projects in natural and urban areas in the Twin Cities.
Monarchs in the classroom. A program that provides guidance for K-12 schools on how to use inquiry-based education in the classroom.
Cedar Creek LTER Outreach Program. This LTER site and many others have great K-12 programs and community outreach programs.
Harvard Life Sciences Outreach Program. A program that brings high school students and teachers to campus to participate in laboratory exercises and learn about science. Check out information about the lab I designed on plant carbon transport.
Gradwagon. A program at Harvard that connects high school teachers with scientists willing to give presentations and lead events focused on science education.
Explorations. A program that organizes lab tours and a day long event for middle and high school students at Harvard.
Cambridge Science Festival. A yearly event aimed at making science and math accessible to the general public through exciting, interactive activities.
Student Conservation Association. A non-profit that connects students with environmental internships across the country.
Youth Conservation Corps. A great program that engages high school students in the restoration and conservation of our National Parks.
Minute Earth and Minute Physics
Let me know if you have other favorites. I am always looking for more cool ways to engage people in science!