Evaluative Case Study of a Summer Academy Program

Abstract

The demands for technological workers have prompted a national effort to encourage all sectors of the population to consider careers in mathematics and science (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, NCTM, 1989; NSF, 1988; Task Force, 1989). Yet students are not electing to enroll in science in school. One possible solution to increase interest in science is through summer programs. The Summer Academy in Plant Biology and Transgenics hosted by the Western Oklahoma State College, the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation and the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, is an intervention program in science for talented students and, in particular minorities and girls. This program is informed by the current research, employs a reformed curriculum and involves students working alongside practicing scientists in a highly interactive science experience and appears to have many positive aspects that enable it to reach its goals.