You can download the full article at:
http://nagt-jge.org/doi/abs/10.5408/12-411.1

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Article Citation:
Robin Dublin, Marilyn Sigman, Andrea Anderson, Ray Barnhardt, and Sean Asiqluq Topkok (2014) COSEE-AK Ocean Science Fairs: A Science Fair Model That Grounds Student Projects in Both Western Science and Traditional Native Knowledge. Journal of Geoscience Education: May 2014, Vol. 62, No. 2, pp. 166-176.

CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION ARTICLES ON THE THEME
COSEE-AK Ocean Science Fairs: A Science Fair Model That Grounds Student Projects in Both Western Science and Traditional Native Knowledge

Robin Dublin1,a, Marilyn Sigman2, Andrea Anderson3, Ray Barnhardt4, and Sean Asiqluq Topkok5
1 Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence–Alaska (COSEE-AK), 1009 West 3rd Avenue, Suite 100, Anchorage, Alaska 99501, USA
2 School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences/Alaska Sea Grant/Marine Advisory Program, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 1009 West 3rd Avenue, Suite 100, Anchorage, Alaska 99501, USA
3 Sound View Evaluation and Research, 2837 Northeast 178th Street, Lake Forest Park, Washington 98155, USA
4 Center for Cross-Cultural Studies, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 124 Bunnell, PO Box 756730, Fairbanks, Alaska 99775, USA
5 Alaska Native Knowledge Network, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 117 Bunnell, PO Box 756730, Fairbanks, Alaska 99775, USA

ABSTRACT
We have developed the traditional science fair format into an ocean science fair model that promoted the integration of Western science and Alaska Native traditional knowledge in student projects focused on the ocean, aquatic environments, and climate change. The typical science fair judging criteria for the validity and presentation of the science were expanded to include criteria for cultural and/or community relevance, and local and cultural experts were involved in judging. The Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence–Alaska (COSEE-AK) provided support for teachers to organize local and regional fairs and for student and chaperone travel to an ocean science “fair within a fair” at the Alaska statewide science and engineering fair. This approach engaged Alaska Native and rural students in science practice relevant to their cultures and communities and is being sustained by trained teachers and school districts. The results of interviews of 31 of 44 students participating in the 2013 COSEE-AK Ocean Science Fair at the state level suggest learner outcomes of (1) strong, positive feelings of self-efficacy in science; (2) comfort with being identified as a scientist; and (3) feelings of connection to the student's community and support in doing science projects. The ocean science fair can serve as a model for broadening diversity of participation in science by increasing the relevance of science to culture and communities in areas with ethnic groups and/or rural communities that are underserved by science instruction and resources.



You can download the full article at:
http://nagt-jge.org/doi/abs/10.5408/12-411.1