STEM Traditional Ecological Knowledge plus Data equals Action (TEKDA)White Paper Number: 23-000004786
Abstract
Project Abstract: Traditional Ecological Knowledge + Data = Action (TEKDA)TEKDA is being proposed to the Office of Naval Research. This project addresses many of the current and future environmental risks faced by coastal communities in Prince William Sound, the Gulf of Alaska, and Cook Inlet: warming ocean temperatures, ocean acidification, harmful algal blooms, and changes to the ecological habitat that fosters the salmon and marine life upon which our communities depend. Connections with our navy partners will enhance the students# understanding and experience with ocean science and career connections. TEKDA aims to encourage community resilience and adaptation to these hazards in four ways: Infuse the student and teacher activities with local, indigenous, historical knowledge about the environmental issues facing communities. Engage students in hands-on, active learning experiences that enhance critical thinking, creative expression, engineering skills, observation, and understanding of their local environments.Train and support local teachers in the place - and project-based teaching methods and activities that facilitate the student understanding of their local environment.Partner with local organizations to engage communities in a conversation about resilience planning, and carry out projects to assist communities with more understanding about climate impacts and changes in environmental conditions. Participants in TEKDA will create an Ocean Observation Notebook. The Notebook is an actual composition notebook that incorporates a microprocessor, paper circuitry, and Light Emitting Diodes to display real-time and historical ocean observation data. This is a low-cost and high-tech approach to engaging students with concepts in computer and electrical engineering, electrical circuitry, data collection and transmission, creative data displays, and civic engagement through the presentation of environmental data in public venues. Students will document their learning through the Notebook with the scientific content, data analysis, and technology lessons but also with bringing their rich cultural background, family experiences, and traditional ecological knowledge. Project partners, like the scientists and educators in the Chugach Regional Resource Commission, Center for Alaska Coastal Studies, and International Arctic Buoy Program, will teach students how to collect data using methods used by professionals in their fields. Collaboration with Social Indigenous Knowledge Network SIKU.org will help students elevate indigenous knowledge with a role in adding community information to this website.This project will create a replicable model, templates, and lessons that can be adapted to facilitate learning around environmental literacy and action to support coastal communities across Alaska. Students will complete the project with a strong understanding of the dynamic relationships in our waters, how a changing climate impacts the local environment, and the tools to initiate resilience strategies, action projects, and STEM career pathways.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 15, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142412163
Entities
People
- Sheryl Sotelo
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy