Stream Side Science: Hands-on Water Education that Makes a Difference

Stream Side Science (SSS) uses hands-on stream monitoring techniques to teach middle and high school students about water pollution and watershed functions. SSS covers science, management and policy aspects of water science and water quality and promotes stewardship in local watersheds through service and community outreach projects. Focus groups of master teachers were used to identify and overcome common barriers to adoption of water curricula in schools. Barriers addressed in SSS include the need to align lessons with core standards, the need for flexibility and easy access to inexpensive materials, and the need for additional teacher training in water science and management. SSS has been thoroughly reviewed by scientists, educators and policy makers to assure that it is accurate, appropriate and unbiased. The lesson plans include a discussion of frequently asked questions, which help educators lead discussions. The emphasis on data collection and interpretation, critical thinking, and connections to real-world situations improves student learning in critical STEM disciplines. A study of almost 1000 students using SSS lesson plans found significant increases in student knowledge of water science. Since 2004, over 1300 formal and informal educators have been trained in the use of this curriculum. As a result, an estimated 80,000 students have participated in these lesson plans. SSS is currently being adapted for use in college level courses at tribal and Hispanic Serving institutions. More information about Stream Side Science is available at www.region8water.org.