Abstract:

Science is a process of measurement, observation, and reasoning that could answer society’s most pressing questions and hence science is critical to the progress of humanity. If this idea is instilled into the students at an early stage, then sufficient talent may be attracted to careers in science. The understanding of science beyond the textbook is not normally an aspect that is impressed upon young minds. This might be one of the strongest reasons why students at an early age, lose interest as they are impressed by the notion that the sciences are difficult and that the payoffs are intangible. Science is not just reading a text book, following the syllabus and getting high grades on an exam. On the other hand, if barriers are erected to talented individuals, the discoveries and progress will be insufficient to meet our needs. It is the responsibility of the teachers, educators and parents to show that science is exciting and “COOL” so that students at an early age can get involved.
Based on this principle the “Science and Research Awareness Series” (SARAS) program for high school students at Stony Brook University Medical Center was initiated. The program’s approach to teaching is learner-centered. Introductory interactive lectures followed by question guided discussion covered basic concepts designed to stimulate and excite the students. Presentations are given in several formats: lectures, expert’s views and workshops. Experts from areas such as Basic Science, Clinical Science, Allied Health, Social Services, Physical Science, Information Technology, Business, Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Industry, Law and other specialized fields contributed to the series. The experts are faculty or staff members from Stony Brook Medicine (Schools of Dental Medicine, Health Technology & Management, Medicine, Nursing, and Social Welfare). The series format allowed participants to interact directly with leaders of different fields in an informal manner. This format was highly successful in reducing some of the inhibitions students had in asking questions and participating in discussions.
An outcome analysis was performed based on the responses from the students that attended SARAS from 2004 to 2012.
The results are:
1. Increased intention of attending a 4 year college after high school particularly by female students.
2. Financial hurdle is not a problem if there is interest in pursuing a career in science.
3. Increased interests in biomedical sciences.
4. Increased intention to pursue a science major as an undergrad.
5. Increased enthusiasm to get involved in scientific research.
6. Both male and female students have equal enthusiasm to pursue a career in sciences.
Based on the results, it can be concluded that programs like SARAS will serve as a model for attracting talented students into the field of biomedical sciences.

Keywords:

Science, Research, Education, Biomedical, Summer program.