Partnership Mission
The overall purpose of the partnership is to develop a model university-ISI (informal science institution) partnership across the Gulf Coast Region that seeks to advance meaningful science education experiences at both global and local levels. Together, we strive to explore issues related to accessibility of ISIs, informal science educator preparation and development, formal science teacher preparation, science communication, and instill the importance of environmental education in all partnership participants.
Partnership Values
The RPP team is committed to
- advancing environmental and conservation education in a variety of contexts (e.g., K12 education, informal interactions, etc.).
- improving overall visitor experience and learning opportunities at the Hattiesburg Zoo.
- advocating for meaningful community-engaged learning experiences for the general public and USM community.
- advancing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion of underserved and/or minoritized populations.
- transparent and responsive-design process for all involved.
- leveraging systematic data collection, participants lived experiences, and partners’ professional expertise to strengthen all outcomes.
- cultivating joyful and generative interactions for any participants involved in the partnership.
Key Partnership Milestones
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Integration of Service-Learning Experience into SME 432: Science Methods for Elementary Teachers for three semesters
(Fall 2021, Spring 2022, Fall 2022) |
Piloting an Extended Informal Science Education Experience for USM Students through Paid Assistantship Opportunities and Elective Special Topics (SME 492)
(Fall 2022) |
Combining lessons learned from Phase 1 and 2 into Formal Paid Internship Program (i.e., "Soar into STEMed") for USM Elementary Teacher Licensure Candidates
(Fall 2022-Spring 2023) |
Partnering with STEM content-area Faculty to Support the Integration of Community-engaged Science Experiences for Extra Credit
(Fall 2023) |
Public Recognition of Activities
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Phase 2 Student Receives University-wide Award for Outstanding Service-Learning Student
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Hattiesburg Zoo Educators receive University-wide Award for Community Partnership
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Dr. Wallace receives University-wide Award for Outstanding Service-Learning Faculty
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