Framingham High students get a taste of college science
By John Hilliard/Daily News staff
MetroWest Daily News
Posted Aug 14, 2009 @ 12:14 AM
Last update Aug 14, 2009 @ 12:17 AM
WELLESLEY —
A group of Framingham High School seniors received hands-on training in scientific research as part of a new six-week program offered by Wellesley College.
The students were recruited by faculty at Framingham High School for the program, which put some students who are strong in math and science into a college classroom, said Matthew Corcoran, head of the high school's science department. Educators want to show students what a career in the sciences could look like.
"We need to make sure they understand what the goal is," said Corcoran.
The program like the one at Wellesley "helps students understand how science at the college level is different than the first introductory course at the high school level," said Corcoran.
Professional researchers are working to extend scientific knowledge and "push the envelope," while in high school classes, he said.
During the program, the high schoolers worked closely with Wellesley College students during science labs and actively participated in the courses, said the program's coordinator, Professor Christa Skow. The participating students got to experience college and see the working life of a researcher.
"It broadens the perspective they have," said Skow.
Wellesley College has a number of programs with area schools - designed to introduce students to the college experience - but most were focused on younger students, not high schoolers, she said.
The effort with Framingham High began because of existing ties between Wellesley College and the high school's science department and administration, she said. It was offered with the help of volunteers from the college staff, and came at no cost to the high school or its students.
Skow hopes the program is expanded to other high schools in the future, so it can encourage more students to consider science-related fields, she said.
Corcoran said students with hands-on experience, show a stronger drive to succeed.
"When they come back to the classroom, they're more passionate and focused on what they want to do," said Corcoran.
Framingham senior Natasha Scaria said she'd recommend the program to her classmates. She has considered a career in science, and studied the survival of fish in low-oxygen environments over the past several weeks at the college.
"It was always my favorite subject in school, and I thought about majoring in biology," said Scaria, 17, who thinks about becoming a doctor. "I was always interested in the medical field - I think it's an amazing thing to help people."
Wendy Feinstein, 17, studied how vision affects the brain functions of animals. She's thought about a career in engineering, as she enjoys problem-solving. She said the in-depth science program gives students considering a science career a chance to see it in the real world.
"At the very least, if it's something you'd be interested in...you'll have a good idea if you love it or can't stand it," Feinstein said.
(John Hilliard can be reached at 508-626-4449, or framinghamschools.blogspot.com.)
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