314-2 Beyond the Classroom: Empowering Native American Youth Through Hands-On Water Science

Abstract:

Hands-on, place-based learning provides students with meaningful opportunities to develop scientific skills while connecting water resource science to their local communities. This approach was implemented through a water quality workshop at White Shield High School on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, where students learned to analyze and interpret water quality data using professional field instrumentation.

Through field-based activities, students learned the importance of clean water for human health, ecological function, and sustainable resource management. Using a Hanna Multiparameter Meter and an Apera Pocket Tester, they collected and analyzed water samples from their school's drinking water and a nearby pond, compared water quality between the two sources, and evaluated how water treatment influenced measured parameters. Through small-group investigations, students practiced field sampling techniques and interpreted environmental data.

Workshop effectiveness was assessed using post-activity surveys. Results showed that 92% of students learned at least one new scientific tool or concept, 75% reported an improved understanding of local water resources, and most notably, all students stated that the hands-on activities enhanced their understanding of the concepts presented.

These findings demonstrate the value of culturally responsive, place-based geoscience education for increasing scientific literacy and student engagement in Native-serving schools. By connecting science to local water resources and community priorities, the workshop fostered environmental stewardship while helping broaden participation in the geosciences and strengthening pathways into STEM careers.

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