Science from the Inside Out

Science is a system of knowledge used to understand the physical world and its processes; knowledge gained through observation and systematic experimentation answers questions and generates new ones.  Science also informs public policy; whether it is salmon recovery plans, COVID public health responses, climate change or drinking water standards, scientific research and best available science plays an important role in policy decisions.

In this program, students will explore scientific discovery, at the lab bench and in the field.  Science has been divided into disciplines such as biology, physics or geology but these silos have become increasingly malleable because many complex questions and require an interdisciplinary approach.  Evergreen has promoted the importance and value of interdisciplinary study, including in the sciences.  This program will introduce students to fundamental concepts and research topics in the earth and biological sciences using an interdisciplinary framework.

Biological and geological research is conducted on a range of scales, from the molecular to global.  Some research is conducted in laboratories and other investigations occur in the field.  In this program students will gain experience applying scientific methods in the lab and field.  There will be an emphasis on applied learning; data will be collected and analyzed.

Although in some sense we and the animals that we share the planet with all live in the same world, we don’t experience it in the same way. Even different people can register the same place quite differently. In the biology portion of the program, students explore the biology of human and animal perception through experiential exercises and observation, as well as regular labs, lectures, and readings. The goal is to develop a robust picture of the interconnectedness of organisms and their environment.

This program will cover aspects of physical geology, including geologic time, minerals & rocks, river systems, water chemistry, and climate change.  Local field trips will introduce students to geologic features and river systems.  Students will learn to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to display and analyze spatial data and Excel to assess numerical data.  Seminar readings will focus on the role of science in society.

An extended field trip to central Washington will provide additional opportunities to observe geological features and biological diversity and processes.