Scientist-in-Residence: Real Science and Experiential Learning

NRWA’s Scientist-in-Residence (SIR) programs are a series of dynamic lessons designed to support the academic science standards for Massachusetts and New Hampshire schools. Activities include practice of scientific methods, data collection, hands-on experiential learning, recording, reporting, and teamwork. Lessons also encourage students to exercise critical thinking in their process. SIR programs are frequently presented as a series of three or more programs offered to a classroom over the course of the school year or over a semester.

Current programs are designed for grades Kindergarten through grade 8, on topics from how animals are adapted to our local ecosystems to how water shapes our world through erosion and sedimentation to an interactive model helping students explore point source and non-point source pollution with an opportunity to brainstorm human actions to prevent pollutants from reaching our waterways. When appropriate, NRWA educators make use of school grounds or adjacent public property where true fieldwork can be conducted in small groups.

Lessons are designed to engage children’s natural curiosity with real science activities laying the groundwork for more memorable learning experiences.

View NRWA current offering of SIR programs.

Please note that the NRWA does work with homeschool groups that may be interested in SIR programs.

If you are looking for curriculum content beyond the current offerings, or you would like more information on scheduling a SIR program, please email Gaynor Bigelbach, Environmental Education Director.