Welcome to the “In Their Eyes: Conservation + Comics” Project!
This project was conceptualized after the team leads recognized a need for representation in STEM fields as well as positive nature experiences for youth. Research shows that almost all environmental education programs have positive results regarding conservation behaviors and that science identity is a strong predictor of students’ future scientific pursuits. This project’s goals are to create a program that positively impacts students’ attitudes and behaviors regarding conservation and their identity as scientists.
The Conservation + Comics STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) program follows a three-touch model with 1) interactive lessons in the classroom, 2) a science education field trip to Cabrillo National Monument (CNM), and 3) a scientific poster showing for friends, family, and the public. By using innovative tools such as art, games, and comics the programmatic leads hope to connect students to conservation science in a manner that will make a lasting impact with robust learning outcomes.
This site houses the activity materials created for this project. We hope you explore, learn, and enjoy!
The Conservation + Comics STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) program follows a three-touch model with 1) interactive lessons in the classroom, 2) a science education field trip to Cabrillo National Monument (CNM), and 3) a scientific poster showing for friends, family, and the public. By using innovative tools such as art, games, and comics the programmatic leads hope to connect students to conservation science in a manner that will make a lasting impact with robust learning outcomes.
This site houses the activity materials created for this project. We hope you explore, learn, and enjoy!
Meet the Team
Samantha WynnsSamantha Wynns is a conservation biologist and science educator with the Great Basin Institute and National Park Service. Sam both does science and communicates science at Cabrillo National Monument.
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Dr. Claire MeadersDr. Claire Meaders is a biologist and assistant teaching-professor at the University of California - San Diego. She studies how students learn to contribute to more effective science education techniques.
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Dr. Jaye GardinerDr. Jaye Gardiner is a cancer biologist at the Fox Chase Cancer Center. She is an artist and illustrator, and is heavily involved in science communication and STEAM education.
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Activity Materials
Trading Cards
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The team who developed “In Their Eyes: Conservation + Comics” brings you ... drumroll please... scientist trading cards!
All of these women are real scientists that do real science that helps the environment. Did you know that there are so many different types of science? Can you collect enough scientists to save an entire ecosystem? Trade with your friends to bring these diverse scientific disciplines together and save our planet’s species, one trading card set at a time. |
Comics
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Come learn about the Belding's Orange-throated Whiptail, a lizard species endemic (local) to the San Diego area, scientists who study lizards, and a variety of conservation biology concepts in a fun and lively way!
Comic script was written by Samantha Wynns and Dr. Jaye Gardiner. Illustrations by Dr. Jaye Gardiner. |