JDJCSET | Conservation Biology Service Learning Poster Session
Conservation of Snakes and Spiders in Kentucky
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Wildlife Biology
2nd Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
2nd Student Major
Wildlife Biology
3rd Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
3rd Student Major
Wildlife Biology
4th Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
4th Student Major
Wildlife Biology
5th Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
5th Student Major
Wildife Biology
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Howard Whiteman
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
This project focuses on the conservation of snakes and spiders native to Kentucky. In the project, we wanted to teach students the importance of snakes and spiders within ecosystems. Through educational outreach, Murray Middle School students were introduced to a variety of arachnids and reptiles (snakes) through presentation, hands-on learning, and in class activity. Goals set were to introduce students to species that are commonly seen and native to Kentucky, distinguish between venomous species, and educate the importance of these species within many ecosystems. Six classes were taught expanding over a course of two school days involving age ranges between 13 and 14. It was imperative to teach younger generations as they are at the age in reflecting on their career pathway and able to fully understand the importance of all species within a variety of ecosystems and why the public should care.
The outcome through this outreach was positive and encouraging as many students participated, were engaged, and asked an abundant amount of questions throughout the presentation. The interactive and hands-on material allowed students to apply what they learned and to retain the material. These children are the future and through education it allows them to gain the knowledge needed to be the teacher themselves in making a difference. Key words: snakes, spiders, education, conservation, native, Kentucky, students
Fall Scholars Week 2022 Event
Conservation Biology Service Learning Poster Session
Conservation of Snakes and Spiders in Kentucky
This project focuses on the conservation of snakes and spiders native to Kentucky. In the project, we wanted to teach students the importance of snakes and spiders within ecosystems. Through educational outreach, Murray Middle School students were introduced to a variety of arachnids and reptiles (snakes) through presentation, hands-on learning, and in class activity. Goals set were to introduce students to species that are commonly seen and native to Kentucky, distinguish between venomous species, and educate the importance of these species within many ecosystems. Six classes were taught expanding over a course of two school days involving age ranges between 13 and 14. It was imperative to teach younger generations as they are at the age in reflecting on their career pathway and able to fully understand the importance of all species within a variety of ecosystems and why the public should care.
The outcome through this outreach was positive and encouraging as many students participated, were engaged, and asked an abundant amount of questions throughout the presentation. The interactive and hands-on material allowed students to apply what they learned and to retain the material. These children are the future and through education it allows them to gain the knowledge needed to be the teacher themselves in making a difference. Key words: snakes, spiders, education, conservation, native, Kentucky, students