The Impact of Scientists in Schools on Scientific Literacy: A Comparative Stud

In Sitka, AK the Scientists in the Schools program has been aiming "to raise scientific literacy...creating a student population with an appreciation for marine ecology by introducing basic scientific concepts" since 1997 (Scientists in Schools, n.d.). The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to evaluate the Scientists in the Schools program in relation to scientific literacy in the community of Sitka, AK. This was done by examining 11 years of standardized science test scores in relation to two communities with similar demographics. A qualitative approach was also taken, wherein six Sitka School District teachers were interviewed for a deeper focused understanding of the Scientists in the Schools program. Quantitative data was analyzed using a chi-squared test with a p-value of 0.05. Analysis of the qualitative results were done using a grounded theory approach. While the SIS program did not have a correlation to higher test scores, teachers found the program to be beneficial. Interview participants found students engaging due to the hands-on place-based approach. Greater consistency was supported by participating teachers.