鶹ýӳ High School Students Visit Galápagos Islands for Research
For the first time ever, a group of (鶹ýӳHS) 鶹ýӳ recently traveled to the Galápagos Islands for a summer course to conduct field research.
During this course, the 鶹ýӳ engaged in the undergraduate research process by conducting an observational study on sea lion behavior in the Galápagos. They examined the impact of human beach use on the sea lions’ activity patterns and feeding of their pups.
“This opportunity represents not only the first time 鶹ýӳHS 鶹ýӳ have participated in a university study abroad program, but also a chance for them to visit and research in an extremely special place that is home to several wildlife species not found anywhere else in the world,” said Tricia Meredith, Ph.D., director of research at A.D. Henderson & 鶹ýӳ High School. “The trip was a life-changing experience for the 鶹ýӳ that will also benefit them professionally.”
Prior to the trip, the 鶹ýӳ conducted a literature review on the topic which helped to design their research study. While in the Galápagos, they collected their data, as well as visited a local high school to speak with 鶹ýӳ about the research project, the role of sea lions, and animal conservation in the culture. After analyzing the data, the 鶹ýӳ wrote a manuscript for publication in a scientific journal.
“The 鶹ýӳ hope their research findings help bring awareness to the impact that people, and particularly tourists, have on the other species that they share the environment with,” said Meredith.
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