HI-MOES 2009-2010 Program

Twelve middle and high school teachers from West Hawai‘i schools particated in HI-MOES in the academic year 2009-2010. A list of participating schools can be found here. Check out a picture slideshow of all schools here. Learn about their research project presentations at the end-of-year conference here.

Media

Student scientists riding HI-MOES
By Karin Stanton
May 9, 2010
The future of Hawaii’s natural resources looks like it might be in good hands. For the better part of a year, hundreds of West Hawaii middle and high school students have been studying bay and watershed ecosystems through HI-MOES (Hawaii Island Meaningful Outdoor Experiences for Students) and finally got to share the findings of their research projects last week at a science conference in Kona.
» read more
Click here to view the article online.

Comments from Participating Teachers

Participating with the HI-MOES Program allows our school to take advantage of a wonderful outdoor classroom experience. After just one trip my students have begun asking questions such as: ‘Is there life in these streams?’; ‘Should the waters of Pelekane be clearer?’; ‘How long did it take for the watershed to get this way?’; and ‘How do we get the water to be clearer?’ They are excited to know they will be returning to study the forest and are looking forward to school next semester!”–Sylvia Texeira, Middle School Teacher, West Hawai‘i Explorations Academy

I really feel that science needs to be hands-on and it needs to be student driven. Movement and the use of all our senses are also keys in the art of learning. Field research is the perfect way to meet these needs! Also, students gain knowledge and appreciation for the unique ecosystem present in their own backyards. It is when students learn the value of this ecosystem that they will begin working to preserve it. By being a part of a collective whole with a similar purpose, we are reaching farther than we would as individual teachers. The knowledge that we will be sharing our experiences with other teachers and students from other schools is SO exciting!–Laura Jim, Middle School Teacher, HPA

The HI-MOES Program is a wonderful opportunity for my middle school science students to be able to design a marine ecology project and get out in the field to collect data and experience hands-on science. My students have chosen Kahalu‘u as their study site to survey keystone sea urchin populations and monitor marine water quality. The HI-MOES staff from The Kohala Center has been fantastic in implementing and funding our project, making it possible for local students and teachers to participate. –Lisa Diaz, Teacher, Kealakehe Intermediate School

The HI-MOES Program is a unique partnership that allows students to study and experience Hawaiian ecosystems from a scientific perspective. Without this partnership I feel that many of the students would never see the amazing flora and fauna that once existed on their island. I hope that by providing this experience, students use their new knowledge to respect and protect the living things that surround them and share their experiences with others. –Mari Taira, Teacher, Waikoloa Middle School