INCREASING DIVERSITY IN EARTH SCIENCES (IDES): AN OREGON PROGRAM
1) to increase the number of students from under-represented groups who pursue careers in Earth Science research and education, and
2) to strengthen the understanding of Earth Sciences and their relevance to society among broad and diverse segments of the population.
Built around the best practices of tiered mentoring, interactive student cohort, research and education internships, and financial support, this 4-year program recruits 10 to 12 students (mainly rising juniors) each year from science majors at Oregon State University and five Oregon community colleges. The program is reaching its goals by
a) training participants in the application of geospatial to Earth Science problems of personal relevance
b) immersing participants in a two-year mentored research project that involves summer internships with academic units, state and federal agencies, and centers for informal education in Oregon.
c) exposing, educating, and involving participants in the breadth of Earth Science careers through contact with Earth Science professionals through mentors, a professional internship, and a learning community that includes a speaker series.
d) instilling an understanding of context and relevance of the Earth Science Enterprise to the participants, their families, their communities, and the general public.
We report on the first two years of this program.