THE PIKES PEAK PEBBLE PUPS/EARTH SCIENCE SCHOLARS: INNOVATIVE OUTREACH METHODS THAT ENGAGE STUDENTS

The Pikes Peak Pebble Pups and Earth Science Scholars (PPP) is an informal K-12 Earth-science-education program. The PPP uses innovative outreach methods to nurture ideas and to provide inspiration and transformative experiences. This happens in three ways: first, through a variety of ground-breaking collaborations; second, through projects that focus on investigative learning; and third, by using outreach approaches that engage students through public interactions.

Collaborations capture students’ imaginations through a network of publishers, museums, national parks, and other organizations. The PPP work as interns at the Western Museum of Mining and Industry or volunteers at the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, where they gain valuable skills. These collaborations drive student success and achievement while extending program outreach.

The real work of the program takes place outside the classroom, where the PPP work on projects. These projects include presentations of their original research at national, regional, and local venues, including the annual mineral symposium at New Mexico Technical University and the Geological Society of America’s annual and section meetings. While working on projects, students improve their researching and writing skills. These projects empower students as they deepen their self-esteem and develop problem-solving techniques, all while increasing their motivation to learn.

The PPP write articles showcasing their research projects through Deposits magazine, a British publication for amateur and professional paleontologists and geologists, and local newspapers. A wide range of social networking sites and blogging platforms integrate and supplement their published reports.

In addition, the PPP engages students as they provide demonstrations and educational programming at science festivals, museums, city parks, national parks, schools, and selected civic events.

The driving concept of the PPP is that if talented students are brought together in one place, and are given the freedom to work collectively, they progress toward their highest potential. The PPP is among the most productive, most published, and most recognized group in the history of informal Earth-science education.