The Problem
With COVID restrictions and a new drive towards 21st century skills, we seek to acquire two microscopes that have screens. We are unable to use our current microscope because it requires kids to put their face on the surface and is not COVID safe. It is also outdated technology and breaks frequently. The microscopes we want to buy with this grant are COVID-safe, updated technology, and much more durable. A microscope has a unique role in science education. Studying the smallest pieces of nature and learning how something big is built out of the most miniscule (microscopic- literally) building blocks profoundly impacts childrens’ world views and understanding of nature. In New Mexico, 25% of children ages 0 - 17 are living in poverty. Many kids in NM don’t have access to technology, especially in our mountainous region. With this microscope, we would be introducing higher level technology that they may not be able to afford or experience at their schools and homes. We will take the microscopes into rural and indigenous communities through STEM fairs and classroom visits. Since the microscopes are portable, we can expose the kids to technology and up close experiences with natural elements in a laboratory setting. We are also aiming to create an environment of YES. When kids under the age of ten are given equipment like this, they are often told not to touch. We, of course, want them to be careful but because this microscope can withstand heavy usage, we can give kids autonomy and let them lead their own experiences with discovery.
