June 26th, 2009
45 middle school students spent the week of June 21 at Delaware Technical & Community College's Stanton Campus for a biotechnology summer camp sponsored by Delaware EPSCoR. The camp took place in the college microbiology lab, the computer ADAM lab and in the classroom. "Even classroom activities were very hands-on, like making fruit smoothies and then dissecting the fruit to learn about DNA," said Rachel Anderson, program manager of pre-college programs at Delaware Tech. "The lab activities included a PCR lab, where students got to use a thermal cycler and a microcentrifuge to explore DNA and genetics and define what biotechnology is." Interactive computer activities, lessons displayed on the Delaware Tech SMART Boards and research using student-oriented websites challenged the campers. Two Delaware Tech biology instructors and a former science teacher, who is now the assistant principal at George Read Middle School and teaches at Delaware Tech, presented the lessons. The camp counselors were highly qualified. "Three University of Delaware and Delaware Tech biology and nursing majors served as camp counselors for the week, working directly with the students," said Anderson. The 7th and 8th graders who attended the camp all participate in the Educational Talent Search Program, a TRIO program for middle and high school students that provides academic enrichment for students from more than a dozen middle and high schools in New Castle County. The Federal TRIO Programs provide outreach to low-income, first-generation college students. "From college visits to summer camps, the Educational Talent Search Program provides unique opportunities for youth at their schools and at Delaware Tech," said Anderson. --Katie Ginder-Vogel
