Studies also show that while boys and girls perform similarly on standardized science tests in middle school, girls scores drop dramatically on those tests in high school. In order to help girls beat that decline, Pines of Carolina Girl Scout Council has developed an innovative program that combines knowledge with fun. This program is known as Science Camp.
Computer scientists, computer engineers, and systems analysis are among the fastest growing fields of employment and Science Camp was a wonderful opportunity that encouraged girls to build their self-confidence and knowledge in these greatly expanding fields.
Caryn Cooper, Kyle Field, and Sarah Stewart from Southern Pines participated in this entertaining, action packed adventure that opened the doors of the exciting world of science to the girls.
At Science Camp, girls learned more about biology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, radiology, and more! They spent their days performing “hands-on” experiments such as dissecting a heart and growing bacteria cultures.
The girls also visited local research labs, hospitals, clinics, and veterinary hospitals to meet with female professionals in the science and technological fields, which enabled them to experience the excitement of these jobs first hand. They also had plenty of time to discover the science of everyday life by observing the science of baseball at Durham Bulls game, learning the physics of roller skating, and more!
The Girl Scouts have been opening up the worlds of science and technology to girls for many yeas.
Eileen Collins, the first female space shuttle commander, and Sylvia Earle, a marine biologist and National Geographic Explorer in Residence, were both Girl Scouts. Pines of Carolina Girl Scout Council is intent on formulating programs that provide girls with mentors, positive role models, and access to computers and software allowing North Carolina girls to build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the modern world.
This event is part of Healthy START UP, (Science and Technology Around Research Triangle Park). START UP targets Cadette and Senior Girl Scouts, ages 11 to 17, at a time when they are most at risk of experiencing low self-esteem and reduced interest in science, math and technology.
START UP is funded by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, an independent foundation that supports projects that provide creative science enrichment activities for students in grades six through 12.
Projects funded by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund must enable students to participate in hands-on scientific activities and pursue inquiry-based avenues of exploration — an educational approach that has proven to be the best way to increase students understanding and appreciation of the scientific process.
The program’s goals include expanding students competence in science, nurturing their enthusiasm for science, and interesting them in pursuing careers in research or other science-related areas.
Girl Scouts of the USA is the world’s pre-eminent organization for girls, with a membership of more than 3.6 million girls and adults. In Girl Scouting — and its special girl-only environment — girls discover the fun, friendship, and power of girls together.
In Moore County, Pines of Carolina serves over 720 girls and 370 adults. Pines of Carolina Girl Scout Council serves over 20,000 girl members, 9,000 adult members, and covers 20 counties with one-fourth of the state’s population. The Girl Scout council is a United Way Agency.
For more information on membership or volunteer opportunities, call 919-782-3021 or 1-800-284-GIRL.
