The scholars program at the University of Maryland is a very unique program and I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to experience it. The Earth, Life & Time scholars curriculum is run by Dr. Merck and Dr. Holtz, two very distinguished professors at the university. Both professors hold natural love for teaching all things science and this enthusiasm, and I can say this from experience, is transferred to their students. My experience as an Earth, Life & Time scholar has enabled me to gain a larger understanding of the physical world and its relationship with time as well as the overall notion that science is integrated everywhere. During these past three semesters, I have taken part in field trips and small project that relate to the idea of the physical world affected and changed through time. In addition to these hands on projects, the course itself had several reading assignments and lectures that addressed this theme. The most recent field trip I attended was on December 6, 2008 to the Thomas Jeffferson Building of the Library of Congress and the National Air & Space Museum. At the Library of Congress we explored the “Exploring the Early Americas” exhibition which featured pre-Columbian and post-colonization items from the Jay I. Kislak Collection of over 3000 maps, documents, artworks and artifacts. At the National Air & Space Museum we explored the “Space: Our Journey to Our Future” exhibit. This exhibit emphasizes past and current projects in space exploration such as satellites, space telescopes and provides a preview to future human space travel. Comparing these two exhibits, it’s quite obvious that the concept of the physical world as altered greatly as society has over gone several technological advancements. We have expanded our exploration and knowledge from land to space over time.
Additionally, another example of how I learned the relationship between the physical world and its change through time was the family history project in Spring 2008. I had prior knowledge of my family history before this project, but I was able to physically map it out back to the late 1700s. I was also able to learn about the history of several of my classmates too. It was very interesting to see where some of my friends came from and how it altered over generations. The media review, a small out of class project done in Fall 2008 also enhanced the understanding of science. My article, “Uncertainty Can Be More Stressful Than Clear Negative Feedback” discussed the level of anxiety individuals suffer in a situation with three feedback outcomes. The article differentiated between the anxiety related to an uncertainty feedback and a complete negative feedback to a particular situation. By analyzing the article and comparing it the study it was reporting on, it became quite clear that the media often spins the truth. As a society, we have come far in scientific knowledge through technological advancements. But, people have to be cautious when it comes to reading new scientific discoveries as sometimes the truth can be twisted.
A supporting science class that I took for ELT was ENSP101, introduction to environmental science. This class focused on how human actions has altered the physical environment such as biomes, ecosystems and natural resources. Particularly, the increase in greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and CFCs, have affected Earth’s temperature. In addition to studying atmospheric sciences, we also studied ecology and the relationship between living organisms and biomes. Specifically, we studied endangered species and the predator/prey interactions and how they have altered over time.
Being exposed to this living-learning community aided me in my ELT learning process. Part of the ELT curriculum is taking part in small group projects. It is very important to learn how to work with others in groups and combine ideas. I was able to meet and create relationships with diverse students, all with different interests and majors. One experience I will always remember is Service Day in Fall 2007 where freshmen ELT students traveled to Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens to remove growth of the invasive aquatic plant Hydrilla. This was a great way for freshmen students to meet new people and break the ice. By participating in this program, I have gained a new understanding of science and how it is present everywhere.