One of our main goals is to inspire and educate young students on the field of biology. To do this, we held a week-long cell biology summer camp for 4th through 8th graders, which covered a variety of topics including the scientific process, organelles, macromolecules, DNA, transcription/translation, cell cycle, etc. Throughout the week, students worked on a mini research project. We mentored them one-on-one to ensure no student felt confused or lost. For example, among other skills, we taught the students how to find reliable sources as they researched information about the disease they had been assigned to. At the end of the week, the students compiled their findings in a poster and presented their projects. We also provided ample opportunity for hands-on learning; we walked the students through a number of labs such as gel electrophoresis and extracting DNA from a strawberry to foster interest in biology by creating a fun and interactive experience for the students. One student in particular was so intrigued to learn more, and we were happy to direct him to more resources for AP Biology, in addition to introducing him to the GSDSEF (Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair).
Our Summer Camp!
Guest Speaker Day
In addition, we wanted to gauge our community’s existing understanding of sunscreen and oxybenzone. We sent out an anonymous survey consisting of 12 multiple choice and true/false questions relating to oxybenzone, sunscreen, coral, and FDA regulations in an effort to pinpoint and address common misconceptions. After collecting responses for a few weeks, from a wide range of audiences through social media and in-person interviews, we reached a total of 56 survey responses from people of all ages. Next, we posted infographics on our Instagram (@dnhsigem) with the correct answers to the survey in order to educate our followers. To expand our impact beyond our social media circle, we also interviewed people at our local beach about their sunscreen preferences and their awareness on oxybenzone to assess how living by the coast in California impacts their choices. As beachgoers in sunny California, many were frequent users of sunscreen, but not many were aware of the pollutive effects of oxybenzone. We followed up by informing them of the dangers oxybenzone poses to coral and our own bodies. Not only were we able to interact with our community and share our project, but we also spread awareness and educated them on the harmful effects of oxybenzone. We hope that it will deter others from buying or using chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone, and that it will enable them to be more environmentally-conscious individuals.
