A Model Outreach Program for Teaching Scanning Electron Microscopy Technology: Successes and Failures

Extract

A partnership has developed between the Microscope and Graphic Imaging Center (MAGIC) at California State University, Hayward and Ohlone Community College. The purpose of the collaboration is to develop a program to allow community college students to gain experience in preparing and viewing samples using scanning electron microscopy technology. The learning module involves students from the Ohlone College Biology Majors Program and student mentors from CSUH. An additional component is the introduction of under-represented students into a Biology Fellowship Program in which they also participate in the SEM learning module. Participants for these programs are selected on the basis of their interest and how this experience will benefit them as expressed in a one-page written essay. Ten students are selected to participate in the programs.

The objectives of the learning module are to: 1) learn specimen preparation techniques and develop skills in SEM technology; 2) gain hands-on experience and develop some laboratory skills necessary for effective use of a SEM in studying biological specimens; 3) share the experience gained with peers at their home institution.