The Classroom Program of KDE provides an inquiry-based approach to science that is fun and meaningful. NCEAS ecologists and teachers in Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Carpinteria schools work with 5th grade classes to design and conduct scientific experiments in ecology. Students learn the scientific method by doing it, from experimental design and hypothesis, data gathering and analysis, to reporting results and conclusions.
Scientists also talk with students about what ecologists do, how they became interested in becoming ecologists, and how students can train for a career in ecology. Articles on this topic are included on the web site.