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The RiverRidge Foundation

The Academy of Environmental Sciences

The Academy of Environmental Sciences (AES) combines the collaborative power of online learning with the comprehension of hands-on, analytical, field-based research to stimulate your curiosity about the natural world.

High school freshmen and sophomores interested in environmental science and who have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher are invited to attend the research expedition to Hawaii.  The dates of this excursion are March 27th - April 2nd, 2010.  Only serious students should register.  This research expedition is a part of a seven-week course in conservation biology that is offered to science teachers, education and science post-secondary majors, and high school juniors and seniors.

High school freshmen and sophomores will spend seven days exploring the big island of Hawaii.  Snorkel along coral reefs, explore lava tubes and sea caves, study endangered species, hike along breathtaking trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls, and engage in an evening astronomy workshop atop Mauna Kea, Hawaii's 13,000+ foot volcano.  

Click here to see the research itinerary

Course Instructors
: Florian Schmitt and Chris Packert - You can read their biographies by clicking on the "AES Faculty" link in the navigation bar at the top of the page.

This is a unique experience for people involved in science education to participate in a Community of Practice educational model while studying environmental science concepts.  This course unites high school students who qualify for our Advanced Scholars program, undergraduate students seeking specific environmental content, and graduate students looking to diversify their teaching methods.  Graduate students learn how to develop a science curriculum that engages undergraduate and high school students in online activities and field-based research.  Course participants develop knowledge of conservation biology, and learn to implement equipment like digital prep scopes, Vernier LabQuests, and GPS units to conduct scientific research.  They also learn how to use Web 2.0 programs like WiZiQ and Wikispaces.  Those who complete this course will learn how to connect online teaching tools with field-based research.  Participants who successfully complete our courses can also apply to become mentors for future courses.  If you like to be a part of a learning community, use technology to engage students, and enjoy exploring majestic regions of our planet, this course is for you.

Trip Expenses: $2850.00.  Trip expenses include airfare, lodging, ground transportation, onsite instructors, park entrance fees, travelers insurance, and several meals.  The price for this trip is based upon ten participants and may fluxuate slightly with the number of students enrolled.

Course Registration: Registration is currently open.  Click here to register for Conservation Biology. Complete the online registration form and pay your nonrefundable deposit.  Space is limited, so we suggest enrolling as soon as possible.  Once registration has been completed, further instructions will follow.

Payment Schedule
:

Down Payment: $300.00 (Nonrefundable but is transferable to a new student): Due at registration.
Second Payment: 50% of the trip cost: Due by December 1st, 2009
Final Payment: Balance due January 31st, 2010

Refund Policy:

A partial refund may be available and is dependent upon when The RiverRidge Foundation is notified of the cancellation in writing.  Use the following information to calculate the amount of a refund.

130 or more days prior to departure: Refund less the down payment of $300.00
129 - 100 days prior to departure: Refund less the down payment and $100.00 plus any nonrefundable reservations.
99 - 0 days prior to departure: Refund less the down payment and $400.00 plus any nonrefundable reservations.

Substantial payments and deposits are made on the traveler's behalf to airlines, hotels, transportation companies, and overseas suppliers well in advance of departure and are nonrefundable.  No refunds will be given for any missed or unused services obtained for this course.