Thomas Haren

Haren's "Aquatic Field Study" project lets students visit local parks, take water samples, and study them on location. They identify aquatic microorganisms in both stream and pond habitats and bring data back to the school lab for further analysis. Based on their findings, students form hypotheses about environmental impact on the organisms. The project develops student knowledge through incorporating hands-on and cooperative learning. It also reinforces the concept that science and its applications exist everywhere and not just in the classroom.