1999 Winner: Excellence In Science And Technology Public Awareness
Campers Discover Science Through Hands-On Activities
This summer, approximately 250 Albertans were involved in spring School Camps, family camps and kid camps at the Dinosaur Country Science Camp. Operated by the Drumheller Regional Science Council, this unique field camp encourages campers to discover science through hands-on activities and participation in real scientific research. Campers learn about the natural ecosystems of the badlands and the grassy prairies through field research and activities with specific programs in palaeontology, geology, archaeology, entomology and mammalogy.
In each program, campers gather research data which contributes to scientific reports on their work. Two thirds of the camp’s staff members are former campers who were inspired to pursue university programs in the sciences. Now they are sharing their experience and knowledge with Alberta’s future scientific community. Nearly 80% of the camp’s participants are returning campers or their friends – another indication of the camp’s ability to instil a passion for discovery.
