Work in progress - B A STAR - A launch pad for active learning

Since 2004 community college students in the Basic and Advanced Science and Technology Academies of Research (BASTAR) have made significant educational contributions to their communities. The program, funded by the National Science Foundation, seeks to increase the technical talent pool by providing students the opportunity to develop critical skills in leadership, teamwork, academics and technology. This goal is accomplished by developing students historically under-represented and currently performing below their capability in the technical fields. The program consists of four components: the leadership development conference, the Basic Science and Technology Academies of Research (BSTAR), the Advanced Science and Technology Academies of Research (ASTAR), and the Science and Engineering Research Symposium. These four components provide venues that progress students through increasingly complex and focused academic and research opportunities. The Leadership Development conference is the foundation upon which the program is based. The B STAR focuses on academic and technical development while the A STAR provides an opportunity to gain internship experience. The Science Symposium brings it all together as a venue for showcasing the work of students and exposing them to a greater scientific community.