FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Researchers and staff in University of Arkansas, Fayetteville laboratories will step aside for the day on Friday, February 15 to make way for area K-12 students and teachers of science, math and technology, as part of University Day 2002. This annual program seeks to stimulate the science, mathematics and technology programs of northwest Arkansas schools with instruction and hands-on experience.

Teams of two students and one teacher from area schools select three separate sessions of interest from numerous science, mathematics and technology choices; experience science, mathematics and technology activities set to appropriate grade levels; and enjoy an internationally known guest scientist speaker at the University Day 2002 luncheon. All activities are free.

"One reason University Day has become such an annual success is that regional K-12 students and teachers of science, math and technology have the opportunity to interact with faculty in creative and novel approaches to math and science education," said Lynne H. Hehr, Director of CMASE and the Arkansas NASA Educator Resource Center. "Students and teachers view windows into the future of science, math, and technology as they participate in a day of hands-on laboratory activities using state-of-the-art equipment and technology.

"Our goal is twofold," said Hehr. "First, we offer students the chance to experience the relevance of science, math and technology education and, second, we offer teachers new ideas and techniques to use in their classrooms with assistance from faculty and staff mentors."

Paul Montfield, scientist/researcher with the Stanford SOLAR Center, Solar Observatories Group at Stanford University, will speak on the newest findings about the sun during the luncheon.

The program is sponsored annually by the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, the J. William Fulbright College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Education & Health Professions, the Center for Mathematics and Science Education (CMASE) and the Arkansas NASA Educator Resource Center.

University Day 2002 requires prior registration. For information please contact Lynne Hehr at (479) 575-3875 or e-mail lhehr@uark.edu.

University Day 2002 Schedule of Events:

Registration 8 - 8:45 a.m. Arkansas Union Red Lounge

Session 1 9 - 9:45 a.m. various campus buildings

Session 2 10 - 10:45 a.m. various campus buildings

Luncheon 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Arkansas Union Ballroom

Session 3 1:15 - 2 p.m. various campus buildings

Evaluation/Dismiss 2:15 p.m.

For more information on the UAF Education Outreach Program, access the CMASE/NASA ERC Web site at http://www.uark.edu/~k12info/