UOIT Faculty of Science spearheading Teachers' Science and Technology Outreach Program

Two Ontario high school teachers will have a new classroom tool - hands-on laboratory research experience - under their belts this September, thanks to the University of Ontario Institute of Technology's (UOIT) participation in the Ministry of Research and Innovation's (MRI) Teachers' Science and Technology Outreach Program (TSTOP).

Through funding from TSTOP, one high school science and one high school technology teacher are conducting leading-edge research under the guidance of two professors from UOIT's Faculty of Science this summer. One team is studying the chemistry of decomposition and the other is investigating the effects of short-term (or pulse) toxicant exposure on fish.

"Thanks to the MRI's strong commitment to enabling Ontario's teachers to work with researchers at publicly-funded research institutions, these individuals are being given the opportunity to experience exploration and discovery at one of the province's leading-edge research facilities," said Dr. William Smith, dean of the UOIT Faculty of Science. "By working with UOIT's professors on research projects that directly complement the curriculum being offered by today's high schools, these individuals will be able to bring their exceptional experiences back to the classroom, generating intriguing discussions and learning opportunities by bringing research to meaningful life for elementary and high school students across Ontario."

Dr. Shari Forbes, an assistant professor of Chemistry and Forensic Science at UOIT, is leading one project, focusing on research that looks at soft tissue decomposition. Her partnering teacher is involved in all aspects of the project, including assisting with sample collection, analyzing soil and tissue samples and monitoring the decomposition process through note taking and photography.

"The work being conducted at UOIT has real-world applications in the fields of forensic and food science," said Dr. Forbes. "Our forensic research includes exploring the biomarkers that are left behind during the decomposition process, which can provide key information regarding the decomposition period of the materials being investigated. Our food science investigations revolve around the effect of temperature variation on meat degradation, helping determine how to better preserve meat products. Through these two research streams, we are gaining a better understanding of the chemical processes that occur during decomposition and applying that real-world experience to chemistry and entomology experiments conducted in the classroom."

Dr. Douglas Holdway, a professor of Ecotoxicology at UOIT and holder of a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Aquatic Toxicology, is spearheading the other research project. Working with Dr. Holdway, the teacher-researcher is studying environmental poisons and contaminants and their impacts on aquatic ecosystems, particularly focusing on the effect of toxicants on fish reproduction, development and survival.

"The teacher-researcher is gaining experience in the operation of an experimental laboratory aquarium facility, fish husbandry techniques, toxicity testing, laboratory experimental methods and the acquisition and analysis of ecotoxicological data," confirmed Dr. Holdway. "Thanks to this research work, the lessons being taught in the classroom going forward will be enhanced by a depth of understanding and enthusiasm that can only come from first-hand experience."

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