Welcome to SciTrek
SciTrek is a science outreach program that conducts multi-day (5-8 hour) science inquiry investigations with elementary and secondary students during the school day in partnership with their classroom teachers. SciTrek was founded in 2010 within the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UCSB by Drs. Feldwinn and Reich.
SciTrek provides students with opportunities to engage in authentic scientific investigations by exploring a phenomenon through a module aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). UCSB student mentors facilitate small groups of students through the experimental design process, giving students voice and choice in determining which aspect of the phenomenon they will investigate. Each module concludes with students sharing their findings to develop a holistic understanding of the phenomenon. During this class-wide poster session, students present their work alongside their mentors, providing an opportunity to practice scientific communication skills.
By providing elementary and secondary students with opportunities to not only learn the science behind a phenomenon (e.g., how water is retained in soil, contributing to landslides) but also engage in authentic scientific practices (e.g., making observations, designing testable questions, analyzing evidence), SciTrek helps students understand how scientists use evidence-based explanations to explain the world around them.
In addition to providing programming for students, SciTrek is committed to supporting teachers and mentors in developing effective three-dimensional instructional practices through professional development and in-class coaching.
Watch Us in Action
Upcoming Events
Ice Cream Social & Elementary SciTrek Fall Quater Sign-Ups
|
Location |
Date |
Time |
| CHEM Lawn | 9/28/26 |
5:00 - 6:30 pm |
TBA
|
Location |
Date |
Time |
| TBA | TBA |
TBA |
SciTrek in the News
SciTrek, UCSB's largest education outreach program, garners new funding to expand
