As students are collecting more data, this aspect of the program appears to becoming successful. In particular, the bruchid beetle study has already produced data that is potentially publishable by the CAP LTER scientists. A major disadvantage of working in urban ecology is access to backyards, thus working with students and having them collect data about their own backyards makes this data available to the larger project. CAP LTER scientists who run the summer internships are supported by CAP LTER or other funds. We also pay small stipends for graduate or undergraduate students to visit classrooms and help with data collection.
Scientists also get the opportunity to explain their research to a broader audience.
The Ecology Explorer Web site is the most important technology tool we have for keeping in touch with our teachers and students. The technology team at CAP LTER maintains and updates the Web site. Teachers are paid to participate. Education Liaison Participation Education liaisons play an important role in maintaining the connections between teachers, university researchers, and the broader community. Coordinating workshops, biannual teacher meetings, and summer internships Administering the Teacher Listserv and the Ecology Explorer Web site.