Local Application of Scientific Research Practices Builds Student Engagement in Science and Environmental Health

The University of Montana’s Research Education on Air and Cardiovascular Health (REACH) Program works with teachers to engage middle high school students in rudimentary real-world scientific research the goals improving their understanding interest science, increase science careers. To evaluate program, mixed-method approaches based surveys that include both fixed-response free-response questions for has been used. Thematic analysis student written responses provided evaluators unanticipated student-centered information was not targeted by questions. over a three four-year period are focus this manuscript along implications such STEM outreach program environmental education.