November 2009

The The 4-H Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET) Initiative combines non-formal education with hands-on, inquiry-based learning in a positive youth development context to engage youth in improving their SET knowledge, skills and abilities. 4-H SET combines the strengths of 4-H Youth Development non-formal experiential-based delivery modes and strong youth-adult partnerships to address SET content as defined by the National Science Education Standards (1996).

• 4-H SET activities and programs are delivered in an environment that promotes positive youth development.  Positive Youth Development (PYD) builds on young peoples’ strengths and assets. PYD occurs from an intentional process that promotes positive outcomes for young people by providing opportunities, choices, caring relationships, and the support necessary for youth to fully participate in families and communities. PYD occurs in families, peer groups, schools, neighborhoods and communities.
  
  Research into the science of learning suggests that a community-centered environment can play a large role in youth education.  Learning is enhanced when adults place value on learning, on the search for understanding, and create a safe place for youth to experiment and make mistakes.  
  
  High-quality 4-H SET programming doesn’t only provide valuable benefits in SET content knowledge and process understanding, but also in the form of leadership development, life skills development, and civic development.  Providing 4-H SET learning experiences within a positive youth development framework is critical in helping youth learn, grow, and contribute to their communities.  More information on PYD's connection to 4-H SET is available at http://www.ca4h.org/SET/documents/CA4HSET-PYD.pdf
  
  4-H National Headquarters promotes the Essential Elements of Positive Youth Development which consist of the four elements:
  
  • Caring Relationships (Belonging): All youth need a caring, supportive relationship in their lives.
  • Constructive Learning Experiences (Mastery): 4-H offers opportunities to take on new challenges and learn new skills.
  • Leadership Opportunities (Independence): Creating opportunities for youth to develop skills and confidence for leadership and self-discipline.
  • Service to Communities (Generosity): 4-H helps youth focus on developing concern for others and taking action to demonstrate that concern.
  More information on youth development research and frameworks is available in a 4-H Center for Youth Development monograph at http://www.ca4h.org/4hinfo/proginfo/YDFrameworks.pdf
  
  
• The 2009 National 4-H Youth Science Experiment, "Biofuel Blast", engaged youth in important environmental issues that our global community faces today and focused on the idea of a greener tomorrow.  The activity was held throughout the nation on October 7, 2009 and is still being conducted at events and meetings this winter.  Check out the photographs of events in California at http://www.ca4h.org/photogal/thumbnails.php?album=141 and a video from an Orange County event at http://www.ca4h.org/SET/NYSD2009/ For more information regarding biofuels, please visit UC California Agriculture at http://californiaagriculture.ucanr.org/.  Submit your 4-H group's photos or video to Steven Worker at smworker@ucdavis.edu.
  
  Redwood 4-H Club, Alameda County
  
  
  

• Three Regional Education Outreach Summits on Bio-Security in 4-H will be held Dec 12 at UC Davis, Jan 16 in Tehama County and Feb 27 in Kern County.  These three Regional Education Outreach Summits are offered by 4-H and Veterinary Medicine Extension in order to improve the understanding of 4-H adult volunteers, veterinarians, and administrators from fairs and exhibitions about existing bio-security risks associated with 4-H Animal Science projects in California and issues related to traceability. Each Education Outreach Summit will include four major components: 1. an overview of current data on bio-security risks associated with 4-H Animal Science projects, including risks at exhibits and fairs, shows, and exhibitions; 2. updated information from USDA on the current status of NAIS and animal traceability; 3. a listening session to provide stakeholders the opportunity to share their experiences and provide feedback on traceability issues to USDA; and 4. a mini-training for 4-H teens and volunteers on the new 4-H Bio-Security curriculum. Register at http://ucce.ucdavis.edu/survey/survey.cfm?surveynumber=4238
  
  
• Register for the Winter 2010 4-H SET Professional Development workshop on February 6, 2010.  Counties are invited to send a team of 4-H members (age 14 and up), 4-H volunteers, 4-H staff, and program collaborators.  Effective science, engineering and technology education requires good educators.  This professional volunteer development opportunity will help prepare 4-H volunteers, teens and staff to incorporate science, engineering, and technology into 4-H projects and activities in a hands-on, experiential manner. Locations include Shasta, Yolo, Santa Barbara, Merced and Riverside Counties. Morning topics focus on utilizing teens-as-Teachers and the afternoon introduces a 4-H SET curriculum.  Register by January 15, 2010 at
  http://ucce.ucdavis.edu/survey/survey.cfm?surveynumber=4208
  
  
• Start a renewable energy project in your 4-H Club or group!  The Power of the Wind Curriculum, from the National 4-H Council, is designed for middle school aged youth to learn about the wind and its uses. Youth work with members of a team to design, create, build, and test a wind powered devices and are given opportunities to explore wind as a potential energy source in their community.  Three professional volunteer development workshops are available for county teams of volunteers, staff and teens to receive hands-on training in the curriculum.  Dates include: November 13-14 in San Diego County, December 4-5 in Ukiah, Mendocino County (Linda Edgington at lgedgington@ucdavis.edu, and Jan 30 in San Luis Obispo County (8-6pm with breakfast and lunch provided. Cindy Hansen at chansen@co.slo.ca.us).  Supply kits and copies of the curriculum are available on a limited basis.  For more information, please contact trainers Cyndi Barnett at ccbarnett@ucdavis.edu or Keith Nathaniel at kcnathaniel@ucdavis.edu.
  
  
• The 2009 State 4-H Leaders' Forum will be held November 6-8, 2009 at the Asilomar Conference Center.  4-H adult volunteers and 4-H staff will come home loaded with ideas, activities, and enthusiasm!  A number of 4-H SET sessions are available to Forum participants, including: experiential and inquiry learning; infusing 4-H SET abilities into projects; quick 4-H SET activities for club meetings, water conservation curriculum for high-school youth, power of the wind curriculum, and ideas for integrating technology into 4-H.  During the Forum, technology will be featured with a mobile-optimized schedule at http://m.ca4h.org/ and video interviews conducted by the California 4-H Technology Leadership Team.  More information is available at http://www.ca4h.org/conference/slf/
  
  

• Pacific salmon and steelhead trout have unusual life cycles that take them from fresh water to the ocean, and then back again. Protecting and restoring salmon and steelhead habitat also means safer and more vital watersheds for people. The Agua Pura Pescadores: Exploring Salmon and Steelhead in California Communities curriculum is designed to enhance participants’ understanding of salmon and steelhead, and the critical relationship these fish have to healthy watersheds. Through a variety of “hands-on” and “heads-on” learning activities, participants are encouraged to explore their surroundings and the connections between salmon and steelhead and the people in their community.  For more information, please contact Michael Marzolla at ammarzolla@ucdavis.edu or visit http://sns.ucdavis.edu/
  
  
• The Youth Experiences in Science (YES!) Project provides high-quality children's science education projects for after-school settings. These easily adaptable activities make science fun and exciting.  This curriculum includes seven science education experiences. Each activity guide includes the time required for the activity, suggested grouping of participants, materials needed, preparation information, activity directions, and discussion directions. An Activity Booklet, designed for parents and children to use at home to continue the science fun, follows each guide. Hard copies are currently available for order at http://anrcatalog.ucdavis.edu/4HResourceSciences/3404A.aspx.  The curriculum will be made available for free digital download in the SET Library this Winter 2010.
  
  

• Looking for a great way to promote your 4-H SET programs?  Since the beginning, 4-H has been a leader in the development and growth of The Coalition for Science After School (CSAS) who has partnered with Time Warner Cable to create a national directory of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning opportunities. It is designed to be widely marketed and to quickly bring visibility to your 4-H SET programs. http://directory.scienceafterschool.org/signup/
  
  
• The New PCS Edventures Challenge Hub has arrived! In honor of the new site, PCS is offering a 30-day free trial with no obligations. Check out this new site filled with hands-on building challenges for students of all ages. From robotics to architecture, you will find wonderful activities for you students to participate in year around. Just go to http://www.pcschallengehub.com and sign up today!
  
  
• Bee a Natural Inquirer and an Investi-gator! Order your copy of the new Bioenergy edition of the Natural Inquirer! Articles include research findings about the use of forest biomass for fueling schools, a comparison of the energy expended to produce wood and steel doors, the use of tree crowns for future energy, and a comparison of the efficiency of transporting wood chips for energy or burning on-site.  The Natural Inquirer is also excited to announce its new publication: the Investi-gator. This publication is designed for upper elementary students and was produced in partnership with NRS. Articles include research about changing leaf color, how rising ozone levels affect tree growth, protecting the environment through policies, and a look at soil activity in the wintertime. Please visit www.naturalinquirer.org and www.scienceinvestigator.org and order your free copies!
  
  
• TERRApod is a science vodcast (video podcast) and website for youth ages 10-18. The TerraPod program was launched in 2007 in a collaboration between Montana State University and 4-H. The website is made possible by the Arizona 4-H Program, and their goal is to encourage kids to use filmmaking and the internet when researching topics focused on science and the environment. TerraPod helps youth discover science in a fun and intereactive way by learning how to plan, produce, edit and upload an original 3-5 minute movie on a science or nature topic. Check out one of their videos at
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UkqfIQ6I-6I.
  
  

• Geographic Information System (GIS) Day, on November 17, creates geographic awareness throughout our world.  GIS Day provides an international forum for users of geographic information systems (GIS) technology to demonstrate real-world applications that are making a difference in our society.  4-H Clubs or projects may want to explore either participating or hosting a GIS Day event.  For more information, please contact Steven Worker at smworker@ucdavis.edu or www.gisday.com. 
  
  
• Year of Science 2009: November - Ever thought of the composition, structure, and properties of roast turkey or whether adding baking soda or baking powder would make your gravy better? If so, then you'd be set for Thanksgiving and you are thinking chemistry! Chemistry also brings us plastics, textiles, cleaner burning fuels, shampoo, concrete, pharmaceuticals and so much more! http://www.yearofscience2009.org/themes_chemistry/celebrate/
  
  
• 4-H members can help to collect soil samples to give a much clearer assessment of the health of the Nation's soils. Northeastern University is conducting the National Soil Research Project where students are measuring the humic (HA) and fulvic acid (FA) contents of the nation's agricultural top soils. HA and FA are vital organic components of healthy soils. They retain water, act as pH buffers, improve soil texture/porosity and regulate many other soil functions.  We need to double the number of samples to be analyzed. We can do that with your help! We're asking 4-H members to collect and mail a one-pound, dry soil sample to Northeastern University for analysis.  More information is available at http://www.ca4h.org/set/documents/NortheasternSoilSampleForm.doc or contact Geoffrey Davies at g.davies@neu.edu.
  
  
• The 2010 State 4-H Field Day will be held on May 29, 2010 at UC Davis. The State 4-H Field Day is the largest California statewide 4-H event, open to 4-H members, siblings, parents, 4-H volunteers and staff.  In 2010, 4-H SET will be featured with many hands-on science, engineering and technology activities and challenges!  Your 4-H Club or project can help!  Educational displays constitute a unique aspect of the State 4-H Field Day. These exhibits are a great opportunity
  to share knowledge, interact with youth and adults, and engage people in new activities. Possibilities for displays include hands-on activities, community service, informative booths, etc.  Applications are due April 2, 2010 and the form is available at http://www.ca4h.org/projresource/fieldday/SFD-App-Form2010.pdf.  More information is available at http://www.ca4h.org/projresource/fieldday/
  
  
• The California State Parks and Pacific Leadership Institute collaboration provides ongoing opportunities for structured, powerful introductions to outdoor experiences for California's youth.  Leadership trainings are being offered for youth ages 14-17 in outdoor activities, team building and leadership skills while camping at a California State Park.  All of the necessary food and camping equipment for the training trip are provided at no cost!  Programs are offered in the spring and summer 2010.  For more information, please visit http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=24511
  
  
• The Inaugural USA Science and Engineering Festival, held October 10-24, 2010 in D.C., will be the country’s first national science festival.  To date, over 150 organizations have signed up to exhibit at the USA Science & Engineering Festival Expo on the National Mall in the Fall of 2010.  For more information, please visit http://www.usasciencefestival.org/
  
  

• AeroGrow International, Inc. invites students to apply for the AeroGrow Growing Kids Award. This award is open to K-6 classrooms in the United States with a minimum of 15 students who plan to use indoor gardens to teach nutrition and life science. Each winning program will receive an AeroGarden Classic valued at $150 and an AeroGrow Salad Greens Seed Kit. The AeroGarden is an innovative solution for bringing gardening activities into the classroom. The AeroGrow Growing Kids Awards, sponsored by AeroGrow International, Inc., will provide 300 educators nationwide with this useful, hands-on tool to enrich and enhance the study of nutrition and life science in the classroom. Applications must be postmarked by October 24, 2009. For more information please visit http://www.kidsgardening.org/grants/growingkids.asp.
  
  
• Recognizing the power of gardens to connect individuals of all ages socially, culturally, and emotionally, the H. J. Heinz Company is proud to sponsor the Heinz Wholesome Memories Intergenerational Garden Award, designed to foster family focused garden efforts in communities across the country. The award will provide 57 families with a $500 award package containing the tools needed to embark on a successful gardening adventure that will foster lasting intergenerational memories while growing wholesome food.This award is open to any adult in the United States who wishes to garden with preschool to high school-aged family member(s) and feels that gardening is a great way to build lasting memories. Applications are due by January 10, 2010. For more information and to request an application, please visit http://kids.garden.org/grantInquiry.php?grant=GR_Heinz10.
  
  

• The ESRI 2010 GIS Grants for 4-H guidelines and application are now available for those looking to fund programs focused on serving society and improving the environment through the use of GIS technology. The Getting Started with GIS Grant is for 4-H clubs new to tecnology and GIS software, and will receive curriculum and software for windows and mac. The Introductory Grant is geared toward clubs wanting to learn more about GIS technology, using the same software that your local planning office or assessor might use. This grant includes ArcView software (windows only), curriculum, and virtual campus courses. The Intermediate Grants are available for 4-H groups who have successfully completed the requirements for an introductory grant from a previous year. While the National application deadline is December 1, in order to complete the required grant processes and obtain a letter of support from the State 4-H SET Coordinator, they are due to the California State 4-H Office by November 17, 2009. To access the application and for more information, please visit www.esri.com/grants or www.esri.com/4-H.  Please note: As with all grants, a 4-H Youth Development Advisor or County Director must submit the application and also fulfill the requirements of UC grant processes.  Only counties with a current County 4-H SET plan will be approved for submission.  For more information, please contact Steven Worker, CA 4-H SET Coordinator at smworker@ucdavis.edu.
  
  

• Imperial County: After a serious budget review this year, Imperial County decided to take matters into their own hands. They understood that it was essential to keep their Board of Supervisors (BOS) well informed about the importance of the UCCE and the positive impact it has on the quality of life in our communities. Taking advantage of National 4-H Week, the 4-H Youth Development Advisor, Mary Harmon, and three active 4-H members took the 4-H story directly to the Board of Supervisors. The group led them through a Biofuel experiment folowed by a powerpoint presentation, and concluded with two members sharing their personal stories of how 4-H had influenced their lives. The presentation definitely grabbed the Board of Supervisors attention and the group was able to make a lasting impression.
  
  
• Merced County: In an effort to provide professional volunteer development opportunities, county staff are holding once a month workshops for 4-H volunteers, teens and after school staff.  Workshops utilize the new Tools of the Trade II: Inspiring Young Minds to be SET* Ready for Life! a comprehensive guide on how to incorporate science, engineering and technology in youth programs.  More information is available from Richard Mahacek at rlmahacek@ucdavis.edu.  For more information on Tools of the Trade II, visit http://www.ca4h.org/set/updates/TOTIIOrderForm.pdf
  
  
• Based from San Mateo County: The 4-H Million Trees Project continues to make excellent progress with over 70,000 trees planted by over 24,000 youth from 42 states!  The new national youth-hosted environmental TV show, Eco-Company, broadcast a segment on the 4-H Million Trees Project in over 100 TV markets in the U.S.  http://www.eco-company.tv/video/1-million-trees.  Please continue to plant trees as part of this project.  More information is available at http://www.4hmilliontrees.org/
  
  
• Statewide: The California 4-H Technology Leadership Team increases the use and awareness of technology in the University of California 4-H Youth Development Program. Previously the CA 4-H Computer Corps, the Team has revised its mission and purpose to align with the 4-H SET Initiative.  The Team supports the 4-H SET Initiative, conducts professional development workshops, provides IT support at 4-H events, and provides resources to 4-H Clubs in using technology to enhance communication.  The team is recruiting 4-H members (age 16 and up), volunteers and staff to apply by April 30, 2010 (information available in January).  For more information, please visit http://www.ca4h.org/compcorps/ or contact Steven Worker at smworker@ucdavis.edu.
  
  
• Statewide: Development on two National 4-H Council-sponsored 4-H SET curriculum continues by California 4-H staff.
  
  • There’s No New Water! is a water conservation and water quality curriculum grounded in a simple yet powerful concept that water is a finite natural resource whose quantity and quality must be responsibly preserved, protected, used, and reused.  The There’s No New Water! curriculum is designed for high school age youth, with six sequential learning modules.  Estimated publishing date in Summer 2010.  For more information, please contact Martin Smith at mhsmith@ucdavis.edu  or Steven Worker at smworker@ucdavis.edu.
    
    
  • 4-H Robotics: Engineering for Today and Tomorrow is being developed by a multi-state partnership.  California is writing the track titled "Junk Drawer Robotics" that will engage youth in exploring processes behind robotics and then apply these using household materials to engineering robotic designs.  Estimated publishing date of Fall 2010.  For more information, please contact Richard Mahacek at rlmahacek@ucdavis.edu or Steven Worker at smworker@ucdavis.edu.
  
  
  

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4-H SET Leadership Team
Sharon Junge, Acting State 4-H Director
Richard Mahacek, Merced County Director & 4-H Youth Development Advisor
Lynn Schmitt-McQuitty, Santa Cruz/Monterey 4-H Youth Development Advisor
Martin Smith, CE Specialist, UCD Veterinary Medicine Extension
Steven Worker, CA 4-H SET Coordinator