In an effort to spark an interest in neuroscience among young, rural West Virginians, WVU's existing "Brain Camp" teamed up with RII Track 1 to launch a new initiative called "Teach the Teachers."
This program aimed to enhance the neuroscience knowledge of high school science teachers from surrounding counties by supporting their participation in all Brain Camp sessions and even allowing them to lead one. The initiative kicked off about a month before the camp itself, equipping these educators with the tools to bring newfound neuroscience insights back to their classrooms.
Selected teachers had the opportunity to engage deeply with the Department of Neuroscience, attending presentations on topics such as circadian rhythms, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and neuroanatomy. They also participated in hands-on demonstrations using Backyard Brains machines—activities that mirrored those the campers would experience. Armed with this knowledge, the teachers were tasked with developing a project for the campers to undertake during their week at Brain Camp. The teachers had an additional hour to refine their project ideas with follow-up questions to the presenters, ensuring clarity and feasibility.
The final project challenged campers to design an ecosystem that mimicked the human body's functions. The results were imaginative: one group modeled their system as a prison, while another likened it to a factory. On the last day of camp, each group had three minutes to present their innovative ideas to their peers, showcasing the creativity and application of their newfound knowledge.