Teaching science through local cultural experiences
Official title: Science Career Inquiry - Exploring Native Cultural Experiences (SCI-ENCE)
Funded at Hoola Music and Cultural Arts · NIH-10935949 · Data updated 2026-11-12
The SCI-ENCE program is designed for students in grades 2 to 8 to make science more exciting and relatable by using local stories and hands-on activities, helping them connect with local scientists and discover fun career paths in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hoola Music and Cultural Arts NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Honolulu, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $270,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R25GM150147-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10935949 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are elementary and middle school students, particularly those in grades 2 to 8, who are interested in science and local cultural experiences.
✕Less likely to help
Students outside of the grades 2 to 8 range or those not interested in science may not benefit from this program.
What this research studies
The SCI-ENCE program aims to enhance science education for students in grades 2 to 8 by using culturally relevant storyboards that reflect local experiences. Participants will engage with local STEAM scientists, learn about their career paths, and take part in hands-on science activities, games, and experiments. This innovative curriculum is designed to foster a deeper understanding of science and increase interest in STEAM careers among young learners. The program incorporates age-appropriate content aligned with educational standards, ensuring that students can explore their local environment while learning scientific concepts.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could inspire a new generation of students to pursue careers in science and technology.
How similar studies have gone: Similar educational programs that integrate local culture and hands-on learning have shown success in increasing student engagement and interest in science.
Where this research is happening
-
Hoola Music and Cultural Arts
Honolulu, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mead, Kauionalani — Hoola Music and Cultural Arts
- Study coordinator: Mead, Kauionalani
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.