Program Overview

2018 RPI EcoEd Research Program

Research Theme

The research theme for the 2018 RPI EcoEd Research Program is Go Fix It! Searching for Sustainability Solutions. This program focuses on ways people have designed solutions to sustainability problems through creative work, aiming to decrease negative environmental impacts and develop regenerative solutions with net positive effects socially, environmentally, and economically.

Program Description

The RPI EcoEd's 2018 Young Researchers Program allows students in grades 4-12 to research, write about, and present different sustainability solutions to a particular problem. With an RPI mentor, students will learn about who developed the solutions, why, challenges they faced, and long-term impacts. Additionally, young researchers will propose their own solutions, building on what they have learned through their research.

Program Structure

• The program includes an introductory meeting on Thursday, February 8, from 4-6 pm.
• Weekly research meetings will be held on Thursdays from 4-6 pm, March 1 – April 26.
• A poster session/symposium will take place on Sunday, April 29.

Requirements and Expectations

• Students should expect approximately 5 hours of homework each week.
• The program is free, but space is very limited.
• Applications and teacher references are due Monday, January 22.
• If a student has participated in the EcoEd Research Program in previous years, a teacher reference is not required.

Application Process

• Each application must include:
  • An application form (including contact information for a teacher who can provide a recommendation)
  • Four brief (200-300 words) essay responses to the provided questions
• The application form should be submitted sufficiently in advance of the January 22 deadline to allow time for the designated teacher to submit a recommendation.
• Once the application form is submitted, the teacher will receive a recommendation request.

Admission Criteria

• Acceptances will be announced by Friday, January 26.
• Note that the application process can be initiated – and requests for references sent to teachers – before student essays are complete.