Fifth Grade Science Project Explores Impactful Cotton Research
March 10, 2023 The importance of science and technology is gaining mainstream attention.
The ongoing war in Europe and the supply issues related to semiconductor chips have created an awareness among different governments to increase support for research and development
As the United Kingdom unveiled its Science and Technology Framework-2030 on Mar. 6, I had the opportunity to interact with a group of fifth grade students at Roscoe Wilson Elementary School in Lubbock, TX, on research for saving the planet.
Six fifth grade students under the direction of Ms. Keegan Rodriguez are working on a science exhibition project to showcase the negative impacts of plastic pollution. While researching the subject, our Texas Tech research on cotton as an alternative to absorb toxic oil caught their attention, and they asked to interact with me to gain more information.
The young students prepared important questions on the need for sustainable materials as substitutes for plastic materials to protect the environment. As part of the 20-minute interaction, it was heartening to note that the questions focused on the motivation of research, commercialization of technology, and more.
Dr. Seshadri Ramkumar (back row center) with fifth grade science students at Roscoe Wilson Elementary School in Lubbock, TX. (PHOTO: Seshadri Ramkumar)
Conall Bates, a fifth grader whose family farms in Hereford, TX, asked to explain how cotton is advantageous compared to synthetic materials in absorbing oil. Such questions clearly point to the fact that the students and the community in the High Plains of Texas are well connected with industries such as cotton, oil, and farming. It is important that research carried out in academia have translational impact and serve the society and the whole world.
Schools such as those in the Lubbock Independent School District are doing their best to cultivate much needed interest in science and technology in young children. The students are planning to present their study based on the interview and other research in an exhibition to be organized by the school on May 22, 2023.
Bio-based materials that can save lives and protect the environment need support from government funding agencies in addition to industry. Research conducted in our laboratory that is gaining attention among elementary school children and the public is indeed a good and impactful outcome.
My take home message: science is alive and well in the United States.
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