Fat Dogs and Coughing Horses: Animal Contributions Toward a Healthier Citizenry
Project Website(s)
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Project Description
This cooperative effort among Purdue University public schools in Indiana and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis aims to develop evaluate and disseminate educational programs for K-12 students parents teachers and the public about the science involved in keeping people healthy. Obesity prevention cancer prevention and asthma will be emphasized. Fitness programs research programs using animal models K-12 outreach programs professional development workshops and recruiting efforts will be networked to fill gaps in health science education interest schoolchildren in health science research and improve public health. This project will develop and rigorously assess curricular modules for grades three six and nine. The science behind health advances the clinical trials process and the role of animals in developing drugs and medical devices will be addressed. In addition the project will engage schoolchildren in becoming health science researchers by providing them with role models. Researchers will interact with K-12 students during classroom visits camps and after-school programs. Finally the project will involve and engage children parents and the public in educational fitness activities and programs. Dogs will be incorporated into fitness programs as exercise companions. The program includes an interactive traveling exhibit highlighting the science involved in keeping people healthy.
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Abstract
The long-term objective of this cooperative effort among Purdue University public schools in Indiana and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is to develop evaluate and disseminate educational programs for K-12 students parents teachers and the public about the science involved in keeping people healthy. Concepts will be exemplified by emphasizing health issues that affect both people and animals in Indiana and the U.S. including obesity prevention cancer prevention and asthma.
Project Audience
K-12 students specifically in grades 3 6 and 9; parents; teachers; and the public
