Program Components
A Lecture is a 50 to 75 minute presentation with the whole camp as the audience. It is usually a thought-provoking presentation of a scientist's work and the relation of that work to society. Because of the size of the group, lectures are not as interactive as directed studies. There is an opportunity, however, for a period of questions and responses following the presentation. Lectures should spur conversations and questions during dinner and other informal delegate/lecturer interaction.
A Directed Study is a hands-on, interactive small group experience. It lasts 60 to 75 minutes on each of three consecutive days. Usually a directed study is investigative in nature, providing the opportunity for full student involvement. During the study, the presenter provides a model and a close guiding hand; the participants should be able to pose questions, develop conceptual understanding through exploration, and draw conclusions.
A Seminar is a 50- to 75-minute presentation involving a small group. At times, a seminar is more of a group discussion than a presentation, providing an opportunity for interaction and sharing among the participants. Unlike a directed study, a seminar concludes at the end of a single meeting. It is also more informal than either a directed study or lecture, and it allows the presenter to choose from a wide range of topics. These may include but are not limited to technical subjects, hobbies, philosophies, and personal experiences. Generally guests are invited to present directed studies and/or lectures and volunteer to present seminars spontaneously.
To this end, we invite personable scholars to present lectures and lead directed studies to help nurture today's young scientists. Because the Foundation covers all delegate expenses including travel, we host quite a diverse group. The delegates are enthusiastic and curious. They revel in an environment where they find, often for the first time, substantial peer support for their interests. They enjoy the attention of scientists and staff members who provide the intellectual nurturing they have craved but not often received; excellence is cool and inquisitive minds are normal. The atmosphere at camp is relaxed and offers a beautiful retreat from the demands of everyday life. We must plan carefully to meet basic program needs and ensure that the program is offered free of cost to the delegates; therefore, we do not offer honorariums. We do, however, pay for travel expenses, provide accommodations, and treat you to some of the best meals ever offered in a camp setting. Our visiting scientists enjoy the compensation of knowing they help honor and encourage young students who are exceptional scholars and leaders among their peers. If you are interested in participating as a presenter, please contact Dr. Andy Blackwood by E-mail at Andrew.Blackwood@nysf.com or by phone at (304) 342-3326.
Recent Presenters
The following are recent presenters at a Foundation education program. For detailed information about each presenter, including the title and abstract of their presentation and a brief biography), click on their name.
