By Cherise Moulden
The Environmental Science Technology Program at Daytona State College bridges the gap between students and nature with hands on class participation.
Formed during the fall of 2011, the two-year Environmental Science Technology Program (ESTP) at Daytona State College was founded by field scientist, Dr. Debra Woodall. Woodall hoped that students would be able to increase their knowledge about environmental science and the related technology.
There are currently 33 students enrolled in the program. A total of 300 students are involved in all four AA degree Transfer Tracks which include Marine Science, Marine Biology, Environmental Science and Ocean Engineering. Students ranging from ages 20 to 60 are able to work diligently not only on course work where they learn about geography, earth science, maintaining equipment and recording test data, but also get involved with different projects. Students have the chance to work outdoors in the field learning how to measure water quality, soil analysis and measuring the quantity of organisms among other things. Many of these activities are conducted on land, but next fall there will be an Oceanography class that will allow students to take trips on the schools new boat and participate in projects.
When enrolled in this program, students will have an advantage over other environmental science student’s at large Universities because of the hands on training they acquire here at DSC. Experiences the students will endure during the class participation will be useful when it is time to transfer and get closer to a Bachelors Degree.
The ESTP also provides “specific training for immediate employment in the field of environmental science” says Dr.Woodall. The students enrolled are required to complete at least 45 hours interning within the local area to help them increase their skills for meeting the needs in the environmental community.
This program not only focuses on the environmental aspect, but also marine life. “We are at the front door of the Indian Lagoon which is the most diverse estuary of North America”, says Dr.Woodall. Not only does Woodall want students to have the great experience of learning about this area, but she also wants other local scientists and their students to come explore and learn new things as well.
Although some students who are enrolled in the program sign up solely for the experience, most of the students are set on wanting to become environmental scientists in the future. They will take what they have learned in the class and apply it the world outside of college life.
Dr.Woodall says she wants her students to, “feel confident in moving onto a four year University and to enjoy what they are working on in the field”.
To learn more about the program feel free to contact Dr. Debra Woodall at WoodalD@daytonastate.edu or Phone/Ext: 386-506-3765.