Payne, L
(1998).
The Frontier of Mars as an Agriscience Classroom: Terrafarming Mars
In: Proceedings of The Founding Convention of the Mars Society, edited by Zubrin, RM, and Zubrin, M. Univelt, Incorporated.
Abstract:
Current
interest in exploration and settlement of other habitable worlds and the need
for a pioneering spirit should be used to create high interest levels in high
school students. The best place to start cooperative efforts by space
scientists interested in life beyond its current known habitat is with students
enrolled in agriscience education. By encouraging the participation of such
students in the process of scientific research, there will be a powerful
connection established to the next generation of workers. There is a need for
scientists to more cognizant and supportive of inclusion of younger people in
the process of discovery and establishment of life beyond Earth.
The
learning of science by doing science makes the practical application of science
a reality in which students experience their own learning. Practical science
advanced in western society on the backs of those who worked the land.
Agriculture has forever epitomized the evolution of mankind. The development of
technologies for the advancement of village societies has been lead by those
whose work relates to the soil. Agriculturists have always been, and will
likely be, on the frontier of colonization of the land. Civilizations, except
for hunters and gatherers, require ecosystem management to survive.
In
the program currently under design at Oroville High School, students will
approach the study of life, the atmosphere, soils and ecosystems as dynamic
systems. However, the primary focus of the program will be on life beyond
earth. These will be the first high school students who seek to identify and
apply those natural processes which may spread life from this planet to others.
They will be encouraged to work with scientists from around the world who are
seeking to discover the requirements of organisms to survive and adapt to
ecosystems beyond Earth.
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