MUSES is a cooperative effort between the museum and Duke University. It creates graduate teaching assistantships specifically to teach science and research methods to adolescents in a museum setting. Two Museum exhibitions provide the context for research opportunities where high school students learn science, conduct experiments, and interpret those experiments to the public. MUSES brings together scientists, students, graduate assistants, and museum professionals in the development of instructional materials for museum exhibits. While the graduate assistants aid Youth Partners to conduct research in entymology and biology, they serve as powerful role models for the youth. The goals of the program are: (1) to promote adolescent interest in secondary science education and graduate science studies, (2) to improve science competency and knowledge, (3) to provide important, authentic work for youth, (4) to develop high quality, hands-on science enrichment activities, and (5) to give participants the opportunity to interact with scientists and one another.

Quickfacts Format: volunteer and paid work at the Museum Area Served: triangle area Program dates: year-round, 2 days a month Open to: ages 12 -18 Application: contact museum Other info: educational resource room available by appointment Contact: Michelle Kloda NC Museum of Life and Science 433 Murray Ave. Durham, NC 27704 919/220-5429 Links: North Carolina Museum of Life and Science

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