Related Links:  A message from OSU President, Dr. Edward J. Ray;   Contact Information;
SMILE Philosophy (page 2)
1-SMILE has high expectations

     SMILE focuses on under-represented, under-served and under-participating students succeeding at grade level. These students often have little, if any, family background in higher education and face low expectations for their academic success and other barriers to college entry. We let them know from the day they join a SMILE club that they are future college students. We ground our interactions with students on the belief that they are capable of academic achievement. We provide long-term, meaningful and engaging science and math enrichment, with college enrollment as a clear goal.
 

2-SMILE focuses on science and mathematics
       Science and math are the traditional gatekeepers to higher education for minority and other educationally disadvantaged students. SMILE uses a problem-based learning framework for its annual college-connection activities at all levels. Activities focus on engaged learning through a meaningful context, integrating science and math concepts, and infusing technology throughout. The positive impact of teaching mathematics and science in context is well documented and supported. Integral to this approach is the interaction of students with practicing scientists and mentors throughout all phases of a given project. Students also learn about career opportunities from the scientists and other mentors.
 
3-SMILE provides a continuity of enrichment experiences
     SMILE Clubs meet weekly throughout the school year for integrated math and science activities designed to build a cohort of interested and excited students. Each club accommodates about 20 students and is facilitated by two of the school’s teachers. Clubs also take several field trips per year and attend the SMILE Program’s annual special events.

     Early intervention is key to students’ success and provides the rationale for SMILE programming to start in the fourth grade. Student involvement may continue through 12th grade. By maintaining the continuity of students’ exposure to and support for learning science and math we are creating a clear pathway to higher education for motivated and prepared students.

4-SMILE engages students in active learning through a meaningful context
      At an annual camp experience, elementary students learn to do field-based scientific research. A variety of activities teach them to use scientific tools to collect data, to evaluate data, and to choose tools and methods to use at their final project study site. They use these skills to gather information and present the results of their work to the group.
 

Continued on next page

  About Us: The SMILE Philosophy