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4-H sponsoring National Youth Science ExperimentAs Kansas State University researchers continue to explore biofuels as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and a potential source of revenue for Kansas' economy, students in the state also will soon have the opportunity to learn about--and simulate the production of a biofuel. "Biofuel Blast" is the chosen topic for the 2009 4-H sponsored National Youth Science Experiment, said Gary Gerhard, Kansas State University professor of youth development and a state 4-H specialist. The experiment kicks off on Oct. 7, and will focus on renewable resources obtained from harvested plant materials--biofuels, he said. The experiment may be conducted throughout the month and results posted to https://www.4-h.org/NYSD/index.php. The effort is timed to align with the beginning of the 4-H program year, but students do not need to be 4-H members to participate, said Gerhard, who is anticipating participation from school, after-school programs and community groups. "The push to spark students' interest in science is not new to 4-H," he said. "4-H projects are research- and science-based, yet not always readily identified with science." "The difference," said Gerhard, "is that 4-H projects take science out of the classroom and emphasize basic principles and practical applications in everyday life. 4-H makes what might, in another setting, be called 'homework' an opportunity." Providing the leadership for a national experiment that can be completed at the local level is a relatively new idea from National 4-H Headquarters, he said. And, while participation in the national project focuses on scientific principles and outcomes, taking the project to the national level integrates additional technologies. Student scientists will be able to log onto a 4-H Web site to compare results from others in the nation who are conducting the experiment, he said. Promoting a national youth science day is part of the 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology program. The goal, said Gerhard, is to build interest in science and technology as careers. More information about the science project and other 4-H educational programs and opportunities is available on the Kansas 4-H website (www.kansas4-h.org) and at county and district K-State Research and Extension offices.
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