Select a Rural Science Program ARMS Jump Start/Dual Credit

ARMS is an experimental program established at Montana Tech of the University of Montana in 2005 to help rural science students to excel in science and in science fairs. Some rural schools have difficulty competing in science fair against their urban peers. As students age, their participation in science fairs dramatically decreases. The lack of competiveness is not a reflection on the academic talents of the rural students, but seems to be more directly related to their lack of access to modern research infrastructure and, in some cases, to lack of exposure to interesting problems to pursue.

How can ARMS help rural students and teachers?

• Pay stipends to teachers to set up science club
• Provide money for operating supplies to each participating school
• Pay small stipend to students for supplies

The ARMS program offers monetary support, teacher and student training, project critiquing, help in setting up mentoring partnerships, local science fair support and almost anything else teacher's request to help the students succeed

What can science fair do for students?

• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Develop writing skills
• Enhance teamwork and communication skills
• Employ mathematical analytical skills
• Find the answers to their questions
• Carry and idea through to completion
• Possibility of travel, meeting new people, and developing life-long friendships
• Scholarship opportunities
• Have Fun!!!

What is the vision of ARMS?

ARMS is a three-year experimental program funded by a grant through the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Science Fairs (EPSCoR). By the end of this year, Montana Tech plans to have gained substantial data that supports the theory that additional funding and targeted services to rural schools can improve 9-12 science education, stimulate student interest in research-based science inquiry and increase rural student participation and success in science fair and other research competitions. The long-term goal of ARMS is to serve as a pilot program that can be duplicated nationally to increase rural students scientific research interests and activities.

For more information concerning ARMS, please contact Bernie Phelps at (406)496-4565.

Questions or Comments? Contact Us!