Technology marks the new millennium

By Traci Storti Wilde
Special to the Pioneer Times
    When most people think of 4-H, they think of cows and agriculture. This quaint picture, though, is incomplete. Try thinking robotics, digital video and global positioning systems (GPS). 4-H is adapting to the science and technology of a new millennium with innovative programs designed to attract a techno-savvy generation.  
A CHALLENGE, NAH – Kate Newman of Ludlow’s Crafty Critters was the first to solve the structure challenge at the 4-H skill-a-thon at the Northern Maine Fair.     The national 4-H Council’s program is entitled “One Million New Scientists.” The goal of the program is to bring the youth of the United States to a more competitive level in terms of job skills in a global economy. While Maine has committed to finding 12,000 of these new scientists, Aroostook County is taking on a significant share, committing to enlist 1,000 new members over the next five years.
    Aroostook County has been active in the development of young 4-H members for many years.  Local youth development coordinator Christy Fitzpatrick explains that GPS and GIS (geographic information systems), robotics, digital video, environmental science, animal and agricultural science are all part of a new look at science, engineering and technology.
    “In Aroostook, we have been working with GPS and GIS mapping for several years, [but] have just begun to explore digital video production and we have a bunch of structure building enthusiasts,” said Fitzpatrick. “Many kids participate in the traditional 4-H animal science projects, learning to raise animals with the most up-to-date science. We would like to start some robotics projects and we’re open to anything else anyone wants to explore.”
Photograph courtesy of Traci Storti Wilde
4-H TECHNOLOGY –  Emily Mooers of the Hip Hoppers 4-H Club learns some new tips about her rabbit.
    As a former public school science educator, Fitzpatrick has strong ideas about the importance of a sound science background.  
    “I have always believed that the key to a passion for science is the opportunity to experiment and explore things that interest you on your own time and in your own way,” she said.  “Participating in 4-H SET allows young people to find an interest and then decide how to pursue it. Supported by adult partners, who can mentor and act as role models, youth can explore a topic in depth, find out not only what works, but what doesn’t, and then present the information to others.”
    Sarah Verville, a Monticello resident, has taken full advantage of what Aroostook County 4-H has to offer. She is a member of the 4-H Hip-Hoppers and has been to 4-H GIS Camp twice and has been involved in many of the group’s science projects.
    “GIS camp was a good learning experience,” said Verville. “Since I’m hoping to be a Coast Guard captain, it will help me later in my career.”
    Since its inception in 1902, the 4-H Youth Development Program has sought to engage students in demonstration projects that bring innovation and understanding of land-grant college and university research to local communities.  
      4-H SET will be kicking off the new 4-H year with a National Youth Science Day on Oct 8. On that day, 4-H members all over the country will be participating in a science experiment related to chemistry and the environment.
Sarah Verville, left, and Vanessa O’Donnell of the 4-H Haybalers ponder the mysteries of GIS (Geographic Information systems) at GIS Camp.
    Over the next year, Fitzpatrick is hoping to work with a variety of youth programs including after-school programs, recreation programs, and day camps. She would like “to bring new science activities and explorations to the kids.” Fitzpatrick added that bringing new kids into 4-H clubs to get involved in science and technology projects will be a big priority, too. Along with youth, Fitzpatrick is also looking for adults to lead new science programs.  
    Anyone interested in learning more about 4-H SET can contact Fitzpatrick at the Houlton Extension office 532-6548, beginning Oct 1.