PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

 FBCC conducted an external evaluation of the MSIP grant at the conclusion of year one and year two of the grant. The year two evaluation was concluded June 30, 1995. Quoting Mr. Erich Longie, the evaluator, "FBCC has 100% achieved the goals." Eight computers, laboratory equipment, science supplies and educational materials were purchased and incorporated into courses. Three new degrees were designed, developed, and implemented. The major curriculum changes included over 50 course adjustments, new courses and three new departments within the Division of Math and Science. All purchases, new degrees and curriculum revisions were made more available than ever before to the remote satellite sites of FBCC. 

 Year three of the present MSIP grant concludes June 30, 1996. During this third year all activities continue as per the objectives planned. Unfortunately, the improvements made in the science and math programs at FBCC still do not satisfy the needs in these areas, as evidenced by our surveys. FBCC hopes to continue our progress toward creating the highest quality Math/Science Division.

INFORMATION ON CURRENT OR PROPOSED PROJECTS

 The first is the Ahjo'gun, which stands for the Objibway word for bridge. The project represents a continuation of a successful Bridges to the Baccalaureate program, funded by National Health Institute (NHI). This is a collaborative effort between the University of North Dakota and the North Dakota Tribal Colleges. The purpose of this project is to enhance the mathematics and science instruction of under-represented minorities at tribal community colleges in North Dakota, and to provide educational opportunities leading to obtaining a bachelor's degree in the sciences. The ultimate objective is an increase of minority students pursuing research careers in areas impacting the biomedical sciences. This is a three-year project beginning October 1, 1995. Currently the funding level for FBCC is $10,800 per year. This includes funding for the project director, student research, travel, and library acquisitions. The project director is Koreen Ressler, Academic Dean; 15% of her time is allocated to the project. 

 The second project is the Research for Results Project funded by All Nations Alliance for Minority Participation (AMP) of Montana State University. AMP is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). FBCC's project is designed to expand and to supplement ongoing student research projects. The students will plan, design, conduct, and evaluate the results of individual and unique research projects that have been requested by local health-care entities and natural resource agencies of the Three Affiliated Tribes. This is a one-year project beginning in the summer of 1995. The funding level is $22,400. The project director is Kerry Hartman, Math/Science Instructor; 5% of his time is allocated during the academic year and 75% of his time during the summer. 

 The third is the Parkard Project, funded by the David and Lucille Parkard Foundation. The project's objective is the improvement of the Natural Resource curriculum through the purchase of equipment, faculty and student training, and curriculum review and revisions. This is a three-year project which began in Fall 1994. The current funding level is $49,600. The project director is Kerry Hartman; 5% of his time is allocated to this project. 

 The fourth is the High Plains Rural Systemic Initiative (HPRSI). HPRSI consists of a consortium of American Indian Tribal Colleges and several NSF-funded systemic projects affiliated with the states where the tribes are located. The HPRSI area includes North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming and Montana. The goal of the project is to enhance mathematics, science, engineering, and technical education through grades K-14. Currently the project is in the implementation stage and the funding level is being negotiated. The contact person at FBCC is Trudy Ruland, Math/Science Instructor.
 

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