|
General Information – PLEASE READ!
Directions to Workshops
* Workshops will begin at the listed start time – please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early each day.
Cost
The workshops offered at Plymouth Bluff Center by the MUW Department of Sciences and Mathematics as part of the Science Enrichment Program are at no cost for participants. The Science Enrichment Program is provided by congressional grant funding.
Attire
For workshops at Plymouth Bluff, all participants should:
1. wear comfortable, broken-in shoes WITH socks for lots of all-terrain walking (NO flip-flops or or open-back shoes!)
2. wear clothing that is weather appropriate, but covers as much skin as possible to protect from sun exposure, insect bites, and scrapes
3. NOT wear cologne, perfume, or strongly scented deodorant – BUGS LIKE SMELLS!
4. come with high S.P.F. sunscreen already applied, especially if riding on the boat
5. NOT wear or bring things you value because they could get damaged, ruined, or lost
6. bring a small backpack with:
a. insect repellent – this will be applied as we begin all outdoor sessions
b. a canteen or water bottle full of cold, fresh water
c. a hat to shade your face and eyes – sunglasses may also be useful
d. a pair of sandals or water shoes for aquatic sessions
e. medium-sized towel to wipe sweat or dry off after being in the water
For workshops at Parkinson Hall at the MUW campus, participants should:
- Wear clothes in layers so that you can adjust to temperature
- Bring a pen, pencil, and highlighter
- Bring a legal pad or something upon which to take notes
Activity/Difficulty Level
Many of our workshops will require various levels of physical effort, which is required for field study and hands-on activities, especially at Plymouth Bluff Center. Because of the heat and humidity in Mississippi and the all-important field analysis component of many sessions, there is a certain level of physical and mental fitness necessary for many of these excursions. If you are attending one of our workshops at Plymouth Bluff, plan on at least one of the following activities as often as each day of the workshop:
- Trail hikes 2+ miles in length (physical fitness + heat tolerance)
- Walks to the boat (1/8 mile), which involves descending and ascending a very steep flight of steps and a long, steep metal ramp (physical fitness, balance, heights, and vision)
- Wading in water with a muddy floor for extended periods (standing in the heat + insects)
- Riding on a pontoon boat on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway for extended periods (motion sensitive or fear of water)
- Getting on and off the pontoon boat deck (3-4’ elevation) when it is on the river bank (jumping, crouching, stepping up)
- Walking through low brush and climbing three-foot-high earthen structures (climbing, jumping, and crouching)
Basically, the activities listed above require a moderate level of fitness. Older and/or overweight participants may have a hard time with some physical activities. Those who are afraid of water or boats should take into consideration the workshop topic and itinerary.
We will do everything in our power to ensure the safety and comfort of our participants during workshops, however, it is impossible to observe and analyze parts of the natural world without some effort to reach them. Field observations lead to a richer experience and greater understanding of science concepts in nature.
*If you have questions or concerns about the items listed above, please feel free to call or e-mail our Project Coordinator. It is also possible to schedule a meeting at Plymouth Bluff Center for a tour of the workshop environment.
Comfort
While we will do everything in our power to keep participants comfortable, summer months in Mississippi are HOT and HUMID while winter months can be quite cold (especially out on the boat where temperatures can be 10 or more degrees cooler). Many workshop sessions will be outside and will involve various physical activities, some of which will require getting dirty. Sometimes we may sweat or get chilly, but we will also have fun! Other sessions will be indoors at Plymouth Bluff Center or at Parkinson Hall on the MUW campus. If you are attending an indoor session, dress in layers so you can adjust to indoor climate conditions.
Food & Drinks
With the exception of a very few workshops where all-day sessions and overnight stays will be involved, no meals will be provided. For workshops with daily three-hour sessions, participants should eat breakfast beforehand. Sessions will end at, or about noon, releasing participants for lunch. Please consider bringing a canteen or water bottle to help stay cool and hydrated. Participants are also free to bring a small, discrete snack just in case hunger pangs arrive early.
Accommodations
Those participating in overnight workshops (usually astronomy or other special topic) will be required to stay at Plymouth Bluff Center. Lodging will be provided at no charge to participants as funding allows. Each room has the following amenities:
- a double bed - a single bed - private bathroom - TV
- mini refrigerator - microwave - alarm clock - towels/linens
To Bring or Not to Bring
1. Participants should not bring cell phones to three-hour sessions as they may get lost, wet, damaged, or ruined. The Project Coordinator will have a cell phone at all times in case of emergency. If cell phones are brought to longer, overnight workshops, they should be left in your room or car with the rest of your personal belongings.
2. Participants should not bring valuable or important items such as jewelry, nice clothes, or digital devices (such as iPods, TVs, or game consoles). MUW, Plymouth Bluff Center, and the Science Enrichment Program will not be held responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen items.
3. No pets are allowed in workshop sessions unless they are a certified service animal.
4. Adult team members attending designated workshops (especially teachers) should bring a digital camera in order to document activities and observations. Using photography to enhance learning will be a part of the geology sessions for adult participants in this workshop. Consider purchasing a waterproof bag to store the device between uses (possible rain or boat sessions where water may be involved).
5. Please do not bring pocket knives, magnifying glasses, lighters, fireworks, or other items that may cause injury. We will provide all equipment needed for full engagement in learning activities.
6. Those staying overnight at Plymouth Bluff Center should bring toiletries, changes of clothes, prescription medications, and a few drinks and snacks to keep in their rooms for use during breaks.
BIG No-No’s
No weapons, firearms, or illegal drugs will be permitted at Plymouth Bluff Center. Any participant found to be in possession of such items will be expelled from the program and face action by authorities.
Foul language, threats to other participants, bullying, and physical contact will not be tolerated. Additionally, behavior that is unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful will not be tolerated. Those found in violation will be dismissed from the workshop and sent home immediately.
|
