Frequently Asked Questions

Department of Biology

P.O. Box 4010

Atlanta, GA 30302-4010

Tel: 404-413-5421

biobus@gsu.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

· What is the Bio-Bus Program?

The Bio-Bus Program is a science out-reach service based at Georgia State University. The program is named after its primary vehicle, a 30-foot long, self-contained, mobile laboratory (right). We also bring science programs into the classroom, traveling in smaller vehicles.

· What is our mission?

The Bio-Bus Program provides hands-on activities and demonstrations designed to generate a sense of excitement about science.

· Where do we travel?

The Bio-Bus Program is available for visits to schools and community groups in Georgia.

· How much does each visit cost?

All Bio-Bus services are provided free of charge! We can now accept donations, however.

· What types of activities do we offer?

Activities cover a range of scientific concepts, including physical sciences, and earth sciences in addition to biological sciences. Each visit can cover one learning module. We currently have 12 learning modules covering 8 different areas of science, and we are constantly developing more.

· Who receives priority for visits?

Due to the large number of requests we receive, it is necessary for us to establish priority guidelines. At the present time, priority goes to schools and community groups located within one hour’s travel time from downtown Atlanta. For school groups we give priority to students in grades 4 – 12.

· What if my school or community group falls outside the priority guidelines?

We encourage you to communicate with us even if you don’t meet our current guidelines. It may be possible to schedule a visit even if you are further than one hours drive from downtown Atlanta. We make every effort to remain responsive to the needs of our hosts, and we will work to make new activities available when we know that the interest level is high.

· How many students can we teach on a single day?

This depends on where we teach – in a classroom or on the Bio-Bus. If we set up in a central classroom (or media-center, multi-purpose room, etc.) we can see up to 30 students per session. The Bio-Bus itself accommodates 10-15 visitors (students and teachers) at a time. Typically, we divide a class of 20-30 students into two groups. If we give eight 30-45 minute presentations on the Bio-Bus, we can see four classes, or about 80-120 students per day.

· How long is each visit?

Please see the individual learning modules for time and space requirements. Presentations range from 30 to 90 minutes. Usually the Bio-Bus stays at a single location for 4 – 6 hours.

· How can I schedule a visit?

For scheduling and routine questions, call Genevieve Edwards (right) at the Bio-Bus office at 404-413-5421, or e-mail us at biobus@langate.gsu.edu.

· How can I receive more information?

More specific inquiries may be addressed to Dr. Barbara Baumstark, (left) the Bio-Bus Program Director, by e-mail at biobrb@langate.gsu.edu, or by telephone at 404-413-5304.

The Bio-Bus Group

· About the Bio-Bus Program

· Team Members - F.A.Q.’s

· Teachers Workshops

· Press Clips - Contact Us

Teaching Modules

· Animal Diversity

· Bio-Bus Sampler

· Biotechnology

· Biotechnology: Forensics

· Chemistry: Acids, Bases, & Indicators

· Chemistry: States of Matter