# Reducing Inequities by Promoting Participatory Learning Experiences in Science (RIPPLES)

> **NIH NIH R25** · FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER · 2024 · $270,000

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
Reducing Inequities by Promoting Participatory Learning Experiences in Science (RIPPLES) is
proposed by the Science Education Partnership (SEP) at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center (Fred Hutch) in
Seattle, Washington. The RIPPLES program meets the goals of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the
Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) to encourage students, particularly those from
underrepresented groups, to pursue further studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,
diversify the scientific workforce, and advance the field of health disparities research. It aims to build
understanding of the mechanisms of health disparities among secondary students, so that they are inspired
and empowered to work towards healthy futures for all.
 1) Curriculum development: RIPPLES engages secondary school students in fundamental biological
concepts including mutation, human variation, and evolution through two units centered on health disparities,
designed for the Next Generation Science Standards at the high school and middle school levels. The units,
comprising 8-10 lessons that span 2-3 weeks, will examine the scientific, environmental, and social contexts
for health disparities, emphasizing the social and structural determinants of health. RIPPLES also develops
lesson modules using real-world data that engage students in building quantitative skills as they analyze the
factors that contribute to health disparities. Once developed, we will evaluate the efficacy of the curricular
materials using a well-matched comparison group study.
 2) Teacher professional learning: RIPPLES enhances the ability and confidence of secondary school
life science teachers to teach fundamental biological principles and practices through the lens of health
disparities by providing 20 teachers annually with a three-week summer professional development program
that includes a mentored research experience, and seven additional day-long sessions throughout the school
year (three orientation and follow-up, and four content workshops).
 3) Student programs: RIPPLES aims to inspire and empower secondary school students, particularly
those from underrepresented groups, to become the next generation of scientists, changemakers, and
community health leaders. A two-week summer program designed for American Indian/Alaska Native youth
introduces students to science research and community health using culturally relevant approaches and
mentoring from scientists and students close in age to participants (near-peers). In addition, an event hosted at
Fred Hutch and open to all students will celebrate student community action-oriented projects and connect
youth with professionals, community members, and other students.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10888885
- **Project number:** 1R25GM154358-01
- **Recipient organization:** FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Jeanne Ting Chowning
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $270,000
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-05-01 → 2025-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10888885

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10888885, Reducing Inequities by Promoting Participatory Learning Experiences in Science (RIPPLES) (1R25GM154358-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-27 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10888885. Licensed CC0.

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