Julia Frayne
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Research Mentor(s): Laura MacLatchy
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Anthropology / LSA
Program: UROP
Session: Session 4 (1:40pm – 2:30pm)
Authors: Julia Frayne, Laura MacLatchy, Alexandra Norwood, Laura MacLatchy
Abstract
Many species of primates native to Uganda face extinction due to environmental and human threats. In order to spread awareness about conservation and inform the public about general primate ecology, this project is dedicated to researching primate evolution and ecology and formulating a museum exhibit in Uganda. From there, the exhibit is being adapted to an outreach program geared towards middle and high school students in Uganda first and ultimately in the United States. The purpose of the project is to spread awareness and give students exposure to new information about a unique topic and have hands-on learning with 3D printed models. They will learn new information on conservation efforts and proposals on how to protect the populations of primates from threats such as poaching and habitat loss. In order to present this information in an accessible and engaging format, a teaching guide along with activities and visual aids were designed for easy use by instructors and to entertain students. As tropical rainforest biomes are rapidly shrinking due to climate change, logging, mining, and other anthropogenic causes, putting these species at risk for extinction, action is necessary. This project benefits the general public in Uganda that will have this opportunity to learn more about the primate species that are local to their community. Through the outreach program, students may find a passion for pursuing a career in conservation biology or at least a heightened level of understanding and awareness of current ecological threats.
