2004 NYSC® Academic Program

The NYSC® Academic Program consists of Lectures, Directed Studies, Seminars, and Delegate Lectures. Choose a link below to view detailed descriptions of this year's program and to view pictures:

A Lecture is a 50 to 75 minute presentation with the whole camp as the audience. It is usually a thought-provoking presentation of a scientist's work and the relation of that work to society. Because of the size of the group, lectures are not as interactive as directed studies. However, there is an opportunity for questions following the presentation which usually lasts about 15 minutes. We hope that lectures will spur conversations and questions during dinner and other informal delegate/lecturer interaction.
A Directed Study is a hands-on, interactive small group experience. It lasts 60 to 75 minutes on each of three consecutive days. Usually a directed study is investigative in nature, providing the opportunity for full student involvement. During the study, the presenter provides a model and a close guiding hand; the participants should be able to pose questions, develop conceptual understanding through exploration, and draw conclusions.
- Directed Study Block #1 (June 26-28)
- Directed Study Block #2 (July 2-4)
- Directed Study Block #3 (July 7-9)
A Seminar is a 50 to 75 minute presentation involving a small group. At times, a seminar is more of a group discussion than a presentation. This provides an opportunity for interaction and sharing among the participants. A seminar concludes at the end of a single meeting, unlike a directed study. It is also more informal than either a directed study or lecture, and allows the presenter to choose from a wide range of topics. These may include but are not limited to technical subjects, hobbies, philosophies, and personal experiences. Generally guests are invited to present directed studies and/or lectures and volunteer to present seminars spontaneously.
A Delegate Lecture allows the delegates an opportunity to share their high school research projects with their peers. Each presentation is 25 minutes with 5 minutes for questions. Delegates are not required to present their research.