A Place-Based Teacher Engagement Program Using Low-Cost Air Quality and Weather Sensors in Hawaiʻi After the 2018 Kīlauea Eruption

On the Island of Hawaiʻi, a low-cost sensor network that measures air quality (particulate matter and sulfur dioxide concentrations) and weather conditions was used for a two-year place-based engagement program with elementary and high school teachers (42 teachers, 553 students, grades 3-12). In this program, the sensors and their data were used to create new educational activities that meet U.S. Next Generation Science Standards. The program's first year, in the aftermath of the 2018 Kīlauea eruption, focused on atmospheric chemistry of volcanic smog ('vog'). With improved air quality after the eruption's end, the program shifted to emphasize weather and climate. To engage with local teachers and students, a unique combination of place-based approaches was developed: i) low-cost sensors hosted by schools to measure local conditions, ii) participation by local scientists and scientific institutions, and iii) inclusion of traditional Hawaiian environmental perspectives and observation techniques. Satisfaction survey feedback from teacher participants identified three main themes: i) teachers valued the sensor networks, though many needed additional technical support and training to integrate data and develop data-centered educational modules, ii) inclusion of cultural perspectives of vog and weather deepened appreciation and interest in local environmental phenomena, and iii) the program fostered valuable networks to connect participants with local educational resources and scientific institutions.