Abstract
In this interview, Dr. Robert Pavlica discusses the Byram Hills High School Authentic Science Program, which he founded and directs. This program has been replicated in school districts throughout the country, and the expense to start and maintain it is minimal. Students are self-selected into the program based on their desire to study and succeed, not on their grade-point average. By undertaking this 3-year program, students learn not just about science, but how to do science like a practitioner in the field. First, students identify a topic they wish to investigate by doing an extensive review of articles. Then, they find a mentor to help them do research on their topic. Finally, students publish their results. In 2004, Byram Hills High School, which has only 600 students, was tied for first place in the nation with respect to the number of finalists and semifinalists in the Intel Science Talent Research Competition.
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