Twenty-four biology students from Santa Maria High School took part in an educational field trip last Friday to Cal Poly’s Learn By Doing Lab, where they participated in a “Gross Anatomy” lesson.
The Learn By Doing Lab (LBDL) is offered through the Center for Engineering, Science and Mathematics Education (CESAME) at Cal Poly. It provides students with hands-on science experiences that are both engaging and educational.
During the Gross Anatomy lesson, SMHS students rotated through interactive stations, each focused on a different human body system. Cal Poly mentors guided the sessions, explaining the functions of each system and giving students a rare opportunity to observe real human organs donated to the university.
The lab also introduced students to various healthcare careers. Cal Poly mentors shared insights about studying kinesiology, pre-med, and other health-related pathways, offering a glimpse into college life and professional opportunities in the medical field.
To conclude the day, the group visited the Cal Poly Arboretum, where students explored the native plant garden, connecting environmental science to their classroom studies.
“We got very positive feedback from the staff at the Learn By Doing Lab. They were extremely impressed by our students’ willingness to just jump in and give it a try,” said Environmental Science teacher Morgan Kavanaugh.
For more information, contact SMJUHSD Public Information Officer Kenny Klein at 805-709-1454 or via email at kklein@smjuhsd.org.
