Cliff Swallows Migration and Research

The Flying with Swallows project at Moreno Valley College engages STEM students in research-based learning by studying migratory cliff swallows. Initiated by Professor Joanna Verna Frechette in 2015, the project is supported by grants and collaborations with institutions like UC Riverside. Students participate in hands-on research, including ecosystem surveys, wildlife monitoring, and nest mapping. They also study the swallows' diet and nesting materials through biology and chemistry courses. The project has inspired students to pursue further STEM education, leading to conference presentations and publications.

What is the primary reason cliff swallows migrate to North America?

• To avoid cold weather

• To breed and build nests

• To find food

• To escape predators

Who initiated the 'Flying with Swallows' project at Moreno Valley College?

• Professor Diane Marsh

• Professor Emily Smith

• Professor Joanna Verna Francheck

• Professor John Doe

Which organization provides grants to support the 'Flying with Swallows' project?

• National Science Foundation

• World Wildlife Fund

• American Chemical Society

• Environmental Protection Agency

What tool do students use to map nest locations and animal habitats?

• Google Maps

• Environmental Systems Research Institute software

• ArcGIS Online

• Microsoft Excel

What method do students use to analyze the diet of swallows?

• DNA barcoding

• Microscopy

• Chromatography

• Spectroscopy

Which insects are part of the swallows' diet as discovered by students?

• Grasshoppers

• Fire ants

• Honeybees

• Butterflies

What do students examine in the chemistry courses related to swallows?

• Bird feathers

• Mud nest construction

• Swallow migration patterns

• Water quality

What annual event does Moreno Valley College hold to promote the 'Flying with Swallows' project?

• STEM Research Symposium

• Swallow Migration Festival

• Cliff Swallows Day

• Bird Watching Week

How many national student poster conferences have students attended due to the project?

• Six

• Five

• Four

• Three

What is one of the key impacts of the 'Flying with Swallows' project on students?

• Higher retention of learned material

• Decreased participation in STEM

• Increased interest in humanities

• Less engagement in research