Bird counting, fashion design communication and the Dunedin Housewives Union will be the topics of research for three Otago teachers who have won New Zealand Science, Mathematics and Technology Teacher Fellowships.
The Catlins Area School teacher Jim Young will study the seabird population at Long Point Reserve and aims to create a management plan to increase their numbers.
Kaikorai Valley College teacher Catherine Kan will use her fellowship to study ways of communicating the ideas of fashion designers to the outside world and Otago Girls High School teacher Sandra Spence will research the history of the Dunedin Housewives Union/Association (1930-1977).
The trio are among 32 primary and secondary teachers who have been awarded fellowships for 2010 and will work with host organisations such as crown research institutes, universities, local councils or businesses which support and mentor them.
The scheme is run by the Royal Society of New Zealand and funded by the Government.
It aims to give teachers a better understanding of how science, maths and technology are applied outside the classroom.
Royal Society spokeswoman Gillian Irving said past teacher fellows had experienced personal growth from undertaking the fellowships.
"Our evidence shows that the teachers return to the classroom rejuvenated and inspired. They then pass that enthusiasm on to their students, which is a fantastic result for everyone."
Some of the teachers produce ground-breaking research through their projects, she said.
