The data collected from the 4-H MYLS reveals significant insights into how integrating MPIP influences youth perceptions in the realms of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. This section presents a detailed analysis of the responses from youth participants, organized according to the STEM categories. The findings highlight the profound impact of cultural practices such as the Hafa Adai Circle, Gineftao, Chamorro Lålai, Traditional Fishery Practices, Ancient Artifact Tools, and Storytelling on shaping the educational experiences and participants perceptions of STEM knowledge.

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Integration of Modernized Pacific Island Practices

     The integration of traditional practices such as Hafa Adai Circles, Gineftao, Chants, Fishery Practices (Talaya), Ancient Tools (Sling stone), and storytelling within the 4-H MYLS has fostered profound personal and communal growth among participants. These practices have provided a unique framework for leadership development, cultural awareness, and community connectedness. Below, I describe in more detail the impact of integrating each of these practices. 

 

Hafa Adai Circles

      The integration of the Hafa Adai Circle significantly influences youth participants' perceptions in several ways. The quotes presented here illustrate how the Hafa Adai Circle fosters a strong sense of community and belonging. One participant remarked in a focus group interview, "This practice reminds us of the bond we share with each other, and starting the day with connection really enhances our experiences throughout the day. At the end of the day, we unite as a whole from the new experiences, further strengthening that connection and bond." This practice creates a supportive learning environment where participants feel connected and valued.

     The Hafa Adai Circle also provides a unique and enriching learning environment distinct from conventional educational methods. This exposure to different perspectives and practices helps participants develop broader, more diverse, and inclusive understandings. As one participant mentioned in the program assessment tool, "The most memorable and meaningful aspects of the learning journeys for me has to be the Hafa Adai Circle, where we shared our reflections and feelings, built a connection, and learned from each other."

     Furthermore, the practice encourages reflection and personal development by enhancing participants' self-awareness and critical thinking skills. Another participant noted, "I feel just having the Hafa Adai Circle was really helpful. Just hearing about everyone's perspective helped me really learn about everyone. Also, the lessons made me really open-minded, and I learned a lot, which we usually don't learn in school." This reflective practice helps participants internalize and understand the learning experience on a deeper level, relating these concepts to their own lives and the multiple perspectives of their peers.

 

Gineftao (Gift Giving)

     Gineftao, the traditional practice of gift-giving, served as a powerful reminder of appreciation and reciprocity. One participant reflected in their journal, "Regardless of the gift, the exchange of giving something that is special to us was nice. It feels like the end of each journey, it's nice because it shows how much we appreciate them." This quote highlights the essence of Gineftao, emphasizing that the value lies not in the material worth of the gift but in the sentiment and intention behind the act of giving. The exchange symbolizes the culmination of shared experiences and mutual appreciation, underscoring the emotional significance and personal connection fostered through this tradition.

     This practice reinforced the values of gratitude and mutual respect, contributing to a deeper connection with community partners and fostering a spirit of giving back. By engaging in Gineftao, participants actively demonstrate their acknowledgment and appreciation of each other’s contributions. This mutual exchange nurtures a sense of respect and acknowledgment, which strengthens the communal bonds. The act of giving and receiving gifts becomes a tangible manifestation of their gratitude, creating a culture where appreciation and reciprocity are continually emphasized and celebrated. Consequently, Gineftao not only enriches personal relationships but also builds a more cohesive and supportive community.

 

Chamorro Lålai (Chants)

     The incorporation of traditional chants was a significant aspect of cultural reconnection. Participants expressed a strong sense of pride and honor in learning these chants. One participant shared in the focus group interview, "I felt very honored. I would always hum the tune, but I was able to truly understand the lyrics. It made me feel more connected to my culture; it made me feel more rooted to where I am from." This quote illustrates how learning traditional chants transcends mere musical appreciation, serving as a profound cultural immersion. By comprehending the lyrics, participants deepen their connection to their heritage, experiencing a tangible link to the customs and history of their ancestors. The act of singing these chants with full understanding fosters a sense of belonging and identity, reinforcing their cultural roots.

     This practice bridged the past and present, connecting participants with their heritage and instilling a sense of cultural pride. By integrating traditional chants into their activities, participants not only honor their ancestors but also ensure the preservation and continuation of these cultural expressions. This connection to their cultural roots instills a sense of pride and responsibility to uphold and share their heritage. The chants serve as a living link to the past, enriching the participants' contemporary experiences with a deeper understanding of their cultural background. Consequently, this practice not only enhances their personal identity but also strengthens the collective cultural consciousness of the community.

 

Traditional Fishery Practices

     Learning traditional fishery practices, such as using the Talaya (fishing net), provided a tangible link to ancestral ways of life. A participant remarked in their journal, "The Talaya - how it folds and how you hold it to open it up. When we look back in history, you see people with less technology than today and how they were resourceful." This quote highlights the intricate techniques involved in using the Talaya, emphasizing the participant's admiration for the practical wisdom embedded in these traditional methods. By mastering the skill of folding and casting the net, participants gain firsthand insight into the sophisticated, yet straightforward, solutions their ancestors devised to thrive in their environment.

     This hands-on experience emphasized the ingenuity and resourcefulness of their ancestors, fostering a deeper appreciation for traditional knowledge and skills. Engaging in these practices allows participants to physically connect with their heritage, bridging the gap between past and present. It underscores the notion that despite lacking modern technology, their forebears possessed a profound understanding of their natural surroundings and developed effective tools and methods for survival and prosperity. This realization instills a sense of respect and pride in their cultural heritage, as participants recognize the enduring value and relevance of these ancestral skills. Moreover, it encourages a mindset of sustainability and innovation, inspired by the resourcefulness demonstrated by previous generations.

 

Ancient Tools 

     The use of ancient tools, particularly the sling stone, highlighted the advanced engineering skills of the ancestors. One participant noted from the focus group interview, "Ancient slinging - how the sling was developed for hunting and gathering and how it was engineered precisely for its role." This quote emphasizes the meticulous craftsmanship and sophisticated design behind the sling stone. Participants gain an understanding of how these tools were not just rudimentary implements but carefully crafted devices tailored for specific purposes such as hunting and gathering. The precision in the engineering of the sling stone reflects a deep understanding of physics, materials, and ergonomics, demonstrating the ancestors' advanced problem-solving abilities and technological ingenuity.

     This practice not only showcased the practical applications of historical knowledge but also connected participants to the innovative spirit of their forebears. Engaging with ancient tools provides a direct link to the resourcefulness and creativity that characterized past societies. It underscores the fact that innovation is not a modern phenomenon but a timeless aspect of human experience. By exploring these ancient technologies, participants appreciate the continuity of human ingenuity and the enduring relevance of traditional knowledge. This connection fosters a sense of pride in their cultural heritage and inspires them to apply the same spirit of innovation to contemporary challenges. Moreover, it highlights the importance of preserving and understanding historical technologies as a source of inspiration and learning for future generations.

 

Storytelling

     Storytelling emerged as a pivotal element in the program, enabling participants to connect with their cultural roots and personal histories. Reflecting on the storytelling sessions, a participant stated in the program assessment tool, "I really love the art of storytelling; I find it so special to me that I am learning stories passed from generations. It made me feel truly connected to my islands' ancestors and land." This quote highlights the profound impact of storytelling on participants, emphasizing its role as a cherished and meaningful tradition. Through these sessions, participants gain access to a rich tapestry of cultural narratives that have been preserved and transmitted across generations. These stories are not merely tales but repositories of collective wisdom, values, and historical experiences that bind the community together.

     This practice underscored the importance of preserving and transmitting cultural narratives, fostering a sense of identity and continuity among participants. By engaging in storytelling, participants do more than listen; they become active carriers of their cultural heritage, ensuring its survival for future generations. The stories serve as a bridge between the past and present, allowing participants to understand their ancestors' lives, struggles, and triumphs. This connection fosters a deep sense of pride and belonging, reinforcing their identity and strengthening their ties to their cultural and geographic roots. Moreover, storytelling cultivates a shared sense of community and continuity, as participants recognize their role in the ongoing narrative of their culture. The practice not only enriches their personal understanding but also fortifies the collective memory and resilience of the community.

 

     The integration of these traditional practices within the 4-H MYLS has had a profound impact on participants, contributing to their personal growth, cultural awareness, and community connectedness. As one participant aptly summarized in the program assessment tool, "Throughout this whole leadership journey, I came to recognize the beauty in everyone (their self-control, confidence, knowledge, humor, personal encounters). It taught me to appreciate the everyday things and to take all the chances to explore something new." This holistic approach has not only empowered participants to become better leaders but also instilled a deep appreciation for their cultural heritage and the value of community.

     The traditional practices such as the Hafa Adai Circle, Gineftao, traditional chants, fishery practices like using the Talaya, and ancient tools like the sling stone, as well as storytelling, each contributed uniquely to this transformative experience. The Hafa Adai Circle fostered unity and vulnerability, encouraging open communication and personal growth by allowing participants to express their feelings and thoughts openly. Gineftao, the practice of gift-giving, underscored appreciation and reciprocity, reinforcing values of gratitude and respect within the community. Traditional chants connected participants to their cultural roots, instilling pride and a sense of belonging. Learning to use the Talaya and ancient tools like the sling stone highlighted the ingenuity and resourcefulness of their ancestors, fostering an appreciation for traditional knowledge and skills. Storytelling preserved cultural narratives, fostering a sense of identity and continuity by linking participants to their ancestral heritage and land.

     These practices collectively influenced the participants' perception and understanding of STEM by illustrating the practical applications of historical knowledge and the innovative spirit of their forebears. For example, the engineering behind the sling stone and the resourcefulness required to effectively use the Talaya exemplify fundamental principles of physics and engineering, providing a contextual understanding of STEM concepts rooted in their cultural heritage. The detailed craftsmanship of traditional tools and the sophisticated techniques used in fishery practices demonstrate applied STEM skills in a culturally relevant context.

     Moreover, these experiences showed participants how STEM fields can be deeply interconnected with their cultural practices and daily lives. By integrating these modernized Pacific Island practices into the 4-H Marianas Youth Leadership Series, the program not only preserved cultural heritage but also showcased how traditional knowledge and STEM are not mutually exclusive but complementary. This integration helped participants appreciate the value of their cultural background in contemporary scientific and technological contexts, enhancing their overall STEM learning experience.

     The holistic approach of the 4-H MYLS, which blends cultural practices with leadership and STEM education, empowers participants to see the relevance of their heritage in modern contexts. It inspires them to explore new opportunities within STEM fields, while also valuing and preserving their cultural identity. This dual appreciation for tradition and innovation fosters a unique perspective, encouraging youth to become leaders who are both culturally grounded and forward-thinking in their approach to STEM.

 

Shifts in Perceptions in STEM

 

Science Through A Cultural Lens

     The 4-H MYLS fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation for science through hands-on experiences and connections to traditional knowledge. Participants consistently highlighted the impact of engaging with science outside of a traditional classroom setting. One participant noted in their journal, "Engaging with such spaces (farms) provides opportunities for education, community building, and the promotion of sustainable practices." This sentiment highlights the effectiveness of experiential learning in agricultural sciences and sustainability. 

     Another shared via the program assessment tool, "Something that I discovered about myself during this learning journey experience is how much I missed hands-on activities. These days, most of my tasks are either online or on paper, and that does not allow me much time to get out. After the farming day, I have gained respect for those who spend countless hours out in the field, working hard to produce crops we can use in our daily life." This reflection demonstrates how direct experiences can foster a deeper appreciation for scientific processes and the people involved in those fields. The day spent with the farmer allowed participants to witness first-hand the meticulous care, knowledge, and effort required in farming. This hands-on experience not only reinforced theoretical knowledge gained in traditional settings but also highlighted the practical challenges and skills involved in agricultural science, thereby deepening their respect for the scientific process and those who apply it daily.

     Furthermore, the program shed light on the intersection of traditional knowledge and modern science. One participant reflected in their journal, "My perspective about medicinal plants and how it's preserved in the Marianas shifted; as a young leader, I think it is important to educate and help others by sharing knowledge." This quote reveals a transformation in the participant's understanding and appreciation of traditional practices involving medicinal plants. Initially, they may have held a limited or superficial view of how these plants are preserved and used in the Marianas. However, through their experiences and learning during the program, their perspective shifted to a deeper recognition of the value and significance of these practices. The participant now sees the preservation of medicinal plants not just as a cultural or historical activity, but as a vital knowledge base that needs to be shared and taught, especially by emerging leaders. This newfound appreciation underscores the importance of education and the dissemination of traditional knowledge, ensuring that these practices continue to thrive and benefit future generations. As a young leader, the participant acknowledges their role in this educational process, highlighting a commitment to fostering community awareness and sustainability through shared knowledge.

     Another participant stated in their journal, "There are two things that I loved the most. First one is the Chamorro medicine activities. I loved this one the most because this is my first time actually learning the image of Chamorro Medicine. It flashed through my mind and amazed me so much that I kept mentioning it throughout the whole Series." This highlights how impactful learning about traditional Chamorro medicine was for many participants. The participant's awe and repeated references to the experience underscore the profound impression it made on them, suggesting that the hands-on, immersive nature of the activities deeply resonated and enhanced their engagement and retention of the information.

     A participant shared in their journal, "Compared to western or modernized medicine that often heals and damages simultaneously, the cultural Chamorro medicine provided us and the people a sense of security and ownership." This observation points to the program's success in facilitating a nuanced understanding of different medical practices. By contrasting Chamorro medicine with Western medicine, the participant articulates a newfound appreciation for the holistic and culturally embedded nature of traditional Chamorro healing practices. They highlight how Chamorro medicine offers not just physical healing but also emotional and cultural reassurance, fostering a sense of security and empowerment. This insight reflects the program's effectiveness in broadening participants' perspectives on medical practices and their cultural implications, promoting a deeper respect for and understanding of indigenous knowledge systems.

     Experiences like visiting a farm resonated deeply with participants, prompting reflection on broader scientific concepts. One participant stated in their journal, "Working on the farm made me realize the much larger thing I'm a part of... being away from my phone made me feel connected with the present." This quote exemplifies the program's ability to connect concrete experiences to a broader understanding of environmental science and interconnectedness within ecosystems. The participant's experience on the farm shifted their focus from digital distractions to the tangible, interconnected world around them. This immersion in nature highlighted the immediate and physical reality of environmental science, reinforcing the idea that humans are an integral part of larger ecological systems.

     Another shared in the program assessment tool, "My biggest takeaway from this event is the importance of details, as one thing is connected to another, we should be mindful of our actions as it can harm the environment and why it is important as leaders of the youth to spread awareness about such things." This takeaway demonstrates a deeper understanding of ecological interconnectedness and the importance of environmental stewardship. The participant acknowledges that every action has consequences, emphasizing the need for mindfulness and responsibility in protecting the environment. By recognizing the intricate connections within ecosystems, they also highlight the role of youth leaders in promoting environmental awareness and responsible behavior. This reflection indicates a significant shift towards understanding human interactions and behaviors within their cultural and environmental context, showcasing the program's success in fostering ecological consciousness and leadership.

 

Recognizing the Multifaceted Nature of Technology

     Participants recognized the multifaceted nature of technology, extending beyond modern devices. One participant astutely reported from the focus group interview, "Technology does not have to be your cellphones or computers. We are using everything around us; our journals and tools we used for farming." This suggests that technology encompasses more than just electronic gadgets and includes everyday tools and practices. For instance, the simple act of using a farming tool like a hoe or a journal for record-keeping illustrates how technology is embedded in daily life, contributing to tasks and productivity.

     This perspective was echoed in observations about the evolution of technology, "Latte Stone Village - seeing the things our ancestors used to use (i.e., clay to make pots, bowls, cups) - how technology has shifted through generations" (Participant Journal). Here, participants reflect on historical artifacts like clay pots and bowls, showing how early forms of technology enabled our ancestors to perform essential functions such as storing food and water. The mention of Latte Stone Village underscores a tangible connection to the past, highlighting how technological advancements have evolved from basic clay utensils to modern conveniences.

     Participants also recognized the role of technology in research and knowledge dissemination, "Utilizing technology to create and send out surveys for research projects and data analysis. And research. And how much information is available on Google" (Participant from Focus Group Interview). This highlights how contemporary technology facilitates academic and scientific endeavors. For example, online survey tools and data analysis software streamline research processes, while the vast amount of information available on platforms like Google enhances learning and accessibility to knowledge.

     Even traditional practices like navigation were seen through a technological lens, "Utilizing the stars for navigation and calculating wind speeds during ancient sailing" (Participant from Focus Group). This statement illustrates how ancient technologies, such as celestial navigation and understanding wind patterns, were crucial for early explorers and sailors. These techniques represent sophisticated use of natural phenomena to achieve precise outcomes, showcasing an early form of technology that was critical for survival and exploration.

     This broadened understanding of technology enriched the learning experience, highlighting its presence and influence across time and disciplines. By recognizing the diverse forms of technology, from ancient tools to modern digital platforms, participants gained a deeper appreciation for how technology shapes human activities and advancements across various fields.

 

Discovering Ancient Ingenuity: Sustainable Engineering Insights

     The program showcased the creativity and endurance of ancient engineering practices, motivating participants to seek sustainable solutions for the future. By examining structures like the Taga House, one participant noted in a focus group interview, "Taga House showed how ancient buildings can withstand super typhoons." This statement highlights the remarkable durability of these ancient structures, which were constructed using minimal resources. The participant's observation underscores the advanced nature of past engineering practices, achieved without modern technology: "Engineering was more advanced in the past as they had little resources to get things done -- using their bare hands to carry heavy rocks, etc." This sentiment illustrates the participants' awe at the ancient builders' ability to construct such resilient buildings with basic tools and raw manpower.

     The program's exploration of ancient methods extended beyond mere admiration of structures. Participants delved into the specific techniques used to create these buildings, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and resourcefulness involved. One participant reflected on the traditional construction materials and methods: "The way our ancestors built their houses utilizing limestone and heat -- Tasa and Haligi." This statement highlights the ingenious use of natural materials like limestone and the innovative methods employed, such as heating limestone to enhance its durability.

     Furthermore, participants were introduced to ancient tools like the sling and the Talaya fishing net, which showcased precise engineering tailored to their specific uses. The fascination with these tools was evident in the participants' reflections: "Ancient slinging - how the sling was developed for hunting and gathering and how it was engineered precisely for its role," and "Talaya - how it folds and how you hold it to open it up." These insights demonstrate the intricate design and functionality of these ancient tools, which were optimized for their intended purposes through careful engineering.

     Experiencing these historical examples firsthand led participants to appreciate the inherent sustainability of these practices. One participant observed, ""Seeing the monuments that are still intact - shows that there is a sustainable engineering process that can still be applied today. They did not rely on exports and imports. They were innovative and resourceful." This reflection underscores the resourcefulness and ingenuity of past societies, which thrived despite limited technological advancements. This statement also emphasizes the potential of ancient engineering principles to inform modern sustainable practices.

     Even more recent historical examples, such as WWII bunker caves, highlighted the lasting impact of resourceful engineering. A participant's journal entry noted, "Bunker caves in WWII built structures that are still up today -- how the engineering and architecture was resourceful." This observation draws a parallel between ancient and more recent engineering achievements, illustrating the timeless nature of resourceful construction methods that have stood the test of time. These insights collectively underscore the value of looking to the past for inspiration in creating sustainable solutions for the future.

 

Mathematical Insights on Cultural Practices

     The program illuminated the often-unspoken presence of mathematics in various cultural and historical contexts, prompting participants to consider its diverse applications. One participant noted from the focus group interview, "Agroforestry - how graphs were used to indicate placement of plants," highlighting the use of mathematical representations in optimizing agricultural practices. This example shows that mathematical principles, such as graph theory, are applied to ensure that plants are positioned to maximize growth and yield, taking into account factors like sunlight, water distribution, and soil quality.

      The precise construction of traditional structures also emphasized the importance of mathematical calculations. Another participant observed in their journal, "Mostly in the structure of ancient Chamorro houses and how they were built. Being precisely certain height, etc." This observation underscores that the builders of ancient Chamorro houses used specific measurements and geometric principles to construct stable and enduring dwellings, indicating a sophisticated understanding of mathematics long before modern construction methods.

     The creation and use of tools like the Latte Stones, Sling Stone, and Talaya further exemplified the practical applications of physics and engineering principles. As one participant noted from the focus group interview, "Latte Stones, Sling Stone, and Talaya - the calculation of how to execute these things." This reflects how ancient Chamorros applied mathematical principles to design tools that required precise calculations for their effective use. For instance, Latte Stones needed exact proportions to support large structures, while Sling Stones and Talaya (fishing nets) required accurate measurements to function correctly in hunting and fishing.

     Even navigation, essential to the maritime history of the region, relied heavily on mathematical understanding. This was illustrated by the observation, "Utilizing the stars for navigation and calculating wind speeds during ancient sailing" (Focus Group Interview). This practice involved complex calculations using celestial navigation techniques and understanding wind patterns, demonstrating a deep integration of mathematics into everyday survival and exploration activities.

     Beyond these practical applications, mathematics also played a crucial role in traditional medicine and scientific research. One participant remarked in their journal, "Medicinal journey explains that each plant has a specific amount to make certain types of medicines," emphasizing the importance of precise measurements in pharmacology. This precision ensures the effectiveness and safety of medicinal remedies, highlighting an early form of dose-response calculations fundamental in modern pharmacology.

     The resilience of ancient Chamorro architecture, particularly the Taga House's ability to withstand typhoons, further showcased the enduring power of mathematical and engineering principles in ensuring structural integrity and safety. This observation from the focus group interview, "Taga House - showed how ancient buildings can withstand super typhoons," prompted reflection on the ingenuity of traditional building techniques. It reveals how ancient builders applied knowledge of geometry and structural engineering to create buildings capable of withstanding extreme weather, a testament to their advanced understanding of these principles.

     The ingenuity and resourcefulness of past generations resonated with participants. One shared from their journal, "When I was using the talaya, I had to think about the direction and momentum of throwing it to create a perfect circle" This realization underscores the enduring relevance of traditional knowledge and its connection to mathematical principles. For example, the use of Talaya in fishing involves understanding the geometry of nets and the behavior of fish, demonstrating a sophisticated application of mathematical concepts to meet practical needs.

 

     The results of this case study demonstrate a significant shift in participants’ perspectives and definitions of STEM, underscoring the value of integrating Modernized Pacific Islands Practices (MPIP) and cultural knowledge into STEM education. Participants developed a deeper appreciation for science through hands-on, experiential learning connected to traditional knowledge, which moved beyond conventional classroom settings. They expanded their definition of technology to include both modern devices and traditional tools and practices, recognizing the technological sophistication of historical and cultural artifacts. The study revealed participants' admiration for the ingenuity and sustainability of ancient engineering practices, fostering an appreciation for how these principles could be applied today. 

     Participants also gained a newfound awareness of the presence and application of mathematics in various cultural and historical contexts, enriching their understanding and appreciation of the subject. Additionally, the program connected scientific concepts to broader ecological and environmental contexts, prompting reflections on sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. Overall, integrating MPIP and cultural knowledge into STEM education enriched participants’ learning experiences, fostering a more inclusive and holistic understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.