From Classroom to Laboratory: A Case Study of Two First-Generation Girl Students from a Rural High School in India Engaged in Scientific Investigations

Venkata Krishna Bayineni, Padmapriya Rajan

Abstract: This research article explores the transformative experiences of two first-generation girl students from a rural high school who actively engaged in practical independent research projects over a three-month period, culminating in report writing and a viva. These students were selected for Anveshana, a research program for talented high school students organized by the Prayoga Institute of Education Research. Unlike typical learners, these students worked alongside scientists, experiencing firsthand the role of researchers. This initiative aimed to highlight the importance of instilling professional research activities and fostering a scientific mindset early in students' education. The present study examines the impact of these experiences on their research competencies and social skills, highlighting the potential of such engagement to empower first-generation girl students in underprivileged settings. Our results indicate that given the opportunity, underprivileged girls from rural areas can excel in research and have the potential to become future scientists, contributing significantly to our country's scientific community.

Keywords: Scientific investigations, first-Generation girl students, rural education, research competencies