Making a Difference: Inquiry-Based Science

Education is about making a difference. You make a difference in your students’ lives and they in turn make a difference in the world around them. As an educational non-profit, EPI shares that goal. Through our inquiry-based science programs, we partner with high school and university teachers to create field experiences that give participants new skills, confidence and perspectives. Just like all good educators. Watch our teacher testimonial video to hear what participating educators have to say about our programs. Begin planning your course with EPI.

The EPI Approach.

Organizational assistance

Once you choose an EPI program, you’ll be collaborating with your administration, the students and their parents. Each of these groups has concerns and priorities. It’s important that everyone understands how our inquiry-based science programs work and how they benefit students, teachers and the school as a whole. We’ll provide you with answers to common questions, support materials (posters, slideshows and video presentations) to share with each group, and strategies to get your group organized and ready.

Collaborative experience

Our highly qualified instructors and staff have extensive experience in leadership, education, natural sciences, inquiry-based science, safety and local logistics. We work with you in advance of your trip to determine your educational goals and can customize courses and service experiences to suit your school’s curricula. Once you arrive at the project site, our instructors meet with you privately to further discuss the course, your students and your role. We never forget that you know your students, their backgrounds and your school better than we do. We work closely with you to ensure we’re providing the best possible experience for your group every step of the way.

Complete support

Our knowledgeable staff includes former classroom teachers who understand your needs and are committed to providing great service. We’re available by phone and e-mail to answer questions, help you prepare for your journey and learn about your group and interests. We provide participant handbooks, packing lists, fund-raising tools, an educational trunk with pre- and post-course lessons, and additional support materials that make the planning and preparation as smooth as possible. Our post-course lessons will even help you share what your group learned with non-participating students back home, allowing you to transfer the experience to your local community and multiply its effects.

Conservation for the next generation A nonprofit organization

Educator Recommendations

  • Chaminade College Preparatory, CA Curious to read one teacher's thoughts about our Yellowstone Wildlife Program? Read this letter of recommendation from a science teacher and EPI participant.
  • Riverdale High School, Oregon Riverdale has participated in both our Galapagos and Costa Rica programs. Here's what a 27-year classroom veteran has to say about EPI's work in the field.
  • Bishop O’Dowd High School, CA Students from O'Dowd participate in our Costa Rica, Galapagos, and Montana programs each year. Here's what the chair of the science department thinks about EPI.

Featured Scientist


Dr. Jorge Urban — Marine Biologist, Autonomous University of Baja California Sur, Mexico
Meet our Scientist Partners

Participating Institutions

view list of participants