Using STELLA to model stream dynamics as a method of inquiry based science teaching incorporates the National Science Education Standards, Chapter 6:  Science Content Standards as follows:

* students think critically and logically to make relationships between evidence and
     explanations
* students develop descriptions, explanations, predictions and models using evidence
* students revise scientific explanations based on logic and evidence
* students communicate and defend scientific explanations and procedures
* students use mathematics in all areas of scientific investigation
* students identify questions that can be pursued through scientific investigation
* students use appropriate tools, techniques, and technologies to analyze data

    By turning volunteer monitoring of streams into inquiry based student research projects, science content can be learned while students contribute needed data to scientists investigating global environmental problems. Students monitor the water quality of streams  through testing chemical parameters, identifying macroinvertebrate populations, and collecting physical data on streamside habitats.
    These inquiry based student research projects incorporate the National Science Education Standards, Chapter6:  Science Content Standards as follows:

* students think critically and logically to make relationships between evidence and
     explanations
* students develop descriptions, explanations, predictions and models using evidence
* students revise scientific explanations based on logic and evidence
* students communicate and defend scientific explanations and procedures
* students use mathematics in all areas of scientific investigation
* students identify questions that can be pursued through scientific investigation
* students use appropriate tools, techniques, and technologies to analyze data
* students design and conduct scientific investigations
* students recognize and analyze alternatives explanations and predictions
* students communicate and defend scientific explanations and procedures