This integrated project aims to cultivate a deeper understanding of sustainability and community resilience by intersecting mathematical, ecological, and cultural perspectives. Through hands-on experiences, students will explore the significance of biodiversity in ecosystems and diversity within communities, using data art visualizations to communicate their insights. By engaging with community partners and reflecting on traditional and scientific ecological knowledge, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, fostering a sense of identity and belonging while addressing real-world environmental challenges.

Students will develop skills in data visualization by integrating mathematical concepts such as statistics and data representation to create compelling visual narratives. They will enhance their understanding of TEK and SEK by documenting plant species and exploring cultural narratives, fostering a holistic view of ecological and cultural intersections. Through the exploration of migration patterns and community diversity, students will critically analyze the socio-economic impacts of natural resources and cultural shifts in California. They will cultivate self-directed learning and critical thinking by engaging in reflective practices, peer reviews, and dialogues with community partners, ultimately producing a published journal and data art visualizations that communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences.

Students will create a published journal featuring California native plant and animal species, integrating both Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and Scientific Ecological Knowledge (SEK) to promote sustainable living. They will also develop data art visualizations that depict either the migration patterns of cultural populations to San Diego or the ecological data related to their chosen species, using statistical and mathematical concepts. Additionally, students will produce an Ethnic Studies project that explores the cultural narratives and impacts of migration, emphasizing the benefits and challenges of a diverse community.

The project will kick off with an immersive launch event at California State University San Marcos. Students will engage with community partners, including professors and college students, to explore the ethnobotany garden and witness data visualization projects firsthand. This experience will provide an opportunity to connect with experts, ask questions, and gain inspiration for their own projects, setting the stage for the interdisciplinary exploration of cultural, ecological, and mathematical perspectives.

Students will present their data art visualizations and published journals at the 'Sustainability Showcase' held at CSUSM. This exhibition will serve as a platform for students to articulate their findings, demonstrating the integration of cultural, ecological, and mathematical perspectives. Community members, professors, and peers will engage with the students' work, fostering dialogue on sustainability and community resilience. The event will also feature interactive sessions where attendees can explore the ethnobotany garden and learn about the Milpa farming model, further connecting the academic insights with real-world applications.