Introducing the Program
Join the ExplorOlogy Project at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural
History for an innovative professional development experience. Elementary
school teachers are invited to participate in a 6-day Science Institute
at the museum on the campus of the University of Oklahoma. Teachers
will conduct scientific investigations with museum and university
scientists to build a deeper understanding of content, inquiry and the
nature of science, and then apply these experiences to develop strategies
that promote inquiry learning in their classrooms.
The Science Institute will engage teachers:
- in designing and conducting scientific investigations, including
understanding how to develop testable hypotheses, collect and analyze
data, and interpret and communicate results of their investigations,
- in using a variety of technologies (including laptop computers,
video camcorders, digital cameras, scientific probes) to collect data,
analyze, graph and communicate scientific results, and
- in adapting their current curricula to include more student inquiry.
During the 2008 – 2009 school year, museum
staff will travel to schools with participating teachers
to further model inquiry approaches and work with teachers and students
to conduct grade-appropriate scientific investigations. Teachers and
students will also be invited to visit the museum to experience our
compelling exhibits and school programs.
When and Where
Science Institute will be held at the Sam Noble
Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the campus of the University
of Oklahoma in Norman. Dates
for Science Institute in 2008 are June 23-28, 2008
Participant Responsibilities
- Complete the application process and submit application materials
postmarked by APRIL 25, 2008
- Actively take part in the entire 6-day Science Institute (late arrivals/early
departures are not acceptable)
- Stay in the lodging provided by the Science Institute (or guarantee
your presence during the ENTIRE workshop)
- Participate in follow-up activities at your school that will include
visits by museum staff
- Complete follow-up surveys concerning the implementation of inquiry
science in your classroom
Food, Lodging and Stipends
Lodging: Participants will be provided with
lodging near the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman during the
Science Institute (Sunday – Saturday).
Food: Breakfast,
lunch and morning/afternoon snacks will be provided Monday – Saturday
during the Science Institute. Group dinners will be provided
at least 2 evenings, with other dinners the responsibility
of the participant.
Stipend: Each teacher that completes the
entire Science Institute will be paid a stipend of $600. Some
travel expenses will also be reimbursed.
Who Should Apply?
The Science Institute is designed for elementary
school (grades K – 5)
teachers throughout the state of Oklahoma. Teachers are encouraged
to apply in teams (i.e., more than one teacher from the same school, district
or region) to create a support network after the Institute (note: each
teacher needs to complete an individual application). The application
process is competitive.
How to Apply?
Applications were due on April 25, 2008 and no further applications for the 2008 program will be accepted at this time.
Questions: Dr.
Wendy Gram
wgram@ou.edu
405-325-1008
Disclaimers
Norman, OK