MMSTLC NEWS & EVENTS

MMSTLC leaders shared resources and strategies from the project at the NSTA Regional Conference in Phoenix. This conference’s theme of “Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships” aligned very well with the mission and learning activities of the MMSTLC, and we were happy to share our ideas and experiences with the broader science education community at this event.
The following sessions featured MMSTLC presenters.

Developing a Network of Teacher Leaders in Science. Thursday, Dec. 3, 2:00 – 3:00pm.
“See how the Michigan Mathematics and Science Teacher Leadership Collaborative created a professional development program to address critical science instruction, inquiry learning, and leadership issues.”
Presented by Stephen Best and Walt Rathkamp. Click here for session resources.

Web 2.0 in the Classroom: Collaborative Learning Tools for Science. Friday, Dec. 4, 8:00 – 9:00am.
“See how Web 2.0 tools can support inquiry and problem solving in science. We’ll provide an overview, samples, and tutorials for dozens of these tools.”
Presented by Stephen Best. Click here for session resources.

Say What You Mean! Strategies to Help Students Better Communicate Science. Friday, Dec. 4, 12:30 – 1:30pm.
“Do your students know the difference between a definition, description, and explanation? We’ll explore strategies to help students effectively communicate their understanding of science.”
Presented by Stephen Best. Click here for resources.

The Problems With Models and How to Fix Them Friday, Dec. 4, 3:30 – 4:30pm.
“Are scientific models causing more problems than benefits? We’ll see why and what we can do to use models more effectively in science instruction.”
Presented by Stephen Best. Click here for resources.

MACUL (Michigan Association of Computer Users in Learning) is accepting applications for the 2010 MI Champions program. MI Champions provides support for professional development around technology use and integration for teachers, based on the NETS standards. For the program, teams of 3-5 teachers from a school can apply, with up to 70 schools or 350 educators participating in the program. MI Champions awardees receive funding to support participation at the MACUL conference in 2010 and 2011, onsite coaching, professional development support (including stipends and sub-reimbursements), and the possibility of CEU or graduate credit for the experience.

For more information, visit the MI Champions website and check out the application form.

Applications are due December 16, 2009.