NC has new science standards that leverage Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs). Modeling is the central practice of the SEPs. This research-based, reform-oriented pedagogy helps correct the many weaknesses of the lecture-demonstration method of instruction found in many classrooms, including the fragmentation of knowledge, student passivity, and the persistence of naive beliefs about the physical world. Scientists learn by doing: they…

Active learners make the best learners.  In the learner role this week, participants will experience a variety of collaborative, engaging, and minds-on strategies.  We will compare and contrast "old school" methods with more inquiry-based pedagogy.  In the teacher role this week, we will analyze how to shift traditional good lessons to great lessons.  Tony Wagner’s…

NC has new science standards that leverage Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs). Modeling is the central practice of the SEPs. This research-based, reform-oriented pedagogy helps correct the many weaknesses of the lecture-demonstration method of instruction found in many classrooms, including the fragmentation of knowledge, student passivity, and the persistence of naive beliefs about the physical world. Scientists learn by doing: they…