Recruiting for Cohort III of INSPIRS
We are currently seeking middle school Physical Science teachers for a third cohort of Integrating Nature of Science and Physical Science in Rural Schools (INSPIRS). We had previously done two cohorts in the summer and are seeking recruitment for a third cohort of teachers for a blended learning opportunity. Please see the information below for more details:
Longwood Institute for Teaching through Technology and Innovative Practices (ITTIP) has received a Mathematics and Science Partnership (MSP) grant to provide professional development for middle school Physical Science teachers. Topics will include the Nature of Science, content required in the Physical Science SOL, and inquiry based learning techniques integrating technology.
Activities of INSPIRS will include:
- 2 face-to-face days (Saturdays); 25 hours of online learning resources, 5 hours of hands-on activities on your own and professional development in the Winter/Spring of 2013 (January-May) focused on the integration of Physical Science SOL, including the Nature of Science, through: Inquiry Based Learning (IBL), Understanding by Design (UbD), the 5e learning cycle
- Training on software and probeware to integrate into a NoS and PS unit
- Lesson plan development using UbD as a template to design a PS unit of instruction
- Online resources and support during the school year using Moodle
- Classroom follow-up during the school year by ITTIP faculty
- Final summit of one instructional unit created by teachers on one Saturday in May (joined by Cohort 1 & 2)
Participating teachers will receive:
- $400 stipend upon completion of 3 face to face days, online course, and unit plan
- 55 recertification points and stipend upon completion of all activities
- Software and Probeware
- Resources for IBL, UbD, and 5e Strategies
- Web publication of NoS and PS unit for statewide distribution
Physical Science teachers from the Southern Virginia Regional Technology Consortium (SVRTC) school divisions are eligible to participate in this opportunity. Two or more teachers from the same school are encouraged to attend as a team. The first INSPIRS face to face will be held January 26, 2013. The location will be determined based on recruitment. Some funds are available for travel (for teacher teams traveling more than 60 miles one way). Please register at: Survey Monkey
The deadline to register is January 7, 2013.
