This free two-day workshop is to assist community college faculty in preparing future teachers in science education. NASA Earth and space scientists and educators share authentic inquiry activities, data, and resources related to key topics from the national science standards. The NACCTEP pre-conference institute in 2010 will include a focus on NASA Earth science data and the theme of climate change. Participants receive a $300 stipend.

• Explore standards-based concepts using authentic inquiry.

• Discuss current science research with NASA scientists.

• Identify ways to address Earth and space science misconceptions.

• Explore collaboration plans with colleagues.

For additional information please click here.

Ladies and Gentleman-start your engines! If you are preparing for a dynamic 2009-2010 academic year and you want to bring innovation to your classes with new teaching techniques, especially for your future teachers, Sharon L. Bowman, a very well received 2009 NACCTEP national conference keynote in Reno, Nevada offers plenty of TREMENDOUS ideas on her website, www.bowperson.com. The following are examples of the many outstanding techniques that are sure to start your year with a memorable beginning!

First-at least four dozen free articles that can be downloaded (in PDF format)! Yes, free….just please acknowledge Sharon Bowman as the author, when using her information. As I reviewed most of the articles, I could not find one article that would not be useful in some way for me this year. That’s right, Sharon clearly shares…step-by-step with detail, many teaching ideas. I know I can use the game Myth or Fact related to brain research and learning. I also know I can adapt this game to other content areas!

Second, I loved Sharon’s Try This Page since I always love a challenge. One such idea listed is for those teaching a hybrid class or on-line. The article entitled: Wake ‘Em Up! Ten Tips for Interactive E-Learning is just the greatest. We have all heard students complain about boring on-line classes. Let’s help future teachers lead the way with inventive on-line learning environments!

Third, Sharon also offers a spot to blog and again reminds others, in a very personal and practical way, new ideas or thoughts that help all educators grow. She also encourages anyone else to add his or her ideas on the blog for sharing. 

Fourth, but not last, Sharon offers on her webpage ideas to become an independent speaker with concrete steps and suggestions. She truly shares her secrets to success!

Finally, if you haven’t heard Sharon speak you will still benefit from her website. It is simple to navigate with so many great resources. If you have heard Sharon speak, you know her authentic experiences and knowledge offer any educator a great start to a WINNING year! Let us continue to support future teachers at our community colleges with original and engaging teaching techniques modeled through the year. Sharon surely offers many ideas for us to consider.

If you find a teaching technique, resource or website especially helpful, please email your success story to pam.asti@domail.maricopa.edu to be included in a future Newsletter. I would love to hear about it!