The Museum Institute for Teaching Science (MITS) presents the 2011 Professional Development Seminar Series January 25, February 15, March 24 & April 14, 9:30am - 3:30pm

Upcoming Seminars Include:

January 25:Inquiry and the Design Process: Investigations the Integrate the Engineering Design Process, Literacy and Science

Presenters: Karen DeRusha, UMass Dartmouth; Bill Wolfson, Engineering Lens Join Karen DeRusha and Bill Woflson for a full day session to explore how inquiry-based methods can be used to bring the engineering design process into informal and formal educational settings. They will discuss a unique process for using age appropriate literature as a vehicle or children to develop problem solving skills using the engineering design process, science and math skills. Participants will engage in hands- on activities developed for Pre-k to 5th grade students to use in informal settings or the classroom.

February 15:

Groundwater Resources: Where? Why? Sustainable? Presenter: Andrew Stone, American Groundwater Trust Examine core concepts about rocks, the hydrologic system and contamination threats. Explore how .water topics. can be introduced to students and the public as exciting learning opportunities.

What are the scientific and technical basics of geology and hydrology that we need to understand to ensure that society, and the environment, can sustainably maximize the benefits of the precious asset of sub-surface water?


Talking, Writing, Reading and Doing Science: Literacy as a Tool for Teaching Science

Presenters: Karen Worth, Wheelock College and EDC; Jeff Winokur, Wheelock College and EDC Literacy is a tool for learning and understanding science.
In this workshop, Karen and Jeff will focus on how informal and museum educators can support and guide teachers as they work with students to develop the skills for carrying on informed and rigorous discussions.
Participants will engage in hands-on activities and look at samples of student work. The session will also include a discussion of the role of documentation and representation, and the importance of science notebooks.


COST: The registration fee for participants is $25/session (includes lunch). A discounted fee of $60 is offered for attending three seminars, and $80 for attending all four.


For full schedule and registration please see our website www.mits.org or contact us at 617-328-1515 or mits@mits.org