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It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s a Bad Biology Pun!
If you have ever closely studied members of the phylum Echinodermata, you might ponder, “How can I tell a male sea cucumber from a female?” In this case, you would be prudent to accept the wisdom of accomplished scientist of echinoderms Dr. David Pawson who implores, “First you must ask its name.” Humorous bits such as this were woven into a week of intensive science exploration that took place at the SSEC’s 2015 Biodiversity SSEAT. Representing a spectrum of grade levels, 15 STEM instructors from as far as San Jose, California, traveled to the nation’s capital to participate in a weeklong academy designed to introduce them to the work done by scientists who study the diversity of life, engage in dialogue with content experts and fellow educators, and develop pedagogical techniques that facilitate a hands-on, inquiry approach in teaching.The week proved a stellar success, leaving instructors with sentiments such as, “This week will leave an everlasting
impact on my teaching. This has recharged my ‘ADP’, sorry for the biology joke. I loved this week and I am so thankful for all the dedication all of you provided for my benefit! Thank you so much!” and “This by far has been one of the greatest experiences and professional development I have attended. I feel that I am leaving inspired and ready to use the resources and knowledge I have gained this week.”
Life Science
With support from an NSF grant, Smithsonian Science Education Center developed the Science and Technology Concepts Program™ (STC™): A basal, science and engineering-practices centered program for grades K-10.
Physical Science
Each STC™ unit provides opportunities for students to experience scientific phenomena firsthand. The units cover life, earth, and physical sciences with technology.
Earth & Space Science
Carolina Biological Supply Company creates kits for each STC™ unit, supporting the teacher with everything needed for meaningful learning experiences.
Innovation in Education
The Smithsonian Science Education Center received a 5-year, $30 million Investing in Innovation (i3) grant to improve K-8 science education. We are working with researchers, communities, districts, schools, and teachers in three regions to evaluate the effectiveness of our inquiry-based science education model (LASER: Leadership and Assistance for Science Education Reform).
A Community of Support
The LASER model addresses classroom instruction using a research-based science curriculum with aligned professional development for teachers. LASER also provides the entire support system with excellent science education. This prepares students for the opportunities of our 21st century economy.
Diversity of Classrooms
Our goal is to develop practices and procedures that can be replicated in other schools, districts, and states. LASER i3 is currently working with over 75,000 students and 3,000 teachers from urban and rural schools in grades one through eight. Learn more
Smithsonian Institution
Founded in 1846, the Smithsonian is the world's largest museum and research complex, consisting of 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park and nine research facilities. The Smithsonian Science Education Center (SSEC) was established by the Smithsonian and the National Academies in 1985. Its mission is to improve the learning and teaching of science for all students in the United States and throughout the world. Go to the Smithsonian home page.
