The Center for Probing the Nanoscale offers the Summer Institute for Middle School Teachers (SIMST) annually in June. At the Institute teachers learn about the physical concepts underlying nanotechnology in simple terms that apply to the science classes they teach. Daily sessions focus on content lectures and inquiry-based modules that explicitly address California’s 8 th grade physical science content standards, and parallel national standards. Participating teachers receive a stipend and Continuing Studies Credits to meet their professional development needs. In addition, alumni of the program have an ongoing relationship with the CPN and have access to the CPN demonstration lending-library which includes large-scale models of nanoprobes such as a magnetic force microscope.
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College-level knowledge of Physics and Chemistry is not required.
- Work closely with CPN scientists.
- Receive inquiry-based modules and teaching kits..
- Receive a stipend and Continuing Studies Credits towards your professional development.
- Alumni have access to the CPN demonstration lending-library.
When: 9-4 PM June 16-20, 2008 (Lunch and snacks provided)
To apply for SIMST, click here. For more information, contact Kyle Cole at kylecole@stanford.edu
SIMST Goals:
- Increase teachers’ knowledge of physical science.
- Inspire them with hands-on experience of cutting-edge science.
- Provide ready-to-use nanoscience learning modules that address CA state science education standards.
Why Middle School?
Middle school is the beginning of the scientific and engineering pipeline problem:
- Performance relative to international norms drops between 4th to 8th grade from above average to average.
- Reported enthusiasm for science drops substantially: 67% of 4th graders interested in science, dropping to 50% in the 8th grade (from the National Center for Education Statistics)
- Need: Many programs exist for high school teacher development, fewer for middle school.
Why Teachers?
- Broad Impact: One teacher may reach 100 students per year.
- Deep Impact: teachers profoundly influence their student's interests.
- Retention: Teachers are the frontline in the effort to maintain high education standards. We hope to help make their jobs more enjoyable and rewarding.
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