The Center for Probing the Nanoscale (CPN) offers a one-week Summer Institute for Middle School Teachers (SIMST) annually. At the Institute teachers learn about the physical concepts underlying nanotechnology and nanoscience in simple terms. Daily sessions focus on content lectures and inquiry-based modules that explicitly address California’s 5-8th grade physical science content standards. Teachers will also receive a hands-on activity kit with many fun activities that bring nanoscience into the classroom.
- learn about nanoscience and nanotechnology in simple terms
- develop and receive hands-on activities targeting CA 5-8th grade science content standards
- interact with scientists at Stanford University
- tour research labs and see instruments in action
- receive a $850 stipend and professional development units ($550 after completion of SIMST, $300 after implementing a nano lesson in the classroom)
Questions? - contact Maria Wang (wmw@stanford.edu)
Nano-related activities and other resources for the classroom can be found at http://teachers.stanford.edu/
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: 64% of 4th graders interested in science, dropping to 50% in the 8th grade (from the National Center for Education Statistics)
- Broad Impact: One teacher may reach > 100 students per year.
- Deep Impact: Teachers profoundly influence their students' interests.
- Retention: Teachers are the frontline in the effort to maintain high education standards. We hope to help make your job more enjoyable and rewarding.
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