Fall 2004

Roper Mountain Science Center has added a new and exciting way to deliver professional development to teachers using interactive videoconferencing. Although videoconferencing has been around for decades, advances in digital technology are putting videoconferencing systems within reach of schools. Funded through partnerships between the Roper Mountain Science Center Association and private businesses, our distance learning program uses this technology to deliver high quality, standards-based opportunities for teachers. Within the next year, this will expand to include students.

Currently, professional development courses are offered in forensic science for elementary teachers, space science for k-12 teachers, and introductory educational robotics. During the next school year, new courses will be added such as simple machines, geology, and weather. Also in progress is a course in how to translate science standards into meaningful and workable lesson plans and activities—so stay tuned!!

For more information on how to bring this exciting resource to your district or school, contact Shirley Smith at (864) 679-7020 or at ssmith8153@sc.rr.com.