Watershed Moments - Newsletter Article


   

 

Middle Level Teachers

   
Are you interested in connecting with a new transdisciplinary research program? A team of researchers statewide is investigating adaptation to climate change in the Lake Champlain Basin and integrating the interactions of climate, environment, and society.

Research can be a powerful way for teachers to enhance science content and pedagogy. The goal of the VT EPSCoR CWDD middle level outreach program is to expose middle level teachers and students to scientific research. We can provide a connection to active research in a variety of ways: 

 
    1. CONNECT TEACHERS WITH RESEARCH
    Experiencing research can spark new ideas for project-based learning activities and curriculum connections, and/or somply reinvigorate teachers by getting them out into the field or the lab. We can connect teachers with field research trips on Lake Champlain or in streams, and lab research relating to biology, chemistry, earth systems, and environmental science curricula. The Research on Adaptation to Climate Change program has a large and broad network of researchers available to mentor teachers interested in increasing their content knowledge through research. We work with social scientists, lake ecologists, watershed hydrologists, community ecologists, biogeochemists, geographers, and climatologists, to name just a few. Browse the RACC People page to see each research faculty's area of expertise.
    2. OUTREACH MODULES/CLASSROOM VISITS We have a variety of outreach modules we can offer to your classroom that will expose students to current scientific research in Vermont, and connect middle level teachers to mentors in the university research community. This exposure helps to increase science literacy and provide student insight into possible careers in science.
    3. WORKSHOPS We offer professional development workshops for teachers connected to RACC research. Please check back regularly for updates!
     
    We strongly encourage individuals with disabilities and individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups to join us.

    Contact us to become part of a research community that engages and challenges youth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and social science fields. We want to match you with the research opportunity that best meets your interests. Please let us know more about you and what type of research you would like to participate in. We will use this information to connect you with a RACC researcher that complements your research interests!
     

     
    Contact Information:
    VT EPSCoR Center for Workforce Development and Diversity
    Saint Michael's College
    One Winooski Park Box 137
    Colchester, VT 05439
    802.654.3270
    cwdd@smcvt.edu