Science Education Scholars
The Center for Biology Education and the UW-Madison School of Education work in partnership to form the Science Education Scholars Program. Education students and classroom teachers join together and spend a summer working to design and conduct a research project under the guidance of UW-Madison scientists. In 1998, one of this program's projects was awarded the American Entomological Society's Presidents Prize for outstanding achievement in primary teaching.
This summer research experience gives current and aspiring teachers the confidence to teach science, to be scientists in the classroom, and the ability to encourage their students to become scientists as well. In the fall, teams build upon the wonderful fusion of new ideas, enthusiasm and experience developed during the cooperative summer projects by expanding their work into their classrooms through curriculum modules and classroom activities. Results are shared at a final research symposium and disseminated at professional scientific and education meetings.
Examples of past projects include:
- Insects in the Classroom. Peter Plane and Teri Thomas-Kruska, Crestwood Elementary. Dan Young, UW-Madison Entomology Department. Mary Wennen, School of Education
- Exploring Science as Inquiry Using Manduca sexta. Ann Danielson and Karen Veit, School of Education, Joan Field, Mendota Elementary, and Walt Goodman, UW-Madison Entomology Department.
- Soil Science and Plant Life. Kristina Breiby, School of Education, Bruce Szudy, Crestwood Elementary, Ann MacGuidwin, Plant Pathology Department.
If you would like to get involved with the Science Education Scholars Program you can volunteer to mentor a preservice education student for a summer research experience or attend semi-monthly, summer lunch meetings at which you can learn about SESP projects and discuss scientific and pedagogical issues. Contact: Kevin Niemi at (608) 262-5480, or kjniemi@wisc.edu