Dakota State professors to present in Scotland

Two Dakota State University Education professors will travel to Scotland to present at the World Congress International Reading Association (WCIRA) Conference from July 19 to August 6.

Sterling

Venekamp

Linda Venekamp and Vicki Sterling were chosen to attend the 500 head count conference based on a proposal they sent to the WCIRA last summer. Both stated they feel “very honored” to be chosen to attend.

“The conference features people from all over the world from each of the seven continents,” Venekamp said. “You really get that international aspect and get to see the challenges of other countries.”

At the conference, Venekamp will make a presentation about virtual field trips that enhance the books students are reading.

“The premise is for students to understand the setting, including the time and place of the book, to help them develop an understanding of the event,” stated Venekamp.

Sterling will be presenting a retelling of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” based on the current day setting.

“Vacation pictures can turn into an interesting teaching tool,” Sterling said. “They add a visual aspect of the story.”

Sterling will also discuss the writings of local author, Laura Ingalls Wilder, while Venekamp will talk about author, Beatrice Potter.

The two will talk about what each author knew to come up with what they did in each of their writings.

Sterling will also be presenting a non-fiction piece about eagles and their habitat in South Dakota.

“Every community has its stories and story tellers,” Sterling said.

Both Sterling and Venekamp have given partial presentations to their students to see how it would be accepted at the conference.

“Our students have seen various form of the presentations,” stated Venekamp. “We tested bits and pieces. It’s (showing the presentation to the students) also a way to show our students whey they know about technology and the special skills they have.”

Venekamp and Sterling have presented at the WCIRA conference in Jamaica and Ireland, prior to going to Scotland. At each conference, both stated that many were overwhelmed at the use of technology at Dakota State.