Natural Sciences

Computer-Based Science/Math Studies of Global Change
Project Summary

This faculty development project will team 14-21 South Dakota high school and middle school teachers with Dakota State University faculty in a collaborative development of computer-based, interdisciplinary units on global change for their students. The program will have an active learning, problem-based approach. The foundation of the program and of each unit will be computer-mediated laboratory experiments on fundamental concepts of science (such as pH and temperature) and investigation of their mathematical basis. Concepts developed in the experiments will then be examined, using systems modeling software (Stella) to allow students to see interactions among parts of a system and to develop their abilities in predicting outcomes of changes in input variables. Participants will then build case studies for K-12 students on global issues grounded in the fundamental concepts from the lab and modeling studies. Students experimenting with and modeling pH in natural systems may continue by examining case studies on acid rain and weathering. Those experimenting and modeling temperature may continue with case studies on global warming. Participants and presenters will stay in touch electronically and will meet at a follow-up assessment session and to refine units for dissemination. Finally, teachers will use the new computer-based skills to develop additional interdisciplinary units and to serve as faculty development trainers in their building and district.