A Workshop for Santa Fe Area Middle School and Secondary Teachers

The Adventures in Modeling program is a year-long program that shows middle and secondary school teachers how to integrate information technology concepts and computer modeling--especially of complex systems--into the classroom using the StarLogo simulation software, participatory games (using handheld PalmPilot computers), and related computer technologies. StarLogo is a computer-modeling tool that does not require advanced mathematical or programming skills, and it is apropriate for a diversity of learning styles, experiences, and ages. It makes it easy for beginners with no programming experience to design, build, and explore their own models. StarLogo lets teachers and students program software creatures to interact with one another and their environment, and study the emergent patters from these interactions. (For more information see: http://education.mit.edu/starlogo)

Each year's program begins with a ten-day workshop during which teachers learn about computer modeling and simulation, explore complex adaptive systems, and build curriculum models customized for the classroom that incorportate modeling activities using StarLogo and participatory simulations. During the following fall and winter terms, program staff provide online support and occasional face-to-face meetings keep teachers connected with project staff and other teachers working with the curriculum.

Teacher parcicipants learn:

• Easy ways to integrate computer modeling into the classroom.

• Tools and techniques for engaging a diverse group of learners. The collaborative projects, the customization capabilities of the software (including a Spanish version), and personal nature of the explorations make this project well adapted to work with diverse populations.

• A new approach to presenting current material through the lens of complex systems science--While the name itself conjures up images of complicated ideas that might be too difficult or sophisticated for a novice to understand, the study of complex systems does exactly the opposite; it creates a unified method of understanding different systems that illuminates the processes by which they operate.

• Connections of these new approaches to existing classroom materials with an emphasis on making explicit ties to state mandated content standards.

Why it's worth it:

• Come away with two curriculum models and supporting materials that you can immediately "plug-in"--complete with staff to help with classroom implementation.

• Develop content material that meets specific state standards and benchmarks and EPSS requirements of literacy, technology integration, and career-path awareness.

• Access to a local and national community of fellow professionals who will help reinforce this new material at local school sites, offer collegial mentoring, and online technical support

• Graduate course credit that will add to your district pay scale.

• No fees. Financial compensation, including substitutes during in-service training.

To Apply

Visit http://education.mit.edu/starlogo2003. Admission is by competitive application. Application Deadline: May 15. If you have additional questions contact Paul Brault at 505-984-8800 ext 2746.

Past Programs

2003 | 2002

Further information at http://www.santafe.edu or call Paul Brault at 505-946-2746.

New Mexico Adventures in Modeling is an NSF ITEST project.