Hands-On Science in Pasadena: Changing a Large School System

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This project will initiate a hands-on inquiry-based science curriculum in all the elementary school classrooms of the Pasadena Unified School District. The District is urban, multicultural and multiracial. The District's partner, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), is a preeminent research university. Their combined effort will use a method proven during four years of a very successful partnership between Caltech and one Pasadena pilot school. The initial education for teachers will be presented in small groups each led by a mentor teacher and a volunteer science professional. During these group meetings the teachers will have an opportunity to investigate kit materials which they will use later in their classrooms. The small group will work through the kits in a cooperative learning environment, while the co- leaders emphasize the philosophy and methods of hands-on teaching as well as the scientific subject matter which relates to each kit. During the school year, resource teachers will work with teachers in their classrooms, and meet with them during group meetings. At these sessions teachers will be able to explore other science units and exchange experiences and ideas with their colleagues. The total cost sharing for the project will be 200% of the NSF portion.