Backbone of the Americas—Patagonia to Alaska, (3–7 April 2006)

Paper No. 55
Presentation Time: 10:35 AM-7:45 PM

DON'T FORGET THE TEACHERS! (NO SE OLVIDE A LOS MAESTROS!)


PINILLA, Theresa, Stockbridge Middle School, 1126 Evergreen Way, Stockbridge, GA 30281, tpinilla@gmail.com

In order for the general public to care about science and the funding of research, it is necessary for them to understand the principles of the research, and its relevance to them. It is not practical to include many observers when conducting research, especially field reserach. How, then, to reach out to those individuals? Many research programs have found that incuding school teachers in the reearch process is an effective way of getting the word out. We are in a unique position to interpret the current work and findings for our students to that they can grasp the concept. In turn, our students share their new knowledge and understandings with family and friends. As teachers, we spread the word to our colleagues, and consequently new groups of students share in the experience. Additionally, teachers develop new curriculum, singly or in teams, based on our research experiences.