Scientist-Educator Collaborative Workshop Workshop Scientists

Held at the University of Connecticut Avery Point Campus, Groton, CT Thursday, October 8, 2009 through Saturday, October 10, 2009

COSEE-OS researches, tests, and builds systems to improve how scientists can contribute to the education enterprise. We have offered scientist-lead professional development workshops for educators designed to reach inland audiences with ocean content at the University of Maine, the University of New Hampshire, and the University of Connecticut. Likewise, we have developed a college course to help young marine scientists more effectively communicate their subject; encourage science majors to pursue professions where they simultaneously serve science and education; and create a greater awareness among young scientists about the need for outreach.

Based on experience from these and other COSEE-OS initiatives, we have crafted a new model for workshops that includes specific professional development for scientists including use of pedagogical techniques such as concept mapping and on-line collaboration tools that promote sustained interactions with educators and students. A key goal of COSEE-OS is to offer these "Scientist-Educator Workshops" at various venues and train facilitators at other COSEE Centers to implement the workshops.

Watch a video of educator Carrie Birdsong reflecting on her experience working with scientist Michael Whitney's concept map as it evolved throughout the workshop.

In this workshop, 5 ocean and climate scientists from the University of Connecticut were matched with 15 educators to improve their collective understanding of Earth's major ocean - climate systems. Click on their names in the menu at left to learn more about these scientists.