| Title |
Description |
Funding
Source |
Partner
Institutions |
Director
Name |
| Iowa Core Curriculum Sample Units |
This IA Department of Education initiative is designed to develop sample units illustrating how to incorporate the Iowa Core Curriculum into the Rigor and Relevance Framework. This committee is charged with developing 5 sample units for teaching high school science that will serve as models for Iowa schools looking to implement the Iowa Core through rigor and relevance. The project runs from Sept. 07 through Dec. 07.
Project Status: Current |
Iowa Department of Education |
Other Iowa High Schools and Heartland AEA |
Jody Stone (co-director)
Assoc. Professor of Teaching & Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-6466
|
| AEA 267-UNI Science Kit Collaborative |
UNI and AEA 267 have merged all of their elementary and
middle school science kits, and acquired more, into one
location. K-9 science teachers may reserve kits for use
through out the school year. UNI handles all of the check
out, check in and kit refurbishment processing. Previous
years this support was offered separately by AEA 267 at
Clear Lake and UNI and was free. This year a small fee has
been instituted to cover kit refurbishment costs. Special
training for K-6 kits is provided by the VAST Center in
Grant Wood AEA.
This works through the Science Education Resource Center on
the UNI campus.
Project Status: Current |
AEA 267 and UNI |
AEA 256, Grant Wood AEA |
Cherin Lee/Laurie Hayzlett
Chair,Science Education/AEA 267 Science Consultant
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7357
|
| ATEEC Fellows Institute |
The Advanced Technology Environment and Energy Center was established in 1994 with the mission of advancing environmental technology education through curricula development, professional development, and program improvement in community colleges and high schools. The ATEEC Fellows Institute provides professional development workshops and disseminates curricular materials related to environmental and energy technology to high school and community college educators nationwide.
Project Status: Current |
National Science Foundation |
Eastern Iowa Community College District
Partnership for Environmental Technology Education
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
University of Alaska, Fairbanks |
Maureen Clayton
Director, Environmental Programs
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7147
|
| Basic Science Minor for Elem. Ed. majors |
This is an academic minor for any elementary education major
wanting strong preparation in teaching K-6 science (though
~40% of the graduates go into middle schools and junior high
schools). The minor includes 5 required 4 cr. hr. courses
in physical, life and earth/space science (soon to be 6)
which are taught by science educators using inquiry
approaches and learning cycles. There are currently 2
additional content courses in physical and earth/space
science (soon to be only 1) not taught as mentioned. A final
capstone course, Experiences in Elementary School Science,
is a pedagogical content knowledge course which also deals
with inquiry curricula.
Project Status: Current |
official university minor since 1989 |
|
no project direct, main academic advisor: Dr. Cherin Lee
Chair, Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7357
|
| BIOMES |
BIOMES (Biology Instructional Opportunities for Motivating
Every Student) is a high school biology curriculum
containing over 120 labs and activities. The activities and
labs make strong and creative connections to everyday life.
The activities employ the learning cycle as the
instructional strategy.
Project Status: Current |
Iowa Eisenhower funds |
|
Jody Stone & Lyn Countryman
Assoc. Professors of Teaching & Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-6466
|
| Center for Education in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology |
Funding to build infrastructure and provide teaching laboratory equipment to allow the Center for Education in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (CENN) to become operational. The CENN provides lab-based introductory and intermediate-level nanoscience training to undergraduates (including pre-service science teachers) and high school science teachers.
Project Status: Current |
US Department of Defense, Army Research Office |
|
Cliff Chancey
Professor of Physics
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2425
|
| CRISTAL |
CRISTAL (Chemistry Resources & Instructional Strategies for Teaching All Learners) is a high school chemistry resource manual developed at Price Laboratory School by a group of Iowa's top chemistry teachers. The manual contains over 100 activities/labs and employs the learning cycle teaching strategy. Validity studies were conducted showing that the students in CRISTAL classrooms had greater gains in content and process skills than did students in more traditional chemistry courses and that teachers using the CRISTAL materials had a more positive attitude toward teaching chemistry than did teachers of more traditional chemistry. The program was validated by the National Diffusion Network.
Project Status: Current |
Iowa Eisenhower money |
|
Jody Stone
Assoc. Professor of Teaching & Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-6466
|
| Energize Me! |
The UNI Center for Energy & Environmental Education (CEEE) and Iowa Public Television (IPTV) will work together to facilitate a series of interactive energy classes for teachers and students via the Iowa Communications Network (ICN). Six sessions for students will be available in both morning and afternoon time periods. The one graduate credit workshop for teachers will consist of nine late afternoon sessions. Topics will include energy efficiency and wind and solar energy. All presentations will be interactive, with participants experimenting with meters, model solar cars and wind turbines, and other materials provided prior to the sessions.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
Iowa Energy Center
Iowa Public Television
|
Pat Higby
Energy Education & Outreach Coordinator, Center for Energy & Environmental Education
University of Northern Iowa
|
| Expanding Nanoscience Education in Northern Iowa |
The Departments of Physics, Chemistry, Biology at UNI are jointly developing 1) lecture and lab materials for a nanoscience curriculum at the undergraduate level appropriate to pre-service high school science teachers; 2) a nanoscience outreach program to in-service high school science teachers.
Project Status: Current |
National Science Foundation |
Denver High School (Denver, IA); Holmes Junior High School (Waterloo, IA) |
Cliff Chancey
Professor of Physics
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2425
|
| GEOMES |
GEOMES (Geoscience Education for Motivating Every Student) is a high school curriculum program containing innovative labs for teaching students centered high school earth science. Developed at Price Laboratory School by a talented group of Iowa teachers, GEOMES uses the learning cycle instructional strategy to teach earth science in a relevant format.
Project Status: Current |
Iowa Eisenhower funds |
|
Jody Stone & Aaron Spurr
Assoc. Professor of Teaching & Science Education and Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-6466
|
| Hansen/Lincoln ES First Lego League team |
This FLL team consists of children from 3rd - 6th grade in Hansen and Lincoln Elementary School. FLL is an international competitive program requiring teams to creatively program a Lego NXT robot to perform 9 missions and to present their research for a solution to a thematic topic. Last year's team won third place overall in statewide championship.
Project Status: Current |
various donors, including UNI and Rockwell Collins |
University of Northern Iowa, Rockwell Collins, Unitarian Universalist Church (Cedar Falls), Hansen Elementary School, and Lincoln Elementary School |
Bill Harwood
Team Co-coach
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2052
|
| Improving Chemistry Teaching in Iowa |
Funding to survey the use of chemistry laboratory experiments in the State of Iowa to ascertain the needs of Iowas high school chemistry teachers with respect to doing lab activities and to conduct workshops to train chemistry teachers to effectively implement student-oriented guided inquiry teaching strategies.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
The Three Regents Universities State of Iowa |
Bill Harwood
Professor and Department Head, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
University of Northern Iowa
|
| Improving Science Instruction in Pre-K Classrooms |
Creation of a collaboration among early childhood education and science education faculty to improve science education for young children in Iowa.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
University of Northern Iowa
Iowa State University
Headstart
Pre-Schools
Childcare Programs
|
Betty Zan
Regents Center for Early Development Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-287-9415
|
| Inquiry Institute |
One week institute to explore teaching science using an
inquiry approach. Focused on what inquiry teaching is,
learing theory in support of inquiry teaching/learning, and
curricula that support inquiry teaching. Introduced
teachers to the 5Es learning cycle, provided time for lesson
preparation and peer teaching. The course is meant to
support the Iowa state science intitiative, Every Learner
Inquires. It is also a collaborative effort with AEA 267.
Project Status: Current |
none (tuition) |
Area Education Agency 267 |
Cherin Lee
Chair, Science Ed.; Asst. Prof. Biology
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7357
|
| Integrating Geospatial Technology into the Iowa Middle and High School Curriculum |
Geospatial technology (GST) refers to any technology
designed for the collection, storage, retrieval, or
dissemination of geospatial information that facilitates
better spatial decision-making. The use of GST is growing at
an astounding rate and GST related job form the third
fastest growing occupational sector in the United States.
This tremendous growth is spurring the need to integrate GST
into K-12 and higher education curriculum to prepare
students for future academic demands and career
opportunities. This has recently been underscored by
articles in publications ranging from Occupational Outlook
Quarterly to Nature. However, although spatial thinking is
included as an underlying principle in the National
Standards for Science and Mathematics, it has not been
systematically incorporated into the K-12 curriculum in Iowa
or elsewhere. A number of challenges exist to its successful
incorporation: teacher training, curriculum integration,
equipment purchase, and availability of curriculum material.
Our project addresses each of these challenges. The goal of
our project includes 1) the design, development,
implementation, and testing of GST curriculum for grades
7-12; 2) GST education for Iowa teachers; and 3) the
development of a web-portal for disseminating the materials
developed in this project to others. The project also
assists teachers in acquiring the hardware and software they
need to implement GST curriculum.
Project Status: Planned for within a year |
Carver Foundation (awaiting result) |
Price Laboratory School (UNI) and Four other school
districts across Iowa
|
Ramanathan Sugumaran
Associate Professor and GeoTREE Director
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-3816
|
| Interactive Constructivist Science Workshops |
This series of science workshops for teachers of children pre-K through 2nd grade consists of seven workshop modules focusing on topics of physical science, including ramps and pathways, bubbles, water dynamics, cooking, air dynamics, spinning, and the physics of sound. Each 3-hour workshop, taught by experienced early childhood educators, provides principles of teaching, theoretical background, video examples of children in real classrooms engaging in the activities, and opportunities for teachers to experiment with classroom materials.
Project Status: Current |
Self-supporting |
|
Betty Zan
Associate Professor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2101
|
| Introductory Robotics Outreach Initiative |
The Physics and Computer Science Departments at UNI are
jointly developing an outreach program to introduce robots
and artificial intelligence to elementary and middle school
students, girls in particular.
Project Status: Planned for within a year |
UNI College of Natural Science; UNI Physics; UNI Computer Science |
Iowa Academy of Sciences; UNI Upward Bound Math and Science;
Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois |
Cliff Chancey
Professor of Physics
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2425
|
| Iowa Energy Education Outreach |
Outreach programs with games and activities to educate
students about energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Available for grades 1-8.
Project Status: Current |
UNI and Iowa Energy Center |
|
Pat Higby
Energy Educator
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-6012
|
| Iowa Jr. Solar Sprint |
Borrow or buy model solar car kits that provide hands on
learning opportunities related to renewable energy (solar),
electrical circuits, gear ratios, friction, and problem
solving. Students can work individually or in pairs. A
tool kit may also be borrowed by the instructor. Many great
curriculum materials are available on the world wide web.
Project Status: Current |
UNI and Iowa Energy Center |
|
Pat Higby
Energy Educator
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-6012
|
| Iowa Mathematics & Science Academy |
The Iowa Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) at the
University of Northern Iowa is a program designed to
strengthen and support Iowa high school students interest
in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The program is funded to serve a total of 40 students from
Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, and Grundy Counties.
Program participants must be either low-income, potential
first-generation college students, or minority students.
These individuals will receive program services that will
generate the skills and motivation necessary for success in
completing high school and enrolling into and graduating
from postsecondary institutions with degrees in STEM fields.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
University of Northern Iowa |
Angela Francis
Director, IMSA
University of Northern Iowa
319-433-1261
|
| Iowa Student STEM Symposium |
This Iowa Student STEM Symposium brings high school students and instructors together to develop students into STEM advocates at their school. The focus is to increase the number of students taking math and science courses, increase STEM achievement and increased awareness of STEM careers.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
Iowa State, University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa, Pella Corporation, Rockwell Collins, the Iowa Business Council, Iowa Mathematics and Science Coalition, and HyVee. |
Lyn Countryman
Executive Director of Iowa Mathematics and Science Coalition
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2614
|
| Learning Mathematics and Science through the Arts |
Professional development workshops for classroom teachers and education students to master learning objectives in both the subject area and the art form.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
GBPAC, Waterloo Community School District, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
|
Amy Hunzelman
Director of Education and Special Programs, Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-3679
|
| Level III Early Childhood Education practicum |
Pre-service project that support future teachers of STEM
disciplines: Early childhood education majors, many of whom
have been badly served in their own math and science
education, learn how to design, implement, assess, and build
on "beginning physics" instruction, integrated with math and
literacy, to meet developmentally appropriate learning
standards for children from birth through primary grades.
Many of them are placed in programs serving low-income and
ethnically diverse children.
Project Status: Current |
funded strictly as a preservice teacher course (210:192g) |
none |
Linda Fitzgerald and Judith Finkelstein
Associate Professor and Professor, Dept. of C&I
University of Northern Iowa
273-2214 and 273-2197
|
| Magnetic Properties of Disordered Rare-Earth Nanostructures |
Two sets of summer activities were developed for Upward
Bound Math Science rising seniors. The first included
hands-on experiments involving the properties of magnets and
compasses, the magnetic effects of an electric current, and
magnetic induction. The second set of activities included a
tour of the Dr. Shands research laboratory, demonstration
experiments of superconductivity and diamagnetic levitation,
and a question-and-answer period during which the students
were able to ask Dr. Shand and undergraduate research
students questions about magnetism, research, and careers.
In addition to these activities, two UBMS rising seniors
were involved in pedagogically-oriented research projects
with Dr. Shand over a 5-week period. Posters were prepared
and presented at the end of the research period.
Project Status: Current |
National Science Foundation |
UNI Upward Bound Math & Science |
Paul Shand
Professor of Physics
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2930
|
| Master of Arts in Science Education |
This masters level graduate program provides pedagogy,
theory, and science content for teachers seeking
professional development in science teaching. It is designed
for teacher practitioners, though people with bachelors
degrees can pair it with teacher preparation and gain post
baccalaureate licensure/endorsement (it just takes a little
longer). The program is flexible enough to accommodate
elementary as well as secondary science teachers. A portion
of it is offered on the ICN at remote sites across the
state. We are currently on cohort #3 with 6 sites, one in NW
IA and one in SW IA.
Project Status: Current |
none (tuition); it is part of university programs |
|
Cherin Lee
Chair, Science Education; Graduate Coordinator
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7357
|
| Mathematics and Technology Teachers Professional Development 2007-2008 |
UNI/DoDEA Education Directorate
2007-2008
UNI Mathematics Education and the Department of Defense Education Agency (DoDEA) together provide professional development to improve mathematics instruction of teachers serving military families. During 2007/2008, professional development will impact approximately 500 Department of Defense teachers, and two on-line courses will be developed. Project tasks include:
"Facilitation of on-line professional development courses for 300 teachers
"On-line course development of a Rational Number course for middle grades teachers and an Algebraic Thinking course for elementary teachers
"Facilitation of face-to-face workshops for 200 teachers
Project Status: Current |
Federal Appropriation |
none |
Edward Rathmell and Vicki Oleson
Rathmell, Professor, Oleson, Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| Mathematics and Technology Teachers Professional Development 2007-2008 |
UNI/DoDEA Education Directorate
2007-2008
UNI Mathematics Education and the Department of Defense Education Agency (DoDEA) together provide professional development to improve mathematics instruction of teachers serving military families. During 2007/2008, professional development will impact approximately 500 Department of Defense teachers, and two on-line courses will be developed. Project tasks include:
- Facilitation of on-line professional development courses for 300 teachers
- On-line course development of a Rational Number course for middle grades teachers and an Algebraic Thinking course for elementary teachers
- Facilitation of face-to-face workshops for 200 teachers
Project Status: Current |
Federal Appropriation |
none |
Edward Rathmell and Vicki Oleson
Rathmell, Professor, Oleson, Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| Mathematics Professional Development 2006-2007 |
UNI/DoDEA 2006/2007
UNI Mathematics Education and the Department of Defense
Education Agency (DoDEA) together provide professional
development to improve mathematics instruction of teachers
serving military families. During 2006/2007, work expanded
to include the district of Hawaii, part of the Military
Impacted School Association (MISA). Professional development
provided impacted approximately 600 Department of Defense
and Hawaiian educators, and trained 30 on-line facilitators.
Project tasks include:
- Facilitation of on-line professional development courses
for 300 teachers
- Development of a Rational Number course
- Training for 18 on-line facilitators
Project Status: Current |
Federal Appropriation |
None |
Edward Rathmell and Vicki Oleson
Rathmell, Professor, Oleson, Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| Mathematics Professional Development 2006-2007 |
UNI/DoDEA
2006-2007
UNI Mathematics Education and the Department of Defense Education Agency (DoDEA) together provide professional development to improve mathematics instruction of teachers serving military families. During 2006/2007, work expanded to include the district of Hawaii, part of the Military Impacted School Association (MISA). Professional development provided impacted approximately 600 Department of Defense and Hawaiian educators, and trained 30 on-line facilitators. Project tasks include:
"Facilitation of on-line professional development courses for 300 teachers
"Development of a Rational Number course
"Training for 18 on-line facilitators
"Facilitation of face-to-face workshops for 300 teachers
Project Status: Current |
Federal Appropriation |
None |
Edward Rathmell and Vicki Oleson
Rathmell, Professor, Oleson, Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| Mathematics Professional Development 2006-2007 |
UNI/DoDEA
2006-2007
UNI Mathematics Education and the Department of Defense Education Agency (DoDEA) together provide professional development to improve mathematics instruction of teachers serving military families. During 2006/2007, work expanded to include the district of Hawaii, part of the Military Impacted School Association (MISA). Professional development provided impacted approximately 600 Department of Defense and Hawaiian educators, and trained 30 on-line facilitators. Project tasks include:
"Facilitation of on-line professional development courses for 300 teachers
"Development of a Rational Number course
"Training for 18 on-line facilitators
"Facilitation of face-to-face workshops for 300 teachers
Project Status: Current |
Federal Appropriation |
None |
Edward Rathmell and Vicki Oleson
Rathmell, Professor, Oleson, Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| Mathematics Professional Development for Administrators |
UNI/DoDEA Partnership Directorate
2007-2008
Mathematics professional development modules including materials and presentations will be developed for administrators. These products will promote school and district level administrators understanding of specific mathematics concepts, philosophies and strategies included in professional development courses offered to K-8 teachers, and provide an observational tool for administrators. Project tasks include:
"Development of modules and materials for presentation to administrators
"Presentation of modules and materials
Project Status: Current |
Department of Defense Education Activity |
none |
Edward Rathmell and Vicki Oleson
Rathmell, Professor, Oleson, Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| Mathematics Professional Development for Administrators |
UNI/DoDEA Partnership Directorate
2007-2008
Mathematics professional development modules including
materials and presentations will be developed for
administrators. These products will promote school and
district level administrators understanding of specific
mathematics concepts, philosophies and strategies included
in professional development courses offered to K-8 teachers,
and provide an observational tool for administrators.
Project tasks include:
- Development of modules and materials for presentation to
administrators
- Presentation of modules and materials
Project Status: Current |
Department of Defense Education Activity |
none |
Edward Rathmell and Vicki Oleson
Rathmell, Professor, Oleson, Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| Moving Environmental Issues Beyond the Classroom Workshop |
This K-12 course combines service learning with
environmental issues. In addition to identifying and
providing content knowledge about environmental issues and
needs such as waste, water quality and habitat protection,
the workshop will include training to aid teachers in using
service-learning as a tool. Service learning is a form of
experiential education where students apply what they learn
to community problems.
Project Status: Current |
REAP Conservation Education Program |
Central College, Pella;
Keepers of the Land, Iowa DNR, Des Moines;
Trees Forever, Cedar Rapids;
East Central Iowa Council of Governments, Kristin Simon;
and possibly others |
Susan Salterberg (Jody Stone is also an instructor)
Instructor/Program manager
University of Northern Iowa
319-337-4816
|
| MSETI AREA: Math-Science-Engineering Technology in Iowa on Applied Renewable Energy Areas |
Renewable Energy Areas (MSETI - AREA) is to provide area teachers with an applied Mathematics and Science curriculum package based on Photo-Voltaic (PV), wind power, and hydrogen fuel-cell fundamentals. MSETI - AREA utilized a project, energy bike UNI e-Bike , which was introduced through a series of weekend professional development workshops in November 2008. Teachers completed the workshop will be able to implement the conventional and renewable energy concepts in their classroom by checking out the e-Bike , PV solar cells, and model wind generators.
This creates an environment where students must understand and figure out relationships among basic mathematics, science and engineering technology applied to renewable energy fields. The overall goal of this proposal is first to work with teachers to develop a curriculum based on new and exciting research that is taking place here in Iowa. The goal is also to improve students mathematical and scientific skills, increase their technological literacy and provide them a professional skill-set for successfully applying mathematics and science to technical projects with diverse teams throughout their careers. UNI e-Bike project also introduces teachers and students what energy efficiency and energy conservation mean by generating their own electricity using pedal-power and energizing a number of loads such as inefficient incandescent light bulbs, small appliances, and energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs where they can observe light density, heat release, and overall energy usage in kWh. Students may also calculate cost of overall electricity they use and discuss on monthly average charges.
Project Status: Planned for within a year |
IMSEP |
6-7 Middle and High Schools in Cedar Valley area. A list of participating schools will be provided at MSETI-AREA website before February 15, 2009. |
Recayi "Reg" Pecen
Associate Professor and Program Coordinator, Electrical and Information Engineering Technology
University of Northern Iowa
319 273 2598
|
| Number Sense 1: Mathematics Professional Development for Elementary Teachers |
The purpose of Number Sense 1: Mathematics Professional Development for Elementary Teachers is to leverage products previously created through federal appropriations to provide quality professional development for teachers in Iowa. This project proposes to modify an existing professional development course to align with the Iowa Core Curriculum, Every Student Counts, and the Iowa Professional Development Model. Area Education Agency Mathematics consultants will then facilitate this course for a maximum of 25 teachers in Northwest Iowa.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
Iowa Regents Universities |
Vicki Oleson
Project Director of SOAR and Instructor of Mathematics
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| Physics Teacher Education Coalition (PTEC) |
The UNI Physics Department has recently joined the Physics Teacher Education Coalition (PTEC), an association of institutions of higher education dedicated to the improvement of physics and physical science teacher education. This effort, sponsored by the American Physical Society (APS), American Institute of Physics (AIP), and American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT), covers a broad spectrum of education research-based reforms and initiatives. Click on appropriate link found PTEC member institutions website (http://www.ptec.org/programs/index.cfm) for more information.
Project Status: Current |
|
|
Lawrence T. Escalada (Department Contact)
Associate Professor of Physics and Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2431
|
| Planning for Success in STEM for Students with Disabilities: A Working Conference |
A two-day working conference with follow-up publication
held on April 1-2, 2009 is to stimulate dialog to 1)
improve attitudes toward, 2) investigate ways to better
support, and 3) plan accommodations/supports for students
with disabilities who have interests in Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, in secondary and
post-secondary settings. This includes examining ways to
support students with STEM interests transitioning from
high school to post-secondary education, investigating ways
to support students with STEM interests transitioning from
community colleges into STEM majors in 4-year colleges and
universities, exploring options for resolution of issues;
and advancing recommendations for improving the quality of
STEM education for students with disabilities.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
none-but collaborators include U of Iowa, Iowa State
University, community colleges, the Iowa Department of
Education, Iowa Department of the Blind, and Iowa Braille
and Sight Saving School, and MIDWEST partners |
Greg P. Stefanich, Co-PI, Audrey C. Rule, Co-PI
Professor, Associate Professor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2073, 319-273-7829
|
| PRISMS (Physics Resources and Instructional Strategies for Motivating Students) |
The highly successful Physics Resources and Instructional
Strategies for Motivating Students (PRISMS) is a
comprehensive high school physics curriculum and
professional development program. The PRISMS curriculum and
pedagogy have been used extensively in UNI Physics teacher
preparation and professional development programs. The
PRISMS curriculum was revised with funding from the National
Science Foundation with the enhanced version now being
available as PRISMS PLUS through Centre Pointe Learning
publishing (http://www.cplearning.com/). PRISMS workshops
have been presented in the last 20 years (almost) to over
2,500 teachers in almost all 50 states, American Samoa,
Argentina, Canada, Chile, China, Italy, Mexico, Russia, and
Taiwan.
Project Status: Current |
National Science Foundation |
|
Lawrence T. Escalada (with Dr. Roy Unruh and Dr. Tim Cooney)
Associate Professor of Physics and Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2431
|
| Ramps and pathways: A constructivist approach to teaching physical science |
The project's purpose is to develop physical science
curriculum for children pre-K through grade 2 that will
result in improved science achievement. Project goals are:
(1) to develop age-appropriate physical science curriculum
concerning the movement of objects along ramps and pathways
that will lead to knowledge about concepts of forces and
motion, ability to engage in scientific inquiry; ability to
solve engineering problems; and positive attitudes about
science and themselves as science learners; (2) to develop
professional development materials that will support early
childhood educators in understanding how to foster young
children's learning about physical science and scientific
inquiry.
Project Status: Current |
National Science Foundation |
|
Betty Zan
Associate Professor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2101
|
| Research Avenues for Iowa Science Educators (RAISE) and Research Experiences for Teachers (RET): A Collaboration on How Research Based Professional Development Internships Influence Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics (STEM) Teaching |
This proposal seeks to establish collaboration between the existing programs through two one-day workshops with the intent to: 1) Evaluate the implementation of inquiry based teaching and learning as a result of a professional development STEM research experience, 2) Create a forum for teachers who have participated in a professional development STEM research experience to share best practices relating to implementation of scientific inquiry into STEM curricula, and 3) Lay the groundwork to establish a centralized network of STEM research programs for teachers at the three Regents institutions.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
Iowa Mathematics and Science Coalition, Three Regents Universities State of Iowa
|
Dawn Del Carlo
Assistant Professor, Deparment of Chemistry and Biochemistry
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-3296
|
| Science Education Resource Center |
The Science Education Resource Center (SERC for short) is a
curriculum materials center on the UNI campus. It contains
printed curricular materials such as science text books
(K-12) and science activity guides as well as science kits
from 5 different sources.
It is utilized by both elementary and secondary science
methods instructors and students, UNI student teachers who
check out kits, and area teachers wishing to peruse text
samples and kits before working on curriculum adoptions.
Science kits are also available for check out (see AEA
267-UNI Science Kit Collaborative).
Project Status: Current |
Initially UNI |
The SERC itself is a University of Northern Iowa entity.
The additional science kit loaning agreement is with AEA 267. |
Cherin Lee
Chair, Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7357
|
| Science Inquiry Teaching |
Science Inquiry Teaching will increase and enhance inquiry science teaching in elementary and middles schools in rural areas of AEA 267. This will be accomplished through supporting instructional materials for kit-based science curricula in schools, expanded kit usage, and professional development for teachers and their administrators on kit resources and the use of science notebooks to integrate literacy and science teaching. A Science Education Update Conference will be held in March 2009 for participants as noted above plus preservice elementary teachers with science minors. An overall science kit users network will be established for conference attendees.
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
Science Education Resource Center
AEA 267 |
Cherin Lee
Cherin Lee, Associate Professor and Chair of Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2499
|
| SOAR (Student On-line Achievement Resources) |
SOAR (Student On-line Achievement Resources) provides on-line assessment and instructional programs to help schools, students, and parents identify academic strengths and weaknesses as well as interactive components to help students address targeted skills. To complement the on-line assessment and instructional programs provided through SOAR, professional support provides the tools and knowledge necessary to enhance the effectiveness of SOAR and provides a comprehensive approach for students to develop deep understanding.
Project Status: Current |
Federal Appropriation |
Randolph Independence School District (Texas)
Military Impacted School Association
Princeton Review
SkillsTutor |
Vicki Oleson
Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7650
|
| STORM Project -- Weather Education Curriculum |
Develop seamless K-12 curriculum materials in weather education and air quality. These materials use real-time weather data generated from the STORM Project computers. More than 300 teachers around USA are currently using these materials in their classrooms
Project Status: Current |
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |
|
Timothy Cooney-- Curriculum Team Leader
Professor of Earth Science and Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319.273.2918
|
| Summer Graduate Workshops for K-12 teachers |
Summer graduate workshops for Iowa K-12 teachers that include integrating economics into the mathematics curriculum and to a lesser extent connections with environmental science. These workshops are offered annually and participants are exposed to real-world economics applications that use mathematics and science principles.
Project Status: Current |
registration fees |
National Council on Economic Education |
Lois Ann McElroy Lindell
Assistant Director, Center for Economic Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2952
|
| Summer Investigations: Science and Math Explorations |
Price Laboratory School and the University of Northern Iowa
offer a one-week Summer Science and Math Enrichment
opportunity for students Kindergarten through Fifth grade.
The curriculum is thematically organized, building upon the
previous experience. Activity based projects serve to
encourage the construction of meaning. Focus on higher order
thinking skills via scientific inquiry methods is the
catalyst of the program. Mathematical thinking and problem
solving are vehicles for students to articulate the
connections, reasoning, proof and representations made.
Project Status: Current |
self funding |
|
Mary Kathleen Stichter
Instructor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2428
|
| Survey of Iowa Math & Science Teachers |
In an effort to better meet the needs of Iowa PK-12 science teaching, the University of Northern Iowa in cooperation with the Iowa Math-Science Coalition is collecting data from all Iowa PK-12 teachers. The data from this electronic survey will be used to help guide future efforts in teacher education and professional development in science and math education.
Project Status: Current |
Iowa Math and Science Coalition |
|
Lyn Countryman and Jody Stone
Assoc. Professors of Teaching & Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-6466
|
| Sustainable Energy Education and Training |
SEET is a professional development project for community
college and high school educators nationwide. The goal is
to build the capacity of energy and environmental
technicians to meet the challenges of sustainable energy in
the 21st century workplace. Professional development
workshops are coupled with the creation, dissemination and
implementation of sustainable energy curriculum components.
Project Status: Current |
National Science Foundation |
Eastern Iowa Community College District
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Partnership for Environmental Technology Education |
Maureen Clayton
Director, Environmental Programs
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-7147
|
| The Iowa Stock Market Program |
The Iowa Stock Market Program is a classroom program for Iowa students grades 4-12 that uses an integrated curriculum. New curriculum materials have been added to the program that emphasizes real-world mathematics applications from investing in stocks and mutual funds. All mathematics applications in the lessons are tied to NCTM standards and benchmarks.
Project Status: Current |
Registration Fees, Foundation for Investor Education |
Foundation for Investor Education |
Lois Ann McElroy Lindell
Assistant Director, Center for Economic Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2952
|
| The STORM Project |
The Science center for Teaching, Outreach, and Research on Meteorology (the STORM Project) at the University of Northern Iowa was established through a cooperative agreement between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the University of Northern Iowa in August 2000. The STORM Project has been actively working to initiate, support, and coordinate education, service, and research activities that relate weather information, remotely sensed data, and conceptual models of the atmosphere to relevant user communities in Iowa and the Midwest. Programming focuses on curriculum development, meteorological decision support, and remote sensing.
Project Status: Current |
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |
|
Alan Czarnetzki
Professor of Meteorology
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2152
|
| THE WEBQUEST PROJECT: A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN MIDDLE LEVEL PRESERVICE TEACHERS AND MIDDLE SCHOOL INSERVICE TEACHERS AND STUDENTS |
Since 2003, the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) has been involved in a partnership with Central Middle School (CMS) in Waterloo, Iowa, to benefit UNI preservice teachers and CMS students and teachers. Cooperating with CMS teachers, the UNI preservice teachers learn middle level curriculum by creating WebQuest units, inquiry based tools in which learners interact with information from resources on the internet. The preservice teachers teach the units to the CMS students. The units are based on a science topic the CMS teachers provide to enhance their classroom curriculum. These interdisciplinary units contain science, mathematics, and literacy standards.
Project Status: Current |
None |
Central Middle School, Waterloo, Iowa
University of Northern Iowa |
Jean Schneider
Assistant Professor
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-3274
|
| UNI Annual Earth Science Teachers Update Conference |
A day of content and pedagogical updates for teachers of Earth Science.
Project Status: Current |
Registration fees and departmental funding. |
|
Tim Cooney
Professor of Earth Science and Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319.273.2918
|
| UNI e-Boat: Design and Implementation of Solar Electric Boats for Cleaner Iowa Lakes and Rivers |
UNI e-Boat project's mission is to promote eco-friendly boat technologies in Iowa lakes and rivers. This unique project was originally developed as part of an undergraduate senior design requirement in the Electrical and Information Engineering Technology Program at UNI. However, due to student interest, a number of freshmen, sophomore and junior students from variety of technology majors are also involved. Project requires unique design and development that includes knowledge and skills in computer design tools (Solid Works, ProE, AutoCAD, MultiSim, etc.), electrical, electronics, mechanical, power electronics, controls, wireless telecommunication, and visual arts. Many of us are well aware of pollution of Iowa Lakes and Rivers due to the massive agricultural production. However, a hidden fact known as oil and gas spills by inefficient two stroke boat motors, constitute a significant pollution in the Iowa Lakes and rivers. Worldwide 236,000 metric tons of oil & oil products are leaked into the water through these types of boats, more then seven times the amount spilled by Exxon Valdez Spill in Alaska in 1989! . We are proud of our solar e-boat project and our sponsors to keep Iowa lakes and rivers clean for our future generations!
Every year project team members must involve in World Championship on Solar Electric Boat Competition organized by www.solarsplash.com
Project Status: Current |
Iowa Energy Center |
|
Recayi "Reg" Pecen
Associate Professor and Program Coordinator, Electrical and Information Engineering Technology
University of Northern Iowa
319 273 2598
|
| UNI Physics and Science Education Professional Development and Outreach Instructional Technology Integration Program |
The UNI Physics and Science Education Professional
Development and Outreach Instructional Technology
Integration Program is funded by the Roy J. Carver
Charitable Trust for $215,000 to establish an instructional
technology loan program for Iowa secondary science teachers
who participate in UNI Physics and Science Education
professional development programs. The first short-term
loans are being made to teachers participating in the UNI
PRISST program to provide much needed instructional
technology and material support during professional
development and classroom implementation. Equipment and
materials include Apple Macbooks, media projectors,
computer-based laboratory tools, dynamics tracks & carts,
PRISMS PLUS materials, etc.
Project Status: Current |
Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust |
|
Lawrence T. Escalada
Associate Professor of Physics and Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2431
|
| UNI PRISST Program |
The 2006-08 UNI Physics Resources and Instruction for
Secondary Science Teachers (PRISST) program is a
professional development program for out-of-field high
school physics teachers funded for $284,000 through the NCLB
Act Title II grant administered by the Board of Regents,
State of Iowa, and the Iowa Department of Education. The
program provides the means for a cohort of 18 Iowa teachers
to complete the minimum requirements for the State of Iowa
Grades 7-12 physics teaching endorsement under one complete
program. The program addresses the critical shortage of
highly qualified high school physics teachers in the State
of Iowa.
Project Status: Current |
U.S. Department of Education |
Participating Iowa schools and Area Education Agencies (AEAs) |
Lawrence T. Escalada
Associate Professor of Physics and Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-236-6654
|
| UNI Professional Development and Outreach for Future and Existing High School Physics Teachers |
Future and existing high school physics teachers will engage in relevant and rigorous professional development and outreach experiences. The professional development experiences for university students includes monthly meetings with UNI Physics and Science Education faculty and master high school physics teachers. The project also involves expanding the one-day UNI Physics Update Conference for high school physics teachers to include both students and teachers especially those teachers who have already expressed interest in participating in future UNI professional development programs. The outreach experiences will focus on the UNI/AEA 267 Regional Physics Olympics Competition for high school physics students. Support and resources to help prepare for and facilitate the competition are being requested
Project Status: Current |
IMSEP |
None |
Lawrence T. Escalada
Associate Professor Physics and Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2431
|
| UNI/AEA 267 Regional Physics Olympics Competition |
Each spring, the UNI Physics Department in collaboration with Area Education Agency (AEA 267), host the regional Physics Olympics competition for high school physics students at the UNI-Dome. Over 200 students from 20 different schools within AEA 267 participate each year. Student teams use their understanding of physics to design and construct devices or set ups within required specifications to perform physical tasks in events including the self-propelled catapult, mouse-trap car, water heater, and optical slalom. The two school teams with the highest total scores from all events and non-school team event winners qualify for the state competition at Drake University in Des Moines.
Project Status: Current |
None |
Area Education Agency (AEA) 267 and participating schools |
Lawrence T. Escalada
Associate Professor of Physics and Science Education
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2431
|
| University of Northern Iowa Upward Bound Math and Science |
The purpose of the University of Northern Iowa Upward Bound Math and Science Program is to serve and be an advocate for first generation and low-income Iowa high school students to help them successfully graduate high school and enroll in postsecondary institutions to study mathematics, science, technology or related fields.
The Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) Center is funded by the US Department of Education and sponsored by the University of Northern Iowa (UNI). The program provides students with an overview of careers available in math and science, intensive instruction in mathematics and science, and exposure to the college environment.
Project Status: Current |
United Stated Department of Education |
|
Latricia Hylton
Director
University of Northern Iowa
319-433-1261
|
| VAST Elementary Science Kit Workshops and Facilitator Training |
Instructors at Malcolm Price Laboratory School, grades K-5, are participating in training workshops provided by the VAST Center Academy. These workshops are designed to provide the background needed to effectively implement the VAST elementary science kits. The workshops focus on the key concepts in each unit as well as provide hands-on experience with all unit activities. Follow-up sessions will train instructors to be facilitators. Facilitators will collaborate with the University of Northern Iowa Vast Satellite to provide outreach to area teacher needing kit training.
Project Status: Current |
Vast Academy Satellite |
University of Northern Iowa Vast Academy Satellite/ McCollum Science Hall |
Cherin Lee/ JD Cryer
Associate Professor/Malcolm Price Laboratory Elem. Principal
University of Northern Iowa
|
| Waste Reduction Workshop: Addressing the Overlooked |
Reduction - preventing the generation of waste in the first
place - is the highest priority for waste management. Yet,
recycling has received an overwhelming amount of attention,
while reduction has taken a back seat. At this workshop,
participants (K-12 teachers from a variety of disciplines)
learn about reduction, life cycle analysis and other
waste-related issues. Workshop includes bibliography of
resources for reading and free resources applicable to
cross-curricular and thematic units, modeling of activities,
instructional strategies and correlations to national
standards.
Project Status: Current |
REAP Conservation Education Program, DNR Solid Waste Alternatives Program |
Sponsored by Science Education and the Center for Energy and
Environmental Education in the College of Natural Sciences,
University of Northern Iowa.
Supporters
Support is provided by REAP Conservation Education Program,
Iowa Department of Natural Resources Solid Waste
Alternatives Program, Dubuque Metropolitan Area Solid Waste
Agency, Linn County Solid Waste Agency, Iowa City Landfill
and Recycling Center, the Scott County Solid Waste
Commission and other solid waste agencies, UNI Center for
Energy & Environmental Education and the East Central Iowa
Council of Governments.
|
Susan Salterberg
Instructor/Program manager
University of Northern Iowa
319-337-4816
|
