Authentic Research as Professional Development in Science Teaching

One of the most effective ways for a science teacher to know what and how to incorporate science research skills into class is to do some actual scientific research! We will discuss a summer research program in astronomy and ways that program affects the classroom. Come learn about some resources to seek a research experience of your own.

Presenters will share their experience working on a Stellar Spectroscopy Research Project using the 2.1 meter Otto Struve telescope at McDonald Observatory, TX, which has greatly affected their classroom teaching and their students’ understanding of the nature of science. Attendees will be guided through a spectroscopy lesson suitable for 8th-12th grade students in Chemistry, Physics, or Astronomy. Participants will be provided with resources to participate and conduct authentic research projects with students that promotes inquiry and collaboration, including learning to access NASA telescope data and collecting data with students using remote telescopes. Professional development research opportunities will be presented as well.

This poster session will provide an overview of a two-summer research experience for teachers at Rice University and its results for AP Physics classroom instruction.

This short piece is currently under review for inclusion in the Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society. The research note is associated with the poster I presented at the AAS #236 summer meeting.