|
|
The Harvard Medical School (HMS) and the Boston Public School (BPS) system are partnering to increase the science literacy and interest in careers in science of middle and high school students by strengthening the science curriculum and through the professional development of BPS science teachers, with special emphasis on expanding their knowledge of science and their use of problem solving learning in the classroom. Since 1995, the HMS, through a HHMI funded Teachers Institute, has instructed 45 middle and high school teachers in the use of the case based method by means of a one week summer workshop focusing on 2 cases developed by HMS faculty and employing small group problem solving, hands-on laboratory experiences, seminars and site visits. This Institute will be modified to establish a system-wide mini-sabbatical program to be offered during the academic year. Each year 20 middle and high school science teachers will participate in a 3-day program offered duing the school day and followed by 2 call-back sessions. Substitute teachers will be provided for out-of-classroom time. Alumni of the former Summer Teacher Institute and of the mini-sabbatical sessions will be invited to attend all call-back sessions. BPS Lead Teachers, along with HMS faculty, will co-teach during the mini-sabbaticals and provide additional support to teachers when they return to their classrooms. Lead Teachers will also be provided substitute coverage and will receive a stipend.
All teachers will receive classroom kits with teacher guides, hands-on activities, books, CT and MRI scans, videotapes, etc. In addition teachers will receive funds to purchase classroom supplies, professional development credits and BPS in-service credits. During call-backs, which provide an opportunity for teachers to develop a shared learning community, teachers will receive additional cases that have been developed by HMS faculty, as well as any supporting curriculum materials. An Executive Advisory
|
