Hi-Tech Classrooms: Using Technology to Engage Students in Inquiry Learning GEARS: Georgians Experiencing Astronomy Research in Schools Michelle Davis Lithia Springs High School Douglas County Schools

Goals ➲ Get students involved with data analysis through guided inquiry investigations. ➲ Use technology to engage students & make working with data easier, even for those needing remediation.

GPS Standards ➲ SCSh3. Students will identify and investigate problems scientifically. a. Suggest reasonable hypotheses for identified problems. b. Develop procedures for solving scientific problems. c. Collect, organize and record appropriate data. d. Graphically compare and analyze data points and/or summary statistics. e. Develop reasonable conclusions based on data collected. f. Evaluate whether conclusions are reasonable by reviewing the process and checking against other available information.

GPS Standards ➲ SCSh4. Students use tools and instruments for observing, measuring, and manipulating scientific equipment and materials. a. Develop and use systematic procedures for recording and organizing information. b. Use technology to produce tables and graphs. c. Use technology to develop, test, and revise experimental or mathematical models.

Why Use Technology? ➲ Students are growing-up “plugged-in” & technology reaches them on their playing field. ➲ Research shows that using technology enables all students, especially low income, ESOL & special needs students to achieve at higher levels. ➲ Allows students to conduct high level experiments they would not have access to otherwise. ➲ Can allow participation in real science— collect & analyze data important to current scientific research.

CLASS Keys SM CLassroom Analysis of State Standards The Georgia Teacher Evaluation System

Rubric for Technology Use Designs lessons & performance tasks that require students to integrate technology Uses technology for whole group instruction or rewards Does not use technology Actively involves all students in using technology

What Type of Technology? Computers Calculators Probe-ware Rapid Response Systems

Let's Get Started... TI 84+ EasyLink Light Probe + =

Astronomy Themed Summer Workshops: Chem., Physics, Phys. Sci. GPS ➲ High School Teachers Only This Year ➲ Search for Life in the Universe ➲ Sun Earth Connection: Space Weather ➲ Stars: Formation of the Elements ➲ Crash, Bang, Galaxies! ➲ for information ➲ s This workshop funded by NASA Office of Education Grant NNX09AH83A and supported by the Georgia Department of Education, Columbus State University, and Georgia Southern University