Science Domain P-10

Back to:

Science Scholarships Initiative: Earthwatch TeachLive Research Expeditions

 

What is the Science Scholarships initiative?

The Energising Science and Mathematics Education in Victoria strategy includes provision for scholarships for primary and secondary teachers of science to participate in high-status professional learning opportunities. Applications have closed for nine Science Scholarships awarded to teachers of science to participate in Earthwatch TeachLive research expeditions in 2010.

 

Earthwatch Institute laboratory

Earthwatch Institute Australia is a not-for-profit research organisation that supports scientific field research by placing volunteers in the field to work with scientists to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. TeachLive is an Earthwatch education program that incorporates the teacher’s field experience into a specifically tailored Earthwatch TeachLive website that can then be used in the classroom. Students can take a virtual expedition with their teacher, helping them to engage in current scientific research and see their teacher as a science role model.

 

What are the aims and focus of the Science Scholarships?

The aim of the initiative is to provide opportunities for teachers of science to:

  • develop innovative and engaging science curriculum and participate in professional learning
  • provide rich learning experiences for students and teachers
  • raise the status of science teaching in school and the community.

The focus of the program will be on teachers improving, and maintaining improved student outcomes in science by:

  • improving their knowledge of new developments and discoveries in science
  • developing understanding of the application of contemporary science research and science practices
  • developing practical ICT skills
  • providing opportunities for students to engage in activities that will enable them to develop a sound understanding of new concepts and practical applications, stimulate their interest in their studies of science by experiencing science as practised by scientists, and encourage increased appreciation of the environment.
back to top

Who can participate?

The program is open to all primary and secondary teachers of science who would like to develop their science knowledge and contribute to an innovative and engaging science curriculum.

Earthwatch TeachLive research expeditions involve physical outdoor work and basic accommodation arrangements, including camping. Teachers must be physically fit enough to be actively involved in all aspects of the expedition. A health certificate is required by Earthwatch once deemed successful.

Minimal ICT knowledge is required, as web training will be provided.

 

What will I learn?

Teachers will be members of esteemed scientific research teams for up to two weeks, directly assisting in a range of field activities that could include radio tracking animals, censuring flora and fauna, making and recording observations, and running transect and quadrat studies.

Teachers will make contributions to the TeachLive website prior to departure and while they are in the field. This website incorporates the teacher’s field experience into a specifically tailored website that can then be used in the classroom, encouraging students to engage in science and see their teachers as science role models. Teachers will receive web training prior to participation in the Earthwatch TeachLive research expedition.

back to top

How are the scholarships structured?

There are two Earthwatch TeachLive research expeditions available in 2010:

  • Climate Change in the Rainforest – Cairns QLD (five scholarships in mid-term holidays, April 2010)
  • Malaysian Bat Conservation – Malaysia (four scholarships in Term 2, May 2010).

Briefings and web training will occur via face-to-face or teleconference meetings, as appropriate, prior to departure.

 

What assistance is provided?

Each Science Scholarship will cover participation in an Earthwatch TeachLive research expedition, associated domestic/international flights and transit accommodation, travel insurance and CRT. The scholarships will be issued as grants to schools. Teachers will be responsible for arranging their release from classes, booking flights and transit accommodation, and fulfilling the administrative requirements of Earthwatch.

 

What is expected of me?

Teachers are expected to:

  • participate in all pre- and post-tour briefings
  • deliver lessons via Earthwatch TeachLive website
  • contribute to the development of curriculum initiatives to promote science in the curriculum
  • complete an evaluation and report of the program
  • promote and share the outcomes of the professional learning activity within the school, across local networks, across region, and across the system.

 

How can I find out more?

Form more information contact studentlearning@edumail.vic.gov.au

Visit Earthwatch TeachLive for further information on the research expeditions and the TeachLive program:

back to top