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NASA Pre-Teaching
The NASA Pre-Service Teacher STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Institute (PSTSI) is a partnership between the NASA Ames Office of Education at Moffett Field, California, Office of Teacher Recruitment (OTR) Teaching Fellows Program, and California State University, Fresno’s Kremen School of Education and Human Development. The goal of the program is to provide pre-service teachers with opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skill in teaching mathematics and science using technology at the elementary and middle school levels.
Sponsored by NASA Ames’ Education Office in partnership with the Teaching Fellows program at OTR, the annual two-week workshop increases knowledge, skills and competence in teaching mathematics and science to elementary and middle school students using advanced or cutting-edge technology. Each year, PSTSI provides specialized training in these areas for college juniors and seniors on track to teach at the elementary or middle school level, called pre-service teachers.
The OTR administers the institute, selects the program participants and instructors, and designs the program. Each student team will develop an online lesson plan based on a common problem or theme, integrating math and science. PSTSI has access to NASA’s cutting-edge research and educational resources, which helps OTR to develop a passion for future teachers in the fields of elementary math and science.
Twenty-four (24) pre-service teachers who have completed 60 or more units, but have not started student teaching will be enrolled. Applications are competitive and students are encouraged to apply early.
There will be a NASA Preview Day on February 8, 2010 to introduce potential Pre-Service Teacher STEM Institute participants to the NASA Ames Reasearch Center and the Institute format. This one-day field trip will include transportation and lunch at no cost to participants. Applications for the Preview Day are due Friday, January 22. Access this application here.
Students interested in the NASA Pre-Service Teacher STEM Institute should contact Sharon Ramirez in the Office of Teacher Recruitment, Room 334 as soon as possible to get an application.