Before, during, and after PolarTREC field work in the summer of 2014, I will be publishing journal entries. My writing will most likely be related to one of four main themes: Observing the world around me, polar science, education for sustainable development, and engineering in an extreme environment. By having an understanding of my writing viewpoints, readers may be better able to find connections between my journal and their own interests. At the end of most journal entries, I will post a few questions. Teachers might use these questions with their students who are reading the journal entries.
Observations One of my teaching goals is to have students become better observers of the natural world around them. Observation may prompt curiosity, questions, wonder, and appreciation. I will observe and describe my travel experiences so that readers may get a glimpse into the unique areas I'm visiting.
Polar Science Most people do not live in a polar region. However, we are all connected to polar regions through the interplay of Earth's systems. Understanding polar science will help us better understand local and global climates.
For example, regardless of where we live, our weather is determined by conditions in the atmosphere. Ocean circulation and temperatures drive atmospheric conditions. Polar temperatures and amount of sea ice regulate ocean circulation. As I write this the southern and eastern United States are under the grip of another severe winter storm. Arctic weather is pushed deep into North America changes in circulation patterns mentioned above.
Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) The United Nations declared that 2004 - 2014 be the "Decade for Education for Sustainable Development." As described by UNESCO, 'ESD helps people to develop the attitudes, skills, perspectives, and knowledge to make informed decision and act upon them for the benefit of themselves and others, now and in the future.'(http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/leading-the-international-agenda/education-for-sustainable-development/three-terms-one-goal/)
I am fortunate to be a member of the Fulbright Japan Teacher Exchange program for ESD. The program taught me that principals of ESD can be seamlessly incorporated into daily life at school, home, and work.
Engineering in Extreme Environments Living and working in polar climates brings unique challenges. Engineers solve problems. Some journal entries will describe engineering problems and how these were solved (or not solved!).
Next Generation Science Standards, the recently issued national science standards, call for engineering lessons for all grade levels. Perhaps these journal posts will spark ideas for NGSS lessons for your class.
Thank you for reading my journal. Im looking forward to reading your comments and questions.
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