Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 08/01/2008 - 15:27
Forums
Kuril Islands Biocomplexity 08

Looks like amazing science at work!  Have you thought of how we can use your work and experience in our classrooms to excite kids about science? 

D Laughing 

Mon, 08/04/2008 - 06:28

KBP Team

Yes, we are working on several different approaches. One, of course, is this web site. Misty Nikula, the PolarTrec teacher that was with our expedition in 2006 and 2007 (and is helping with internet logistics this summer), has given her current and in-coming students a "summer homework assignment" of following our expedition via the on-line journal entries.
Help us out by spreading the word and getting your students, and anyone else, to check it out!
In addition, several team members have made class visits to Misty's school (Whatcom Day Academy), as well as other schools in Western Washington. We've also had Misty's students, and two high school interns, visit our labs at the University of Washington campus in Seattle.
Finally, in an effort to spread our enthusiasm for exciting science beyond our limited spheres of influence in Western Washington, Misty is developing a Middle School level curriculum [with help from me, Ben, and Jody] based on the theme of "Biocomplexity." In order for us to do our work, we need to have a working understanding of zoology, fracture mechanics, vulcanology, palynology, chemistry, plate tectonics, oceanography, etc., etc., etc. And that only barely involves the human cultural aspects of what we study! The Biocomplexity Curriculum will try to convey some of the multi-/inter-disciplinary approaches that we use on an everyday basis. Misty will be presenting some of her preliminary work on that curriculum in a short-course at the NSTA Regional Conference in Cincinnatti (Dec 3-5).
So yes, we are working on several different approaches. But we would welcome any suggestions you might have for us to hit a wider target audience. If your classroom is within striking distance of Seattle, maybe we could even come visit you in person!
Lastly, several of the Americans here also observed the 1st of August by saying "rabbit, rabbit, rabbit," for good luck!
-Dr. E.