ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged

Museum insights and programs for teachers and students. The conversation between Dave and Shannon revolves around their visit to the National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center. They discuss their favorite exhibits and the awe-inspiring experience of seeing the massive aircraft and spacecraft up close. Shannon shares stories about the Corona program's satellite bucket and the SR-71 Blackbird, highlighting the fascinating engineering and history behind them. They also discuss the importance of informal science education and the impact it has on children's curiosity and learning. Shannon talks about the museum's education outreach programs, including the Explainers Program and teacher professional development. They also touch on the ongoing renovation of the museum on the National Mall and the new exhibits that will be opening in the coming years. In this conversation, Dave and Shannon discuss their experiences visiting museums and the awe-inspiring exhibits they encountered. They emphasize the importance of visiting museums on less crowded days to fully appreciate the exhibits. Shannon shares her excitement about working at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum and the incredible stories behind the artifacts. They also discuss the safety of flying and the role of critical thinking in assessing risks. Shannon provides valuable resources for teachers, including the Smithsonian Learning Lab and the STEM in 30 series. They conclude by discussing the significance of museums in providing diverse role models and showcasing the contributions of underrepresented individuals in science and astronomy. STEM in 30 series: https://airandspace.si.edu/learn/programs/stem-30 Smithsonian Air & Space, Educator Professional Development https://airandspace.si.edu/learn/professional-development

ABOUT SHANNON

Educator Engagement specialist and expert nerd herder, Shannon Baldioli has been at the National Air and Space Museum for over ten years. She currently coordinates the Education Department's portfolio of teacher professional development programs, manages the museum's annual fly-in event, and works on an exhibition development team. Shannon taught in elementary, middle, and high schools in Northeast Ohio after getting a teaching degree from Kent State University. During and after getting her Masters in Museum Education from the George Washington University, she worked at a variety of museums in Maryland and DC. On the weekends find her getting dizzy on playground equipment with her two daughters, babying her gardens, watching an endless loop of Graham Norton Show clips on YouTube, and visiting as many MLB and MiLB stadiums as she can with her family. (Let's go O's!)

Challenges, implications, rapid evolution and the future of Ai The conversation covers various topics related to AI and its impact on education. Nancy discusses the technology stack behind AI, the role of AI in education, the limitations of AI models, and the potential costs and implications of AI in the classroom. The conversation explores the limitations and potential biases of GPTs, the role of AI in education, the importance of human agency and critical thinking, and the hidden costs of convenience. It also touches on the rapid development of AI technology and the need for ongoing discussions and considerations. The conversation ends with a discussion on the unpredictable nature of technological advancements and the potential negative consequences of certain innovations. Nancy's flyer for links and resources for teachers: https://hubs.ly/Q02GFBzY0 Free AI and data science curriculums https://lor.instructure.com/?q=ruzycki Links to free resources and vendors/partners with AI and data science: https://docs.google.com/document/d/129B8CvI0XmenUYoCiC89YBXWY0FP_wPq/edit

Engaged Quality Instruction Through Professional Development: https://equipd.mse.ufl.edu

UF AI Teachers in residence: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15u23tKqgq_ZxcI9B5WCX9vxLX7rQcd57/edit

ABOUT NANCY

Dr. Nancy Ruzycki is an Associate Instructional Professor within the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, Department of Materials Science and Engineering. Her research work is in creating teacher professional development for complex topics in STEM using system thinking and a conceptual modeling pedagogical framework. She also studies mentorship in STEM organizations and informal learning settings. She also holds an undergraduate degree in Chemistry Education and has National Board Certification for Physics. Ruzycki currently works upskilling teachers in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, and has written the Middle School Career and Technical Education Frameworks for AI and Data Science, and the High School Frameworks for Data Science in the state of Florida. She has received over $12 million dollars in funding for her work.

Multidisciplinary science, ethical considerations, AI impact, & career possibilities. In this conversation, Dave and Kelly discuss the realities of working in forensic science and the importance of understanding the potential trauma and ethical considerations involved. They also explore the evolving nature of science classrooms and the need for culturally relevant and engaging lessons. Kelly emphasizes the multidisciplinary nature of forensic science and the wide range of career possibilities within the field. The conversation explores the use of popular culture, such as cartoons and TV shows, to engage students in STEM education. It also discusses the impact of AI on writing and the importance of critical thinking. The challenges of incorporating AI into education and the need for students to develop strong writing skills are highlighted. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the accessibility and competitiveness of careers in forensic science. Kelly the Scientist: https://www.kellythescientist.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellythescientist/

ABOUT KELLY

Kelly Knight is an accomplished professor of Forensic Science and a member of the STEM Accelerator faculty at George Mason University. She teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in forensic DNA and chemistry and spearheaded the establishment of the university's first forensic DNA laboratory dedicated to teaching and research. Knight is deeply involved in mentoring STEM students and leading K-12 STEM outreach initiatives as part of her role as a STEM Accelerator. In 2014, she co-founded the Females of Color and those Underrepresented in STEM programs for middle and high school students.

After earning degrees in chemistry and forensic science, Prof. Knight gained nearly a decade of experience in forensic science laboratories before transitioning to higher education. She holds expertise in forensic serology and forensic DNA analysis, having served as an expert witness in multiple court trials.

Beyond her forensic casework background, Knight has extensive research experience, particularly in areas such as laser microdissection and low copy number (LCN) DNA methods. She remains actively engaged in the forensic science community through her involvement in professional organizations like the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, where she holds the distinction of Fellow. Additionally, Professor Knight is pursuing a doctorate in science education research to further her contributions to the field.

Enhancing teaching with hands-on learning, data collection, and technology. The conversation between Dave and Matt covers various topics, including background noise, weather, simulations, teaching, data literacy, and the use of AI in the classroom. Matt discusses the benefits of simulations in teaching, the importance of hands-on activities, and the role of data in education. They also touch on the potential of AI in the classroom, but both agree that the personal touch and human interaction of a teacher cannot be replaced by AI. They emphasize the value of teachers in guiding students and creating meaningful learning experiences. The conversation explores the role of AI in education and the importance of human teachers. The guests discuss how AI can assist teachers in providing tailored feedback and differentiating instruction. They emphasize that AI should be seen as a tool to enhance teaching, not replace it. The conversation also highlights the significance of teachers as role models and the impact they have on students' passion for learning. They discuss the benefits of incorporating real-world examples, such as science fiction, into the classroom to engage students and foster curiosity. The guests also touch on the challenges of virtual learning and the importance of genuine care and concern for students' well-being. Access free PhET Interactive Simulation Lessons in Notebook: https://app.thepocketlab.com/?filters=PhET

ABOUT MATT

Matt joined PhET in 2022 as an experienced physics teacher, simulation designer and software developer. He is currently leading the data fluency initiative to design and create extended features within existing science sims. Matt holds Masters degrees in Physics Education and Cognitive Science from Rutgers University, where he also teaches at the Graduate School of Education. In 2019, he was named PhysTEC National Physics Teacher of the Year. In his free time, Matt enjoys chess, playing guitar and creating educational science games.

Education challenges, technology, storytelling, pop culture, personalized teaching. In this conversation, Dave and Matt discuss various topics related to education, including the challenges faced by teachers, the impact of technology in the classroom, and the need for change in the education system. They also touch on the nostalgia for a simpler time and the potential for a shift back to certain aspects of the past. Matt shares his experiences as a teacher and his passion for creating phone-free classrooms. Matt Brady discusses the importance of incorporating pop culture, storytelling, and experiences into science education. He shares examples of how he engages his students through creative and immersive activities, such as the 'gummy bear murder' and growing plants in simulated lunar regolith. Matt emphasizes the need for teachers to make the job fit their own personality and interests, and to find ways to connect the content to a larger narrative. He also suggests using the 'and, but, therefore' storytelling structure to create engaging lessons. In this part of the conversation, Matt Brady discusses the power of storytelling in teaching science. He shares an example of using a clip from the TV show WKRP in Cincinnati to explain atomic structure to his students. Matt emphasizes the importance of finding creative ways to engage students and make science concepts relatable. He also talks about the value of incorporating pop culture and real-world examples into lessons. Matt highlights the need for teachers to find their own passion and teaching style, and encourages them to embrace storytelling as a teaching method.

ABOUT MATT

Matt is a Physics and Chemistry teacher in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He came in through lateral entry after spending 10 years writing about comic books and pop culture for various outlets. From the start of his teaching career, he realized that the fastest way to establish a connection with his students was through pop culture—the native language of which is "cool." In the years since, he's taught Honors Physics, Honors Chemistry, IB Physics, and Physical Science — all marinated in storytelling and pop culture. Somewhere in all of this, he wrote The Science of Rick and Morty, he and his wife were the science consultants on DC Comics' Flash Facts, articles for various websites including Scientific American, and currently is the science contributor for Jack and Jill Magazine.

Lately, realizing that he's been doing this all along, his focus has shifted to using storytelling as a STEM Education classroom method. His classes are rich in story and engagement, with continuing characters and scenarios, and they expose students to the captivating stories behind the names and discoveries in science that feed the curriculum. The goal is to make his students better storytellers who can tell the story of science and communicate science to a science-starved world.

More stuff about Matt:

• B.S. in biology, M.S. in Marine Biology, ABD PhD in Anatomy and Physiology
• Started writing about comics and pop culture (lifelong fan of both) while working on my PhD, ultimately leaving school to pursue writing (freelance writing paid better, and was more fun than brain surgery on rats)
• Wrote videogame guides, wrote for Wizard: The Guide to Comics, Toy Fare, and various other comics & sci-fi magazines. Founded (with a partner) Newsarama.com in 1999 — became the biggest comic book news website on the internet (did comic cons, interviewed comics creators, won awards…)
• Sold Newsarama.com and moved into teaching science in high school laterally. I had the science background needed to get set with my education courses.
• While teaching, have delivered professional development sessions in instructional techniques, learning strategies, and Teaching in a Post-Pandemic World.
• Co-founded TheScienceOf.org (with my wife), an organization dedicated to STEM outreach and communication. I have taken science to various events such as comic cons and community gatherings. Additionally, I have experience teaching Science Communication at Wake Forest University (vlogger Kyle Hill guested to talk about scicomm on YouTube), have helped organize Pint of Science, and regularly volunteer at our local science museum.
• Written comics - a Batman story, Buck Rogers Annual, John Carter of Mars, and miniseries, The Big Con Job.
• Have talked about using pop culture in the STEM classroom at (my old haunts) comic cons, as well as at NSTA and other science-teaching organization meetings
• Regular presented at NSTA national conferences
• After using The Martian in my chemistry classes, I have developed a relationship with the astrobotany lab at WSSU and collaborated on original research (fingers crossed, our bok choi grown in lunar regolith has produced good data…). I also have the research team come in to talk to classes every year.
• Chemistry classes read The Martian (with curriculum leaning towards Mars chemistry and challenges…), Physics read Project Hail Mary
• Earned my Certificat in Science Writing from Johns Hopkins - published articles about asteroids in the Hopkins magazine and Scientific American
• Along with my wife, asked to host/interview Neil deGrasse Tyson when he came through Winston-Salem on his book tour for Starry Messenger (total high point!)
• Characters in classes show up for weeks at a run to enhance storytelling in class: Gumm E. Bear, Kool-Aid Man, Frosty the Snowman, Gwen Stacy, James Bond
• Storytelling is demonstrated with students using/making Explainers - which combine visual and text components
• Couple of book projects in the works - if I can find the time…

Two instructional coaches share innovative teaching methods. Elizabeth and Kelly, science instructional coaches in a large school district in Texas, discuss their approach to science education. They emphasize the importance of phenomena-based learning and the integration of science and engineering practices. They explain how their district has been implementing the new science standards and curriculum adoption, focusing on the science and engineering practices and phenomena-based lessons. They also discuss the challenges of supporting teachers in implementing these changes and the need for administrative support. The goal is to shift the mindset of teachers to create more active and engaging science classrooms. In this conversation, Elizabeth and Kelly discuss their experiences with implementing phenomenon-based science instruction in their district. They share how working with Paul Andersen has pushed their thinking and improved their teaching practices. They also discuss the importance of curiosity and observation in learning, the challenges of implementing a new instructional approach, and the need for parents to understand and support the changes. They highlight the value of critical thinking, collaboration, and data interpretation in science education, and the potential for integrating science with other subjects.

Access their main slide deck here.

Access their slide deck with student samples here.

You can reach Kelly at [email protected]

You can reach Elizabeth at [email protected]

ABOUT KELLY

Kelly is currently a Science Instructional Coach in Katy ISD with over 20 years of experience in science education. Dedicated to enhancing quality science instruction, Kelly is passionate about empowering educators and fostering student success. With a deep understanding of pedagogy and curriculum development, Kelly strives to inspire excellence in both teaching and learning.

In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and raising her two boys with her husband on their cattle ranch.

ABOUT ELIZABETH

Elizabeth is a devoted educator with over 10 years of experience in science education. She currently serves as a Science Instructional Coach for Katy ISD, where she advocates for student-centered learning. Elizabeth is passionate about quality science instruction and shares her expertise through presentations at local, state, and national levels. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling with her husband (her goal is to visit all 7 continents, she's got 4 down so far), baking and decorating sugar cookies, gardening, and playing with her dog, Hank.

Teaching & AI: Policies, Ethics, and Practical Classroom Tips In this conversation, Dave and Shirin discuss various topics including Shirin's background, the use of AI in the classroom, and the importance of developing a policy for AI usage. They touch on the challenges of implementing AI in education, the benefits it can bring, and the ethical considerations that need to be addressed. They also talk about the role of generative AI and the need for digital literacy among teachers, students, and parents. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to AI in education that considers the perspectives of all stakeholders. The conversation explores the limitations and potential of generative AI models like ChatGPT. It discusses the challenges of generating original and creative content, the importance of critical thinking and verification, and the impact of AI on writing skills. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in education and mental health support. Overall, it emphasizes that AI is a human assist tool and highlights the need for understanding its limitations and potential risks. The conversation explores the changing landscape of education in the digital age, specifically focusing on the integration of AI and technology in schools. The hosts discuss the benefits and challenges of introducing computer science at an early age, the importance of balancing digital and print media, and the potential risks of over-reliance on technology. They also touch on the role of AI in project-based learning and the need for educators to adapt to the evolving educational landscape.

Bloom Learning - https://bloomlearningco.com/

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Shirin Mathew - LinkedIn

@shirinmathew - X (Twitter)

ABOUT SHIRIN

Shirin Mathew is the founder and lead education consultant at Bloom Learning, a consulting firm dedicated to empowering educators and school leaders, guiding schools through change and challenges, and creating greater opportunities for students.

Shirin currently facilitates learning experiences on generative AI, project-based learning, STEM integration, experiential learning, and more. She is passionate about collaborating with educators and leaders to reimagine schools, close equity gaps, explore the implications of new AI technology, and develop digital literacy for educators and students alike.

Over the past decade, Shirin has served as a high school science teacher, teacher leader, and project-based learning coach in high-needs schools across Chicagoland. Some notable experiences include winning The Kitchen Community grant to transform an unused urban space into a student-led garden, helping launch an internship program for every junior to participate in, establishing a wall-to-wall PBL school, and teaching during the pandemic. These experiences have fueled her commitment to providing the tools, vision, and support needed to shape schools as environments for impactful teaching, deep learning, and a launching pad for students to be difference makers.

Shirin completed her formal education in Canada, where she proudly grew up. She earned her Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education degrees from Queen's University and her Master of Education from York University.

Fostering curiosity and inquiry with real-world examples. Sara Plowman is a veteran teacher in Santa Monday and discusses with us various topics, including stinging nettles, biomimicry, authentic science, and project-based learning. They also discuss biomimicry design applications and other natural phenomena. The conversation then shifts to the importance of authentic science and project-based learning in education, with Sara sharing her definition of authentic science and providing tips for teachers to incorporate hands-on activities in the classroom. They also explore the benefits of collaboration and cross-curricular projects. The conversation concludes with a discussion on measuring heat islands and the potential for students to make informed decisions based on data collected. The conversation covers various topics related to project-based learning and scientific exploration. The main themes include the use of real-world projects to engage students, the importance of incorporating hands-on experiences, the value of failure and learning from mistakes, and the exploration of scientific questions and phenomena. The conversation also touches on the role of simulations, cultural norms in risk-taking, and the wonder of nature. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry in education.

ABOUT SARA

Born in the mountains of Utah, Sara's early days were filled with snow, sledding and mountain biking. She then moved to the Napa Valley in California, where she spent her days finding frogs in the nearby stream, exploring the nearby reservoir in her make-shift raft, and, unfortunately, discovering exactly what stinging nettles look like.

Initially discovering her love of outdoor experiential education through the lens of a student, Sara attended Midland, a small boarding school in central California with a strong focus on sustainability, environmental education and experiential learning. From there, she went on to earn her bachelor's degree in biochemistry and bachelor's degree in public health from UC Santa Cruz.

Sara has been a teacher for 19 years. She currently teaches at a small project based learning pathway that is part of Santa Monica High School. Sara believes that learning in all of the disciplines is interconnected, and strives to help guide her students to be better global citizens through differentiated, cross-curricular, project-based learning experiences. She believes in the value of experiential, inquiry based education with a strong emphasis on developing climate literacy, data analysis, presentation and word skills.

Sara is a life-long explorer. Whether strolling through Havana, or hiking the mountains of California, she believes there's something to be learned from every experience. This love of exploration and her commitment to geographic education led Sara to be chosen as a Grosvenor Teaching Fellow in 2016. This allowed her to travel to Antarctica with National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions. In 2023, Sara was selected by National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions to partner with two visiting scientists using climate proxies and modeling to explore climate change in the Arctic. These two experiences, as well as others, continue to inform her development of deep data driven, cross curricular climate literacy focused projects for her students.

Classroom data literacy and adaptability in education today.

Jolie Pelds, Director of Innovative STEM Teaching for the Science Center of Iowa chats about various topics including life opportunities, the Science Center of Iowa, Silicon Valley, ecosystems, and the importance of technology and data literacy in education. The conversation explores the importance of teaching computer science in a contextual and authentic way. It emphasizes the need for students to develop problem-solving skills, algorithmic thinking, and the ability to debug and troubleshoot technology. The conversation also highlights the value of collecting and analyzing data, as well as the importance of teamwork and collaboration. The guests share examples of hands-on activities and real-world experiences that engage students and foster a deeper understanding of scientific concepts. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for educators to create opportunities for students to become self-driven learners and to develop skills that will prepare them for the rapidly changing world. In this final part of the conversation, Jolie and Dave discuss the importance of learning how to learn and finding one's passion. They emphasize the need for individuals to explore their interests and identify the specific aspects they enjoy, as this can lead to unexpected career opportunities. They also discuss the importance of being comfortable with discomfort and embracing the learning process. The conversation touches on the uncertainty of future careers and the need for individuals to adapt and be open to new opportunities. They also highlight the value of collecting and analyzing data in various aspects of life. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of curiosity, passion, and adaptability in navigating the rapidly changing world. Science Center of Iowa

ABOUT JOLIE

Jolie Pelds is the Director of Innovative STEM Teaching at the Science Center of Iowa. She received her undergraduate degree in Biology and a master's degree in Science Education both from the University of Iowa. She has taught at both the secondary as well as collegiate level. She joined SCI in 2014 and her current work at SCI allows her to strengthen STEM education across the state through professional development and the creation of educational programming for early learners, homeschoolers, parents and teachers.

Challenge your students to create eco-inspired designs.

Amanda Sturgeon, CEO of the Biomimicry Institute, an architect and advocate for biomimicry and biophilic design, discusses the importance of design that enhance the connection between people and nature. Biophilic design and Biomimicry involves bringing elements of nature into buildings, engineering, mechanics and more, such as natural patterns, colors, and textures. Sturgeon emphasizes that modern architecture has become sterile and disconnected from nature, and biophilic design aims to shift this mindset and create spaces that promote a deep connection with nature. She also highlights the need for a shift in societal values to prioritize this connection and advocates for the inclusion of biophilic elements in all communities, not just those that can afford it. The conversation explores the need for a shift in how we design and use buildings, with a focus on incorporating nature-inspired biomimicry principles. The discussion touches on topics such as the impact of building design on productivity, the role of technology in remote work, the importance of creating flexible and biophilic spaces, and the need for a cost model that considers the true environmental and social costs of construction. The conversation also highlights the potential of biomimicry to revolutionize product design and the building industry by learning from nature's efficient and sustainable designs. Access the Biomimicry Institute free curriculum units Watch the Biomimicry Teacher Webinar for the Youth Design Challenge Learn more about the Biomimicry Institute

ABOUT AMANDA

As CEO of The Biomimicry Institute, Amanda fosters a thriving eco-system of innovators, educators and change-makers to bring about a world that works in harmony with nature and natural systems. Amanda is an award winning Architect, author and non-profit and thought leader on how people, buildings and cities connect to nature. She authored the book 'Creating Biophilic Buildings" and has an essay in the best selling anthology 'All We Can Save" , she has published articles across mainstream media, such as The Guardian, and is a frequent keynote speaker at global events. Amanda was previously the inaugural CEO of Built by Nature, a network and grant-making fund, focused on accelerating the timber and bio-based building materials transformation and she has also served as Regenerative Design Lead at global consultancy Mott MacDonald, working with clients across the Asia Pacific region to bring climate and biodiversity positive solutions to infrastructure, buildings and cities.

During her decade with the International Living Future Institute as CEO she authored and developed regenerative building programs such as The Living Building Challenge and founded the Biophilic Design Initiative. Amanda was elevated to be a Fellow of The American Institute of Architects in 2015 due to her extensive advocacy for buildings and cities that work in unison with nature. Amanda currently serves on the board of Climate Action Network Australia and is on the Biophilic Cities Advisory Group.