May 1996 — Features

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Teacher Training: Helping to Construct the Information Highway

DR. O. W. KOPP, University of Nebraska, and DR. KAY E. FERGUSON, Space TREK Inst

Next Steps

Our eight years of experience with TREK Institutes has provided insights into viable procedures and designs to integrate sophisticated technologies into classroom instruction. As a result, the Dana Institutes -- which were basically summer projects -- are now being projected into year-long interactive programs with both public and private school districts.

Teachers from districts are collaborating with the Institute master teachers and are designing the following projects:

  • A simulated shuttle mission in an "almost real" space shuttle and Mission Control center;
  • The accompanying curriculum integrates mathematics, science, language arts and sophisticated technologies;
  • Kids and teachers are cooperatively developing multimedia projects in this integrated curriculum format; and
  • Telecommunication projects are augmented by the aid of scientists and researchers.

Based upon carefully evaluated program outcomes of the past eight summers, the Dana College TTTM model can assist by providing an effective model for genuine infusion of technology into the classrooms of this nation. n

Kay Ferguson is a professor of education and psychology at Blair College. For the past seven years, she has directed the Dana College Space TREK (Technology Resources Exciting Kids) Summer Institute, where teachers are trained to work with children and pre-service teachers.
E-mail: kferguson@acad2.dana.edu

O. W. Kopp is a Professor Emeritus and former director of the Center for Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln.

References:
1. American Association of University Women (1992), Shortchanging Girls, Shortchanging America, A Call to Action, Washington, DC: author, p. 17.
2. National Governor's Association meeting (February, 1990), America 2000 Goals.
3. Thomas, Julie (1994), Analysis of the Dana College Teacher Training Model, 1992-1993, September, 1994, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE.