On February 2, 2013, Kent School’s Lower School science teacher, Pam Deringer, will lead a workshop of twenty educators on the topic of collaborative studies of the Chesapeake Bay. Deringer will work with Sultana Projects’ Chris Cerino on the program which is funded by a grant from National Geographic. The workshop will be held in Solomon’s
The workshop focuses on National Geographic’s FieldScope program. According to their website, “National Geographic FieldScope is a web-based platform to support our Community Geography Initiative. FieldScope is a . . . collaboration tool designed to support geographic investigations and engage citizen scientists in investigations of real-world issues—both in the classroom and in outdoor education settings.” Deringer was selected by Sultana to lead these workshops based on her extensive experience using FieldScope in her third and fourth grade Bay Studies classes.
Each year Deringer conducts field experiments in water testing around the region with her students. They collect data and input it to FieldScope’s interactive map of the Chesapeake Bay and then compare data from other testers. In this workshop Deringer will instruct other teachers on the best, age- appropriate methods for using FieldScope in their classrooms. Participating teachers will then be able to use this resource in the field when they bring their students on field trips with Sultana Projects. The costs of those field trips are also subsidized through the National Geographic grant.
As described by National Geographic ,“FieldScope uses cutting-edge technology to make interactive mapping and geospatial data analysis tools accessible to students via the web in an intuitive package that is free and does not require software installation. The program enables students and classrooms to upload their own field data—including quantitative measurements, field notes, and media, such as photos—and to see it in relation to data from peers and professional scientists. FieldScope fosters collaborative sharing and analysis of data among the FieldScope community and beyond.”
Deringer said, “I’ve been using FieldScope for several years. It is valuable in so many ways. My students not only analyze the data they have collected on their field trips, they learn how to accurately input their data and then review it in comparison to other data. It also helps with their mapping skills. Most importantly, it gives them the bigger picture and a better understanding of the connectivity within the watershed. FieldScope helps them understand in literal terms the impact that one region has on another.” She continued, “I’m thrilled to share my experience with other teachers and my passion for Bay Studies. Wouldn’t it be great of every student in our state used FieldScope. The future of the Chesapeake Bay would indeed be bright.”
For more information about Kent School, FieldScope or the educator workshop contact Kent School at 410-778-4100.
Melinda Bookwalter says
Great going Chris and Pam!! You are a perfect team. Congratulations on being recognized by National Geo in the awarding of this grant.
DLaMotte says
Pam is the best science teacher ever! My kids loved her and refound a love of science in high school…thanks to her!