Portable Advanced Science Exploration (PASE)

Looking for opportunities to train teachers in using cutting edge technology? Interested in providing classrooms with access to scientific laboratory equipment?

At the Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM), we believe innovative technologies combined with unique learning opportunities lead to significant improvement in teacher and student achievement. That’s why we created PASE.

Designed by GSSM’s Outreach Center and launched with a grant from the Toyota USA Foundation, PASE features a collection of portable scientific equipment that can be borrowed for classroom use by teachers who complete PASE sessions. PASE aims to enhance teacher skills, boost student achievement and inspire future scientific studies.

PASE SUMMER INSTITUTE INFORMATION

What PASE is

PASE promotes advanced science exploration through the use of technology. PASE puts advanced scientific equipment in the hands of dedicated teachers and provides training that enables them to comfortably incorporate this equipment into classroom instruction.

Who PASE serves

PASE targets middle school and high school science teachers in South Carolina and their students.

How PASE works

One-day professional development workshops introduce teachers to PASE technologies and activities. A week-long summer professional development seminar offers in-depth training for integrating learning technologies and scientific equipment into the curriculum with engaging, challenging and hands-on activities.

Where PASE happens

One-day workshops are held in participating schools, school districts, or at GSSM. A week-long summer seminar will be held at the GSSM campus in Hartsville.

When PASE is scheduled

Several one-day workshops will be held during the 2009–2010 school year. A week-long seminar will be held in the summer of 2010. Click here for more information on the PASE Summer Institute>>

PASE:

• Is geared toward middle and high school teachers of physical science, chemistry, biology and physics

• Offers activities that are inquiry-based and aligned with the S.C. Science Academic Standards

• Uses data acquisition tools such as motion detectors, gas pressure sensors, pH probes and online learning tools, plus other technology for exploring scientific phenomena

• Trains teachers to use learning technologies to conduct investigations, collect and analyze data, construct models and develop questions that can be answered scientifically

• Provides opportunities for teachers and students to develop a deeper understanding of science content through the visual application of scientific principles

For more information about PASE or to schedule your participation in a workshop, please contact :

Susan Engelhardt
PASE Professional Development Coordinator
engelhardt@gssm.k12.sc.us
843.383.3901 ext 3950

Randy La Cross
GSSM VP of Statewide Outreach & Research
lacross@gssm.k12.sc.us
843.383.3916