SEDNet: Nationwide Teacher Enhancement Network

SEDNet is a nationwide educational leadership program to introduce physical and space science curricula into schools. Hand in hand with a consortium of Challenger Learning Centers across the nation, the two-year pilot program offers workshops to elementary and middle school teachers. SEDNet's objectives are to:

• introduce exemplary, discovery-based physical and space science curricula to elementary and middle school teachers not now using such materials;

• increase the understanding and content knowledge of the teachers in the physical and space sciences;

• enhance the teaching skills of the teachers in using discovery-based curricula;

• establish a structure to provide for continuing support of participating teachers.

A unique staff development opportunity is available! Project SEDNet representatives conduct dynamic one-day workshops utilizing ARIES, an astronomy-based physical science curriculum for grades 3-8, and Astronomy Village, a supplemental multimedia program for grades 7 and 8.

The ARIES curriculum includes eight self-contained modules that present key areas of physical science deemed essential in all the new science standards:

• Exploring Time: Sundials, Waterclocks, and Pendulums

• Exploring Light and Color: Filters, Lenses, and Cameras

• Exploring the Earth in Motion: Daylight, Sun, and Shadow Patterns

• Exploring Waves: Water, Vibrations, and Sound

• Exploring Energy: Waterwheels, Windmills, and Sunlight

• Exploring Motion and Forces: Friction, Velocity, and Acceleration

• Exploring Space: Sun, Moon, and Stars

• Exploring Navigation: Location, Direction, and Latitude

Astronomy Village, funded by NASA, was developed at the Classroom of the Future in Wheeling, WV. This multimedia program supplements astronomy and space science curricula in grades 7 and 8. The program includes a comprehensive teacher's guide, a CD-ROM packed with numerous resources and tools for students to investigate, and activity guides. The investigations focus on stellar evolution, time and distance scales, extra-galactic planetary systems, and instrumentation. It is available at minimal cost.

Visit the SEDNet Web site for a complete description about these projects and the location of a workshop near you!

Grade Levels: 3-8

For more information, please contact: Bruce Ward, bward@cfa.harvard.edu, (617)495-5434

Contact Charlesbridge Publishing Company for information on ordering the ARIES modules.

Project SEDNet is sponsored by a grant from the National Science Foundation