Research of informal science education institutions (ISEIs) documents the expansive and multifaceted ways that such spaces work in tandem with formal learning to support science instruction and lifelong learning (Kisiel, 2013). From a sociocultural perspective, ISEIs can be leveraged to include communities and celebrate the individual’s whole self in sense-making (Dawson, 2014; Warren et al., 2001). This presentation seeks to address the gap in ISEI opportunities for marginalized communities by sharing The Whynauts, a free virtual resource available for both English- and Spanish-speaking audiences.
Using the Paleontology episode, the presenters will introduce the standards-aligned, interactive video series and engage attendees in hands-on, station-based activities. Attendees will learn how to adapt the video, educator guide, and supplemental activities for classroom use. Collectively, we will identify cross-curricular connections and discuss how to scale and differentiate the content.
TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will gain access to The Whynauts and explore ways to adapt the interactive video series and accompanying educator guides for use in teaching a variety of standards-aligned science topics.
SPEAKERS:
Patricia Ratanapraphart (STEM Content Manager: Dallas, TX)