2002 Summer Conference Announcement Registration Schedule Call for Papers

2002 Summer Conference "Integrating Science and Mathematics Education Research into Teaching" June 23 to 25, 2002 · The University of Maine · Orono, Maine Sponsored by: The University of Maine - Center for Science and Mathematics Education Research Maine Mathematics and Science Teaching Excellence Collaborative (MMSTEC)

ABSTRACT Workshop on Guided Inquiry Instruction in Chemistry James Spencer This workshop will allow participants to experience a cooperative learning classroom structured according to constructivist and learning cycle principles. The philosophical and pedagogical basis on which this approach is based will be described. The set-up and conduct of a lectureless, student focused environment in which students work in small groups under the mentorship of an instructor will be demonstrated. Guided inquiry worksheets designed to guide students to develop concepts for themselves provide the basis for group work. A classroom set up in this way provides for social interaction by giving the learner the opportunity to test new knowledge through interaction with peers. The instructor is then in a position to listen to and learn from the students. The focus of the workshop will be the demonstration of of the group learning experience in general chemistry. Examples of discovery or guided inquiry general chemistry laboratory experiences will be presented. The same principles have been applied to group learning in physical chemistry and organic chemistry and courses in both areas have been developed using the same cooperative structure. Back to Announcement Page

Center for Science and Mathematics Education Research Maine Mathematics and Science Teaching Excellence Collaborative (MMSTEC)

This conference is supported by the U.S. Department of Education Fund for the Improvement of Education (U.S. Department of Education Award Number R125K010106) and the National Science Foundation (NSF DUE #998-7444).