The Institute for Science Instruction and Study (ISIS) will associate experienced science teachers from Connecticut (including minority teachers and teachers of minorities) with research scientists who are working at the frontiers of knowledge in their fields. Seminars, weekend workshops, field site visits, summer programs, and mentorships will introduce the teachers to every aspect of the scientific research process. Since the teachers will be intimately involved in ongoing scientific work, they will be identified as ISIS Fellows. Through ISIS, Fellows will learn to interact with the scientific community personally and intellectually. By experiencing real and recent science, teacher participants will be scientifically remotivated to acquire an enriched knowledge of science, technology, and social values. Through the sharing of experiences with other ISIS Fellows, and interaction with participating scientists, they will become more skilled and dynamic in their teaching. The result will be teachers with renewed self-images and increased levels of confidence in their science-related abilities. ISIS Fellows will form a cadre of scientifically- informed teachers who will become leaders in their school districts. Their ability to provide leadership will be enhanced by the guarantee of support from their school administration and continued access to ISIS resources. An amount equivalent to 42.6% of the NSF award is being contributed as cost-sharing.
