Twenty Wisconsin teachers of earth and life science will be selected for involvement in each year of a three year project designed to increase content background and understanding of the nature of science through research experience. Each teacher will participate in sessions with field research scientists to select a research project. Seminars and formal class work will provide content relative to the geology or life science area of their research. During the academic year, the participants will complete library research related to their selected problem. Participants will attend seminars at which they will present their literature findings, interact with master teachers to discuss techniques for involving students in research, and discuss how to incorporate personal research into a curriculum. During the summer and fall, the participants will conduct field research under the direction of a scientist. Local university, college museum, or industrial scientists will provide technical consulting as needed. A master high school teacher will provide general coordination. During the second academic year participants will concentrate on writing reports and presenting findings at seminars. The participants will present papers at the Annual Conference of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters, and other appropriate professional associations. An amount equivalent to 60.1% of the NSF award is being contributed as cost-sharing.
