9355805 Nolet PEPP aims to install an array of seismographs in high schools and colleges nationwide, to create a computer network to share seismological data and information, to develop a series of Earth science and physics curriculum modules around analysis of seismological data, and to form a network of supporting members of IRIS (Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology, an NSF-supported consortium of more than 80 universities - see Appendix A) to train and support science teachers. The main goals of the project are: - The develop "hands on" seismological data acquisition equipment for use at high schools and colleges, to increase the curiosity of students to explain nature, - To increase the understanding of Earth science and physics concepts through connected lab experiments in seismology, while developing a sense of familiarity with the seismometer as an instrument for using these concepts, - To support teachers to do real "classroom science" with their students and provide scientific back-up for teachers as they undertake these activities with their students, - To stimulate interaction between teachers in Earth sciences and physics with researchers in geophysics, - To give teachers organizational and intellectual support by providing curriculum materials, computer networking as well as research opportunities, - To disseminate PEPP nationally and build a unique seismological array that allows students and teachers to share data over Internet and to make real discoveries, - To stimulate developments in instrument design that improves the sensor to be used in this project. PEPP is rooted in the recent developments that have revolutionized observational seismology. New networks of high quality, digital seismographs are being installed right now, both on a national scale by the USGS, as well as on a worldwide scale. IRIS, a consortium of (mostly academic) seismological institutions in the US is the driving force behind the installation of a worldwide network. The school network supplements this in the US. It not only provides real data for use in the classroom - it has unique scientific potential because it provides a station density that could never be obtained using purely professional resources. In the final stage of the project, research workshops for teachers will be developed in which the data are used. This project will enable secondary science teachers to undertake long-term, networked seismic monitoring that will contribute seismology research while supporting the reform of science education through the infusion of teacher-led, student-based scientific research. By locating this scientific research in schools, participants will help shift science instruction in their schools toward a more project- oriented, inquiry-based paradigm.
