In-person professional development
“The Idealized Science Program has made significant, immediate positive impacts on my students' learning. I was initially interested by the fact that this is a program heavily based in science education research and currently implemented at a public school district. The pedagogical practices are not a latest trend in science or some theoretical idea from a university professor but tested, research-based, successful teaching practices used by a current classroom teacher to engage students in authentic science practices… I found the training to be the most engaging, exciting training of my 11 year career in education. To see how much students have the opportunity to learn about, experience, and engage in the nature of science practices, to see how science truly develops, and to contribute authentic science research -- what more could you ask for our students? I cannot wait to fully implement the long-term and short-term projects in my classes!”
-Walter Nogay, In-service Physics Teacher at Montour High School
Teacher Training Workshops
Despite decades of research and well-intentioned educational standards aimed at increasing the quality of science education for all students, most teachers default to an outdated “traditional lecture” approach in their classrooms. While the Idealized Science Institute’s online offerings aim to empower teachers to slowly move away from this outdated instructional format and enhance their pedagogical repertoire, they are no substitute for in-person teacher trainings which can kickstart and accelerate this process, leading to substantial improvements in a fraction of the time.
Our Teacher Training Workshops Offer
Intensive, in-depth training in research-backed teaching methods that align with current state and federal science standards
Integration into a community of motivated science teachers
Act 48 continuing education credits (currently only for PA workshops)
A stipend for participating in the training
Read more about our upcoming events below, sign up at the links provided, and feel free to contact bwargo@idealizedscience.org with any questions!
Upcoming Events
In-person Professional Development Workshop
The Pendulum: A Gateway to Authentic Scientific Research at the High School Level
Location: Freedom Area Senior High School
Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
Eligibility: Must be an in-service STEM teacher in either Beaver or Allegheny County.
Logistics:
9 a.m. -4 p.m.
$300 stipend
Additional funding will be available for participation in Freedom Area High School’s Annual Science Conference
Due to generous funding from the Duquesne Light Company, the Idealized Science Institute is proud to hold our first in-person teacher training workshop this spring. If you are interested in learning, gaining a community of local teachers, earning Act 48 credits, all while receiving financial support, please fill out the form at the link below!