Nature School for Teachers is an opportunity for K-8 teachers to immerse themselves in science by exploring their local habitat, and meaningfully connect with the science practices embedded in the Massachusetts Science Frameworks. Mass Audubon educators and scientists will facilitate hands-on engagements with nature, rich discussions, and content-rich presentations. Participants will practice field science and inquiry-based learning methods by studying and exploring local habitats, conducting field research, and designing investigations and field experiences that will have direct applicability to their classroom. The course will introduce principles of ecology (ecosystems, habitats, adaptation, food webs, cycles and systems, energy flow, and the influence of climate change), and highlight their connections to the earth, life, and physical science standards. Facilitators will suggest methods and resources for helping students learn and practice science through the exploration of their schoolyards and neighborhoods, and will model practical ways to teach in an outdoor environment.

Participants will reflect on their experiences by keeping a field journal and, as a final project, will create a field experience and study tools to be used by their students, reporting back on the experience at a later date.

24 PDPs, 1 optional graduate credit from Worcester State University for $125, due upon initial registration.