An IYA2009 Activity Puts “Astronomy in the Classroom”
The University of Hawaii’s Institute for Astronomy (IfA) and Interstellar Studios, the producers of the PBS special 400 Years of the Telescope, have created a unique learning opportunity for classroom students and teachers. Starting in April 2009, teachers can log their students onto the “Astronomer in the Classroom” online conference room for dynamic interactions with astronomers and technicians from the world’s leading observatories.
Each half-hour session will begin with a 5-10 minute presentation including imagery, PowerPoint slides and video, followed by a question and answer period where your students and you get to pose your questions directly to the presenters. Hundreds of scientists are volunteering to participate in this International Year of Astronomy activity. The best thing about it – you choose in which of the daily presentations your classroom will participate.
Three daily sessions will be held to allow each of the North American time zones to participate. As an educator, all you need to do is select the astronomers and times that work best with your curriculum and schedule. This is also an excellent opportunity for libraries and science centers. Using the Adobe Connect Web conferencing solution, an unlimited number of classrooms can join in on the lectures.
Participating is easy.
o Visit http://www.AstronomerInTheClassroom.org
o Select a lecture from the calendar
o Click on the provided link on the date/time of the selected lecture.
o Once in the virtual classroom, students can participate in the lectures by typing questions to the speaker.
Requirements: Any computer with an Internet browser connected to the Internet (ADSL or cable broadband is recommended). No additional software is required.
Don’t miss out on this invaluable International Year of Astronomy resource. Bring the Universe to your students!
For more information contact:
Kris Koenig
Interstellar Studios
11 Ilahee Lane
Chico, CA 95973
kris@interstellarstudios.com
(530) 343-5635
