Arlington, Va.,—October 2011—Thousands of teachers will explore science and science education at the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Hartford Area Conference, taking place Oct. 27–29. Participants from across Connecticut and neighboring states will discuss the hottest topics in science education, including the next generation of science education standards; how to improve science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) teaching and learning; and climate change. They will also have the opportunity to learn about new teaching tools and techniques, network with fellow science education professionals, and hear thought-provoking presentations from renowned scientists and educators. The three-day conference, held in conjunction with the Connecticut Science Teachers Association (CSTA), will be held at the Connecticut Convention Center and other local venues.
A highlight of the conference will be the Science Matters Community Event, taking place on Saturday from 8:30–11 a.m. At the Science Matters Community Event teachers, parents and families can participate in exciting hands-on science and engineering activities, view live animal presentations and learn new ways to engage children in science. The event will provide both teachers and parents with teaching resources and information on quality learning experiences in the sciences—starting at an early age—and information on why science education is critical to science literacy and our future workforce.
On Thursday, October 27, Stephen Pruitt, Vice President for Content, Research, and Development at Achieve, Inc. will join NSTA Executive Director Dr. Francis Eberle in a featured panel—Next Generation Science Standards—to update educators on the development of the new K–12 science education standards, including process and timeline for release of drafts and final documents. Attendees will also hear how science educators can be involved in the process and implications for science teaching.
The keynote speaker for the conference is Dr. James Garvin, Chief Scientist for NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, who will present, “Science at the Frontier of Space: Where We Are Going…” Other prominent speakers include Kenneth Wesson, an education consultant for preschool through university institutions and organizations. His presentation, “Brain-STEM: Blending Brain Research and STEM Education,” will highlight the research on how the brain learns best and how to apply that research to meet the goals of STEM education.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore NSTA’s Exhibit Hall, a highlight of the conference. From the latest high-tech calculators to scientifically engineered container gardens, attendees will examine and learn about the latest science education materials, laboratory equipment, and computer hardware and software available.
The NSTA Hartford Area Conference on Science Education will begin with concurrent sessions on Thursday, October 27 at 8 a.m. and will conclude at noon on Saturday, October 29, with the closing of the exhibits. Teachers interested in attending the conference can register onsite at the Convention Center. For updated information about the conference, visit http://www.nsta.org/conferences/2011har/?lid=tnav.
About NSTA
The Arlington, VA-based National Science Teachers Association (www.nsta.org) is the largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all. NSTA’s current membership includes approximately 60,000 science teachers, science supervisors, administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives, and others involved in science education.
Note to Reporters: Members of the working press who wish to attend the conference will be given complimentary conference badges. To register, e-mail Kate Falk at kfalk@nsta.org. Reporters can also register onsite at the NSTA press registration counter, located in the attendee registration area at the Connecticut Convention Center (Hours: October 27, 8–4 p.m.; October 28 11, 8–4 p.m.; and October 29, 7:30–11 a.m.)
Contact
Kate Falk, NSTA
(703) 312-9211(office)
(510) 828-9008 (onsite)