Arlington, Va., October 2012—Thousands of teachers will explore science and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education at the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Louisville Area Conference, taking place Oct. 18–20. Participants from across Kentucky and neighboring states will discuss the hottest topics in science education, including the next generation science standards; how to connect science curriculum to real-world STEM applications; and how to incorporate the latest technology into the science classroom. Attendees 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 Kentucky Science Teachers Association (KSTA), will be held at the Kentucky International Convention Center and other local venues.
A highlight of the conference will be the keynote presentation by Stephen Pruitt, vice president for content, research, and development at Achieve, Inc. Pruitt will update educators on the development of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), 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. For those who teach in Kentucky, Melinda N. Curless and Sean Elkins from the Kentucky Department of Education will present a session on Friday, discussing Kentucky’s adoption of NGSS and how the new standards will impact Kentucky-based teachers and curriculum designers.
Other prominent speakers include Christine Cunningham, founder and director of Engineering is Elementary and vice president of the Museum of Science in Boston, Mass. Her presentation, “Engineering-enhanced Science, Inquiry, and Problem Solving,” will explore how integrating engineering design into science classes can engage students more deeply with science and math concepts.
When not attending back-to-back sessions and workshops, attendees can browse NSTA’s popular Exhibit Hall where more than 100 companies and organizations will be exhibiting state-of-the-art science materials and products. Attendees will be able to learn about the latest science education materials, laboratory equipment and computer hardware and software available.
The NSTA Louisville Area Conference on Science Education will begin with concurrent sessions on Thursday, October 18 at 8 a.m. and will conclude at noon on Saturday, October 20, 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/2012lou/.
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, email Kate Falk at kfalk@nsta.org . Reporters can also register onsite at the NSTA press registration counter, located in Hall 2D in the exhibitor registration area at the Kentucky International Convention Center (Hours: October 18, 9–5 p.m.; October 19, 9–5 p.m.; and October 20, 9–10:30 a.m.).
Contacts
Kate Falk, NSTA
(703) 312-9211(office)
kfalk@nsta.org
Michele Soule, NSTA
202-769-9462 (onsite)