WK 14 - Engaging the Masses: Meeting the Challenges of Large Intro Courses

Monday, August 2, 2010: 11:30 AM-1:15 PM
414, David L Lawrence Convention Center
Organizer:
Janet M. Batzli, University of Wisconsin, Madison
Co-organizer:
Diane Ebert-May, Michigan State University
iPhones out, scanning Facebook, heavy eyelids and lack of focus--"How can I engage and motivate student learning in my classroom?" Although large introductory courses are often the most challenging environments to reach students, we argue that intro classes are the most important to prepare students for a successful undergraduate experience. We welcome early career faculty, postdocs, and graduate students to participate in a workshop modeling techniques 1) to create an active, participatory learning environment even in the largest enrollment classrooms, 2) to engage and reduce the activation barrier to learning, 3) to utilize peer learning and near-peer mentoring to focus learning and breakdown barriers of variable preparation of students. Rather than 'reinventing the wheel', workshop participants will consider a variety of approaches and instructional resources that could be adapted for their own use. This workshop is based on a vision and action towards undergraduate science curriculum reform utilizing 'scientific teaching' and a student-centered, inquiry based approach to learning. Throughout the workshop, we will address the practical realities of classroom logistics and time, as well as challenges to innovation. Please bring a lunch as no lunch will be provided. For more information please contact: Janet Batzli, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 608-263-1594, jcbatzli@wisc.edu

Registration Fee: $0

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