Professional+Development

Much of my research with colleagues this year has centered on Authentic Research. My primary colleagues in this are: Karyn Smith, Mike Arsenault, Merry Stuhr, and Molly Smith. For a look at some of the material we have been perusing, complete with rumination, please visit our google doc, in all its "in progress" resplendence. Soon, we'll start narrowing down what will comprise the heart of the matter. [|Inquiry Based Learning doc]

For a flavor of inquiry circles, click here: http://www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/1869981/Inquiry_Circles

In the fall, we will offer this course, which will be modeled on inquiry based learning and be about it - both! (Imagine the irony of a didactic approach to that particular topic!): AUTHENTIC RESEARCH Instructor: Merry Kahn, Charlotte Agell, Karyn Smith, and Mike Arsenault, Molly Smith Credits: 1

How do we make research authentic and engaging?~ How do we differentiate for all learners? Many research assignments end up being a form of hoop-jumping. How can we transform this to passionate inquiry? The goal of this Yarmouth course is to explore the concept of inquiry based learning in a collaborative format, and how to use this at any level, with any subject matter. Authentic research results in thinking that reveals, rather than explains, and projects that rise above the "scavenger hunt" (find out everything about Norway) model to truly and meaningfully engage young researchers. The readings will come from journal articles, excerpts from professional books and national and district standards. In the spirit of authentic research, the input and the ideas of the participants will guide the course, just as student questions should guide their learning. ~ What if wonder were at the heart of research? Participants will be asked to pilot a project (a new one, or a revamped existing research project) in their classrooms.

September 27, October 25, November 29, December 20, & January 3 from 2:40-4:10. Additional online work for 5 hours