Science Education Workshop - Field Ecology

Hands on Science for K-12 Teachers
July 29 - August 2, Summer 2002
Dr. Charles Rop, Instructor

Learned the ecology of Northern Michigan while on land and on the water.

Two nights in a Grayling motel were followed by 3 days and 2 nights on the Inland Seas School Ship, a tall classic sailing vessel based in Sutton's Bay, Michigan.

While aboard the ship, we studied Lake Michigan ecology and the rather unique environments on the islands in the area. We also studied wetlands, bogs, lakes, streams and terrestrial environments on the mainland.

We mucked about taking samples, collecting data, making observations, and then learned how to deal with all of the information we collected.

We were especially interested in applying what we learned about ecology and field science to classroom teaching and learning.

We filled each day with hands-on, mind-on ecology. Participants were also introduced to fly fishing entomology.

Assignments

Because we had no time for homework, I required a minimum amount of reading before class began.

Participants read 2 classic books:

1. Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
2. Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold

* If for some reason you can't find one of these books, you can substitute Walden by Thoreau.

You will be required to do a practical, long-term project. We will negotiate requirements for this project during our workshop.

Fees

• Because this course included lodging, transportation, food, etc. there was an extra charge of $575 for participation.
• For planning reasons, we needed 10 participants
• A non-refundable $100 deposit was required with full payment by May 1.
  
  *Please note, no refunds after June 1.