KS4 & KS5 Earth and Environmental Science INSET - Events

KS4 & KS5 Earth and Environmental Science INSET

Nationwide

10. 12. 10

9.30am - 3.30pm

The National Space Centre and the European Space Agency are holding a series of science teacher CPD events at the National Space Centre from July 2010 onwards. Based on activities developed as part of the Space Academy programme, these INSETS are all-day teacher masterclasses focused on using the inspirational context of space to enhance attendee subject knowledge as well as providing a host of relevant curriculum-focused hands-on activities that can be implemented immediately in the classroom.

Geospatial technology is an area of major growth for science, industry, engineering, environment and resource management, government and commerce. Geospatial technology includes data from satellite and airborne Earth observation platforms, the Global Positioning System, laser scanning instruments and geographical information systems (GIS). This session looks at how to combine the technology in curriculum focussed activities in STEM for investigating a range of topics including:

- Environmental change
- Species and habitats
- Oil and mineral exploration
- Spectroscopy
- Decision-making exercises

The session will primarily focus on the use of Google Earth with the opportunity to extend activities into GIS and earth observation science. All activities utilise freely available data and open source software, are backed up with detailed worksheets and are supported by the Institute of Engineering Surveying and Space Geodesy, University of Nottingham and the Space Research Centre, University of Leicester.

The course is suitable for geography, geology, environmental science and biology specialists.

The course tutor is Dr Simon Roberts. Simon joined the Space Academy in September 2008 as the Project Scientist at the Institute of Engineering Surveying and Space Geodesy, University of Nottingham. His background is in earth observation, GPS and geographical information systems in the environmental sciences, which has seen him working in places from the North Pole to South Africa.

As part of his role, he continues to be involved in research and is currently working on projects in Uganda with the Foundation for Aids Orphaned Children in Mbarara and the Africa Gifted Foundation.

Cost: £35 (including refreshments, lunch and resources)

For more information or to book a place please email sarahh@spacecentre.co.uk.

http://www.spacecentre.co.uk/Page.aspx/205/TEACHER_PROGRAMMES/