Professional Development for Informal Science Educators: Fostering Progress Through Next Generation Science Standards

• In Event: 66.080 - Roundtable Session 26
  In Roundtable Session: 66.080-17 - Exploring Educators' Experiences Within an Informal Learning Context

Abstract

PDISE (Professional Development for Informal Science Educators) is an ongoing, dynamic model developed by university faculty and informal science educators to promote collaboration and enhance science learning. We report on the impact of the PDISE model that focuses on the need to build capacity within informal institutions to support science education through collaborative efforts. Informal science institutions are poised to play an important role in enhancing science education, particularly now with the implementation of Next Generation Science Standards. We will summarize the PDISE model and present findings related to the impact it has had on informal science educators (ISEs) at diverse institutions in southern California.

Authors

• Amy Cox-Petersen, California State University - Fullerton

• Michelle Vanderveldt, Fullerton College

• Maria C. Grant, California State University - Fullerton

• Cynthia Gautreau, California State University - Fullerton