Build Awareness

Building Awareness events convene leaders representing school districts, school-level leadership, state and local government, and community stakeholders including parents, business and community leaders, and representatives from higher education institutions in the community. Garnering the support of stakeholders at Building Awareness programs is critical to both the initiation and longevity of any transformation effort.

 

Step One: Introduce the SSEC, the LASER model, and the regional program, clearly communicating expectations for the SSEC, regional partners, and program participants.

Participants receive a comprehensive overview of the SSEC, its LASER model for transforming science, and specifics related to the program proposed in their community.


Step Two: Make the case for inquiry-based science education through research on the learning and teaching of science.

Before the SSEC begins working anywhere, whether a short-term project or a yearlong initiative, it is important that all stakeholders understand why inquiry-based science education is effective and how it benefits students both today and in the future.


Step Three: Develop the foundation for a shared vision of inquiry-based, hands-on science education and determine collective next steps after this program.

For a group of stakeholders to work together cohesively toward a common goal, they must first agree upon what their shared future looks like. A shared vision for science education is best created when a community comes together to identify and take ownership of their collective vision.


Step Four: Set the foundation for a regional community of professionals committed to improving education for all students.

One of the greatest advantages of gathering stakeholders together for Building Awareness programs is that it creates a foundation for a local network within the community of people committed to transforming science education.