What: 2017 B.O.S.S. for Educators (Big Orange STEM Saturday)
When: October 7, 2017
Where: Hodges Library
Sponsored By: UTK Libraries, The Center for Enhancing Education in Mathematics and Sciences (CEEMS), The East Tennessee STEM Hub, and the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (TSIN)
Team Members: Thura Mack (chair), Ingrid Ruffin (co-chair), Michelle Brannen, Alexa Carter, Kristina Clement, Dr. Lynn Hodge, Val Hodge, Ann Ramsey, Megan Venable, & Dr. Ashley Walther
WHAT
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Christopher Lavan, Director of Experience Learning, University of TN (Topic: The Power of Experiential Learning for Today’s Students)
Breakout Sessions & Titles:
- Dr. Clara Lee Brown, English Learns & STEM: STEM for All? Where Should We Begin?
- Gale Stanley & Michael Lawson, Exploring Resources for K-12 Teachers to Engage Students in STEM Learning
- Ask a Scientist, Communicating Science: Do’s and Don’ts
- Patricia Stinger-Barnes, Creating Access to Scientific Inquiry: Everyday Ideas and Materials
- Dr. Jeff Beard & Dr. Blanche O’Bannon, Using Mobile Technology in the Classroom
Participants: 33 educators from the East TN region (teachers, administrators, librarians) attended the conference. 14 districts were represented from the following areas: Anderson County, Blount County, Campbell County, Claiborne County, Jefferson County, Knox County, Lenoir City, Loudon County, Monroe County, Oak Ridge City, Polk County, Roane County, Sevier County, and Union County.
Why: Big Orange STEM Saturday for educators (EduBOSS) is a free professional development opportunity for education professionals in East Tennessee. Educators from across the region gathered to learn and discuss STEM education. This year’s theme: STEM4ALL: Equity & Access for K-12 STEM Education.