Daily Archives: February 18, 2009

Free NASA Professional Development Webcasts for Teachers

NASA’s Digital Learning Network presents a series of videoconferences to assist educators in staying current on NASA education resources and related products.

During each event, product producers, authors and experts will demonstrate their materials designed to optimize awareness and understanding of science concepts. Instructional objectives, accessing the materials and primary contacts for the materials will also be discussed. During the videoconferences, participants will be able to submit questions to the presenter that will be addressed during the presentation.

The following topics will be covered:

Chemistry: What Is Your Cosmic Connection to the Elements?: Feb. 25, 2009, 4-5 p.m. EST
The elements that make up life itself reflect events that take place in the universe. Humankind’s very existence is linked to these elements and their cosmic origin. Join in for discussions of the big bang theory, stars, supernovae, cosmic rays and other topics as participants learn more about the cosmic origin of the elements.

Kepler Mission: March 25, 2009, 4-5 p.m. EST
The Kepler mission will seek evidence for Earth-size planets in orbit around sun-like stars. For the first time NASA will be able to search the galaxy for Earth-size or smaller planets. With this cutting-edge capability, Kepler may help to answer one of the most enduring questions humans have asked throughout history: Are there others like us in the universe?

Meteorology: An Educators Resource Guide for Inquiry-Based Learning: April 29, 2009, 4-5 p.m. EST
Meteorology is one of the oldest observational sciences in human history and perhaps the most relevant to a broad segment of society. Learn how the first early meteorologists used this knowledge for their success and survival. This educator guide covers weather patterns, climate and measurement tools.

NASA Explores Virtual Worlds: May 27, 2009, 4-5 p.m. EST
Virtual immersive environments are increasing in popularity in modern America. Explore the virtual world that NASA education is building in Second Life and learn how to become an active citizen of this world.

For more information about these videoconferences and to sign up online, visit http://dln.nasa.gov/dln/content/webcast/