June 24–28
The Intersection of Life and Land (IN634)
This course is designed as a model of the environment-based learning process. Students will participate in investigations related to local environmental issues, focusing on the integrated relationship of environment to people and culture. Students will explore area history, related books/literature/articles, basic ecological/scientific principles (including math), and cultural connections to conduct a detailed investigation of the issue. Participants will explore issues of land use (i.e. land development, farming) to the impacts on the watershed and water quality (i.e. environment, culture, economy, etc.). The course will involve field trips for cultural and scientific investigations, including a possible trip to the Chesapeake Bay (TBA). The course will also include strategies to help K-12 students identify local problems and develop plans for problem solving and implementation. Course Instructor: Dr. Tamra Willis, MBC Assistant Professor, Graduate Teacher Education.
July 8–12
Storytelling: A Pathway to Curriculum Integration (ED621)
The oral tradition of storytelling provides a window into the context of culture and environment; therefore, the process can address standards in language arts, science, and social studies. In the course, educators will discover how to use this timeless tradition as a tool for motivating student learning while enhancing the oral and written abilities of K-12 students. Through storytelling, students learn to observe, reflect upon, and document their own sense of place in time. Donald Davis, nationally-known and award-winning storyteller, will return this summer as the facilitator for this course. The Frontier Museum in Staunton will provide a backdrop for participants as they practice the process. As an added bonus, participants will have the opportunity to attend Donald’s wonderful public presentation on Thursday evening, July 11.
July 29–August 2
Trout in the Classroom (ED619)
Trout in the Classroom (TIC) is designed to teach educators about a science-based curriculum developed through the conservation organization Trout Unlimited. In TIC programs, students in grades K-12 raise trout from eggs, monitor tank water quality, engage in stream habitat study, learn to appreciate clean water resources, begin to foster a conservation ethic, and increase ecosystem literacy. Most programs end the year by releasing their trout into a state-approved stream near the school or within a nearby watershed. In the MBC course, educators will learn how to integrate TIC across the curriculum, set-up and maintain the TIC tank, coordinate efforts with local resources, and find grant and funding options. Field experiences will include stream studies, fisheries biology, and land use/watershed issues.
Graduate Credit
Each course extends beyond the week, on-line, and provides 3 hours of graduate credit from MBC. The courses may apply toward the M.Ed. degree (EBL) or the EBL Certificate through MBC. Tuition is discounted by grants for these courses. Tuition is $350 (plus a $50 non-refundable registration fee is required by June 1, 2013). Courses will be held in Staunton and at various field-experience locations. Housing options are available.
