January 17, 2018
SIU’s 2018 Science in the South Conference highlights interesting ways to teach science
CARBONDALE, Ill. – The 22nd annual Science in the South Conference at Southern Illinois University Carbondale on Jan. 19 will focus on new and interesting ways to teach science.
The workshop, which kicks off with registration and continental breakfast from 7:30-9 a.m., takes place at the Southern Illinois University Carbondale Student Center. Check-in is in the Corker Lounge and activities occur throughout the building.
Anyone who works in K-12 education will find valuable ideas and information. First-year teachers or teachers in training as well as veteran educators will be exploring the scientific world via hands-on activities and lesson plans relevant to students of all ages. The event typically draws hundreds of participants.
Media Advisory
Reporters, photographers and news crews are welcome to cover the Science in the South Conference which features activities and sessions from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 19 at the Southern Illinois University Carbondale Student Center. Check in at Corker Lounge for details.
One of the most opportune times to secure good video and photos is from 11 a.m. to noon, when participants will be checking out a microscope station, sandbox and other hands-on exhibits. For more information, contact Leslie Brock at lagodwin@siu.edu or 618/453-1141.
What’s included
Diane Nelson, biological sciences professor emerita from East Tennessee State University, will present the keynote address. She has studied tardigrades since 1970, completing her doctorate in 1973 on the ecological distribution of tardigrades on Roan Mountain in 1973. She’s published extensively on the topic and although retired, continues to research, write, lecture and publish about the eight-legged, segmented, water-dwelling micro-animals commonly known as water bears.
A wide variety of other topics will also be covered in the various sessions. Numerous science-related, technology-oriented exhibits from organizations and businesses will be on display for the hundreds of workshop participants to view as well. A networking reception and prize drawing at 3:30 p.m. wraps up the day.
Educators can earn up to 4.5 Professional Development Hours for participating in the workshop.
Signing up
The workshop cost is $95. The registration covers all conference materials, exhibits, refreshments, a parking pass, lunch and 2018 annual Illinois Science Teachers Association membership. The fee for students is $22.
Register online, by calling SIU’s Conference and Scheduling Services at 618/536-7751, or by sending the online registration form and credit card payment information by fax to 618/453-5680 or by email to conferenceservices@siu.edu. Walk-in registration will also be available the day of the workshop.
Additional option
Nelson will also offer a “Bear Hunting Workshop” on Jan. 20 for all those who participate in the Science in the South conference. This hands-on workshop offers guidance to finding water bears in nearby locales and separating the tardigrades from mosses and lichens, watching them via a dissecting microscope and more. The fee for this additional activity is $25.