Welcome to Smithsonian Science Education Academies for Teachers (SSEATs)

In collaboration with other museums and units of the Smithsonian, the Professional Development Center works to create and deliver week-long professional development for teachers of science, these programs, known as the Smithsonian Science Education Academies for Teachers, were started in 2005 to bridge the gap between formal and informal science education by combining training is science content and pedagogy with behind the scenes experiences at a wide variety of Smithsonian units, Smithsonian Affiliate partners, inquiry-based STC/ STCMS curriculum and world-class science research facilities throughout the Washington DC area.

Note: These are graduate level courses that focus on science content.

With generous support from the Dow Chemical Company the NSRC is able to offer the following SSEATS during 2013:

Understanding issues of the nature and evolution of biodiversity is key to the survival of life on this planet. The Biodiversity Academy consists of a series of unique experiences designed to introduce teachers to the variety of life and enhance teacher understanding of concepts related to biodiversity. You will participate in hands-on content sessions by interacting with scientist, curators, and museum educators.

By completing this course you will:

1. Develop understanding of key concepts that relate to biodiversity;
2. Experience the nature of the work done by scientists who study the diversity of life
3. Enjoy special access to the scientific and educational resources of Smithsonian's collections including sessions with Smithsonian scientists
4. Experience and learn pedagogical techniques that facilitate a hands-on, inquiry approach in teaching; and
5. Form rich connections through dialogue and shared experiences with a cadre of life scientists and educators across the country.

Recommended for teachers of grades 5-12

Interested in attending this SSEAT but need approval? Click here to access a letter of support.

As our planet’s population continues to grow and energy needs increase it will become crucial that we teach students how to prepare for energy needs of the future. This academy explores the history of energy development and use in the United States, current energy needs, and alternative energy sources for the future. Topics will include fossil fuels, solar power, wind power, nuclear energy, and alternative energy sources. Each day participants will engage with scientists, curators, engineers, and educators at the Smithsonian and other local venues. Participants will engage in hands-on content sessions that take them behind the scenes, and will learn of current research in sustainable energy resources.

By completing this course you will:

1. Develop your understanding of key concepts that relate to magnetism, electricity, and energy systems;
2. Experience the nature of the work of scientists, engineers, and other professionals in the fields related to forms of energy;
3. Enjoy special access to the Smithsonian's collections, scientists, and historians;
4. Experience and learn pedagogical approaches that facilitate a hands-on, inquiry oriented approach in teaching;
5. Form rich connections through dialogue and shared experiences with a cadre of scientists and educators from around the country.

Recommended for teachers of grades 5-12

Interested in attending this SSEAT but need approval? Click here to access a letter of support.

Global climate change will impact the lives of all inhabitants of our planet and is becoming a key issue taught in our classrooms. This academy looks at change from the perspective of the history of Earth from its formation through the origin of life. Topics will include planetary processes, volcanism and plate tectonics, the oceans and atmosphere. Each day participants will engage earth scientists at the Smithsonian and elsewhere in hands-on content sessions that take them behind the scenes and explore current research on our planet's past environments.

By completing this course you will:

1. Develop your understanding of key concepts that relate to the history of Earth;
2. Improve your understanding of current research on global change and the relationship between global change and impacts on living systems;
3. Enjoy special access to the scientific and educational resources of Smithsonian's collections including sessions with Smithsonian scientists.
4. Learn pedagogical techniques that facilitate a hands-on inquiry approach to the topic;
5. Form rich connections through dialogue and shared experiences with a cadre of scientists and educators from around the country.

Recommended for teachers of grades 5-12

Interested in attending this SSEAT but need approval? Click here to access a letter of support.