Science Educators Find Interactive Workshops at NY Botanical Garden
By Jamie Boyer
Through The New York Botanical Garden’s Professional Development Program, science educators in the tri-state area are expanding their knowledge about plant biology and ecology through innovative, hands-on workshops and professional development seminars. The Professional Development workshops are designed to help science educators learn how to use the Botanical Garden as an extension of their classroom. Workshops are offered conveniently on Saturdays and/or during school breaks. Sessions include dynamic classes on how plants grow and an introduction to plant diversity in the forest.
When school is out for the summer, many teachers improve their teaching skills by participating in the Summer Institutes, week-long studies in nature and botanical sciences led by educators. Teachers learn how to make science fun through field-tested, hands-on activities. In the Seedlings Program, geared toward K–2nd grade educators, participants explore the Garden’s 50-acre Native Forest—the largest remnant of uncut forest in New York City—search for flowers, fruits, and seeds, and learn about gardening especially for children. Through the Saplings Program, geared toward 3rd–5th grade science educators, participants conduct experiments and identify trees in the Garden’s Native Forest and engage in forest ecology practices. All participants visit the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, America’s premier Victorian-style glasshouse, to explore the rain forest and the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden, a 1.5 acre garden created and maintained by children. After completing the Institutes, teachers receive salary increments or graduate credits from Lehman College.
According to one former Summer Institute participant, “This program is absolutely fantastic; a week filled with fun, exploration, experiments, learning, laughing, and enjoying. The instructors are a great inspiration for every teacher.”
Professional development seminars allow teachers to spend a half or full day learning about a variety of science topics including, Biomes of the World, Nature for Early Learners, and Introduction to the Wetlands. These programs are available for pre-arranged groups of educators (minimum of 12 participants) during the fall, winter, and spring.
On Wednesday, September 24, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., The New York Botanical Garden will present a free Teacher Open House. This annual event is the perfect time to meet the Children’s Education staff and learn about the Garden’s professional development programs. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the Botanical Garden’s 250-acre landscape through a tram tour. For additional information, please call 718.817.8181 or visit www.nybg.org/edu
Jamie Boyer is the Associate Director of Teacher Professional Development at The New York Botanical Garden.
