NASA LIVEâ„¢ Encourages Teachers to Use Hands-on Activities
Research indicates that the hands-on approach for teaching is the best way for students to learn science and mathematics. Teacher and student participation in videoconferences, such as the FREE videoconferences provided by NASA LIVEâ„¢ (Learning Interactively through Videoconferencing Experiences) enhances teacher application of hands-on science and mathematics.
NASA LIVE™ videoconferences demonstrate how teachers worldwide can work together successfully to foster increased use of hands-on science and mathematics. NASA LIVE™ provides teachers with a method of teaching science and mathematics that moves away from textbooks and worksheets. Teachers and students have the opportunity to interact with NASA experts in a virtual setting as they participate in hands-on activities like the Mars Egg Drop Activity or the Nutrition and Exercise Challenge. Produced by NASA Langley’s Center for Distance Learning: http://cdl.larc.nasa.gov, NASA LIVE™ offers FREE videoconferencing programs for K-12 teachers and students to (1) provide opportunities for learning, instructional enrichment, and professional development and (2) help participants connect not only science and mathematics, but also technology and engineering related contents to NASA research and careers.
Reinforcing the value of effectively teaching science and mathematics through the hands-on methods demonstrated on NASA LIVE™ supports and encourages teachers to constantly improve their skills, ultimately increasing students’ interest and knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
NASA LIVEâ„¢ events feature 30- to 60-minute videoconferences that incorporate multimedia and hands-on activities that guide teachers through enriching classroom instruction. Each videoconference allows teachers and students to establish real-world connections with NASA experts and learn from the engineers and scientists who play important roles in events such as the Mars Exploration Rovers mission. Other exciting topics relate to (1) biological flight, (2) math and model making, (3) weather and satellites, (4) rocketry, (5) careers, and more. For additional information about NASA LIVEâ„¢ from available topics to how to request your own topic, visit the NASA LIVEâ„¢ website at http://live.larc.nasa.gov.
