LIU Post to Offer Summer Science Research Workshop for Educators

Four-day course prepares high school science teachers to start research programs, 

prepare students for national science fairs

          Brookville, N.Y. -- A four-day professional-development Science Research Workshop at LIU Post will provide high school science teachers with the tools they need to build on their current science programs, including a practical understanding of how to guide students through the research process. This unique seminar will take a hands-on, inquiry-based approach to the scientific process that teaches educators how to incorporate research into their curriculum andengage their students.

            Science Research Workshop topics will include the research process for high school science students, how to find and correspond with research mentors at universities, the makeup of a successful high school research program, library research resources and how to prepare students for a science fair. A variety of scientific fields will be covered, including biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, biomedical sciences and forensic science.

            "Knowing how to research is a distinct and necessary skill, one that not all teachers know how to execute," said Dr. Jennifer Snekser, coordinator of foundations of biology and adjunct assistant professor at LIU Post. "Science is driven by research and hands-on inquiries, not textbook materials, which is how students typically learn. Through this workshop, we will teach the process of science rather than the memorization of facts."

            Throughout the conference, attendees will be using primary literature -- journals where researchers publish their findings -- to conduct their own research. In addition, participants will have access to the B. Davis Schwartz Memorial Library website for an entire year, which will enable both faculty and students to access scientific articles and journals that otherwise require subscriptions.

            Workshops will be taught by invited guests as well as LIU Post faculty from the biology, biomedical sciences, nutrition, library and psychology departments -- distinguished scholars who are engaged in active research and familiar with student research projects.                   

            Classes will be held from June 25 to 28 at LIU Post (formerly known as the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University). The cost of the Science Research Workshop is $300 if the class is taken as non-credit through the School of Continuing Education; $1,028 if the course is taken as a one credit graduate course.

            LIU Post is located at 720 Northern Boulevard in Brookville, N.Y. For more information, contact Dr. Jennifer Snekser at (516) 299-3040 or email ceps@cwpost.liu.edu or call the School of Continuing Education at (516) 299-2236.