Climate Change and Field Investigations

Teachers from around the state gathered for two June weekends in the Sierra Nevada mountains for the 2009 Sierra Nevada Teacher Institute: Climate Change and Field Investigations. They immersed themselves in scientific journaling, learned from and participated in discussions with prominent researchers, received valuable teacher resources, and were able to connect with their fellow educators. Here's what the teachers had to say:

“The activities are great and practical. The guest lecturers are very good because you meet people who are experts in their field. The staff was encouraging and helpful before and during the course. The place is excellent because you are immersed in nature.” - Teacher Participant

“This program gave me a great chance to connect and work with other teachers which I really enjoyed. I loved the hands-on activities and the hike!” - Teacher Participant

“Excellent activities and presentation of information. Brilliant use of experts.”
- Teacher Participant

In an anonymous exit survey, teacher participants commented on what they gained from the institute. Here are some of their thoughts:

• “Renewed love of teaching.”
• “I gained the knowledge to write a scientific journal. I think this is a great tool that will make my trips to the wilderness more worthwhile.”
• “I learned so much about native flora and scientific methods to employ in learning about climate change, biology, etc.”



• “Networking with other teachers and California Institute for Biodiversity staff.”
• “An understanding of forestry science and a better understanding of solar energy.”
• “Getting activities to bring home and making new friends!”
• “An overall better understanding of the issues involved and a practical and useful way to present it to my students.”
• “I learned about resources I hadn’t known of for getting accurate, current information on climate change issues. I was able to reconnect with the Sierras! I was able to meet and learn with peers and experts.”

And finally:
“Thank you for the great course. I enjoyed it very much. I loved the hike at Glacier Point.”
“Thank you so much, I had a great time. I learned a lot and will be able to use much of it in my classroom.”
“Thanks for your hard work and efforts to make it so successful.”