Columbia University’s Summer Research Program for Science Teachers
Summary
Under the direction of university science faculty, 10 to 13 teachers participate in laboratory experiments within their subject area. Teachers also attend trips to science museums, seminars, data-driven teaching methodology instruction, and a final symposium during the summer. Teachers are expected to participate for two consecutive summers, and during their second year provide peer coaching to new participants. The program is also known as Columbia University's Summer Research Program (CUSRP).
Target Population
Goal(s)
Program Highlights
- Teachers are given the opportunity to meet and discuss common classroom problems, and viable solutions
- Teachers communicate about their research in regular presentations
- The program website provides a library of science lesson plans for public use
- Provides each teacher with $6,000 stipend for two summers, and up to $1,000 after that for supplies and conference expenses
The Facts
Partners
Higher Education
- Columbia University
- Hebrew Technical Institute
Business
Non-Profit / Philanthropy
- Ambrose Monell Foundation
- Bay and Paul Foundation
- Doris Duke Charitable Foundation
- Mellam Family Foundation
Government
- NASA
- National Institutes of Health
- National Science Foundation
Evidence of Impact
According to an externally validated self report survey, teachers at multiple schools increased their use of data-driven pedagogies, including asking students to reflect on scientific concepts, and discuss scientific careers. Participating teachers had lower rates of attrition than the national average, and significantly more of their students passed standardized exams than before the program.
Teachers’ participation in research programs improves their students’ achievements in science: Provides a program description, breakdown of costs, and statistical analyses. Citation: Silverstein, S.C., Dubner, J., Miller, J., Glied, S., & Loike, J. D. (2009). Teachers' participation in research programs improves their students' achievements in science. Science, 326(5951), 440-442.
Contact Information
Columbia University
630 W. 168 Street, Room 11-444
New York, NY 10032
(212) 305-6899
http://www.scienceteacherprogram.org
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