Professional and amateur astronomers and space scientists - we need you! Graduate and advanced undergraduate students in the physical sciences (with some background in basic astronomy) are particularly welcome to join.
This is a great opportunity to help kids learn science through hands-on activities, and through sharing your own enthusiasm and experiences. At the same time you can improve your own knowledge and communication skills - and have fun - with the most inquisitive and appreciative audience you can find.
With Project ASTRO, you will be required to attend one Saturday training workshop (the next will be on Saturday August 16 2008) where you and your teacher partner will be trained in leading hands-on classroom activities. You will receive the ASP's 800-page activity guide The Universe at your Fingertips (which covers all the topics you need), as well as access to local resources and support throughout the school year.
The project emphasizes ongoing partnerships, not just one-time presentations, so that students and their teacher really get to know "their astronomer". The overall time investment is small, considering the lasting benefit you will impart to the teacher and students. We do ask that you commit to at least 4 visits throughout the school year and plan these together with your adopted teacher, according to a mutually convenient schedule. Your teacher partner will take care of any logistical or discipline issues during your visits.
Project ASTRO's first 5 years in San Diego have been a great success, and we have more teachers signing up all the time. We need your help as a scientist in expanding the program to assist them.
For more information and an application form, please contact either:
Dr. Philip Blanco (SDSU): pblanco@sciences.sdsu.edu.
Dr. Ron Angione (SDSU): angione@sciences.sdsu.edu (619) 594-6183.
Or visit the San Diego Project ASTRO website: http://mintaka.sdsu.edu/projectastro/