Educators face a significant challenge in preparing students with the knowledge and skills needed to live and work in a world that will be dominated by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) careers. Part of that challenge is getting students interested in STEM subjects in the first place.
Penn State Berks is holding a conference focusing on that very challenge. The conference titled ?Preparing Students for 21st Century STEM Careers and Citizenship? will be held on Friday, September 20, 2013, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Provided free of charge, this conference will provide teachers, school administrators, business leaders, and college faculty with an understanding of new and innovative ways to prepare students today for the careers of tomorrow.
Dr. Thomas Emrick, Executive Director of the Smithsonian Science Education Center, will deliver the keynote presentation, titled "Lessons Learned from Science Reform Efforts Across the Country." The conference will also feature a panel discussion of Berks County Education Leaders, moderated by Dr. Solomon Lausch, Executive Director, Berks Business Education Coalition, and including Dr. Rudy Ruth, Superintendent of Wilson School District; Dr. Robert Pleis, Superintendent of Twin Valley School District; and Dr. Robert Lees, Administrative Director of Berks Career and Technology Center.
Michael Robinson, Ph.D. candidate in Mechanical Engineering at Penn State University, will give a presentation titled ?Robots as Teaching Tools.?
After lunch, attendees will discuss various topics in breakout sessions and then reconvene to review findings and next steps. An optional tour of Gaige Technology and Business Innovation Building will be offered at the conclusion of the conference.
To register, visit here, print and complete the registration form, and return the form by fax or mail along with a billing authorization on letterhead stationary.
For more information, contact the Office of Continuing Education at 610-396-6220.