The fellowship application is now open for graduate courses this summer through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Nebraska Math and Science Summer Institutes. While the 20% tuition discount is applied automatically for current classroom teachers taking in-person and web conferencing courses, you can apply for additional fellowship from University of Nebraska Foundation funds. Apply here: https://forms.gle/TLnuLuo5t1isXExE9. Please note that funds are limited this year.
Visit our course catalog to see all of our options: https://scimath.unl.edu/nmssi-course-catalog-2023. As follows are a few courses we would like to bring your attention to:
MATH 893 - Mathematics of Computational Thinking (course number will be changing to Math 803T)
For middle-level math teachers and Primarily Math/ITEAM graduates
Class #: 7526, Web conferencing: June 12-16 and 19-23, 8am-noon (Zoom, with breaks)
The class focuses on using algorithmic processes to break down complex problems and explore ways to quantify decision-making for current, relevant issues such as switching to electric cars or deciding who should receive heart transplants (or other limited medical treatments such as ventilators during COVID-19). Adaptations of the various projects will be developed for use with students. Experience with spreadsheets will be helpful but is not required. Note: This course is a good option for teachers who have completed Primarily Math or ITEAM and want to further their learning.
MATH 816T - Math in the City for Teachers
For middle-level and secondary math teachers
Class #: 7524, Web conferencing: June 5-16, presentations on June 30, 8am-noon (Zoom, with breaks)
Math in the City is a new course that focuses on modeling and is run in collaboration with local government, businesses, research or administrative centers. This project-oriented course brings together diverse areas of mathematical content. The course is designed for teachers with secondary certification in mathematics. As needed, some topics such as basic statistical analysis, programming in MATLAB, and an introduction to modeling epidemics will be reviewed as part of the course. Teachers who register for the course should expect to communicate regularly with their project groups; it will be most beneficial if this communication takes place synchronously. The course will culminate in a group presentation and a successful participant will be able to approach other real-life problems that involve mathematics with confidence.
MATH 893 - Secondary-Integrated STEM
For middle-level and secondary math and science teachers
Class #: 6184, Lincoln, July 10-14 (8am-5pm)
In this course, teachers will engage in project-based learning experiences that integrate STEM in intentional and meaningful ways. Teachers also will develop the depth of content knowledge needed to implement various integrated STEM lessons in their own classrooms. In addition, the course will address effective strategies for further integration and implementation of STEM content.
ASTR 892 - Life in the Universe for STEM Teachers
For secondary science teachers (other audiences: math teachers with secondary certification or grades 7-8 science teachers)
Class #: 3042, Online (Asynchronous), May 30-June 30 (5 weeks)
This course on astrobiology focuses on the question "Are we alone in the Universe?" and applies scientific reasoning to the possibility of life somewhere other than Earth. It will study how life arose, how it has evolved over time and the conditions necessary for life to exist. It includes topics and pedagogical strategies in astronomy, biology, geology, paleontology and chemistry, and utilizes an integrative interdisciplinary approach needed to study today's complex problems. This course may also be appropriate for seventh- and eighth-grade teachers. This course is appropriate for mathematics teachers with secondary certification.
**NEW** BIOS 891 - Physiology in Extreme Environments
For middle-level and secondary science teachers
Class #: 3039, Web conferencing, July 10-14 and 17-21, 2-4 p.m. (Zoom)
This two-week course will explore organismal physiology in extreme environments. Students will engage with real-world examples of extreme physiology and adaptations in harsh environments such as how giant mammals can survive in deserts, how mosses and ferns can thrive in the tundra, and how some fish endure sulfidic water! Additionally, over-arching themes across multiple physiological systems will be integrated cross-cutting concepts in physics and chemistry.
The Benefits of the NMSSI:
• Each course is 3 graduate credit hours
• Courses will be offered utilizing several instructional models to allow for flexibility in scheduling
• Enroll in one simple application as a post-bac student at https://go.unl.edu/gradapp
• In-person and web conferencing courses give teachers a 20% discount on in-state tuition
Take advantage of these professional development opportunities conveniently and affordably. Join the NMSSI community and “learn in place!” Contact us at nebraskamath@unl.edu with questions.