Exploring Geoscience Solutions to Energy and Climate

Thursday 1:30pm-4:00pm University of South Carolina
Afternoon Mini Workshop

Leaders

Amy Weislogel, West Virginia University
Amy Hessl, West Virginia University

The Exploring Geoscience Solutions (EGeoS) learning modules assist high school to early college students in building STEM knowledge and skills aligned with diverse and emerging careers in climate and energy sectors. Using inquiry-driven learning cycle instructional design, EGeoS provides hands-on, locally relevant investigations that affirms students' connection to place and their self-efficacy through an empowerment framework. The inaugural module collection was developed as part of the NSF-supported Appalachian Geoscience Learning Ecosystem (AGLE) and was co-created by West Virginia University geoscience faculty and West Virginia high school STEM "Educator Influencers" through workshops, state science teachers conference sessions and survey feedback. The AGLE EGeoS collection is designed around 6 EGeoS modules: 1. Can We Control Earth's Temperature? 2. Is There White Gold (Lithium) in Appalachia?  3. Can Trees Solve Climate Change?  4. Are Rare Earth Elements in Coal Waste?  5. Is There Geothermal Energy in Appalachia?  6. Can Atmospheric Carbon Go Back Underground?     Module learning objectives are aligned with WV College- and Career- Readiness Standards for Science (which are built on NGSS) in Earth & Space Science as well as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Physical Science which are integral to climate and energy fields. In addition, modules incorporate ties to ongoing energy and climate research, regionally accessible career profiles and pathways for continuing education to access these careers. Participants will explore the EGeoS modules and receive support in developing an action plan to apply this model to their own geographic/cultural regions or to expand the AGLE network in other Appalachian areas.

Intended Audience

9-12 high school science teachers, 2YC science instructors, 4YC earth science, geoscience, environmental science instructors

Goals

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

  1. engage with multiple inquiry-based, hands-on modules that develop students' understanding of core science concepts and their application to regionally relevant climate and energy solutions
  2. explore instructional strategies within an empowerment framework that connect fundamental STEM concepts to geoscience knowledge that can addresses local climate and energy challenges and lead toward emerging career and educational pathways
  3. develop an action plan to adapt the EGeoS model to their own geographic region or contribute to expanding the AGLE network within Appalachia

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