Scientific Data Collection Projects Now Being Accepted for NSTA/Vernier Software & Technology's 2011 Awards

Vernier continues its support of NSTA and science teachers by funding grants for innovative classroom projects

BEAVERTON, Ore., Sept. 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Vernier Software & Technology and the National Science Teacher's Association (NSTA) invite educators to submit their creative projects using data collection to teach science topics for the Vernier Software & Technology/NSTA Technology Awards. The awards, valued at $3000 each, are given to up to seven educators who are judged to have created the best inquiry-based, hands-on learning activities using data-collection technology interfaced with computers, graphing calculators and other handheld devices such as the Vernier LabQuest.

Awards are given to one elementary teacher, two middle school teachers, three high school teachers and one college-level educator based on applications. Each award consists of $1,000 in cash, $1,000 in Vernier equipment, and up to $1,000 toward travel and expenses for attending NSTA's 2011 National Convention.  Entries are due by November 30, 2010 and will be judged by a panel of experts appointed by NSTA.  Educators can be nominated or self-nominate for the awards.

After more than six years, Vernier remains dedicated to rewarding innovative teachers with funding and products to use in their classrooms. Access to the online application and guidelines are available on the Vernier web site at www.vernier.com/grants/nsta.html.

Prior winning projects have included:

"A Flashlight Without Batteries! How does that Work?" which sparked the discussion of energy production, storage, and transfer with physics students. The investigation began with discovering how the flashlight generated energy. The teacher and his students used a light sensor to study the exponential decay of the light intensity as the internal capacitor discharged.

"Rush Hour Air" helped at-risk youth and effectively demonstrated how science, technology, and mathematics translated to their everyday lives. The instructor taught lessons more student-centered, with hands-on, technology-focused activities like the investigation of CO2 and Temperature. In this project, students examined green house gas emissions during Atlanta's rush hour. Students then studied the relationship between the amount of CO2 emitted and the corresponding temperatures to create a clear picture of the degree of harmful emissions.  

"ROVER: Remotely Operated Vehicle for Education and Research" allowed for real-time observation of the underwater world via a remotely operated submersible capable of data collection and basic manipulations.  The submersible used a Vernier LabPro interface and a variety of sensors to collect underwater data.  A Vernier Digital Control Unit was used to control the submersible and an onboard video camera recorded and sent real-time video and data to a control laptop.

"The goal of this awards program is to encourage today's teachers and students to think of innovative uses of science technology in the laboratory or in the field. If we can get teachers to encourage more hands-on experiments for students, then we can hook students on science at a younger age and get them thinking about careers in STEM," said David Vernier, co-founder of Vernier and a former physics teacher. "Vernier can help these pioneering educators share their innovative teaching practices with many more individuals through this grants program."

Applications should include an application form, an abstract of the teaching project in 250 words or less, a project description, a copy of an actual lab activity, a nominee's Vita, three letters of support, plus a completed and signed application checklist. Electronic submissions are preferred, but application materials may be mailed to: NSTA/ Vernier Technology Awards, 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000.  

For more information, e-mail NSTA at [email protected].

About Vernier Software & Technology

Vernier Software & Technology has been an innovator of data-collection technology for 29 years.  Creating easy-to-use and affordable science interfaces, sensors, and software, their products can be found in education from elementary school to college. Vernier helps teachers enhance their science curriculum, increase learning, and build students' critical thinking skills. For more information visit www.vernier.com.

SOURCE Vernier Software & Technology