K20 Improving Science Across Oklahoma [K20 IS A OK] assists teachers in improving science instruction by providing intensive training in science content and inquiry processes with follow-up coaching and lesson study. Additionally, K20 IS A OK helps teachers improve science learning, as shown by increased student science scores, K20 Is A OK annually selects approximately six elementary and two middle schools across Oklahoma and provides 10 days of professional development for teachers with training for the administrators. Integration of technology into the teaching of science and inquiry will create new ways for student engagement.

Elementary and middle schools selected will receive Full Option Science System (FOSS) science kits and technology, such as a Smart Board and Alpha Smart Danas. Professional development will include how children learn, qualities of good science education, inquiry, kit use, technology integration, and lesson study. Learning teams will be established at each participating school to accomplish the following goals:

• Goal 1: Deepening content knowledge of K-8 science teachers through inquiry-based science experiences
• Goal 2: Connecting teachers’ content knowledge with inquiry experiences utilizing critical thinking for conceptual understanding in science classrooms across Oklahoma
• Goal 3: Adapting science instruction to include best practices in instructional practices and alternative student assessments
• Goal 4: Integrating technology into the lesson and accessing online resources
• Goal 5: Transferring and sustaining teachers’ content and inquiry experiences and teaching for conceptual understanding into science classrooms across Oklahoma
• Goal 6: Addressing diversity, differentiation of instruction and family
• Goal 7: Creating supportive contexts that foster teacher and student learning and inquiry through leadership development and development of professional learning communities

About the K20 Center

The K20 Center for Educational and Community Renewal is a consortium of school-university-community partnerships committed to improving student learning through standards-based instruction, technology integration, school renewal and leadership using three interrelated and deepening phases. For more information on the work of the K20 Center visit the web site at www.k20center.org.