Learning about the scientists and researchers whose work will be the focus for the year s activities. Reading selected biographies, novels and other works that create a background under-standing of both the expedition s setting and the science under study. Studying the geography, history and cultures of peoples indigenous to the expedition site. Conducting local field studies, data gathering and analysis, problem solving, model building and other inquiry-based activities that mirror the field work being conducted on the expedition site while conveying key science content and enabling mastery of the scientific method. The cur-curriculum is annually endorsed by the National Science Teachers Association.
Teachers are able to use a powerful set of online pedagogical tools to facilitate instruction.
Throughout the school year, specially-produced expedition update and science spotlight videos are distributed to participating schools. These are crafted to bring students into contact with expedition researchers and to foster student focus upon a specific aspect of the science under study. Schools that have satellite downlink capability may receive a single screen version of these broadcasts directly in class-rooms. Through conferences and workshops as well as on-line training, teachers are urged to become part of the annual expedition team.