1 :: Hot Science in the Classroom

TBI is developing 7th and 8th grade curriculum Hot Science! focused on the unique thermal environment of Yellowstone National Park that addresses science concepts like scale, biodiversity and energy flow. The program is being piloted in local classrooms now.
Hot Science in the classroom has a two-pronged approach; Hands-on learning and teacher training.

Hands-on learning 

• TBI has developed an integrated set of resources, lessons, and props focused on the unique thermal environment of Yellowstone National Park.  Tied to National Science Standards, the Hot Science! Curriculum brings the excitement of science into the classroom.
• On-line Learning:  Inquiry-based learning in real time

An electronic fieldtrip, Hot Colors, developed through the Windows into Wonderland program YNP , and data driven web-based activities make  Yellowstone science classroom accessible in real-time, locally and nationally. 
 

Teacher Training

TBI is committed to the professional development of teachers

• Summer Field course for Teachers

Thermal Biology in Yellowstone National Park TBI staff and faculty teach a one-week interdisciplinary field class for practicing teachers through the Master’s of Science in Science Education program at MSU Bozeman.  It its 5th year, this popular class has trained over 75 middle and high school teachers from 26 states.

• Educator Workshops

TBI sponsors teacher-training opportunities in a variety of formats and connects educators and scientists. Check the TBI webpage for the most current opportunities

> 2005
Montana Teachers Exploring Earth and Mars, MTEEM a TBI sponsored an Astrobiology-themed workshop with in conjunction with Montana NASA Space grant and the JASON program.

> 2006
Hot Science! Yellowstone Workshop for middle school teachers
Vernier Workshop co-sponsored with Belgrade Middle School to promote technology tools in the classroom
Batik:  Using Art to Teach Science An interdisciplinary workshop that demonstrates the hands-on art experience of batik to teach math and science in the class. 

> 2007
TBI will provide local support for NASA conference;
Montana Science Teachers Association meetings (Oct2007) and Yellowstone fieldtrip;
Teacher Professional Development Training:  providing hands on professional development opportunities to Montana Teachers
YNP (Geology) Teacher Workshop,

2 :: Hot Science in the Community

TBI recognizes that science learning occurs outside classroom walls; it’s a lifetime adventure.  TBI sponsors programming for adults through a lively Community Lecture Series, and Yellowstone Field Seminars offered through TBI and the Yellowstone Association Institute.  In 2007 TBI offers an expanded summer program for kids and families.

Some Like it Hot Community Lecture Series (2004-2007)

The Thermal Biology Institute supports a popular science lecture series in Bozeman and surrounding gateway communities.  Our lecture series combines local faculty knowledge with selected experts in the field.  

Field experiences for Adults

Yellowstone is a classroom for adult learners.   TBI Scientists and staff introduce you to thermal biology science through hands on, field based educational experience.  Both day long and multi-day excursions are offered through the Thermal Biology Institute and its partners. Read more 
Summer Youth Educational Programs

TBI Sponsors field and lab based summer camps in Partnership with the Yellowstone National Park Formal Education Program and the Montana Outdoor Science School

• ParKids a 3-day thermal biology based learning experience for kids in Yellowstone gateway communities in partnershipwith the YNP Formal Education program since 2003.
• Hot Water! week-long summer camp experiences with the Montana Outdoor Science School  (NEW in 2007)
• “Scientist for a day” a program for rural community kids. (NEW in 2007)

Arts in the Parks: Using art to engage families in science

TBI Outreach staff make Yellowstone’s colorful microbial communities accessible though the art of batik.  This program is a popular community event in Yellowstone gateway communities and in Yellowstone National Park.  This program was showcased most recently at Volcano Days, a community celebration for families organized by the Bozeman Children’s Museum.

Science at the Library: Involving younger learners

TBI recognizes that a life long interest in science should begin early.  TBI recognizes that good reading skills are the basis to excel in science and in life…essential life skills are necessary to excel in science.  A new TBI program, Science Saturdays for Families at the Bozeman Public Library to combines hands-on learning with selected science reading to promote the excitement of science.  For example, kids might read Actual Size, a book about scale with a TBI scientist, and then participate in a hands-on learning activity where they compare themselves to a variety of Yellowstone Organisms.

3 :: Bringing Hot Scientists and Resource Managers Together

TBI facilitates a number of programs that encourage interdisciplinary science and resource stewardship in Yellowstone National Park. 
TBI:

• Weekly TBI Seminar Series
• Summer Visiting Scholar Program (coming soon)
• Bi-annual scientific conference 2003, 2005 Geothermal Biology and Geochemistry in Yellowstone National Park and Proceeding
• Annual Hot Waters workshop for TBI Scientists and MSU and YNP staff
• Leave No Trace Brochure - Performing Environmentally Sensitive Field Research In Yellowstone National Park A Guide For Research Scientis