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Newton Network Newsletter – February 2009 This month we will explore science and math computer simulations and have located a number of resources that are well worth investigating. We will also be exploring the resources available through Merlot.org. And so you don’t forget, we also have a recap of the Science Fairs that are being held soon. Once again, please pass your newsletter on to your colleagues, and let them know that they can sign up for their own newsletter as easily as going to our website (www.unr.edu/newton). In This Issue: Computer Simulations – Learning takes on meaning when the instruction includes hands-on activities. The problem is that not everything can be brought into the classroom. Computer simulations offer the opportunity to provide hands-on learning, so we went in search of computer simulation resources. This is what we found: Virtual Chemistry Laboratory - Developed at Carnegie Mellon, the laboratory provides a simulation that allows a great variety of student activities. Once downloaded, the virtual lab can be used for any number of assignments, demonstrations, and experiments. The virtual lab is available for both Windows and Mac and has been translated into four languages including Spanish and French. For more information on the virtual lab and to download the software, go to (http://www.chemcollective.org/applets/vlab.php) Mathematics Visualization Toolkit – Developed at Colorado University, this toolkit provides a variety of tools needed to produce a visual representation of concepts in Calculus. These tools included a scientific calculator, both 2D and 3D plotters, linear algebra tools and differential equation tools. The Mathematics Visualization Toolkit can be run online or downloaded. We found the MVT to be very intuitive and simple to use. (http://amath.colorado.edu/java) Visual Fractions – Often understanding a concept is gained by a visual representation of the concept and Visual Fractions provides a visual teaching aid for understanding fractions and performing functions with fractions. Visual Fractions can be used online or downloaded to your computer. Detailed instruction on using Visual Fractions is provided. (http://www.visualfractions.com) Secrets@Sea – This curriculum based learning adventure is targeted to grades 4-7 and complements ocean theme study units. We found this simulation to show what could be accomplished using internet technology to enhance and complement classroom activity. The adventure game includes learning outcomes by grade level and extension activities. (http://www.secretsatsea.org) As we searched for computer simulations, we were overwhelmed with the number of excellent web-based learning objects available today. The four simulations we highlighted this month are what we believe to represent the better of those available. Beginning next month, we will add a new category to our teaching resources page for computer simulations and continue to gather and present the best of our finds.
Merlot.org – Multimedia Educational Resource for Learning and Online Teaching (MERLOT) is a collection of peer reviewed and selected higher education, online training materials. Cataloged into collection by subject, material types and learning communities, the ability to search Merlot.org makes finding resources you can use in your class very efficient. With a database containing more than 20,000 items, you should be able to find what you need for your class. The best part is that membership to Merlot is free. To explore Merlot go to http://www.merlot.org.
Science Fairs – The Western Nevada Regional Science and Engineering Fair (WNRSEF) is scheduled for March 26-28, 2009, at Lawlor Event Center on the UNR campus. Deadline for submission of projects is March 7. Full information is available on their website at http://www.nevadasciencefair.net. And don't forget the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Science and Engineering Fair scheduled for March 12-14, 2009. The fair has been completely reorganized, so get the latest information at their website (http://sciences.unlv.edu/engineeringfair/2009) And just a short reminder that the International Science and Engineering Fair will be in held in Reno May 10-16, 2009. Information for this event can be found at (http://www.gatheringgenius.com)
Science Bowl – The Annual Nevada Regional Science Bowl competition will be held February 6-7, 2009, at the Atomic Testing Museum on the UNLV Campus. Winners from this competition will advance to the National Science Bowl in April and May, 2009. More information for the regional competition is available at (http://www.nv.doe.gov/kidszone/sciencebowl/default.htm) California Academy of Sciences – The California Academy of Sciences has reopened their museum in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco after a three-year remodeling project. The museum features a 100,000 gallon aquarium, inside viewing from the walkthrough tunnel, a coral reef with 2,000 colonies, thousands of fish, and the must see cypress swamp teaming with alligators and snapping turtles. The planetarium has been upgraded with the latest in digital technology to produce a breath-taking show of outer space as well as simulating fly-through voyages of earth. For a virtual tour of the new facility and information go to (http://calacademy.org ) NERDS – NERDS (Nevada Educators Really Doing Science) has announced their summer courses and we felt that after last year's turnout we should send out the information as soon as possible. Deadline for registration is 9 March 2009 and we deeply encourage you to sign up in teams of three or more applicants from the same school. This summer, the courses will cover the Ecology of the Feather River Watershed in Plumas County, CA, with a second course on the Ecology of the Lamoille Canyon in Elko County, NV. For more information and registration go to (http://www.unr.edu/educ/raggiocenter/nerds/)
Do you use the Newton Web Site? -- We have spent quite a bit of time and effort improving our website and including more of the information you have asked for in the past. We need to know if what we have accomplished is fitting your needs and what we can do to provide better services. To accomplish this, we are asking that you let us know if you access the Newton News Web Site (http://www.unr.edu/newton) and which sections you find most useful. We would also like to have your suggestions on improvements or additions that you would like for us to consider. We have made letting us know very simple: Either 1) if you are using MS Outlook for your mail, just click I use Newton Web Site; or 2) if you use a different mail reader, then just send an email to rnewbury@unr.edu with “I use Newton Web” in the subject line. Feel free to add your ideas to your message. Your feedback will help us continue and support this newsletter and our web site. Thanks. Newton Website -- The search for quality websites has unearthed more resources for lesson plans and professional development. New links on our website (http://www.unr.edu/newton) are:
Want more information about the Newton Network? Check us out at www.unr.edu/newton, contact Robert Newbury at newbury@unr.nevada.edu, or Michael Leverington at michael@edtech-teched.com.
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