Curriculum and Instruction Commons^™

Watching Movies To Stimulate Mathematical Inquiry, Dr. Evan Glazer, Anderson Trimm

Professional Learning Day

Have you ever wondered the odds of Luke Skywalker making that perfect shot to destroy the Death Star? How about the size and speed of the T-Rex in Jurassic Park? In this session, we will investigate several examples of how mathematics can be used to make sense of remarkable phenomena in the movies. We will brainstorm connections to a variety of concepts in algebra and geometry.

The Cubic: Centuries Of Mathematical Intrigue, Dr. Micah Fogel

Professional Learning Day

Humanity has had a formula for solving quadratic equations since antiquity.  The corresponding cubic formula is a relative newcomer, and its story has led to other important discoveries, career-ending intrigue, and the foundations of mathematics in the modern age.  We'll meet the principal characters, investigate the math, and hear the story of the cubic equation.

Integrating Neuroscience And Technology: Experiential Learning Through Muscle-To-Robot Systems, Dr. Ashwin Mohan, Dr. Mark Carlson

Professional Learning Day

In this interdisciplinary module, participants engage in hands-on exploration of neuroengineering by recording and interpreting electromyographic (EMG) signals to control robotic devices, bridging human physiology and technology. Through guided experimentation, they investigate neural pathways, signal processing, and biofeedback to understand brain-machine interfaces. The module highlights real-world applications of neuroscience, engineering, and computer science in biomimetics, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity through experiential, technology-driven learning. *It would be helpful for participants to have the Spike Recorder App from BackyardBrains website downloaded on a laptop*

The Big Air Lab, Dr. Joseph Golab

Professional Learning Day

When baking soda and vinegar mix, it's instant chemistry chaos exemplified by the look of satisfaction on a young chemist's face as the foamy explosion leads to dreams of first place in the school science fair. In this lab experience, we will apply reaction chemistry, stoichiometry, and engineering skills to fill a ziploc bag with just the right amount of carbon dioxide. "Just the right amount" means a bag that is taut but does NOT explode! Along the way we'll learn about the reaction a car's air bag uses to protect passengers in an accident. And we'll try to keep …

Disease Detectives: An Exploration Of Foodborne Epidemiology Activities, Dr. Zachary Conley

Professional Learning Day

An interactive workshop presenting lessons utilizing inquiry-based and problem-centered learning to introduce basic concepts of epidemiology. In particular participants will engage in group discussion and interactive elements to explore foodborne illnesses and the science used to track them. Our hope is to present lessons, which in addition to sharpening scientific skills will present unique career pathways to students.

Experiential Cooperative Learning Methods For Science And Math, Dr. Thomas Juliano

Professional Learning Day

Tired of students mindlessly copying each other's homework?  In this workshop, experience what it is like to "chunk up" concepts or problems for a unit, giving each student a unique voice and inherent motivation to share with others in the class. The presenter will draw from experience with a physics curriculum; however, this technique can be applied to other sciences, math, and most any other academic discipline. *Participants may bring a laptop to this session*

Shaping Ideas: Integrating Injection Molding Into Stem Learning, David Hernandez

Professional Learning Day

This workshop introduces educators to the role of injection molding machines in modern product development and manufacturing. Participants will engage in hands-on activities to design and create molds used for producing high-volume, uniform plastic parts with precise shapes and characteristics. Through this process, attendees will learn how injection molding supports rapid prototyping, mass production, and quality control in industry. Educators will leave with practical strategies for integrating real-world manufacturing processes into STEM learning environments.

Executive Functioning: Definition And Strategies, Crystal England

Professional Learning Day

This interactive session defines executive functioning disorders and examines how these cognitive processes influence student behavior in and out of school. Through realistic case studies, participants will identify how EF strengths and challenges manifest in daily routines. Strategies to support neurodivergent learners with executive functioning delays will be provided.

Enhancing Science Accessibility And Engagement For Students With Visual Impairments: A Randomized Trial Of The Talking Labquest In Nigerian Schools, Sariat A. Adelakun Dr

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

Students with Blindness in Nigeria are often erroneously perceived as incapable of engaging with science at the basic education level, contributing to their low enrolment in science-related careers. Although various techniques and materials have been proposed to support students with blindness in science, many lack empirical validation. This study investigated one such approach by examining the impact of the Talking LabQuest on the interest of Students with blindness in science subjects.

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in inclusive junior secondary schools in Nigeria, involving 20 classrooms over an 18-week period. Twelve classrooms were randomly assigned to the intervention group, …

Teaching Leadership In The Classroom: Peer To Peer Learning, Leadership Theory, Unsd Goals, And Community Building, Emma Wilson Parker

Professional Learning Day

Teaching LEADership in the Classroom: Peerto-Peer Learning, Leadership Theory, UNSD Goals, and Community Building highlights IMSA’s LEAD program, where students engage in leadership-centered activities that connect theory to practice. Participants will explore how peer-to-peer teaching, reflective dialogue, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals create intentional spaces for growth. This session offers strategies to implement peer-led models, build community, and design meaningful learning experiences that develop empathy, self-awareness, and purposeful leadership in and beyond the classroom.

Data At Hand: Statistically Speaking… Which Hand Is The Real Mvp?, Lindsey Herlehy

Professional Learning Day

Explore a lively, hands-on investigation into which hand truly performs better. Participants will collect their own data, analyze their results, and use statistical reasoning to uncover surprising findings. Through quick experiments and collaborative challenges, this session brings data to life while modeling engaging, classroom-ready strategies. Come ready to move, measure, and rethink what you thought you knew about your “better” hand.

How Much Do Your Questions Matter?, Dr. Janice Krouse

Professional Learning Day

As much as we are accustomed to answering students’ questions, how this is done can radically influence the amount of thinking that goes on in the classroom. Our answers should stretch each mind, extend students’ thinking and also further access to all learners, inviting them into the conversation. In addition, posing a well-planned jump-start can set the ideal tone the minute students walk in the room. Come, and question your questions! *OPTIONAL - Participants may bring a lesson or warm-up used in their classroom*

Moving Onward: Reframing Illinois' Role On The Underground Railroad For The Classroom, Eric Krupa, Zach Bishop

Professional Learning Day

Join Eric Krupa and Zachary Bishop, cofounders of the Illinois Network to Freedom Collective, as they discuss recent efforts to: “explore, research, and commemorate Freedom Seeking and the history of the Underground Railroad in Illinois.” With groundbreaking new research and legislation leading the way forward, discover how to approach this difficult, and oft-misunderstood period of time. Learn how to apply these new findings to an already-overloaded classroom setting, and collaborate with experts across the State.

What Are Your Students Doing This Summer? We Have Some Ideas., Dr. Anita White, Jacqueline Salinas

Professional Learning Day

IMSA offers summer programs for students who are currently in 8th grade and interested in math and science enrichment , and students in grades 10 and 11 who would be interested in a summer research opportunity. The directors of the PROMISE (Providing Opportunities for Mathematics and Science  Enrichment) and SRELO (Summer Research and Experiential Learning Opportunities) programs will provide information, answer questions and share activities that are a part of the programs.

How Ai Really Works, Dr. Peter Dong

Professional Learning Day

The rise of generative artificial intelligence has generated excitement, fear, and more than its share of hype and hysteria. This session will discuss, as simply as possible, the basic principles of large language models.  The hope is that this will dispel some of the aura of mysticism around AI and allow people to consider carefully how it can be useful as a tool—and when it can’t.

Build It Fast - A Civil Engineering Challenge, Patrick Young

Professional Learning Day

Constructing a new highway overpass creates road closures and temporary traffic woes. Civil engineers must sequence the required tasks in a manner that minimizes closure time. Participants will work in teams to create and test construction sequences to see what works best. Simple, inexpensive materials are used for construction (mostly paper). Participants will be given access to this and several related activities of a middle-school curriculum developed for Illinois Tollway.

Sensemaking In The High School Science Classroom, Matt Bulman

Professional Learning Day

When students investigate phenomena that spark curiosity, science learning transforms. This session highlights how to design lessons where students ask their own questions, construct models, and revise ideas through evidence-based reasoning. Participants will explore real high school examples of sensemaking in action and leave ready to shift instruction from “covering content” to fostering authentic scientific thinking. The session features classroom shifts and resources developed at St. Charles East High School. *Participants may consider bringing a favorite lab, activity, or assessment to this session.*

Csi: Costa Rica--Turning Phenomena Into Engaging Biology Storylines, Cassandra Armstrong

Professional Learning Day

Immerse yourself in a problem-based storyline and work to solve the case of a mysterious illness that has taken over a Costa Rican village. Experience an accelerated student journey as you ask questions, build and revise models, analyze outbreak data, and design investigations. We’ll connect the activities to NGSS performance expectations and explore how anchoring instruction in compelling phenomena increases understanding, engagement, and authentic scientific reasoning.

Building A Rainbow Solution Tower, Dr. Terry Leung, Dr. Angie Ahrendt

Professional Learning Day

Meaningful activities can increase student engagement and improve their learning. Colors provide the visual aids necessary to enhance student understanding. In this session, the audience will participate through hand-on experience to make multiple colorful solutions and determine the corresponding densities, which could be extended to the concepts of moles and concentrations. This lab is extremely low-cost. It is suitable for all levels of chemistry courses, as well as general science courses.

Living, Learning, And Leading With Sel. Lessons From A Residential Community, Victoria Layman

Professional Learning Day

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) involves daily interactions that foster relationships, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate a sense of belonging. In residential schools, SEL happens everywhere—from classrooms, Resident Counselor office chats, and common area campouts. This session will explore how strategies from living-learning communities, like one-on-one meetings and community activities, can improve SEL in traditional schools. Using the CASEL framework, participants will identify social-emotional challenges and discover practical, applicable solutions for their classrooms and school communities.

Chances Are...Culture Counts! Teaching Probability Using Culture Games Like Mahjong And Yet Nori, Dr. Brian Trainor

Professional Learning Day

How can games of chance deepen students’ understanding of probability and culture? This session explores how traditional games like Mahjong and Yut Nori can make abstract probability concepts tangible, engaging, and culturally responsive. Participants will experience hands-on demonstrations, discuss classroom adaptations, and consider how to to incorporate a cultural context when discussing probability. Discover playful ways to connect mathematics, culture, and critical thinking through the use of games.

Use Your Words: Positive Feedback And Engagment, Tracy Townsend

Professional Learning Day

Educators are used to hearing families described as our partners in their students' education, but too often, that partnership is limited to crisis intervention. At IMSA, the role of students' families can be especially uncertain, with limited communication leaving teachers feeling unsupported by those outside the classroom, and families uninformed about life inside it. Come learn about one IMSA English teacher's quest to engage more families and their students in positive communications, and to enhance student engagement. In this blend of presentation and workshop format, you'll see how this process can be adapted to your classroom, how it can improve …

The Chemistry In Art, Joyce Symoniak

Professional Learning Day

This workshop explores how chemistry drives this creative process. We’ll examine how pigments, polymers, and additives interact to affect surface tension, viscosity, and flow, producing the fascinating patterns seen in paint pours. Through hands-on experiments, you’ll observe chemical reactions in action and learn how understanding molecular behavior deepens both scientific knowledge and creative expression, revealing the powerful connection between chemistry and art. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of how science shapes what we see and create.

Programming Made Fun: Exploring Cutebot And Block Coding, Kavithaa Suresh Kumar

Professional Learning Day

Discover how to make coding come alive with Cutebot, a programmable robot designed for middle school learners! In this engaging session, participants will experience hands-on block coding using Microsoft MakeCode to bring Cutebot’s sensors, motors, and LEDs to life. Learn strategies to foster creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration while integrating robotics into your STEM curriculum—all while making programming fun, accessible, and meaningful for every student.

Organizing And Hosting A Climate Summit, Dr. Eric Hawker

Professional Learning Day

A climate summit is similar to a model UN but is entirely focused on climate. During a climate summit students represent different countries, propose resolutions to help solve the problem of global climate change, negotiate with the representatives of other countries, and vote on resolutions.  During this session we will discuss how we prepare for the summit, and then participants will go through a mini climate summit to see what it is like. *Participants should have access to a laptop or tablet for this session*

Pick Me Please! Interactive Ways To Teach Natural Selection (Hs-Ls-4), Dr. Zachary Conley

Professional Learning Day

Participants will examine a combination of free simulations and practical activities useful for teaching natural selection standards. Ideally participants will leave with a small toolbox of lesson starting points for phenomenon or inquiry driven activities.

Learning To Think Like A Scientist; Spooky Lakes!, Felicia Maxa, Sarah Robertson, Stephanie Ryan

Professional Learning Day

This is a workshop that will focus on disciplinary literacy which we define as teaching students to think like scientists! We will take interesting text(s) written for students in middle school and high school and model teaching strategies that allow students to build their ability to think like a disciplinary insider! We will look at how we approach scientific texts from evaluation of reliability, to annotating text; looking for both new understanding and connection to background knowledge, to being curious, seeking answers through asking questions and beyond! *OPTIONAL - Participants may bring a book appropriate for young readers that fits …

Enhancing Stem Learning Through Industrial Robotics, David Hernandez

Professional Learning Day

This workshop introduces educators to the role of industrial robotic arms in modern product development. Participants will engage in hands-on activities to explore how robotic arms automate repetitive tasks in assembly and packaging, improving precision and efficiency. Through guided demonstrations and collaborative problem-solving challenges, attendees will gain insight into programming, workflow optimization, and real-world manufacturing applications. Educators will explore practical strategies to integrate robotics into STEM curricula, connecting classroom learning to industry-relevant skills.

Teaching Smarter, Not Harder: Using Google Ai Studio & “Vibe Coding” In The Middle School Classroom, Dr. Phadmaka Patankar, Lindsey Herlehy

Professional Learning Day

Curious about how AI can actually save you time and boost student engagement? In this interactive session, you’ll explore Google AI Studio and learn how to use “vibe coding”— describing your ideas in everyday language and letting Gemini generate classroom materials for you. We’ll share sample activities and tasks and practical classroom resources that demonstrate how AI can help create engaging, interactive lessons. You’ll also learn how to craft effective AI prompts that align lessons to targeted learning objectives and standards-based outcomes, ensuring AIgenerated content supports intentional instruction. Join us to discuss how these tools can be used in multiple …

Client Feedback Effects On Enjoyment, Motivation And Self-Efficacy In A Project-Based Learning Course, Krista Stacey, David M. Bourrie

University Faculty and Staff Publications

This paper reports a mixed-methods evaluation of how feedback/project source (faculty-led versus client-led) shapes student outcomes in a two-course undergraduate game and simulation development sequence (N = 29 across two academic years). Quantitative measures (enjoyment, intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy) were collected with a six-point Likert survey and analyzed, but due to small sample sizes were not used to empirically evaluate the constructs. Instead, qualitative data comprised of de-identified focus-group transcripts and open-ended survey responses were analyzed with a keyword-assisted codebook and manual validation. Year 1 (faculty feedback) exhibited more consistent post-course gains, especially in self-efficacy, while Year 2 (client feedback) produced …