Tips for
Success

Below are some suggestions that have come out of discussions between scientists and teachers participating in Partners in Science, suggestions from other Sigma Xi groups and relevant publications.

1. Make sure that you and the teacher have gone over the expectations explicitly. Usually you find a way to make the program more effective while doing so.

2. Hands-on experiences are best.

3. The purpose is to enrich the curriculum not to expand it. Renenber that one of the primary goals is to make the students more interested in learning related material.

4. Get in touch with the teacher beforehand so that you fully understand what he/she is looking for and what material should be covered.

5. Often times schools are not well-equipped for the type of demonstrations a scientist may want to do. Offer resources if you have them.

6. Ask the teacher if there is anything you should know before your visitation so that there are no surprises upon your arrival.

7. Discuss any concerns you have with the teacher. It is better to address problems that may arise before they happen, such as behavioral problems with students.

8. Remember that you will be addessing young students who do not have the background you do in science. Be sure your presentation will be comprehensive on that level. You may think about practicing in front of the teacher before your actual visitation.

9. Evaluation is a key integral to continued partnerships. Discuss with the teacher what aspects of your presentation/demonstration worked and what could use improvement. You will both be grateful for the feedback when you give your next presentation.

10. Safety is of great concern when it comes to young students. Be sure to play it safe with any and all demonstrations.


Adapted from: Robertston, W. C. (2001). Community connections for science education: Building successful partnerships. Washington, D.C.: National Science Teachers Association Press .