Biology+Institute+at+Exeter


 * Event Title: Biology Institute at Exeter**
 * Date: June 2011**
 * Location: Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, New Hampshire**
 * Name(s) of Attendees: Dr. Joel Wallace, Robert Dubard, Dr. Robert Crabtree**

Description of Workshops, Classes, Institutes, Etc.:
The Institute consisted of a major class, held nearly every day, three specific Advanced Technique classes throughout the week, and several field trips. The major class was either Teaching Biology to the Adolescent Brain, or the use of the Harkness method in teaching Biology. Technique classes included DNA Fingerprinting, Forensic Science, Microscopy, and Evolution. Amazing field trips explored the salt marsh, mud flats, and rocky intertidal regions, The Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology, forest ecosystems. The Harvard trip included the dissection of various sea creatures after cooking sterilization. Tasty.

How I Hope to Apply What I Learned At Ransom, and/or, What My Colleagues Might Try at Ransom:
Conceptually, what a teacher tries to do is put the student brain into a state that is conducive to learning. Although there are many facets that influence the structuring of the student brain, one of the most important days is the first day of class; you know what they say about first impressions. Here are some concepts which are helpful. 1. Involve students quickly. Put the ball in their court. 2. Relate the importance of the subject. 3. Set expectations. 4. Establish rapport. 5. Reveal something about yourself. 6. Establish your own credibility. 7. Establish the atmosphere you wish to have in the class. What the students do the first day is what they will expect the rest of the year. 8. Provide administrative info. 9. Get rolling, introduce the subject matter.

I am sure we do these things, but seing them reinforced helps.

As an aside, although I was reluctant to take a week out of my summer and travel to Exeter, I found the experience enlightening. I would encourage anyone to take part if their discipline is covered. Since the Biology Conference will change next year (this was the inaugural year) I would like to return. It was that good!

Important Links, Resources, or Contacts:
DNAI.org WGBH website is the best for evolution. exeter.edu/summer programs