Reflections on TREC

Joined: 23 Mar 2004 Posts: 24

I have been taught that with any adventure there are three components; the anticipation, the participation and the reflection. Everyone has his own favorite component, and it can vary with each adventure. I think often that the reflection is neglected. I also think that it is a vital way to organize and package, if you will, the whole experience for better storage and use. Since I've been back from my Arctic experience I can't help but reflect- it was such a valuable experience I can't stop thinking about it!

ARCUS TREC Experience was one of the best things I could have done for my teaching career right now. I teach almost exclusively freshman earth science, and I had been feeling like a pretty smart ninth grader! Getting out to a university setting, and a field research site (especially one like Toolik Field Station) for a science immersion program like TREC has re-acquainted me with the sciences I know and love. It has given me a broader perspective, and another way to emphasize current topics in my classroom.

I'm actually looking forward to going back to school in the fall, for the first time since fifth grade, I think!

I get stopped in the grocery store, ice cream shop, post office, "How was your trip?" "What did you learn?" I guess the adults are caught up in the science adventure too!
I'd better call the local paper and have them do a follow-up article, especially if I want to get my errands run!

Stay tuned for more reflections, and insights as to how I am planning to incorporate this into my already bulging earth science curriculum. The adventure continues!