Closing the Digital Generation Gap Between Teachers and Students
Students today are often advanced in the use of digital technology. How can teachers, many of whom are digital immigrants, become responsible digital educators? The understanding and use of technology are critical components of STEM education. The appropriate use of current technology supports the development of “21st Century Skills” such as real-world applications, creative problem solving, collaboration, and effective communication.

Goals
To provide workshops and presentations focusing on:
• Exploring the role of technology in science learning
• Creating opportunities for teachers to interact with each other and experts
• Investigating the tools and resources needed to equip a technologically rich learning environment
• Familiarizing participants with the Partnership for 21st Century Skills framework and/or the ISTE standards
• Examining the skills that will be required by the 21st-century workforce
• Promoting educational technology for change

Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated on the extent that they:
• Align with one or more strand goals
• Align with national science education standards (NSES and Benchmarks)
• Are based on current and available research and issues in science
• Involve participants through activities and/or discussion
• Correlate to the Partnership for 21st Century Skills framework and/or ISTE standards
• Model successful strategies for using digital technology in the learning environment