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Teacher Professional Development Workshops

Teachers learning 3D Printing and Modeling

MSU St. Andrews and the Midland Section of the American Chemical Society offer teacher professional development workshops covering topics in 3D printing, coding, polymer science, and more! SCECH Hours are attached to each workshop. Space is limited for in-person workshops, and face coverings are required for all indoor activities per the MSU COVID-19 Directives. For more information, or to schedule a training, please contact lightcla@msu.edu

Getting Started with 3D Printing and Modeling

Please check back soon for upcoming dates!
SCECH Hours = up to 2.25 hours

Instructor: Tracy Zhang, Ph.D., MSU St. Andrews

In this three-hour, hands-on workshop, teachers will gain a basic understanding of 3D printing and model design using the Tinkercad™ Software including:

  • Earn up to SCECH 2.25 hours
  • The history, fundamentals, and everyday applications of 3D printing technology.
  • Hands-on experience designing simple models using Tinkercad™ with the Design and Codeblocks functionality.
  • An overview of the basic mechanics of a 3D printer.
  • How to safely print 3D models, including some essential troubleshooting tips.
  • Curriculum connections with NGSS will also be discussed.

Learn How to Code Through Art, Creativity, Design, and Circuits!

Please check back soon for upcoming dates!

SCECHs = up to 1.75 hours

Instructor: Tracy Zhang, Ph.D., MSU St. Andrews

In this two-hour online workshop, teachers will be introduced to block-based computer programming using Tinkercad, Scratch, and Code.org including:

  1. Earn up to SCECH1.75 hours
  2. A basic understanding of block-based computer programming.
  3. How to design 3D models using Tinkercad™ and Codeblocks.
  4. Learn electronics in Tinkercad Circuits.
  5. Make connections between coding (scratch and code.org) and other disciplines.
  6. Curriculum connections with NGSS will also be discussed.

A Passion for Polymers

Please check back soon for upcoming dates!
SCECHs = up to 1.75 hours

Instructor: Regina Malczewski, Ph.D., Midland Section of the American Chemical Society

In this two-hour hands-on workshop, teachers will gain knowledge in the following areas:

  • Earn up to 1.75 SCECH hours
  • Hands-on information about and experimentation with proteins and starches (natural polymers).
  • Preparation of edible water pods with natural polymer.
  • Hands-on experiments with silicones, synthetic polymers—silly putty vs slime.
  • Curriculum connections with NGSS will also be discussed.

Programming is made possible through the support of several local organizations: the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundationthe Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundationthe Charles J. Strosacker Foundation, and the Dow Chemical Company Foundation.