Grants are available to ASPB members in the Plant Biology Education Exhibit Competition. Have you developed new ways of carrying out hands-on science in your teaching laboratory or classroom? Have you developed effective outreach tools you'd like to share?
The Education Committee cordially invites you to share your activity with the ASPB membership by hosting an interactive exhibit or demonstration at the Education Booth at the annual Plant Biology ASPB meeting this summer in Merida. The annual meeting will be held June 26-July 1, 2008.
The Education Committee is looking for new ideas and technology being used in the classroom or in outreach efforts, and, as an incentive, is offering a cash grant of $500 and registration costs for up to three presenters. Your proposal should be no longer than four double-spaced pages. It should include a title and the address and contact information of the presenter(s). Please address the following questions in your proposal:
- State clearly the rationale behind the exhibit. Highlight the use of new techniques, pedagogies, or technology. How is this presentation exciting and new?
- Provide a clear, detailed summary of how the exhibit will function (A diagram or picture would be helpful.). In particular, it will be important to illustrate how the visitors can interact with the exhibit.
- Indicate the equipment that will be required for the exhibit, including computers, internet connection, DVD player, monitor, etc. Indicate what you will provide and what you would need ASPB to provide. We will make every effort to meet your needs.
Note that awardees are expected to spend some time hosting their exhibit and interacting with members at the booth each day. You're welcome to choose the times most convenient for you.
We can't think of a better opportunity to showcase your new approaches or new technology for the plant biology classroom. We hope that you will consider submitting a proposal and will join us at the booth for these exciting exhibits!
Your proposal should be addressed to Education Committee member Chad Jordan and submitted as an e-mail attachment (Microsoft Word or PDF) by no later than March 7, 2008. Winners will be notified by April 2, 2008.
You can get an overview of Educational Highlights and Education Booth Exhibits from last year's meeting in Chicago in the Sept/Oct 2007 issue of ASPB News.
Education Committee, The American Society of Plant Biologists
