During the first funded year of the Lab-in-a-Bag project, selected 3rd and 4th grade teachers from participating schools receive technology training in the use of scientific probes, calculators, digital cameras, scanners and wireless laptop computers. Additionally, these teachers and a set of selected preservice teachers from U.T. Tyler learn to develop curriculum that addresses the state science, math, language arts and technology applications TEKS. Following intensive training, participants develop and deliver a two-week summer school/technology camp for third and fourth grade students that focuses on the study of animals at the Caldwell Zoo in Tyler. Students will collect and analyze data using the hand held devices and develop multimedia projects to share what they learn. Following their participation in the Lab-in-a-Bag project, participating teachers serve as mentors, sharing new instructional knowledge and technology skills with colleagues at their campuses.
