Quibbletown Science Teacher to Join School of Rock Science Expedition
Filed under: News & Resources,School of Rock,Understanding
From mycentraljersey.com by Jennifer Simon
Ed Cohen Will Participate in School of Rock, Researching Active Plate Tectonics in the Pacific
PISCATAWAY, NJ - Quibbletown Science Teacher Ed Cohen was chosen to participate in the School of Rock 2009 workshop on board the ship, the JOIDES Resolution from June 23 to July 5. There, alongside scientists and technicians, educators will study a very active tectonic plate in the Pacific Ocean known as the Juan de Fuca plate, examining core samples of the Earth.
On board this newly renovated ship, educators will have daily opportunities to conduct hands-on analyses of sediment and hard-rock cores with scientists and technicians who specialize in IODP (Integrated Ocean Drilling Program) research. This year's workshop focuses on how cores and corks shed light on the hydrology, geology, and tectonics of the Juan de Fuca plate. (CORKS are what scientists fill the cores with after they are drilled.)
The data gathered from this expedition can be used for everything from deep-sea vents to global warming. The expedition will also provide Mr. Cohen and other educators with time to develop and plan new classroom activities based on their new knowledge and research.
Mr. Cohen will be engaged in cutting edge research on an area of the earth we know little about. "It's estimated that we only know about 3% of what there is to learn about the oceans," says Mr. Cohen. "And our current science curriculum does not cover how scientists live and work,"he added. "I am looking forward to sharing what I learn about the oceans, the scientists and the amazing data being compiled aboard the JOIDES Resolution with my students."
SOR is run by the Consortium for Ocean Leadership, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit organization that represents 94 of the leading public and private ocean research and education institutions, aquaria and industry. Its mission is to advance research, education and sound ocean policy, while managing ocean research and education programs in areas of scientific ocean drilling, ocean observing, ocean exploration, and ocean partnerships.
About Piscataway Township Schools
Serving over 7,000 students, Piscataway Township Schools provide K through 12 and pre-school programming, special education instructional programs and services, as well as before and aftercare, adult education classes, youth enrichment programs, and summer youth programs. The mission of the Piscataway Public Schools is the continual development of each child's intellectual, aesthetic, social and physical abilities in a positive environment that fosters self-esteem, to help each student realize their abilities and gifts. To this end the Board of Education adopted three strategic goals - by 2011: all graduates of Piscataway High School will be able to attend college and take all courses for credit; non-instructional support services will be delivered on time, on budget, and with a 95 percent customer approval rating; and Piscataway will be a community united for the purpose of providing every child with an education that prepares him or her to succeed in a global society. For more information visit www.piscatawayschools.org or call 732-572-2289.
