CAST: Computation and Science for Teachers

 

The CAST program proposes to bring to the classroom the same problem-solving, technology-rich approaches currently used in scientific research and in business. Computational science has become a powerful paradigm to complement other approaches. Computational tools, ranging from spreadsheets on microprocessors to advanced molecular modeling tools on supercomputers, are allowing scientists to model processes too costly or impossible to investigate in other ways.

Computational tools, such as modeling and simulation, can be considered a new way of doing science, along with experimentation to test a hypothesis. Often the analytical solutions provided by computational science help students to better understand the complex scientific concepts.

This program is an integrated set of modules used to train teachers on how to incorporate computational reasoning and tools into their middle and high school math and science curriculum. The program consists of two tracks: The introductory track, which focuses on how to use models and simulations that already exist and are available over the internet; and the depth track, which  focuses on more in-depth understanding and hands-on experience with the different modeling tools. For more specifics on these tracks, click on the Professional Development Program (on the left sidebar).

CAST is a joint program of PSC, along with the Maryland Virtual High School and the Western PA Math & Science Collaborative.

Financial support for the CAST program provided by:The DSF Charitable Foundation and the Henry C. Frick Fund of the Buhl Foundation.