SC09 Education Workshop @ Calvin College
Introduction to Computational Thinking
May 25 - May 30, 2009The purpose of this workshop is to introduce participants to and inspire them with new techniques, teaching materials, and applications to use computational models in the undergraduate curriculum. By bringing faculty from different disciplines together so that they can learn how to incorporate computational models into their classrooms and research projects, it will advance the use of computing in undergraduate science education. We desire to have participants from a broad range of disciplines, including computer science, mathematics, and the natural sciences.
The list of topics for this workshop includes
- an introduction to various types of models (agent-based modeling, probabilistic models, discrete and continuous dynamical systems, etc.)
- hands-on experience with particular tools (excel, agent sheets, net logo, data flyer, etc.)
- an overview of available tools and materials ready for use in undergraduate courses and discussion of what is missing
Schedule and Location of Sessions
The official program will begin with dinner and an opening session on Monday, May 25, and conclude in the afternoon on Saturday, May 30. The opening dinner is at 5:30 pm EDT in the Prince Conference Center.
Most workshop sessions will take place in Science Building 354.
Participants are welcome to stay overnight on Saturday night and depart on Sunday. Most sessions will take place in the Science Building Complex at Calvin college.
Registration
This workshop is one of a sequence of SC 09 Education Workshops. Workshop participants must apply to participate, but most expenses associated with the workshop are covered for all participants. Registration is done online via the SC09 Education webpage.
Participants are responsible for their own transportation and must pay a $150 deposit toward lodging and registration (which includes most meals). This deposit is refunded for participants who complete the workshop and fill out the workshop evaluation forms.
Lodging
Conference participants will be staying at Calvin's
Prince Conference Center.
This beautiful facility opened in October of 2002.
Surrounded by trees, wetlands, and a nature trail, the Prince Conference Center
provides a wonderful, stress-free environment for learning and
exchanging ideas on the east edge of Calvin's campus.
The conference center provides rooms with single, double, or quad occupancy, and a complimentary breakfast. SC09 provides double occupancy rooms for participants. Those desiring single occupancy or traveling with family members can book a room to themselves for an additional $40 per night. This includes breakfast for each guest. Contact isri@calvin.edu for availability and charges for other meals or for other local arrangements questions.
Rooms at the Prince Conference Center include
-
Either two queen size beds or one king size bed
- Complimentary deluxe continental breakfast
- High speed and dial-up internet access
- On site fitness center, as well as access to the fitness facilities at Calvin College
Getting Here
Calvin College is located at the eastern edge of Grand Rapids, MI. The nearest airport is Gerald R Ford International (GRR). The Conference Center provides guests with a free shuttle service for the 10-minute drive from the airport to campus provided they have three days advance notice of travel plans.
- Maps of the campus and of the surrounding area
- Gerald R Ford International Airport
Program
Primary presenters will include Bob Panoff (Shodor Foundation) and Stephanie Stevenson. Over the course of the week, sessions will transition from presentations of fundamental concepts and tools, to hands-on activities, to projects done by participants in teams. Program details will be posted as they become available.
Evening Program. The first session will take place after the opening dinner on Monday, May 25. Wednesday late afternoon and evening are free time, during which participants are free to explore some of the local attractions. If there is sufficient interest and cooperative weather, we will organize a trip to Lake Michigan. Tuesday and Thursday evenings will have open lab time for participants to work on projects and/or explore the tools introduced in earlier tutorials. Friday evening we will have a closing banquet.
Local Attractions
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- Grand Rapids @ Pure Michigan (Michigan's official travel and tourism site)
- Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and other Grand Rapids Museums including an art museum, a children's museum, and the Garald R Ford Presidential museum.
- Lake Michigan beaches
- For more attractions and events, visit michiganswestcoast.com.
