Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Network with others to find instructional science and technology materials

Becoming a member of a science and technology organization leads you to technology supplementary teaching materials and professional development resources. Many organizations have beneficial publications highlighting the latest in technology teaching supplies. Industry leaders advertise their contributions to the classroom in information technology.

I recommend: Join the National Science Teachers Association and visit the Learning Center, a professional development website. The International Technology Education Association is another organization supporting professionals in science and technology who teach from elementary school through the college level. In addition, review the offerings of Teachnology, Inc., which is an online teacher resource.

Find companies with a primary focus on developing a classroom in information technology

When looking for school science equipment and instructional material for teaching technology, look for companies dedicated to developing a classroom in information technology. Technology teaching materials are found at discount prices. Free materials can be found as well, including complete publications.

I recommend: Check Science Kit, LLC for teacher-developed and classroom-tested science teaching supplies. Also, request a catalog from the National Academy of Sciences. They publish hundreds of books each year and provide free resources to use as instructional science and technology materials.

Use supplemental material for instructional science provided by the media

Science instructional materials of the past are being replaced with more convenient methods of instructional material for teaching science. The Internet, cable television and even radio are now instructional science and technology materials. Video streams and podcasts are viewed when television and radio shows are missed. These outlets usually provide supplemental material for instructional technology to complement their media offerings.

I recommend: Join Public Broadcasting Service's PBS Teachers Connect. The Public Broadcasting Service is well known for its commitment to the classroom. You can also find a radio station near you and tune in to NPR's Science Friday show produced by ScienceFriday Inc. Both offer support to parents and students as well.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Contact local businesses to see if they might consider contributing to your classroom or school. In addition to providing funding for supplemental material for instructional technology, a business in the field of science or technology might offer to visit the class or invite the class on a tour of its facility.