Instructional Science and Technology Materials

Find supplemental instructional science and technology materials for the classroom
By Violette DeSantis Finding instructional material for teaching science can be a challenge. Technology instructional materials and science teaching materials usually come at a premium. Searching the Internet is overwhelming, and you hardly touch the surface before it seems your efforts produce minimal results.

Don't give up on what appears to be a daunting task. Whether seeking science instructional materials for your own classroom or as a team, a focus on a few key areas provides a wealth of resources that lead you to instructional material for teaching technology.

1. Network with others via memberships in organizations or discussion forums to find instructional science and technology materials.

2. Look for companies with a primary focus on developing a classroom in information technology.

3. Replace traditional instructional science videos with supplemental material for instructional science provided by the media.

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.
Try:  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.
Try:  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.
Try:  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.

• 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.