Among the many highlights to be found in the jam-packed TAM8 schedule, is the robust lineup of expertly-led workshops offering practical, and often hands-on reviews of important topics relating to science, critical thinking, and skepticism. Many will be pleased to hear that among them is a teacher’s workshop focusing on some of the specialized skills needed to bring the tools of scientific skepticism into the classroom and beyond. I am very excited that the workshop is being presented by Barbara Drescher and a number of experts with many accumulated years spent learning the "ins and outs" of this sometimes tricky endeavor. Below is a sneak peak at the workshop from Barbara.
The "E" in JREF at TAM8
You do not need to be a teacher to educate. Each of us takes on the role of educator when we promote critical thinking, science, and skepticism through private debate and public talks. So, you do not need to be a teacher to take home something of value from a workshop to be hosted by Michael Blanford, Director of Educational Programs for the James Randi Educational Foundation, at The Amazing Meeting 8.
Join us on Thursday, July 8, 2010 for tips, tricks, and practical advice for teaching critical thinking through classroom demonstrations, lessons and exercises, and mind opening mini lessons. Michael will give us an update on JREF's educational efforts. Junior Skeptic editor and author of Evolution: How We and All Living Things Came to Be, Daniel Loxton, will discuss using concepts in evolution through natural selection to cultivate critical thinking in elementary school chilren. Matt Lowry, The Skeptical Teacher, will cover the secondary set with instructions on how to make a skeptical kid. Finally, I will demonstrate some easy, quick, and fun ways to jimmy open minds by showing that what we perceive does not always match reality. There may even be a surprise guest by proxy. *shhhh!*
So, sign up today, or treat yourself to an all-workshop pass. There will be plenty to take home from what we are confident will be an inspiring start to your TAM8 experience.