Education

Why Teacher Training Is So Important

Not just the health of the planet, but the quality of human life depends on making the best educated decisions about management of our natural resources.

The Texas Natural Science Center plays an important role. The core of our mission is research and education of the biological diversity on planet Earth: its origins, its functions in maintaining a livable planet for us, and its ultimate fate. One of the best ways we have to reach the most people is to train Texas teachers about the diversity of life.

Our teacher training workshops are designed to increase teachers’ understanding of evolution and build their confidence in teaching evolutionary concept, giving teachers the strategies, tactics and tools to teach evolution effectively in their classrooms.

The generosity of our supporters helps us reach more teachers and helps us tailor our programs to meet TEKS-oriented goals.

In March, TNSC received a $5,000 donation from The Magnolia Charitable Trust in support of teacher training. This donation enhances earlier donations by the Austin Community Foundation, Temple-Inland Foundation, the Kodosky Foundation, and the Winkler Family Foundation.

“The need is great,” explains Dr. Matt Winkler. “Many teachers have limited science content knowledge, and as a result, they often refrain from teaching their students about evolution or they give inaccurate information.”