geocaching

GeoCaching Chris Champion & Hank Wajda Cole-120 DOUBLE SESSION Wednesday 28th 8:10 am

Like playing hide and seek? What if you could teach your core content at the same time? Geocaching is a fun way to get outside and move around looking for "buried treasure". How does that apply to the classroom? In this session you'll learn how to address multiple learning styles by combining physical activity with almost any subject area. We'll discover tried-and-true methods for enhancing instruction with technology, including sample lesson plans and hands-on activities. We'll go outside and see how a simple writing or mathematics or science lesson can be made more fun and interesting by classifying, analyzing, and formulating ideas taken from caches hidden around campus. Participants will get hands-on experience with a Garmin GPS receiver, several sample lesson plans/ideas, and information on where to borrow GPS receivers to try out in their own school.

**Resources and information from session:** []

In addition to allowing teachers to meet the standards in their class, this session addresses Math Anchors MA.1 (demonstration of an understanding of number systems, in this case, decimal-formed latitude and longitude), MB.1 (demonstration of an understanding of measurable attributes of objects and figures, in this case, comparing latitude and longitude numbers to feet and miles); Science Anchors S11.A.2.2 (explain how technology tools are used to extend human abilities), S11.C.3.1 (Use the principles of motion and force to solve real-world challenges, in this case, learn how geosynchronous orbits and relative speed can be used to determine physical location). NETS for Students standards addressed:

1. Creativity and Innovation Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using technology. Students: c. use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues.

6. Technology Operations and Concepts Students demonstrate a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations. Students: a. understand and use technology systems. d. transfer current knowledge to learning of new technologies.

NETS for Teachers Standards addressed:

2. Design and Develop Digital-Age Learning Experiences and Assessments Teachers design, develop, and evaluate authentic learning experiences and assessments incorporating contemporary tools and resources to maximize content learning in context and to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes identified in the NETS•S. Teachers: a. design or adapt relevant learning experiences that incorporate digital tools and resources to promote student learning and creativity d. provide students with multiple and varied formative and summative assessments aligned with content and technology standards and use resulting data to inform learning and teaching