Satellites in the K–12 Classroom

The American Meteorological Society (AMS) has a policy statement on EARTH SYSTEM Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education. The policy recognizes the importance of EARTH SYSTEM STEM “in developing, maintaining, and growing an education “pipeline” for the purpose of creating a world-class 21st-century workforce in the United States.” The question is “How can EARTH SYSTEM STEM be incorporated into the precollege classroom?” As further stated in the AMS policy, “...AMS highly recommends and encourages the use of datasets, computer models and visualizations, remote-sensing technologies, and field experiences.”

Students and teachers need experience with problem based learning on a larger scale than just in the classroom. Satellite technology, remote sensing, and image processing will aid in understanding Planet Earth as a “System of Systems.” The Earth as a System and the impact of humans on that system should become a larger and larger focus of K12 education. Satellites, with real world missions and real time data, are the future of EARTH SYSTEM STEM.

This interactive session will demonstrate simple ways satellites and satellite imagery can be incorporated with current district curricula. Participants will be familiarized with the GLOBE program and its current satellite partnerships. In addition, lessons using the Institute for Earth Observations (Palmyra, NJ) HoloGLOBE augmented reality platform will be shown.