Developing Collaborative International Teacher Enhancement Learning Communties

This paper will examine the development of an international teacher enhancement learning community. Using the resources and experiences gained from the AMS DataStreme Project and participation in the GLOBE Program, a need was identified to develop collaborative international learning experiences. Teachers from varied backgrounds, cultures, and countries, yet with very similar interests, have a strong desire to advance a true global learning community that can address K-12 issues impacting not only Atmospheric Sciences, but all Earth Systems Science. The GLOBE Program currently is conducted in over 80 countries, with over 5000 schools collecting and submitting environmental data via the Internet. During the 1998-99 school year, a new program was launched by the GLOBE Program, called "School to School Activities." A project currently underway is called "Digital Earth-GIS" submitted and moderated by John D. Moore. Through this project design, over twenty schools from several nations have participated and continues to grow. Some of the countries include China, Croatia, Sweden, Finland, Germany, Australia, Poland, and of course, the USA.

The AMS DataStreme Course was introduced to these collaborators as a possible way to further our involvement, and work together in enhancing our knowledge. Due to the time sensitivity of the DataStreme lessons, and after consulting AMS Director of Education Dr. Ira Geer, it was decided that perhaps the best option would be to offer the AMS' new Internet course offering, "Weather On-Line". Therefore, in the Fall of 1999 this group of K-12 educators from around the globe will engage in this new experiment. It is new for the AMS, and it is new for the GLOBE Program, and will open opportunities for the two programs to collaborate in the future. As the AMS further develops new courses that can be delivered via the Internet, this learning community will provide important information as to the feasibility of true international teacher enhancement programs.

It is believed that this endeavor, which is supported by the GLOBE Program and AMS, will lead to strong international communication, further international collaborative efforts, a lasting K-12 teacher relationships, while enhancing the science and math skills of students on a global level.