Massachusetts Teachers Participate in Project GUTS

Massachusetts teachers gathered for a three-day workshop to learn how to incorporate computer modeling and simulation in their science classrooms last week.

The workshop was offered at no cost to middle and high school teachers thanks to the EDC-led Massachusetts Computing Attainment Network (MassCAN) initiative, which works to expand computing education opportunities for all Massachusetts students.

Teachers attending Project GUTS, “Growing Up Thinking Scientifically,” learned about StarLogo Nova, a tool that enables students to develop, run, and share computer simulations. They also learned basic computer science concepts and best practices for teaching these concepts to students.

Project GUTS, originally designed by the Sana Fe Institute, was created to encourage students to investigate scientific topics using computer modeling and simulation. For example, a high school curriculum unit on disease could be enhanced by offering students the opportunity to create a computer model of the disease pathway or progression.

“This is a terrific opportunity to give teachers the tools they need to get students excited about computer science,” said state Sen. Karen Spilka, a strong proponent of state efforts to prepare students for careers in the STEM fields.

“Future careers in our innovation economy depend on computer science and STEM skills. Teachers play a critical role in engaging students and getting them interested in these subject areas,“ said Sen. Spilka, who represents Framingham.

The workshop and its follow-up sessions were organized by MassCAN, the Computer Science Teachers Association of Greater Boston, the Christa McAuliffe Center in Framingham, and Framingham State University.

It was funded by Verizon, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and the Expanding Computing Education Pathway project at UMASS Amherst.