Modeling and Spatial Reasoning

Developing content knowledge, pedagogical expertise, and skill in using technology for discrete and continuous modeling, geometric modeling, and spatial reasoning

Registration for Modspar 2012 is now open!

Modspar 2012 mail-in application: PDF file and Word file
Online Modspar 2012 registration

Deadline to register: 30 June 2012

Modspar scholars Andy Lovejoy and Janelle Grube use a TI-nspire handheld computer, temperature probe, and Smart Board to collect and model data in their activity: When did Jane Doe die?

Modeling and Spatial Reasoning (Modspar) is a yearlong Advanced Teacher Capacity professional development program for mathematics teachers in Grades 7-12. Modspar 2012 begins with a
2-week summer institute at the Metro High School in Columbus, Ohio, 23 July through 3 August 2012, with follow-up during the 2012-2013 school year. See related article: Of Note: Research News Briefs: Cool Tools, page 6 of 44.

Modspar focuses on discrete and continuous modeling as well as geometric modeling and spatial reasoning. Participants explore these concepts in-depth using TI-nspire handheld computers, TI-nspire software, and other tools for teaching and learning. In addition, participants develop and enact plans to use rich instructional activities and assessments in their classrooms. The summer institute is followed by ongoing online support and two face-to-face workshops during 2012-2013.

The Modspar program provides participants with $400 worth of materials, access to additional resources, plus food and stipends. Optional graduate credit is available at a reduced tuition rate. A free residential option is available for participants who live more than 45 miles from the Metro High School.

Here's what past Modspar participants have said:

"The institute gave me new ideas and new approaches."

"I gained a greater depth of understanding of the material and a broader range of applications/examples from which to build."

"As a result of this institute, I used more technology in my classroom than I have ever used in the past."

The Modspar program is supported by the Advanced Teacher Capacity (ATC) grant. The total estimated costs for the 2012-2013 ATC project are $279,353, which includes a $158,054 grant of federal funds from the Improving Teacher Quality Program administered by the Ohio Board of Regents, covering approximately 56.6% of the total costs.