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BPZ – Biomimicry and Inspiration
The Blank Park Zoo would once again like to invite educators to professional development opportunities that will be held at Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. The workshops are good for one hour of license renewal credit.
Participants in our workshops engage in relevant inquiry investigations that are connected to the Iowa Core and Next Generation Science Standards, learn research-based instructional practices, and gain knowledge and ideas that will be useful in their classrooms. Lessons are flexible, allowing teachers to adjust for their students’ abilities; and relate to all age groups in several subject areas (science, literacy, mathematics, social studies, and the arts).
Biomimicry and Inspiration – Biomimicry is a growing field of scientific inquiry and technological application to the real world. It can inspire students’ interest in science, the natural world, and the built environment while teaching skills in observation, research, and critical thinking. Participants will engage in activities introducing biologically inspired technology, why it is important (and fascinating!), and provide them with opportunities to research their own solutions to human or environmental challenges. This workshop is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards, particularly those regarding engineering solutions.
Location: Blank Park Zoo
When: Academic year workshops run 4:00-9:30 pm on Friday and 9:00 am-5:00 pm on Saturday. They will be held either in the new Events Center or the Discovery Center conference rooms.
Cost: $65.00 to help cover materials and meals, payable to Blank Park Zoo online; plus AEA credit fees (information regarding AEA registration will be sent to participants prior to each class).
By attending one or more of these workshops, teachers will be eligible to schedule a free animal program at the zoo, or a discounted program in their classrooms. A free program may also be done via Zoom or other electronic means.
Our education department is willing and able to travel to districts across the state with our classroom programs. Programs are connected to the Iowa Core in Science may be also adjusted to meet social studies and language standards or other curriculum needs of individual classrooms.