The Geophysical Institute Outreach Office is accepting applications for a spring 2012 Snow COVER course for educators. The science professional development course features a collaborative online network for teaching and learning about the role of snow in global climate. Course participants interact with a suite of online lessons and receive access to a wealth of snow-related data and resources appropriate for classroom use. 

The course runs from January through May 2012. Teachers can earn three continuing education credits from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, receive an $800 stipend for completing the course and course-related technical support.

The course is divided into six units of online instruction related to snow and global climate. Unit topics include "Snow and Climate," "Snowfall and Snow Depth," "Studying Snow Cover," "Temperature and Wind," "Climate Projection" and "Indigenous Climate Knowledge." During each unit, participants will:

1. Collaborate asynchronously with others in an online forum to discuss questions related to snow and its role in global climate. Participants will be grouped with peers and are expected to initiate and lead at least one discussion on an assigned topic, as well as read and contribute to the discussions of peers in their group.

2. Complete an online lesson that guides participants through the processes scientists use to access an analyze snow and climate data.

3. Participate in an online synchronous chat related to each lesson.

4. Complete online assessments at the end of each unit.

Participants will be asked to complete a final project that proves they can transfer their training to the classroom. For the final project, participants will:

1. Select a Snow COVER resource and implement it with grade 7-12 students.

2. Share experiences and results in an online discussion forum.

Space is limited. First come, first served.

For more information or to receive an application for the course, contact ice [at] gi [dot] alaska [dot] edu or call Glenda Findlay at 907-474-2722. Applications must be received by Dec. 9, 2011.