Programs - Cal Poly's Math Science Teacher Initiatives (MSTI)
Blended Credential + B.S. Programs:
Cal Poly’s science and education faculty are working together on blending science content with pedagogy courses in new integrated science B.S. and credential programs. The Chemistry Blended Program that enables candidates to earn a BA and credential in slightly more than 4 years is in effect. Biology, Physics and Geosciences Blended Programs are currently under development. The Geosciences Blended Program will capitalize upon the new Geosciences credential that is expected to be approved soon. To streamline the process of obtaining a credential, Cal Poly has created comprehensive program templates for math majors and minors that address program entry, progress, and completion. Advising, co- curricular opportunities, information about professional roles, financial aid resources, and other materials are made available for entering students for current students. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo is also developing science and mathematics credential programs that will be offered in an online environment.
K-12 Tutoring Opportunities:
Supervised tutoring and other field based experiences in local K-12 schools play a major role in Cal Poly’s “Learn by Doing” instructional practices. These opportunities are both paid and unpaid, and are available for selected qualified candidates in collaboration with new and existing local school districts. Contact Dr. Lisbeth Ceaser at 756-2079 or lceaser@calpoly.edu for more information.
Learn by Doing Lab:
Cal Poly has begun a science “Learn by Doing” lab in which undergraduates teach students from local schools lessons based on scientific inquiry. Further development and expansion of this program is planned. This lab is based on CSU Chico’s successful “Hands on Lab.”
STAR Program:
An additional significant opportunity for aspiring science teachers across the CSU is the Science Teacher and Researcher (STAR) program, which provides a summer research experience in federal research labs, such as Lawrence Berkeley and Livermore National Laboratories, NASA, Stanford Linear Accelerator. STAR interns participate in weekly science education workshops that are intended help students connect the “doing” of science with the "teaching" of science. Cal Poly coordinates this program for the CSU.