NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

NASA Ames Research Center
Pre-Service Teacher Institute (PSTI)
Program Dates: June 19 – July 2, 2013
Applications for 2013 are closed

Program Description

The NASA Ames Research Center Pre-Service Teacher Institute (PSTI) is a two-week summer residential program for college students who are preparing to teach in an elementary or middle school. California State University, Fresno’s (CSUF) administers the institute through a Cooperative Agreement funded by Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD).

The program is designed to increase pre-service teachers’ skills in teaching mathematics and science, while integrating technology into the curriculum. This is achieved through the development of a problem-based learning (PBL) space exploration theme. The participants will be assigned to an Institute Flight Team. Using the skills they have learned, the PSTI Participants will develop a lesson to teach to a 4th grade class from a local school.

To participate in the NASA Ames Research Center’s PSTI Program, candidates must attend one of the member universities (see Member University list)

A Financial Support Package is provided to all participants

• 500 Stipend (for those who completely fulfill all requirements of the two week PSTI Institute)
  
• Transportation to NASA Ames Research Center from city of residence
  
• Double occupancy dorm rooms are provided
  
• Daily meal allowances
  
• College credit (3 units) given to PSTI participants by CSUF upon successfully completing the program
  

Program Objectives

1. Model and promote the use of scientific inquiry through problem-based learning for pre-service teachers.
   
2. Enhance the knowledge of pre-service teachers in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) using content from NASA's Directorates.
   
3. Promote enthusiasm and self-confidence for teaching science and mathematics for pre-service teachers of young children.
   
4. Increase skills in teaching mathematics and science while incorporating technology into the curriculum.
   
5. Provide pre-service teachers with a variety of alternative instructional strategies.
   

Eligibility

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
  
• Be majoring in Elementary Education (K-8 prospective teacher)
  
• Have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (4.0 scale) or higher
  
• Be a rising college junior, senior or a graduate student going into the K-8 classroom; graduate student must not hold an undergraduate degree in elementary education
  
• Have successfully completed at least one college level mathematics and one science course with a grade of "B" or better
  
• Be in attendance for the full two-weeks
  
• Be a full time student at a member university (see Member University list)
  
• Have not previously participated in PSTI (at Ames or at one of the other Centers)
  
• Have the recommendation of a science or mathematics professor
  

Program Sponsor

Funding provided by NASA Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD), through NASA Ames Research Center and California State University, Fresno (CSUF)

NASA Ames PSTI Application:

• Ames PSTI Application PDF

• PSTI Recommendation Form PDF