Professional Learning
Our hands-on professional learning workshops help K–12 educators design and teach model-based science units that promote deep thinking, rich classroom talk, and equitable learning for all students.
We offer on-site professional learning workshops for elementary, middle, and high school science teachers that center on the model-based inquiry (MBI) approach to teaching and learning. These workshops can focus on the instructional materials from our published MBI curriculum or be designed to support teachers in developing their own MBI units tailored to the needs, interests, and communities of their students.
Our professional learning sessions are ideal for teachers, instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, and district leaders who want to deepen their understanding of MBI or strengthen their capacity to support ambitious, student-centered science teaching. Workshops range from 1 to 3 days and are adaptable to the specific goals and schedules of your school or district.
Participants gain a foundational understanding of MBI and how it can be enacted in classrooms. Sessions include hands-on engagement with instructional materials, strategies for analyzing and responding to student thinking, discussions of equity in science education, and collaborative exploration of the MBI curriculum design process.
Upcoming Events
MBI Introduction Workshop: 1-day Professional Learning
June 24, 2025
This professional learning is an introduction to a model-based inquiry (MBI) framework for designing NGSS-aligned science units. Practical strategies for and practice in constructing a unit are included. Join us to deepen your understanding of MBI or enhance your knowledge of the MBI curriculum design process!
Participants: Teachers grades K-12, instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, and district or campus leaders who wish to deepen their understanding of MBI or enhance their knowledge of the MBI curriculum design process.
Location: Northern Arizona University, Center for STEM Teaching & Learning (CSTL) in Flagstaff, AZ
Cost: $150/person includes MBI book and lunch. Check or purchase order must be received by June 13, 2025 or your registration will be canceled.
Contact: Call or email Lori Rubino-Hare, 928-523-6008, lori.hare@nau.edu
Ready to Plan Your Workshop?
Email us at cstl@nau.edu with your timeline, goals, and group size. We'll follow up with a proposal and quote.
Workshop costs include a workshop fee (facilitator fees, material costs, etc.) and travel (mileage, airfare, meals, hotel, etc. for the facilitators).
Additionally, our team often presents at the NSTA national conference and regional science education conferences.
Professional development workshops are designed and conducted by members of the faculty and professional learning team in the Center for STEM Teaching and Learning at Northern Arizona University.
