Math and Science Laboratory
When Joseph R. Pearson Hall was remodeled for use for the School of Education, a very special science and mathematics classroom was included in the new addition to the building. Room 142 is designed to replicate a middle school laboratory classroom for science and mathematics teaching. It includes sinks, electrical outlets, and gas outlets for 12 work stations (including one that is wheel-chair accessible). It also includes storage cabinets and drawers to house hands-on instructional materials for science and mathematics. The room is equipped with safety equipment typical of a middle-school laboratory, including an eye-wash station, fire blanket, fire extinguisher, safety goggles, a first aid kit, and materials for containing and disposal of hazardous chemicals. The floor is built of industrial materials that resist spills and slippage. The countertops and desk tops are built to resist corrosive chemicals. Student seating is with 12 tables that seat two students each, which can be arranged according to the instructional purpose (small group work or large group instruction). Connected to the room is a locked storage/chemical preparation room, with a sink and refrigerator.
An important feature of the science/mathematics classroom is that it is configured with state-of-the art educational technology so that students can learn using technologies they will be using in schools. The room includes a mobile notebook computer cart with sufficient notebook computers for one computer for two students. When the instructional activity requires it, another mobile notebook computer cart can be brought into the room so that each student might have use of a notebook computer. Room 142 also has a Promethean "Smart Board," access to a electronic tablet, access to electronic classroom response system (voting system that works with the Promethean system), a computer data projector, and a presentation computer station for the instructor equipped with a video camera data projector and DVD/VHS player. Additional educational technology equipment include a video microscope, LCD display for use with TI Graphing calculators, and a complete classroom set of Vernier science laboratory interfaces and sensors. These educational technology materials for science and mathematics teaching provide the students the opportunity to learn how to engage K-12 students in using technology to learn and do inquiry in science and mathematics.