Program | Money and Credit | Lodging and Meeting Rooms | Participant Info | Application Forms
Which Program should I sign up for, the Summer Geometry Institute or one or two minicourses or the Middle School Program?
Of course the answer to this is "it depends", but here are some points to think about.
The SGI is a longer program that provides a residential environment for almost a whole week that becomes a world of its own. A valuable part of the program is the ample time to talk with colleagues, both other participants and the NWMI team as well as the time in the evenings to complete and extend what is introduced during the day. The coverage of the SGI is broad, both in content and methodology, so for many teachers this is the best program to begin with.
The minicourses focus narrowly and more deeply where the SGI is broad. They provide further NWMI experiences for SGI alumni or for teachers who want to know more about a particular subject. As does the SGI, the minicourses are structured around small group investigations, with experiments leading to discussions.
The Middle School and Upper Elementary program is a new 4-day program designed especially for the needs of Seattle teachers (and funded for this purpose). It should be an outstanding program for other teachers in these grades, but priority in admission must be given to Seattle teachers first. Nonetheless other teachers are encouraged to apply.
The style of the SGI and minicourse programs is complementary. The SGI is larger, fast paced, lively and tightly scheduled during the daytime sessions (though relaxed in the evenings). The minicourses are smaller and focused on a single topic. The style is generally more contemplative and the schedule is more flexible. Minicourses are often taken after the SGI, but some teachers prefer the minicourses because of particular intestests, brackground or temperament. NWMI is proud of both programs and recommends both for your consideration.
What are the prerequisites? Which programs are more advanced?
The overall background prerequisites for the SGI and the typical course are modest. Participants should enjoy thinking about math and not feel anxiety if they are occasionally stretched a bit. Since a typical NWMI investigation presents ideas about math and also about pedagogy, there are many ways and many levels to enjoy and appreciate an NWMI activity, so participants are rarely bored. Many NWMI participants teach in middle schools and many teach in high school, but there have been a number of enthusiastic NWMI participants who teach elementary students.
Occasionally, a minicourse will include special prerequisites. For example, the Geometer's Sketchpad minicourse is an intermediate Sketchpad course, with the expectation that participants have some Sketchpad experience. Absolute beginners at Sketchpad will find the 8 hours of Sketchpad instruction in the SGI more appropriate.
What does the program cost?
For teachers in Seattle Public Schools (not just residents of Seattle), the program is free, since the costs are covered by a grant.
For Washington teachers, for on-time registration by June 15, the weeklong Summer Geometry Institute costs $275 registration fee and the minicourses are $125 for one course or $250 for two courses. After June 15 the costs become $300, $150, and $300. This includes lodging on campus (if requested) and breakfast and lunch for Washington teachers. For out-of-state teachers the rates are the same except that lodging is not included. Costs are spelled out fully in a table on the Fees and Costs Page.
Are there additional costs I should know about?
What is the cost of clock hours and credit? When do I sign up? How do I pay?
Is there a reduced price if I choose not to stay on campus?
No. The registration fee is highly subsidized whether or not one stays on campus.
Why do you encourage participants to stay on campus?
For you to get the most out of NMWI, we want your experience to be a relaxed and tranquil time with opportunity for interaction with other teachers, for reflection and for full participation. Commuting (except for very close commutes) and family obligations tend to disturb this atmosphere. While we recognize in some cases it is unavoidable that one must commute home, we want to encourage a retreat or a "math camp" atmosphere whenever possible.
What is the lodging like?
The rooms are single rooms in what we think is the UW's nicest and quietest dorm, Hansee Hall. Bathrooms are down the hall. Sessions are in the same building.
Where do I register?
The registration desk for Hansee Hall is next door in McCarty Hall. There will be NWMI signs posted with directions when you arrive.
Where do the classes meet?
All the programs will meet in rooms in Hansee Hall, except during computer lab time. But all programs will gather for the first time in Hansee. Follow the signs.
Where? When? How?
For participant information, follow this link.
This page last changed by J King 03/13/04