Search The Edge Files Help   Advanced

Narrative:  In 1998 the Maury County Partnership decided to offer teachers a summer internship at local companies in order for them to gain firsthand knowledge of the changing workplace. Emphasis is placed on developing methods of building higher levels of communications, math, science and problem-solving skills in the curriculum. The teachers were expected to have the following competencies upon completion of the internship:

1. Identify transformations within the workplace and related implications for education.
2. Describe the nature of the sponsoring company, products/services, and the impact of the company on the community.
3. Identify different types of occupations within the company and necessary skills and education required for entry and/or advancement.
4. Identify one or more functions of mid-level employees that could be adapted into an effective activity for an applied academic course.
5. Identify one or more ways the math, English or science curriculum should be enhanced to better meet the needs of the changing workplace.
6. Develop one or more teaching modules or classroom activities to enhance a course now being taught.
7. Identify two or more ways in which the company or employee could provide enhancements to an academic course.
8. Effectively describe the outcomes and anticipated impact in the teaching/learning process.

It Works!  In 1998, sixteen positions were available to K-12 teachers and Columbia State Community College faculty. In 1999, the program was expanded to include 21 teachers from private, public and postsecondary schools. The local partnership is now developing strategies which will enable employers to sponsor ½ of the stipend cost for 2000.

Contact:
Susan Chapman
Maury County Schools
501 West 8th Street
Columbia, TN 38401
(P)931-388-8403, ext. 1117
(F)931-840-4410
E-mail: maury@usit.net Hamblen County Schools
210 E. Morris Blvd.
Morristown, TN 37813
423/586-7700 (Voice)
423/586-7747 (Fax)
E-mail: Mike_Watson@HCBOE.Hamblen.K12.TN.US