IMSA to Host International Problem-Based Learning Symposium; Channel 2 News Reporter Mike Flannery To Co-Present Closing Session

For Immediate Release, November 2002
For comment, contact Brenda Buschbacher at (630) 907-5033

AURORA – The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) is seeking participants to its international Problem-based Learning Symposium, entitled “In the Service of Learning:  Getting to the Heart of Problem-based Learning” to be held February 14-15, 2003, at the IMSA campus.  Political Analyst and CBS-TV Investigative Reporter Mike Flannery will co-present the closing session of the symposium.  For further information or to register, visit wwwimsaedu/programs/ or call 630-907-5957.

Long recognized as a leader in problem-based learning (PBL), IMSA will welcome some of the best-known authors in the field.  Practitioners from across the country will share the many ways they utilize PBL in their daily classroom practice.

Technology showcases during the symposium will feature EdVision, which provides an online tool for aligning curriculum and assessment to state standards.  Other technology showcases, the NASA Classroom of the Future and  NASA Why? Files, will highlight methods for using electronic resources to further stimulate excellence in problem-based curriculum and instructional practices. 

In addition to the professional development sessions, an exhibitor fair will feature publishers and distributors of products to help enhance learning in a PBL classroom.  In the closing session on Saturday, February 15, 2003, author Linda Torp will summarize the two-day event with Mike Flannery, Political Analyst and Investigative Reporter for Channel 2 News (WBBM-TV), Chicago.

Located in Aurora, Illinois, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is an internationally- recognized pioneering educational institution created by the State to develop talent and stimulate excellence in teaching and learning in mathematics, science and technology.  IMSA's advanced residential college preparatory program enrolls 650 academically talented Illinois students in grades 10-12.   More than 14,000 teachers and 20,000 students in Illinois and beyond have benefited from IMSA's professional development and enrichment programs.  IMSA serves the people of Illinois through innovative instructional programs, public and private partnerships, policy leadership and action research.