In July 2005, members of the Indianapolis Local Site Team ( C. Subah Packer, Sandi Mahl, Linda Dearth-Monroe, Richard Friedman, George Potter and Robert Yost ) http://www.the-aps.org/education/2006rts/lst/Indiana/I_index.htm facilitated 35 IUPUI students in a day-long workshop exploring the physiology and anatomy of the sense of taste. Students explored one of our most important senses and also learned to use the Project WISE (Web-based Inquiry Science Environment) website, which provides an interactive, online environment for inquiry-based teaching and learning (http://wise.berkeley.edu).

The interactive, online unit, It’s a Matter of Taste, utilizes online content resources (readings, graphics and photographs, and animated videos), hands-on laboratory activities (including inquiry-based activities) along with interactive student activities (brainstorms and online poster sessions). Both content and process objectives linked to national science education standards are addressed.

Specific objectives for the Workshop were to:

  • Present the topic in an interesting, student-centered, thought-provoking manner;
  • Give LST members practice in modeling the use of WISE for future workshops;
  • Expand the network of scientists, teachers and science students in the Indiana community.
Evaluation data of the Workshop suggest that these objectives were met. Some student participants wrote that the day was well spent and a relief from didactic lecture. The LST concluded that as the inquiry process becomes more familiar, both educators and students will enjoy an enhanced academic experience. 
Click here to view a slide show of the Workshop