Six pre-service teachers from Wichita State University’s College of Education presented at the Kansas Association of Teachers of Science KATS Kamp conference Sept. 19 at Emporia State University.
The students are each in their final year of WSU’s science education program and are on track to complete their internship placements and graduate with teacher licensure in spring 2027.
The group included Rachael Holz, Biology Education 6-12; Alyssa Crumbliss, Biology Education 6-12; Allyssa Meyer, Science and Math Education 5-8; Tyler Carroll, Science and English Education 5-8; Elliott Sewell, Chemistry Education 6-12; and Michael Bond, Science and Math Education 5-8. They were joined by Dr. Danny Bergman, WSU Science Education Program Chair and professor.
KATS Kamp is the annual science education conference organized by the Kansas Association of Teachers of Science and hosted at different locations across the state each year. WSU science teacher candidates often participate by attending and presenting alongside science teachers and educators from across the region.
At this year’s conference, the WSU students presented a session titled “Demos, demos, DEMOS!” featuring more than a dozen science demonstrations and discrepant events designed to introduce scientific phenomena, spark curiosity and encourage further learning.
The demonstrations covered concepts in biology, chemistry, physics and other areas of science. Activities included elephant toothpaste reactions to demonstrate the effects of fast-acting enzyme catalysts, glow-powder black-light tests as part of a disease transmission role-play and paper poppers to demonstrate force and air pressure.
Students used common household objects, including candles, eggs, balloons and bouncy balls, to demonstrate additional science concepts that could be adapted for classroom instruction.
Dr. Bergman said experiences like KATS Kamp help prepare students not only to become effective science teachers, but also to grow as leaders in the profession.
“The WSU Science Education program’s goal is not only to prepare high quality science teachers, but also prepare science teacher leaders. The best teachers are always trying to get better, and participation in professional organizations is a significant way to improve as a teacher. By presenting a conference session with other educators, WSU’s teacher candidates develop their own teaching skills, network professionally and gain additional learning experiences beyond the classroom walls,” said Dr. Bergman.
The conference also gave students the opportunity to present to practicing educators, build professional connections and gain additional experience outside the classroom.