Astrobiology as a Context for High School Science: Teachers' Professional Development

Astrobiology is an interdisciplinary science investigating life in the universe. Where did life originate? What is its future? Are we alone in the universe? These major questions drive astrobiology research, are investigated through understanding evolution in the broadest sense, and are stimulating questions for the classroom. Voyages Through Time is a tested and effective astrobiology curriculum, emphasizing inquiry, examination of evidence, and the nature of science. The SETI Institute’s NASA Astrobiology Institute (NAI) Lead Team Education and Public Outreach (EPO) effort developed Astrobiology Summer Science Experience for Teachers (ASSET) as a six day science teacher professional development institute capitalizing upon the intriguing science and the exemplar curriculum.