"Preserving the Past, Constructing the Future"

This presentation weaves knowledge from the past with the future educational and life goals of our students. Diverse cultures contain rich insights and approaches that lend another perspective to addressing the complex issues of our world. It is important to acknowledge that as humans, we are interconnected not only with one another, but with the land, water, and air around us. Learn how we can engage in building our futures by harnessing diverse ways of knowing. For example, the Nepohualtzintzin, a Mesoamerican calculator (similar to an abacus), can help today’s students not only learn math but to teach it as well. It can also develop a sense of cultural identity in the sciences. Students can think of ways that the Nepohualtzintzin was an introduction to the tools needed for today’s technology! Our past can also propel us into the future through deciphering ancient stone writing and preserving this shared human heritage for healthy, knowledgeable communities.

Presenters:

• Sharon Stefan, Residential Faculty, Mathematics, and Director, STEM Center of Excellence, Estrella Mountain Community College

• Dr. Niccole Villa Cerveny, Residential Faculty, Geosciences & Sustainability, Mesa Community College

• Nicholas Baker, Residential Faculty, Biology, Glendale Community College

Please see the registration website for the presenters' bios.

 These events support the igniting talent, transforming lives, and enriching communities through teaching, learning and service Mission of the Maricopa Community Colleges related to providing student global learning opportunities that stem from courses infused with global perspectives.