Iowa PBS Education wins national award for Iowa Science Phenomena

Iowa PBS Education’s Iowa Science Phenomena project was recently honored with a gold level Trendsetter in Distance Learning award from the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA).

Iowa Science Phenomena is a growing collection of science phenomena resources created, curated and collected by Iowa educators for use in the classroom and beyond. The collection emphasizes the identification and publication of Iowa-specific phenomena, particularly those that represent locally relevant or unique concepts. The standards-aligned resources and teaching guides are developed to help educators implement phenomena-based and place-based teaching practices in their classrooms.

“Our international awards program recognizes the best of the best in distance learning," says Chuck Sengstock, USDLA president and Drake University School of Education director of continuing education and professional development. "USDLA is proud of this year's winners and pleased to recognize their accomplishments."

USDLA recognizes innovators and leaders within the distance/digital learning industry each year as part of its International Award program. The Trendsetter in Distance Learning award is given to an agency, institution, company, project, individual or unique pedagogy that has shown innovation in the field of distance learning. The award recognizes pioneering initiatives in the field that have profoundly changed distance learning, existing practice, or developed new and effective solutions.

Awards will be presented at a special ceremony on Wednesday, June 19, at USDLA’s 37th annual national conference in St. Louis.

Funding for Iowa Science Phenomena is provided by Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Resource Enhancement and Protection program, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, Alliant Energy, Musco Lighting and the Pella Rolscreen Foundation.