TOPSTSCHOOL

Part of the NASA Transform to Open Science (TOPS) Training initiative.

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Published by TOPSTSCHOOL Development Team

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Palisades, NY

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TOPSTSCHOOL Development Team

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We are thrilled to introduce you to Science Core Heuristics for Open Science Outcomes in Learning (SCHOOL), a flagship initiative under NASA's Transform to Open Science (TOPS) Training program. SCHOOL represents our collective vision to make science open, inclusive, and accessible to all. By joining SCHOOL, you’re becoming part of a transformative effort to empower learners worldwide. Our mission is to inspire students, educators, and researchers to leverage NASA Earth Science Applications and embrace the power of Open Science in solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Together, we’re building a global community of learners and innovators.

This page provides a detailed overview of SCHOOL’s goals, pedagogy, and the unique opportunities it offers. We invite you to explore, engage, and contribute to this exciting journey.

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SCHOOL

At its core, SCHOOL is about bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and practical education. This initiative is part of NASA’s Open Source Science Initiative (OSSI) and focuses on integrating NASA’s Earth Science Applications into the data science life cycle. We have developed a series of seven learning modules, each designed to provide learners with hands-on experience in applying Open Science principles to real-world problems. These modules are suitable for both self-led online learning and in-person instruction, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for diverse audiences.

Why is SCHOOL Special?

  1. Thematic Depth. Each module explores a critical theme affecting our planet, including:

    • Water. Understanding water systems in a changing climate.

    • Air Quality. Connecting air quality data to public health outcomes.

    • Environmental Justice. Promoting equitable solutions to environmental challenges.

    • Disasters. Using data to predict, prepare for, and mitigate natural disasters.

    • Wildfires. Understanding and managing wildfire risks in vulnerable areas.

    • Agriculture. Enhancing food security through data-driven decision-making.

    • Climate. Addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

  2. Data Science Life Cycle Integration. Modules guide learners through the data science life cycle, demonstrating how to analyze, visualize, and derive insights from NASA datasets.

  3. Open Science Focus. By emphasizing transparency and collaboration, SCHOOL equips learners with the skills to contribute meaningfully to the global Open Science community.

Pedagogy

At SCHOOL, we believe that how we teach is just as important as what we teach. Our pedagogy is rooted in principles of inclusive teaching, active learning, and thoughtful evaluation. These core values ensure that every learner feels welcomed, empowered, and supported throughout their educational journey.

Find all of the relevant material for modules and events on the TOPSTSCHOOL Zenodo here.

Inclusive Teaching

Education should reflect the richness of the world we live in. At SCHOOL, we strive to create an environment where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated. Here’s how we foster inclusivity:

  • Breaking Down Barriers. Course content includes examples that cross cultural, gender, and socioeconomic boundaries, ensuring relevance for all learners.

  • Diverse Modes of Learning. Materials are delivered through a variety of methods, including videos, visuals, interactive exercises, and text. This multimodal approach ensures that learners with different preferences and abilities can engage fully.

  • Accessible Design. Every module is crafted to accommodate learners from diverse backgrounds and skill levels, eliminating assumptions about prior experience.

Active Learning

We want learners to not just consume knowledge but to actively engage with it. Active learning encourages students to reflect, analyze, and apply concepts in real-time. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Critical Thinking. Activities are designed to go beyond rote memorization, prompting learners to ask why and how.

  • Engaging Tasks. Modules include dynamic exercises such as coding challenges, data visualization tasks, and discussions.

  • Interactive Content. Even in self-led settings, learners are guided to interact with content, such as exploring datasets, connecting concepts to real-world scenarios, or engaging in problem-solving exercises.

Thoughtful Evaluation

Effective learning relies on clear goals and constructive feedback. SCHOOL employs a rigorous evaluation process to help learners succeed:

  • Transparent Expectations. Learners know from the start what is expected and how their progress will be assessed.

  • Timely Feedback. Frequent and detailed feedback ensures that students can refine their skills as they learn.

  • Guidance Through Exemplars. Clear examples of successful outcomes help learners aim for excellence.

Our goal is to create a supportive feedback loop where learners feel encouraged and motivated to improve continuously.

Why Join SCHOOL?

SCHOOL Team

The SCHOOL Project isn’t just about education; it’s about building a community of learners and researchers committed to advancing Open Science. By participating in SCHOOL, you’re contributing to a brighter, more collaborative future for science and society.

  • Are you an educator looking to inspire your students with real-world applications of science?

  • Are you a student eager to develop skills that will shape your career and make a difference?

  • Are you a researcher passionate about sharing knowledge and fostering global collaboration?

If so, SCHOOL is the perfect place for you to make an impact. Together, we can create a world where knowledge knows no boundaries, and science is accessible to all.

Learn more

Project Timeline

The SCHOOL Project represents an ambitious, collaborative journey toward reshaping how Open Science is taught and learned. Our timeline spans two years, beginning on July 1, 2023, and culminating on June 30, 2025, offering ample opportunities for contributions, feedback, and refinement as we move forward together.

To ensure the smooth and efficient development of SCHOOL’s learning modules, we are adopting the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) methodology. This proven approach emphasizes collaboration, flexibility, and incremental progress, allowing us to deliver thematic content regularly and in manageable stages.