Updated Distance Learning Program Launched

Queens, N.Y. – Astronaut Ellen S. Baker, along with fifth-grade students from Mark Twain Elementary School, in Houston, Texas, recently participated in a special distance learning session created by the New York Hall of Science. The session kicked off the second phase of the Virtual Visit program, which includes newly updated state-of-the-art technology and curriculum for several new programs that correlate with school, state and federal standards.

The Virtual Visit program is made possible by a generous, two-year grant from Verizon Foundation.

Dr. Baker and the Houston schoolchildren participated in a session titled The Search for Life Beyond Earth. This 45-minute program explores microbes living in extreme environments – what they need to live and where beyond Earth they might be found. The program includes exploration of relevant Hall exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on activities illustrating science concepts.

Click Here to view a 60-second Quicktime clip of the long-distance learning kick-off session.

Dr. Baker was certified as a physician in 1981 and became an astronaut in June 1985. As a mission specialist, Dr. Baker spent over 686 hours in space on three space flights – STS-34 Atlantis in 1989, STS-50 Columbia in 1992, and STS-71 Atlantis in 1995. She has worked in a variety of positions at NASA in support of the Space Shuttle and the Space Station Programs and development of the Exploration Program. She is currently NASA’s Lead Astronaut for Medical Issues and Education Programs.

The Search for Life Beyond Earth is one of five distance learning courses currently offered by the Hall. Other programs include Sophisticated Shadows, Fun with Bubbles, Reflecting on Reflection, and Hidden Kingdoms. Two additional programs – Sports Challenge and Mathematica – are in development and will be available in late Fall 2006.

Distance learning is achieved through a “virtual visit” to the Hall, allowing Hall staff to educate students well beyond the New York metro area. Using state-of-the-art technology and wireless infrastructure, Hall staff interacts with classrooms around the country via a two-way videoconferencing link. The virtual visits are expected to serve 100 classes a year – up to 3,200 students annually.

The Virtual Visit program has been updated with new lessons, wireless Internet connection, and modern equipment. “We are thrilled to offer these new, updated virtual visits to learning centers throughout the country,” said Preeti Gupta, Vice President of Education for the Hall. “With new equipment and new programming, the Hall’s Virtual Visit program will bring science to thousands of students every year in an exciting, interactive format.”

“Education is the key to bringing a bright future to every child. The Virtual Visit program is a perfect example of how the creative use of technology can expand educational opportunities of students throughout the country,” said Verizon Foundation President Patrick Gaston.

The Hall offers 45-minute virtual visits throughout the year for public and private schools, libraries, after-school programs, camps, hospitals, juvenile detention education programs, and other informal learning centers. Pre- and post-activities for use in the classroom are included in each virtual visit. All virtual visits are calibrated to current local and national science curriculum standards. To participate, schools need a high-speed Internet access and a video conferencing system. The fee for a virtual visit to the Hall costs $125 – $200. To register, schools should call 718.699.0005, ext. 319.

The Hall has also received support for the Virtual Visit program from Nortel Networks and the Smart Family Foundation.

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Media Contacts: Mary Record 718.699.0005 ext. 323
Carol Nordin 718.699.0005 ext. 342