Virtual Classroom Visits (VcV): Bring a USGS Scientist into Your Classroom!
The USGS’s Virtual Classroom Visits (VcV) program connects USGS scientists and staff with classrooms across the Nation, through virtual meeting technology. VcV allows USGS scientists to "visit" K-12 and college classrooms that are not just around the corner.
K-12 Teachers,
Is your classroom studying Earth and curious about meeting real scientists? From volcanologists to oceanographers, from geographers to wildlife biologists, from computer scientists to hydrologists, the USGS has a wide array of STEM professionals working in fields that your students may not have been exposed to before.
Through the Virtual Classroom Visits (VcV) program, we provide an opportunity for your students to meet and interact with a USGS scientist. Topics and format will vary, but we encourage our scientists to include a personal narrative to connect with your students, such as learning about what (or who) inspired them to become scientists, how they got into STEM fields, and what a day in a life of a scientist is really like.
Through the VcV program, we intend to
- Showcase the wide array of STEM professions that exist, particularly in the USGS.
- Share personal stories to show students all the twists and turns that are involved in becoming a scientist.
- Provide an interactive, virtual opportunity that lets your students engage with a real scientist.
- Support science lessons in your classroom.
- Build relationships with you, your class, and your school.
- Inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.
College and University Professors,
The USGS Virtual Classroom Visits program is also open to you! Through the VcV program, we provide an opportunity for a USGS professional to speak with your class or department about their work at USGS and personal career journey.
How it Works: Educators can request a USGS Virtual Classroom Visit by filling out the form linked above. You'll be able to indicate what subject area you are interested in, grade level, and time frame. We'll connect you with a USGS professional with whom you can define a schedule. We'll use your virtual classroom technology. Afterwards, we'll send a brief survey so you can provide feedback to help us improve the program.
Virtual Classroom Visits are typically ~45 minutes. A conversation or email between educator and USGS presenter beforehand can help frame the presentation. There will be plenty of time for students to ask questions. We hope to see you on a shared screen soon!
For any questions or feedback, please email usgs_yes@usgs.gov.