Do you work with volunteers? with families? with young children? Do you have
or are you planning an outdoor science park? Is presenting current science
your aim? If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, read on. If not,
please forward this information to someone who would.

Descriptions of five weekend intensives follow, starting in June, 2001, and
ending in early 2001. They are part of a new Association of
Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) initiative called "Roundtables for the
Advancement of the Professions" (RAPS). By offering a mix of interactive
activities, RAPS provide opportunities for museum professionals to network,
to expand their knowledge base, and to identify resources, and at minimum
cost. Visit the ASTC web pages (www.astc.org) for additional information but
read on now to see what you shouldn't miss.

1. Working on WOW - Volunteers and the Visitor Experience - June 8-10, 2001
Science North, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada

Volunteers can add tremendous value to the visitor experience. As a result,
they contribute to the successful marketing of an institution, increasing
attendance and revenue. Branding of the visitor experience helps enhance the
brand identify of the science center. Discussions and activities will focus
on maximizing the impact of the volunteer corps in science centers large and
small.

Fee: $50 US.

For more information, contact Patricia Clizia, volunteer coordiantor;
705/522-3701 x 225; 705/522-4954; e-mail [log in to unmask]

To register, contact Nicole Chaisson, CEO's Office, Science North, 100
Ramsey Lake Road, Sudbury, ON CANADA P3E 5S9; 705/522-3701 x223; fax
705/522-4954; e-mail
[log in to unmask] Registration deadline is May 25.

2. Family Science in a Museum Setting - June 22-24, 2001
New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science, Albuquerque, NM

Drawing from a successful six-year project that involves parents in hands-on
science and
teachers with bilingual science materials and professional development
opportunities, participants will explore a variety of key issues, including
these: What makes for good learning for adults? What are the essential "nuts
and bolts" of conducting parent and/or family workshops? What do we now know
about family programs in museum settings? What can we learn from the
challenges and successes of each other's programs?

Fee: $50 US
Includes evening reception on June 22, continental breakfast and lunch on
June 23, and
continental breakfast on June 24.

For more information, contact Madeleine Correa Zeigler, Proyecto
Futuro-Albuquerque Director, 505/841-2857; e-mail
[log in to unmask]

To register, contact Selena Connealy, Proyecto Futuro-Albuquerque
Coordinator; 505/841-2814; fax 505/841-2866; e-mail
[log in to unmask] Registration deadline is June 1.
3. Outdoor Science Parks - August 24-26, 2001
SciTech Hands On Museum, Aurora IL

Participants will consider key logistic and pragmatic issues around
planning, building, and maintaining a science outdoor park inspired by the
Clore Garden of Science. Issues include choosing themes and exhibit ideas
suited for the outdoors; selecting natural elements; and designing exciting
educational programs.

Fee: TBD

For more information, contact Ronen Mir, executive director; e-mail
[log in to unmask]

To register, contact Carina Eizmendi, exhibit developer; 630/859-3434; fax
630/859-8692;
e-mail [log in to unmask] Registration deadline TBD.

4. New Early Learner Spaces - December 7-9, 2001
Carnegie Science Center, Pittsburgh, PA

Science centers and museums that have recently replaced, expanded or added
an interactive gallery designed for young children and their families are
encouraged to bring an "armchair tour" presentation for sharing successes
and problems encountered. Carnegie Science Center's new Exploration Station,
Junior, will be participants' case study to explore designing and
programming for young children, and staffing and maintenance needs of spaces
designed for young children.

Fee: $ 50

For more information and to register, contact Dennis Bateman, assistant
director, exhibits and facilities; 412/237-3356; fax 412/237-1686; e-mail
[log in to unmask] Registration deadline is November 1.

5. Exploring Approaches to Presenting Current Science and Technology in
Museums
and Science Centers - March 1 - 3, 2002
Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul MN

Exhibits and education staff at science centers and museums are coming to
realize that
presenting current science and technology is within their reach.
Participants will discuss the
various approaches to current science programming, practice some program
planning, and
explore the potential to collaborate among institutions.

Fee: $80 US

For more information and to register, contact Anne Hornickel, head of museum
programs; 651/221-9481; fax 651/265-9811; [log in to unmask] Registration
deadline is January 11, 2002.

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