Institute of Science Teaching Excellence
Brookfield Zoo has developed many tools to assist educators in sharing information about animals, science, and caring - the things that form the basis of conservation at the zoo and in the wild. We encourage educators to use the information gathered by the zoo to share concepts about data gathering and scientific research, and to use the zoo's charismatic animals to help inspire excitement for learning.
Be informed, entertained, and engaged by these special workshops for K-12 educators.
Brookfield Zoo's Teaching Safari program engages educators by combining professional learning with exploration of nature and animals. Participants learn, practice, and apply equity-minded classroom strategies to support student inquiry, critical thinking, conceptual understanding, and engagement in all subject areas. The program includes themed sessions at Brookfield Zoo as well as virtual discussions, feedback on instructional plans from CZS education staff, and reflection on professional growth. In addition, participants develop a deeper knowledge of CZS resources to enrich informal and formal learning experiences for their students, families, and themselves.
Bring your lessons to life with a field trip to Brookfield Zoo!
The Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) is a conservation-focused, inquiry-driven learning experience that combines web-based graduate courses through Miami University with exciting face-to-face experiential and field study at Brookfield Zoo. Students in this national degree program contribute to social and ecological change in their communities. The opportunity to earn credits from international travel is another exciting part of the program. And the best news of all – it’s affordable!