About this trip

At the junction of two continents and the gateway to two oceans, Panama has long been appreciated for its strategi­cally important canal, but the country’s extraordinary natural riches foster intimate engagement with tropical science. On this 11 day expedition with leaders in STEM Education, you’ll learn about ongoing research and conservation efforts for the unique birds, butterflies, amphibians, and marine wild­life that call Panama home. Expand your knowledge with the help of Smithsonian researchers. Discover the splendor of a tropical ecosystem at Barro Colorado Island—the largest for­ested island in the Panama Canal waterway. Explore tropical biodiversity through the rich endemic and migratory species of birds found throughout the country. Visit a private education program, known for their exceptional science instructional models. For a country, a little smaller than South Carolina, Panama offers us a discovery in STEM education through a comprehensive scientific exploration of the country!

Highlights

  • Explore marine science research priorities in Bocas del Toro at the Smithsonian Field Station.
  • Visit Barro Colorado Island, one of the most important Tropical Research sites in the world.
  • Observe the biodiversity of neotropical birds as Panama is a premier birding destination and home to 900+ species.
  • Stroll through Panama City and learn about the many cultural influences that shaped its history.
  • Engage with local science education and a visit to the Brader School.
  • View first-hand the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal with a tour of Miraflores Lock. 

Meet your leaders

Page Keeley and Joyce Tugel

Page Keeley and Joyce Tugel are nationally known leaders in STEM education and professional development. As former colleagues at the Maine Mathematics and Science Alliance, they provide professional development to school districts and projects throughout the U.S. and are frequent speakers at national conferences. Both are recipients of several national awards and Keeley’s numerous science and mathematics publications (included two books co-authored with Tugel) are used in schools and universities throughout the U.S. and internationally. Both have served as Board members of the National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA) and National Science Teachers Association (NSTA). Keeley served as the 63rd President of NSTA.