BCAMT Think Tank 2012

BCAMT Executive Geocaching at Simon Fraser University

Near the end of each school year, the BC Association of Mathematics Teachers (BCAMT) congregate and team-build at Think Tank.  For many years, this event was held at Bowen Island.  Times changed, costs increased, and decisions made, the 2012 BCAMT Think Tank was held at Simon Fraser University (Burnaby Campus).  What I truly enjoy about the BCAMT Think Tank is that it’s an opportunity to work with and dialogue with like-minded people who all want to improve mathematics instruction in BC by finding ways to support the professional learning of practicing K-12 mathematics teachers.  Also, it’s a unique opportunity to listen to people tell math jokes, play music trivia, and geocache for fun.  This was my first experience geochaching and it was an awesome learning experience.  This is something that math students of all ages would enjoy that incorporates outdoor/environmental education with mathematics.  It also promotes collaboration, teamwork, and problem solving.  Finally, it makes a connection to a “real-life” activity that happens around the world.  Apparently, there are over 3 million geoboxes to be found.  I had no idea.  Thank you BCAMT Think Tank for introducing me to geocaching.  I may have to go geobox hunting on the Sunshine Coast.  Learning something new everyday… Cool.