USING FLORIDA ENVIRONMENT IN TEACHING


use practical arid expedient. The following guide should be of
assistance to individual teachers, faculties, curriculum commit-
tees or workshop groups undertaking to locate science learning
opportunities.

Survey of the Community
 The teacher of elementary science will find the equipment
necessary for teaching science simplified if he uses the rich
sources of interesting material found in the immediate com-
munity. Before this natural equipment can be utilized satis-
factorily the teacher must first learn something about the com-
munity. Especially is this true if he is entering a new region
of Florida.
 A personal pre-school survey of the community is advis-
able. It may begin with the teacher's gathering of knowledge
of the business district and the possible sources of scientific
knowledge offered there. This information will be of further
value if it includes the industries of the rural areas and outlying
districts surrounding the immediate school. Materials secured
from the Chamber of Commerce and publicity centers will fur-
nish information leading to an introduction to the industrial life.
An analysis of the activities of the churches, civic organizations,
and the public library may also supply both human and material
resources.
 At the opening of school a similar survey of the plant and
grounds may be conducted with the children. Emphasis should
be placed on the observation of the sources and control of heat,
light, and air and their relations to the welfare of pupils and
teachers. For example, it is important to have a knowledge of
the location and use of electric switches and fuses, and of the
facilities for proper ventilation.
 The following are suggestions of general resources found
in most communities. These lists may serve as a guide to the
teacher in the survey referred to above.