engagement

Projects and endeavors

I work with a lot our teachers and teachers-to-be, and it’s a really meaningful way to make me a better teacher myself. I get to direct the Center for Science and Math Education at Weber State, which includes resources and support for all teachers in science and math.
Along with my work in CSME, I’m working with colleagues to run our NSF-funded (Noyce Scholarship, Track 1) “Propel” program that recruits, supports, and funds future science and math teachers.
I serve on the board of the Utah Science Teaching Association. I get to help host a conference and professional learning through that organization. I’m often also involved working on science education standards and resources with our state board of education.
I started Science in the Parks, a project that brings interactive and engaging science to kids in Ogden City parks during the summer. Even though I’m not directly involved now, I still get to hover around and I’m still really proud of what this project does.
Dance Science Fest: It’s a long story, but a good one. I even got to be on the stage with the dance companies and have co-hosted workshops that braid together science and artistry.
Science Education at the Crossroads, a collaborative, problem-based conference in science education that I co-created and hosted.

A Body in Motion Dance|Science performance.
Johnston, A. (Feb. 28, 2014). “Innovations in Education.” A TEDx Talk hosted by Weber State University .
Minoff, A. (Feb. 14, 2014). “In Wind Tunnels, Ski Jumpers Become Flying Machines.” Science Friday, National Public Radio. [Cited consultant and human windfoil.]
Johnston, A. (Nov. 11, 2011). “Our Greatest Invention(s).” Invited John S. Hinckley Fellowship Lecture, Weber State University.
Invited guest on KUER’s Radio West (11 February 2011). “Celebrating Science Education.”
Fountain, H. (Feb. 1, 2010). Up in the Air, and Down, with a Twist. The New York Times. [Cited consultant in article and associated multimedia.]
Johnston, A. (2008). Brick by brick: A conversation with Billy Collins. Weber: The Contemporary West. 25(1), 2-14.