Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI): Improving Mathematics and Science Achievement in Upper-Elementary and Middle Schools

Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI) is a two-year intervention intended to better align classroom practices with national and statewide teaching standards-and ultimately to improve student achievement-by providing professional development, access to materials and technology, and in-school support for teachers. AMSTI's professional development focuses on changing teacher content knowledge. AMSTI's emphasis on teaching methods that promote active learning in the classroom is designed to motivate and engage students in learning. AMSTI has three components: professional development, program materials, technology, and other resources, and in-school supports. The professional development component includes 10 days of summer training and follow-up training during the school year. The program materials, technology, and other resources component includes access to materials and manipulatives needed to deliver hands-on, inquiry-based instruction. The in-school supports component includes on-site mentoring to help teachers implement lessons throughout the school year.