Technology's Impact in American History (TIAH) 2018: Technological Innovation and Patents

Participants in the Technological Innovations and Patents colloquium will examine primary sources from the Library of Congress and the United States Patent and Trademark Office in exploring the history of government’s role in shaping technology and promoting innovation.  One of the few specific functions spelled out in the Constitution is that the federal government should issue patents to allow inventors to protect their discoveries.  This colloquium will examine the effects of the patent system.  Has it, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, “added the fuel of interest to the fire of genius?”  Teachers selected will work under the guidance of a colloquium team to create primary source lessons and resources for their classroom.

This TIAH colloquium is a collaboration between NCHE and the Teaching with Primary Sources Program of the Library of Congress and takes place at the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Details: 

Each participant will receive a $500 stipend to offset costs associated with attendance (ex. travel or hotel costs).  Breakfast and lunch will be provided at the venue for participants on each day of the colloquium.  Each attendee will receive a complimentary one-year membership to the National Council for History Education and will be eligible for additional professional growth opportunities via follow-up webinars and the annual NCHE conference.


Colloquium Team: 

• Historian: Bernard Carlson, University of Virginia
• Education Specialist: Cynthia Szwajkowski, TPS Northern Virginia
• Master Teacher: Trey Smith, Northwestern University

To apply: 

Please complete the online application.  Applicants must be current K-12 school teachers. Applications will be accepted until the cap is reached. Additional applicants will be placed on a wait list.  

Application