A press release from LoneStarCon 3:

LoneStarCon 3, the 71st World Science Fiction Convention (“Worldcon”), is delighted to announce “Teaching Science Fiction,” a workshop for teachers, librarians, and parents on how to use science fiction as a teaching tool. The workshop is a collaborative effort with LoneStarCon 3, and is organized and presented by AboutSF, an organization based at the University of Kansas.

This workshop is a half-day seminar on developing a class on science fiction for primary or secondary students. Educators are the target audience for this course, whether they are interested in designing a class on SF, or want to incorporate SF readings into existing classes. No prior knowledge of the genre is assumed, and general attendees are welcome to attend as well.

“Teaching Science Fiction” covers what to teach, how to organize a class, and ways to promote the course. The workshop will answer questions teachers may have about this idea-oriented and thought-provoking body of speculative literature. Attendees will also receive handouts and CDs containing additional helpful material to take home with them.

Workshop speakers will include Worldcon Guest of Honor Dr. James Gunn, with additional speakers to be announced.

The workshop will be held during LoneStarCon 3 in the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, September 2, 2013. Worldcon members with an attending membership may participate at no additional cost, but must register in advance, as space is limited. Teachers, librarians, and parents who are not Worldcon members will need to purchase a Day Admission to LoneStarCon 3 for the day of the workshop. Monday Day Admissions cost $30 for adults, and $20 for Young Adults (those aged 21 or under on the day of the workshop).

For more details of the workshop program and information on how to register, please visit the LoneStarCon 3 website at www.LoneStarCon3.org/program/aboutsf.shtml or write to us at academic@LoneStarCon3.org. Full information on membership terms and payment options is available at www.LoneStarCon3.org/memberships.

About the Organizers: AboutSF is a resource center for speculative literature, science fiction, and education. It is a joint project of the University of Kansas, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, and the Science Fiction Research Association, with generous support from Tor Books, The Heinlein Prize Trust, and several individual donors.