The State of Science Education
Dateline: 02/26/98
My husband and I often travel for our "day job," and this week we wanted to stop and reflect on the state of science education in the United States. Much is made about the performance of students on the international science achievement tests. While we definitely believe there is room for improvement, we are also heartened by what we see in the field.
We had the opportunity to meet with some elementary and middle school teachers, and we were impressed with the new and innovative methods teachers are using to enhance the education of their students. For example, teachers are empowering their students through the use of cooperative learning. These teachers are "facilitating" student learning rather than being the sole purveyors of information in the classroom.
What impressed us most was the teachers' willingness to challenge the unknown--the anxiety of attempting new teaching methods, and more importantly, the unknown "control" factor. By giving up a modicum of "control" in the classroom, these teachers have been able to allow their students to have a say in their own education.
Why delve into this topic? For two reasons: one, we have come across more than our fair share of articles bemoaning the state of science education; and two, our time with these teachers gave us hope for the future. We believe that the dedicated educators will win out over the myriad problems that educators face in the classroom today.
What do you think? What's the state of biological science education in the United States? Is there reason for hope, or is the U.S. "doomed" to be relegated to the bottom of the international rankings? We'd especially like to hear opinions from our international visitors. How is the situation in the U.S. different from your country? Visit the Biology Forum and voice your opinion. 'Til next time.
