|
|
|
|
News & Views item - August 2008 |
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) CEO Alan Leshner Does a Bit of Spruiking on Projects to Further the Garnering of Future Scientists. (August 19, 2008)
The Education of Future Scientists
We are living in a time when science and technology are embedded in every aspect
of modern life, and therefore we must make sure that all students have
familiarity with and a strong grounding in the nature of science and its core
concepts. In addition, to assure a future of continuing scientific innovation,
educators must continue to draw talented students into the science profession.
AAAS has had an array of direct impacts on how science is taught through our
Project 2061, which laid the groundwork for
science education standards, created benchmarks for science literacy, and has
ongoing efforts to reform curriculum, instruction, and assessment. A
Japanese translation of educational concepts
for science literacy, workshops for teachers on how to use our
Atlas of Science Literacy, and a field test of assessment
tools for use in middle school classrooms are a few examples of Project 2061’s
recent efforts.
We further promote quality science education through
Science NetLinks and its nearly 500 complete
standards-based science lessons -- all freely accessible on the web. We engage
budding scientists with radio programs, weekly online stories, events for
families, and our
Kinetic City after-school program. AAAS also
recently helped create new science, mathematics, and technology resources for
elected school board members across the United States. In addition, 48
middle-grade science and math teachers in Washington, D.C., recently earned
master’s degrees from The George Washington University in a free, three-year
program held at AAAS.
But promoting science literacy and quality education is not enough to guarantee
a new crop of professional scientists. We also must educate students about
science career opportunities. AAAS has programs to help underrepresented
minorities and students with disabilities enter the science work force. In
addition, our
Science Careers website is the most
comprehensive resource for career advice and job openings.
Sincerely,
Alan I. Leshner, CEO, AAAS