caise

Science is perceived by many as a set of facts and procedures that requires prodigious memorization skills and shirts that carry pocket pens. This conception of science is developed, in large part, by the way science is taught and  experienced  in  schools.  People who  come  to  our  institutions might have other ideas about science, but what about those that don’t?  How can informal science institutions contribute to the reshaping of science education in school and afterschool settings so that it becomes more meaningful, relevant, and engaging for more people, particularly those who are under-represented in the sciences?

A CAISE  Inquiry Group  is  forming  to develop  a white paper, with  recommendations for funders, that will explore how informal science institutions and schools can work together to transform how science is experienced and learned by  children  in  the nation’s  classrooms  and  afterschool programs. Help us shape this paper by joining us to identify the important questions, conflicts, and opportunities that need to be considered.

Discussion Group Notes