Is it possible to actually do science in classrooms K-16? Yes--and very necessary to keep students interested in science and encouraging those students to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics(STEM).
Sixteen chapters highlighting the need for exemplary programs and how they help move science education in the direction of doing scienceinstead of simply learning facts. Chapter topics lay a foundation for encouraging more
students to pursue STEM careers: Changes needed in science education; Why educating students about careers in science matters, and "Why STEM?" It describes NSTA's efforts to interest more students in STEM careers, and active learning. Exemplaryprograms and projects that are discussed in the book include CampInvention, Kids Inquiry Conferences, service learning, real world externships and scientists that partner with K-12.
One chapter explores the career paths of 14 scientists and engineers who followed nontraditional paths to their careers. They may have believed that science involved labs and interesting equipment, but wouldn't have interested them. The reader will be surprised at how these individuals used their talent and interest and combined it with science for a career. Combining science with art, radio, education,traveling, journalism, video games, religion, human rights and government are just a few of the ways these individuals came to their work. The authors of this particular chapter write that the vignettes were designed for discussion with high school students. This also would be good toi nclude in a career investigation class.
I found this book very eyeopening and would use it with a career class, a science class and would recommend it to content area teachers as well. I would also suggest thatschool curriculum coordinators, science department heads and school counselors be aware of the information this book provides. This can really help students interested in science realize there really is "lifeafter high school"!Science and engineering are essential to anything that we do. Helping students to think as a scientist also helps them to think like an engineer. In fact, scientists are similar to engineers and asking questions helps students to design solutions to problems.