California teachers lack the resources and time to teach science
A statewide survey and interviews with LAUSD elementary school teachers and administrators find that students are receiving little hands-on science instruction.
Only 10% of elementary students regularly receive hands-on science lessons. Just one-third of elementary teachers said they feel prepared to teach science, and 85% said they have not received any training during the last three years, according to the survey conducted by the Center for the Future of Teaching and Learning at WestEd, the Lawrence Hall of Science at UC Berkeley, SRI International and others.
“Kids are naturally curious and observant,” De La Torre said, “and the science helps them become higher-level thinkers.”
Photo Credit: Francine Orr
This is really not good. We need better education, particularly in the sciences, if we’re going to fix our planet, our jobs crisis, and keep in the lead as technological innovators, among other things.
I think this also demonstrates the genuine need for science centers, with trained staff that can offer unique and interactive science experiences. And with the current recession, many science centers - like schools - have been losing funding.
I would totally teach elementary school science when I get the chance! :D
Even for free! :D:D:D
Only thing is, I’ll have to practice my public speaking. >.<
