Arctic Science Education: Recommendations from the Working Group on Arctic Science Education to the National Science Foundation. Proceedings from the Meeting. Held in Fairbanks, Alaska on March 30-April 1, 2000

摘要

In 2001, The National Commission on Mathematics and Science Teaching for the Twenty-first Century published a report, Before Its Too Late, that focuses on the state of math and science literacy in the United States. Although this report specifically addresses educational issues in the United States, it contains the global message that the most direct route to improving mathematics and science achievement for all students is with better mathematics and science teaching. Students must improve their performance in mathematics and science if they are to succeed in todays world (National Commission on Mathematics and Science Teaching for the Twenty-first Century, 2000). The burden of teaching shouldn't rest solely on the formal educators of our societies. As scientists, we also bear the responsibility for teaching, and in particular, teaching scientific literacy. An Arctic Science Education Working Group (ASEWG), sponsored by the National Science Foundation, met in Fairbanks, Alaska, in March 2000 to explore the challenges of teaching science and connecting to the global communities about arctic science. The ASEWG recommended approaches to the National Science Foundation Office of Polar Programs to help arctic researchers to work more closely with the communities and schools near their research areas. The results of the working groups recommendations, if implemented, will further the partnerships and involvement of the public and arctic residents in arctic research.