Submitted by Danielle Maurer (not verified) on September 20, 2006 - 20:05.
STEM subjects, like everything else in schools right now, are only taught in relation to improving standardized test scores. Policies such as NCLB and an irrational focus on high stakes testing must be reversed in order for teachers to be able to teach in ways that will engage and excite students. Using the environment as an integrating concept has been shown to be effective in this area. Other strategies that have been successful include place-based learning, problem-based learning, and using TV shows or movies which are based on real science and that children love as a starting theme. However, policymakers must understand that these sorts of programs take more time and are not as efficient as teaching students to do well on multiple guess tests. And they are well worth that time because they foster deep learning and understanding and a true love of the discipline.
STEM subjects, like
Submitted by Danielle Maurer (not verified) on September 20, 2006 - 20:05.
STEM subjects, like everything else in schools right now, are only taught in relation to improving standardized test scores. Policies such as NCLB and an irrational focus on high stakes testing must be reversed in order for teachers to be able to teach in ways that will engage and excite students. Using the environment as an integrating concept has been shown to be effective in this area. Other strategies that have been successful include place-based learning, problem-based learning, and using TV shows or movies which are based on real science and that children love as a starting theme. However, policymakers must understand that these sorts of programs take more time and are not as efficient as teaching students to do well on multiple guess tests. And they are well worth that time because they foster deep learning and understanding and a true love of the discipline.