The importance of science education at the high school level is rapidly growing. By 2010, jobs in science and engineering are expected to increase nationally by 2.2 million.  Even if students are looking for careers outside the field of science, it is through exploration and the methodological approach to the subject that students develop reasoning and problem solving skills. With the growing role and prominence science is playing in our lives, why is it that American schools fall behind those of other countries?

As seen in the graph below, science practices in United States' schools are mainly constructed of experiences that provide weak or no conceptual links for students. It is not surprising that these students have little interest in the subject. Furthermore, the lack of connectivity leaves our students far behind those of other countries. In Japan, for instance, 70% of instruction provides students with strong conceptual links; allowing them not only better understanding of scientific phenomena, but also a chance to integrate and organize this knowledge with preexisting information.

Teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, especially at the high school level, must strive to make learning meaningful for students. Sparking interest with students will turn them into lifelong learners. Content will jump out at them in a way that is personally relevant to situations within their own lives. While teachers already feel the pressure of increasing demands with decreasing time, there are several technological innovations that enrich classroom learning. The following article, published by the American Educational Research Association, details some strategies that are making their way into classrooms around the country.
Research Points: Science Education that Makes Sense

NASA Announces Aeronautics Research Paper Contest for High School Students
Students are asked to write a research paper describing their ideas for a future aircraft that could become te "DC-3" for cargo and passengers 50 years from now.  Visit this site for more information.

FIRSTRobotics Program (FRC) 
FRC is targeted at high-school-aged teams to provide an exciting, multinational competition that teams professionals and young people to solve an engineering design problem in an intense and competitive way.
The Finger Lakes Region, now in its 4th year, hosts many annual robotics events and provides strong partnerships with schools and students as well as many area corporations and sponsors.

Science Congress
Students, grades 6-12, from the region represented by Central Western Section present their research projects to scientists and educators who judge their understanding, research methods, and ability to communicate. Many student projects are recognized with awards, such as Honorable Mention, Honors, High Honors, and Highest Honors. In addition, special awards are presented for exceptional work in particular subjects. The highest reward is to be chosen to present at the STANYS State Science Congress or at the prestigious Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. See the flyer for more information including application information.

The Girls, Math & Science Partnership
The GMSP Program's mission is to engage, educate, and embrace girls as architects of change. Working with girls 11-17 and their parents, teachers, and mentors, we draw organizations, stakeholders, and communities together in an effort to ensure that girls succeed in math and science.

Project Lead the Way: Forging New Generations of Engineers
PLTW is a not-for-profit organization that promotes math, science, engineering, and technology through coursework for high school students. The goal is to increase the number of young people who pursue engineering and engineering technology programs at the college level. Students receive training in state-of-the-art technology. Topics include:

• Introduction to Engineering Design
• Digital Electronics
• Principles of Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Biotechnical Engineering
• Civil Engineering / Architecture
• Computer Integrated Manufacturing
• Engineering Design and Development

Classes are taught in nine week units. Check out our Resource listing for more links and information.


Exploravision
This page is a resource for high school teachers interested in getting their students involved in ExploraVision. ExploraVision encourages K-12 students of all interests, skill, and ability levels to create and expore a vision of future technology by combining their imaginations with the tools of science.


Science Olympiad
As 'America's Most Exciting Science Competition', the Science Olympiad brings science to life, and shows students how science works. Tournaments are organized throughout the nation through collaboration and partnership of community, businesses, industry, government and education. Visit New York State's Science Olympiad page for more information about what is happening in our region. (more)

Science Exploration Days
This is a two-day event in May at which science students are exposed to relevant, interesting, and up-to-date science and technology topics. Area leaders representing industry, research, education, and professional organizations share their expertise with students in a seminar format or hands-on exhibits. More information can be found on the preregistration form including location and registration deadlines.

Engineer Your Life
Why engineering? Explore this and other questions as you navigate these pages full of stories of inspiring women in engineering.  Discover your dream job and what steps you need to take in order to make it happen. 

BioEd Online
BioEd Online is a great website for biology teachers. It contains many educational presentations and valuable materials for classroom teaching.