The Call to Improve Science and Math Education…Ohio Dominican Answers!

Last week a draft report was approved by the Commission on 21st Century Education in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.  This Commission reports to the National Science Board, which is part of the National Science Foundation.

While yet to be finalized, the report includes a series of recommendations to improve the quality of science and mathematics teachers and the quality of science and mathematics education in America.  Creating a national standard for the certification of teachers is a central recommendation.  The report recognizes the central role and responsibility of colleges and universities as well as the federal government. 

Colleges and universities will need to implement better teacher education programs and curricular models that prepare teachers at the highest levels.  The federal government will need to provide resources to ensure that higher education is affordable; that teaching is a viable professional choice; and that there are incentives for the best and the brightest to pursue science and math education.

The call to improve science and math education has been loud and consistent for many years.  Study after study reflects the diminishing quality of student preparedness and the declining place of American graduates compared to students from other countries.

It is exciting to know that Ohio Dominican University is on the leading edge of responding to this call … developing solutions to address these concerns.  Through the generosity of Battelle, Ohio Dominican is involved in a national effort to identify new ways to educate teachers; more creative ways to recruit students into teacher education programs; and more successful ways to recruit faculty members to our campuses.

The project is entitled ODU PRISM --- Ohio Dominican University – Promising Innovations in Science and Mathematics Education.  Ohio Dominican and Battelle are convening a committee of national experts who will work together to address these critical issues.  Their recommendations will be shared with colleges and universities throughout the country.

We have known for a long time that Ohio Dominican has an extraordinary teacher education program.  Our graduates represent some of the best teachers in our schools.  Our science and mathematics programs are held in high regard as well.  Our graduates pursue successful careers in medicine, technology, research, etc.

But we now have a chance to serve a national need … to help address a national crisis.  And service is a central element of our mission as well.  We look forward to leading this effort.  We look forward to engaging the national dialogue to serve the needs of science and mathematics education for future generations.

(As always, your questions and comments are welcome.)