Science and Math

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses how the reform movements impacted the teaching of math and science. In addition, the writer looks at the differences between traditional teaching and current practices in mathematics and science. The writer notes that the absence of a national curriculum means that how children learn varies greatly, yet the increased demand for accountability through frequent national standardized assessment limits curricular innovation on the part of teachers, as more conceptual learning may be more time-consuming and take longer to show immediate results. Additionally, the writer points out that current educators may not be familiar in the ways to teach such subjects. The writer concludes that when contemplating educational reform in math and science, America seems to be caught in a paradox--America demands quick, demonstrable improvement but is unwilling to relinquish local control, current testing standards, or different ways to fund and teach scientific and mathematical concepts.

From the Paper:

"Ever since Horace Mann began his innovative educational reforms in the public schools programs of the 19th century, American education has tended to stress practical skills in its curricular approach and local control of schools. These two impulses have often existed in tension, as Americans have strived to remain competitive in math and science education and wish to see gains in the performance on standardized tests by its nation's youth. However, there is often great resistance to changes in the ways that such subjects are taught and standards are set by government agencies.
"Math and science education is seen as vital for the nation, economically, and also in terms of its national security. The resolve to put a man on the moon was accompanied by a new emphasis in technical education. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Adams, Cecil. (1999). "What exactly was the 'new math'?" The Straight Dope. Retrieved 28 Jul 2007 at http://www.straightdope.com/mailbag/mnewmath.html
• Blosser, Patricia E. (1989). "The Impact of Educational Reform on Science Education."ERIC/SMEAC Science Education Digest. No. 4. Retrieved 28 Jul 2007 at http://www.ericdigests.org/pre-9215/impact.htm
• Garelick, Barry. (Fall2006). "Miracle math: a successful program from Singapore teststhe limits of school reform in the suburbs." Education Next. Retrieved 28 Jul 2007 at http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0MJG/is_4_6/ai_n16832469
• Park, Do-Young. "Differences between standards-based and traditional education in high school earth science." Dept. of Curriculum and Instruction, Illinois State University. Retrieved 28 Jul 2007 http://www.nagt.org/files/nagt/jge/abstracts/park-v53n5.pdf

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