Subcommittee Hearing: A Systems Approach to Improving K-12 STEM Education
Abstract
On July 30, 2009, the Subcommittee on Research and Science Education of the House Committee on Science and Technology held a hearing to examine how the many public and private stakeholders in an urban K-12 system can work together to improve science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education inside and outside of the classroom. Dr. Wanda Ward, Acting Assistant Director for Education and Human Resources at the National Science Foundation (NSF), testified about the NSF's role in providing support for systemic approaches to STEM education through programs such as the Math and Science Partnerships program. Dr. Donald Wink, Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Chemistry, and Director of Graduate Studies in Learning Sciences Research Institute at the University of Illinois, discussed the university's role in helping with K-12 STEM education, especially through NSF support. Mr. Michael Lach, Officer of Teaching and Learning at Chicago Public Schools, discussed the successes and challenges of the many STEM education partnerships and initiatives that have been developed in Chicago.
