Science Education Reform :: essays papers

Science Education Reform The entire purpose of educational improve is to modify the learning of the students. With that in mind, state governments have been and continue to implement programs in their school systems geared towards improving academic performance. Topics under consideration and implementation implicate lengthening the school day and, in turn, lengthening the school year. This would allow more time for more time for instruction. An important part of educational reform is the reform of teacher education. Nationwide, state school systems are improving the preparation and performance with more meticulous graduation requirements, performance based pay, and career ladders that provide require the teachers to continue their education (Blosser, 1989). Most of this educational reform blossomed in the 1980s, a period which is now referred to as the school reform movement. It was during this time that some of the ideas of educational reform came into public view. Scien ce Teacher EducationMost colleges in the U.S. require acquaintance teacher candidates to enroll in a spry course of study. There are many more orbits of study beyond science necessary in order to adequately prepare the students for the teaching humanity (National Science Teachers Association, 2001). For example, at Towson University science education students must complete special education, psychology, communications, and information technology classes in addition to their core science and general education courses. These additional classes help to better prepare the candidates for what they might encounter in the professional world (www.towson.edu, 2001)CertificationIn the state of Maryland, in that respect are many requirements to receive and hold attestation to teach in the state. According to the Maryland State Teachers Association, candidates who wish to obtain certification must possess an earned bachelors degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education in a field of study appropriate to an assignment in the elementary or secondary school curriculum, receive an average of B or better in courses related to area of assignment, submit qualifying scores on teacher certification tests- Praxis I and II (Basic Skills and Content tests only), and complete 135 clock hours of study preceding to employment as a resident teacher. Basically, this means that the candidate must attend a four-year school and graduate with a degree. They have to get a B or better in their science and education courses, pass both Praxis exams, and complete one semester of student teaching.