New Report Examines Science Education in California Elementary Schools

News Advisory:

Sacramento, CA (October 21, 2011) – A new research report, “High Hopes – Few Opportunities: The Status of Science Education in California Elementary Schools”, will be released for publication and broadcast on Tuesday, October 25, 2011.
 
The research shows that while educators strongly believe that science education is important, children in California’s elementary schools rarely have the opportunity to engage in high-quality science learning opportunities.The report presents detailed findings on science education in California’s elementary schools, including the quality of science education, the impact of the state’s accountability system on time for teaching science, and the availability of professional development and infrastructure supports needed for quality science education. The research directly contrasts with previously conducted public opinion research showing Californians place a high priority on science education. The report also includes recommendations to strengthen science education in California.
 
“High Hopes – Few Opportunities” is based on a two-year study of science education in California’s elementary schools. Research for the report was commissioned by the Center for the Future of Teaching and Learning at WestEd and conducted by the Lawrence Hall of Science at the University of California, Berkeley, and SRI International.  The research is part of Strengthening Science Education in California, an initiative funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation to inform and foster efforts to strengthen science education in California.  Additional public opinion research conducted for the Initiative measuring Californians views of science education is also available.
 
“High Hopes – Few Opportunities: The Status of Elementary Science Education in California” and all summary materials will be published on the web at www.cftl.org/science on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 (stories may be published or broadcast the morning of October 25).  The report will also be available on the Lawrence Hall of Science website at www.lawrencehallofscience.org. To receive an embargoed advance copy of the report, or to arrange to speak with the research partners, please contact John McDonald at john.mcdonald@stonesthro.com or by phone at  (310) 798-3252.
 
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Contact Information

John McDonald

Press Contact

Stone’s Throw

(1) (310) 798-3252

john.mcdonald@stonesthro.com