Ryan ChartrandCalifornia’s science and technology teachers have a difficult time teaching students in a way that encourages hands-on learning, according to several panelists at an informational hearing at Cal Poly discussing the state’s deteriorating science education system Tuesday morning.
The hearing featured three panels of educators, school administrators and professionals in the fields of science and technology, each addressing several factors of the crumbling science programs in the state’s education system.
“The standard of living that all Americans enjoy is inherently linked to successes in science and inextricably coupled with innovation and implementation of technology,” said College of Engineering dean Mohammad Noori, who addressed the panels.
“Clearly the traditional approaches to education are no longer enough.”
The Senate Select Committee on Schools and Community held the hearing to discuss hands-on learning in schools.
Committee Chair and Senator Tom Torlakson (D-Antioch) was joined by Senator Abel Maldonado (R-Santa Maria), Assemblyman Sam Blakeslee (R-San Luis Obispo) and others.
They discussed the science and technical education in California schools from the elementary to high school level. The meeting took place at the Keck Lab in the Advanced Technologies Laboratory building.
The hearing was designed as a way for state legislators to realize the challenges that need to be overcome in order to provide a 21st-century education and learning experience in all of California’s schools, Cal Poly Provost William Durgin told the audience.
“Project-based learning is really helping students find their way, stay in school and develop these career pathways to the very much-needed jobs,” Torlakson said.
The panels also discussed strategies for developing partnerships with industry to provide the state-of-the-art equipment and teacher training necessary to create a quality learning environment.
Panelist Jane Peterson, a first-grade teacher at Dana Elementary School, said that getting students involved in these programs is important at a young age.
“It’s just so wonderful to get kids involved in science,” Peterson said. “Even in first grade, project-based learning can be done. It’s important to start early.”
Not only did the panels discuss the resources and professional development necessary for science programs, but some also discussed the challenges of poor equipment, facilities and training of instructors and teachers.