SUMMER 1999
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In this issue 'It's fun and you could learn a lot' -- Kids teach seniors about the Internet IMTC Y2K program goes national Extension attracts new state funding SF 361 helps strengthen Iowa families K-12 youth discover science, technology through E-SET Cultural communications workshops build understanding with service providers, Hispanic populations |
K-12 youth discover science, technology through E-SET Extension Science, Engineering and Technology (E-SET) brings the latest in discovery and knowledge in science and technology to Iowa's K-12 students. E-SET provides challenges and insights into such fields as outer space, genetics, biotechnology, criminology, geology and engineering. Fully developed, tested and varied curricula as well as the newest technologies and equipment needed for them are made available across the state.
Such explorations, backed by the sophisticated training found in academic departments at Iowa State University and other knowledge centers (such as NASA), too easily can be left out of K-12 school experiences, according to Debbie Curry, youth initiative specialist for ISU Extension. Teachers find budgets becoming increasingly tight and the knowledge base in these fields always changing. "It's like bringing in higher level education for my students &endash; and I don't have to develop it," noted Stephanie Floyd, eighth-grade science teacher at Meredith Middle School in Des Moines. "Curriculum materials are already pulled together in the package, or I can borrow them at the county extension office." Floyd brought Curry and a co-worker into her classroom to do a DNA workshop for a group of talented and gifted students, explaining that she doesn't have the background in DNA science to carry out such a project. "We are trying to base all of the programs on the national science standards for education," said Curry. Iowa is the only state in the United States that does not have a state set of standards for science education. E-SET assists schools in establishing local standards and provides professional development for educators to help them understand the national standards and how they can be implemented in the classroom. Curt Jeffryes, consultant for professional development with Heartland Area Education Agency, said E-SET is both relevant to kids and based on learning to deal with science and technology in real-life context. "The way it is designed, it works with all kids. Every kid can find success working in this environment. It works well with a lot of non-typical students, too." E-SET offers formal professional development for teachers, as well as curricula for non-formal settings like camps, clubs and after-school programs. Funds come from ISU Extension as well as the National Science Foundation, Iowa Space Grant Consortium and companies such as Pioneer Hi-Bred International and Rockwell Collins. Interested in science and technology education for youth?
Then explore the E-SET
Web site to find science activities, educator workshops,
curricula order information and links to other
resources. |
