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2006 Rochester Computational Science and Education Conference

A Committment to America's Future: How should we respond to the crisis in math and science education?

Panel

  • NYS Senator Joe Robach
  • NYS Assemblyman Joseph Morelle.
  • Ms. Cheryl Holloway, Chief of Operations, Rochester City School District, Rochester, NY.
  • Mr. James Fallon, Superintendent, Brockport Central School District, Brockport, NY.
  • Dr. Christopher Manaseri, Superintendent, Brighton School District, Rochester, NY.
  • Dr. Judith Fonzi, Professor, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY.
  • Dr. Bill Lammela, Professor, Nazareth College, Rochester, NY.
  • Dr. Guy Johnson, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY.
  • Moderator: Dr. Jose Maliekal, Professor, SUNY Brockport.

Topic

According to recent reports, the United States is losing its edge in innovation and is watching the erosion of its capacity to create new scientific and industrial breakthroughs. The number of people receiving degrees in math, science, and technology (MST) is steadily going down and American kids rank at the bottom of international mathematics testing. Mandated by recent federal laws, many states have developed new MST standards. After decades of funding, federal agencies are looking for new ways to improve student achievement and teacher retention. Should we make major changes to the learning environment? Are problems different for urban cities and suburbs? Could technology play a role? Do we need a new pedagogical approach (perhaps using technology)? Can technology enhance problem-solving and inquiry-based learning? One may argue that technology has a penetrating and pervasive influence on every facet of our life including education. Looking at the needs of the job market, one might also conclude that a technologically well- trained work force is a must anyway. No matter what the remedy is, there is need for a strong partnership between higher-education institutions and schools districts. As the country (and higher ed) needs more students to major in MST fields, school districts ask for better teachers. Educational institutions have a responsibility to reorient their approah to meet the future needs of this country. The panelists today will share their experiences in tackling teacher retention and students achievement in math and science. They will be asked about their own solutions, including parental involvement and use of technology with science and math in education.