Taken from various text from Project2061, on Learning goals related to Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology SMET:
The criteria for identifying a common core of learning in science, mathematics, and technology (SMET) were both scientific and educational. ....in particular, concepts were chosen that could serve as a lasting foundation on which to build more knowledge over a lifetime. The choices then had to meet important criteria having to do with human life and with the broad goals that justify universal public education in a free society.The criteria were:
Utility. Will the proposed content—knowledge or skills—significantly enhance the graduate's long-term employment prospects? Will it be useful in making personal decisions?
Social Responsibility. Is the proposed content likely to help citizens participate intelligently in making social and political decisions?
The Intrinsic Value of Knowledge. Does the proposed content present aspects of the discipline that are so important in human history or so pervasive in our culture that a general education would be incomplete without them?
Philosophical Value. Does the proposed content contribute to the ability of people to ponder the enduring questions of human meaning such as life and death, perception and reality, the individual good versus the collective welfare, certainty and doubt?
Childhood Enrichment. Will the proposed content enhance childhood (a time of life that is important in its own right and not solely for what it may lead to in later life)?
| MD: I LOVE THESE! I am currently reading a book about leadership -specifically about finding my own "voice" and inspiring others to find their own, so there will be more "voices" among us, instead of so few. The book deals a lot with the transition of the various ages of our history: hunter/gatherer to agricultural to industrial to information and now to the wisdom age. Should we focus more of our teaching on helping students become thinkers? |
Education has no higher purpose than preparing people to lead personally fulfilling and responsible lives. For its part, science education—meaning education in science, mathematics, and technology—should help students to develop the understandings and habits of mind they need to become compassionate human beings able to think for themselves and to face life head on. It should equip them also to participate thoughtfully with fellow citizens in building and protecting a society that is open, decent, vital, and responsive to global problems that threaten humanity.
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