In the late 1980s, what did the experts foresee for the future of American science and technology, especially with respect to scientific education and educational reform? Shirley Malcolm and James Rutherford contend that high school and elementary school teachers’ unfamiliarity and discomfort with science leads them to favor memorization of nomenclature and book work over hands-on exploration and critical thinking. As a consequence, many students in their formative years may find science dry and uninvolving.
At the time of this interview, Malcolm directed the Opportunities in Science Program of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Rutherford served as the chief education officer at AAAS.
This edition of Soundings was conducted by Wayne J. Pond.
