The governing board of the National Science Foundation voted today to establish a national commission on how to improve the teaching of mathematics and science in schools and colleges. The National Science Board opted to proceed after holding three hearings around the country to determine if a commission was needed, given that several previous reports have identified shortcomings in teaching those topics (The Chronicle, August 15, 2005).
The science board gave the new commission a broad mandate: to recommend a “national action plan” for the federal government “to achieve measurable improvements” in science education. The commission will focus on what role should by played by the National Science Foundation. The 15-member panel has not yet been appointed. Its report is expected one year after its first meeting.
