Building on Strength

Abstract

This is the story of California's attempt to improve science education from kindergarten through grade 12 between 1989 and 1995. The period was eventful. A new and different Science Framework for California Public Schools (California Department of Education 1990) was prepared and released; it took an innovative approach both to science content and to the instructional process. Efforts were undertaken to encourage commercial publishers to produce materials compatible with the Framework. Teacher networks —at both elementary and secondary school levels—were expanded and strengthened to enable teachers to come to grips directly with the spirit as well as the shape of the changes that were sought. The state's universities established new links with teachers and schools and strengthened existing ones.