Supporting 21st Century Science Learning

Educators know that for students to succeed, they need the knowledge and skills demanded by 21st century communities and workplaces. In order to prepare students and meet new demands for accountability, schools throughout the country are grappling with the challenges of transforming science learning environments.

PASCO, provider of technology-based solutions for science learning, supports this transformation by offering advanced, all-digital probeware technology that promotes authentic scientific exploration through discovery, and by directly assisting educators in implementing their vision for change.

One such example is in the state of Georgia where a profound transformation is underway. As an Intel Model School Program Partner, PASCO is working with Dr. Mike Hall, Deputy Superintendent of Information Technology for the Georgia Department of Education, and his team, in modeling 21st century learning environments to support the new Georgia Performance Standards.

Here is a sampling of what's happening in other areas:
  • Florida: The Orlando Science Center is developing with PASCO an onsite program and outreach programs on the use of compelling technologies in support of Florida State Education Standards.
  • California: The Robert Cooley Middle School in Roseville, CA is taking a fresh look at science learning. PASCO is working with the principal and the entire science team to design and implement a 21st century learning environment that supports the demands of the State of California and the local community.
  • Costa Rica: The Sarapiqui Conservation Learning Center now offers educators and students the opportunity to explore and understand the environment around them quantitatively by using PASCO probeware. PASCO team members, partnering with Holbrook Education, provide technology and instructional support for this program.
What can educators expect to gain from these efforts? Sybil Young, project director for the Student and Teacher Excellence Project (STEP) at Newport News Public Schools in Newport News, VA, points to the research showing that students using probeware are more motivated and achieve higher test scores. That's one big reason why the school district is integrating PASCO probeware directly into its middle and high school curriculum. Technology Resource Teacher Bruce Davidson says, "This kind of technology-based inquiry really opens students' eyes. I see how our students love to work with it, and the probeware pushes them to do things that they would not have done otherwise."

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