Wong provides a historical review of national science initiatives from Sputnik in 1957 to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in 2013. He examines qualitative and quantitative investigations of science education challenges in the context of general education issues and goals. He describes how examining the science literacy measures in the National Assessment of Education Progress, the Program for International Student Assessment, and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study may lead to curricular change. Recognizing that the NGSS is a major game changer in science education, even with possible reinterpretations by local and state curriculum developers, he discusses the influences of social-emotional learning, teacher-centered and student-centered philosophies, and the contemporary landscape of science. Wong examines the major divisions in science in schools and concludes with ideas on curriculum development for science education: starting with what the learner knows, defining learning outcomes, relying on conceptual learning and teaching, practicing these concepts, and using technology appropriately as a tool for learning and teaching. Recommended. Undergraduates through faculty; professionals.
— Choice Reviews
Great reading for both the experienced science teacher as well as the novice. Professor Wong has produced a book that leads us through the history of the last seventy plus years from Sputnik to where we are today in science education with the New Generation Science Standards (NGSS). In doing so, he describes in detail the complex interactions between the teacher, student, and subject matter during a number of generational program changes. As one might surmise, these interactions are as involved as the sciences themselves, but presented with such clarity when integrated with the NGSS as to cause the reader to thoughtfully consider their own practice with the goal of becoming a true “Game Changer”.
— John P. Smith, Associate Professor Emeritus, University of Washington, Seattle
Dr. Wong successfully attempts, like few others, to recount the vast expanse of scientific discoveries and evolution of science education and provide a cohesive background for science educators. His concise summary and appraisal of facts, time line, and educational issues in tandem with insightful metaphorical stories and examples help provide the structure with which to build a sound philosophy of teaching science. Additional focus on conceptual teaching and educational technology for the ‘teacher’s tool box’ is practical and helpful. He does not overlook the learner, emphasizing that education is an art and science with the outcome of achieving student success that also requires conveying acceptance, inclusion, and attention to their social emotional skills.
— Bonnie Beezhold, PhD, MHS, MCHES, Associate Dean College of Science and Public Health, Benedictine University
Finally - a highly interesting, motivating explanation of science, its current state in education and the answer to what we should do with it in the field now to move science education forward!
— Robert Anzelde, PhD, Educational Leadership/Curriculum and Instruction