Reviews studies which focused on various aspects of pre-college student science training programs, pointing out that the programs have had impact on such areas as facilitating academic and career opportunities, increasing subject matter competencies, increasing laboratory skills, changing attitudes in a positive direction, and enhancing students'…

Describes the relatively poor preparation that American students receive in the sciences. Discusses the decline in federal funding of science programs in the public elementary and secondary schools and suggests that reliance on state and private funds for science education is unrealistic. (GC)