The retention rates for African-Americans, Hispanics, and Native-Americans in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are lower than those of White or Asian college students. In response, the National Science Foundation formed statewide partnerships of universities to develop programs to address this disparity. The deliberations…

Describes an undergraduate research program for minority students. The program and eight objectives of the first course of the program, "Introduction to Research," are presented. Some strengths and weaknesses of the course are considered. (YP)

Two leading science educators provide a comprehensive, state-of-the-field analysis of current trends in the research, policy, and practice of science education. This book offers valuable insights into why gaps in science achievement among racial, ethnic, cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic groups persist, and points toward practical means of…

This paper describes a one-and-a-half day Distinguished Scholar Symposium during which undergraduate underrepresented minorities (URMs) from nearby schools visit the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH) to learn about advanced degree programs in the biological sciences. The symposium created an environment that inspired URMs to…

This paper describes the efforts of a host community generally referred to as a "Collaborative Community" and comprised of the Biology and Math departments of the University of Wisconsin-Stout (UW-Stout), the Math and Biology Departments of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UW-EC), and the Departments of Math, Biology, and Chemistry of the…

Informal science programs play an important role in reinforcing the fact that science and mathematics are not difficult to master. This report is based on a survey of informal science programs supported by the National Science Foundation and exemplary programs in science and mathematics supported by the U.S. Department of Education. The survey…

Describes Advanced Science for Kids (ASK), a multicultural approach to assessment and programming for a middle school advanced science program. ASK is designed to provide alternative approaches to identification and assessment, facilitate authentic instruction and assessment, and provide minority students with academic and social support as they…

Reports on the project Join Underrepresented in Science and Technology (JUST) which aims to increase the enrollment and completion of minority students in math and science courses. Uses a problem-based teaching approach in both science and mathematics education and includes parents, communities, and institutions of higher education as participants…

Describes an innovative science program for girls developed by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Girl Scouts of America (GSA). Presents results from the model project. (DDR)

This publication reports on a project designed to increase the awareness and appreciation of educators, and through them the awareness of middle and high school students, of the advantages of preparing for careers in technology and science. These are fields in which Boston high school students generally, and minority students particularly, have…

Describes Project JUST (Join Underrepresented in Science and Technology), an initiative whose goal is to create an atmosphere of systemic change within an urban school district that results in minority students excelling in upper level math and science courses. Discusses leadership, governance, and management; a standards-based curriculum;…

Contains descriptions of 11 college chemistry education programs that were awarded grants by the Pfizer Foundation because they make the introductory chemistry experience more positive and engaging for students, especially women and minorities. (LZ)

This annual report details the activities of the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME) for 1997. It contains descriptions of organizational activities pertaining to research, public policy analysis, the status of national programs at precollege and university levels, the scholarship program for engineering students from…

Describes a Saturday Academy containing three basic components (electrical engineering, computer science, and mathematics) designed to provide enrichment experiences for academically talented minority youth without cost to them. Discusses the results reported by parents, faculty, and alumni. (YP)

Describes the Meyerhoff Scholarship Program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, that is designed to increase the number of African Americans, especially males, who enter and succeed in undergraduate, doctoral and professional programs. (PR)