In 2006 4-H National Headquarters at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and National 4-H Council introduced a new initiative aimed at increasing the number and quality of science, engineering, and technology programs that 4-H offers around the country, and increasing the number of youth involved in these programs. By engaging youth in informal…

Reports on research modeled after the studies of the National Assessment of Educational Progress which sought to acquire data on student perceptions about science programs. Indicates that student attitudes are not as negative in exemplary schools as they are in randomly chosen schools. (RT)

Affective item findings from two national assessments (N=2500 for 1977 assessment; N=2000 for 1983 assessment) are reported and compared. Areas examined include attitudes toward teaching procedures, action of science teachers, current science teacher, and science class. Lists of characteristics of exemplary programs and behaviors of exemplary…