Reversing sagging precollege skills in mathematics and science

Efforts to improve curricula, teaching strategies, and the education of teachers and parents are discussed. These efforts are the basis of both new and established programs. Companies that have had a difficult time hiring technically literate employees have recognized a vested interest in helping schools bolster math and science skills. A number of corporate programs supporting precollege education are described. The Family Math program at the University of California at Berkeley, which attempts to help children improve math skills by reaching out to parents, is also described. The program provides workshops that are primarily for minority parents and children but are also open to others. Two British programs that have developed curricula that provide activities stressing the relevance of science to the rest of life are examined. Another British group has produced a supplementary curriculum that shows students not only how relevant science is to daily life but how it and technology can help or harm society and the environment.<>