Forum Calls Upon Business, Higher Ed To Advance Math & Science Education

If the U.S. is to sustain its international competitiveness, national security and the quality of life for its citizens, then it must make significant improvements in the participation of all students in mathematics and science, says a new report from the Business-Higher Education Forum (BHEF).

The report, A Commitment to America's Future: Responding to the Crisis in Mathematics and Science Education, points to the lack of holistic, system-wide solutions in the U.S. as one source of inefficiency in math and science education and recommends cohesive, long-term strategies to alleviate pressing systematic problems. It also challenges business, education and policy leaders to commit to new collaborative roles to advance the development of state education systems extending from pre-kindergarten to higher education and into the workforce.

Lagging other countries in science and technology has a direct impact on the economic security of individuals, the international leadership of U.S. companies, and the national security of the country, the report states. According to the most recent data, the number of science and engineering degrees awarded to U.S. citizens is decreasing, while job growth in these fields is increasing, the report indicates. Also, performance trends of American students on comparative international assessments in science and math are declining from near-top in elementary school to near-bottom by the end of high school.

The report outlines recommendations via four action steps: 1.) establish a P-16 Education Council in each state; 2.) simultaneously address and align the five P-16 system components; 3.) engage business and higher education in more effective P-16 reform roles; and 4.) implement coordinated national and state public information programs.

In addition to the report, BHEF published a companion handbook to guide business, higher education, and policy leaders in implementing the proposed action steps. Both the report and handbook are available at: http://www.bhef.com/