Wednesday, April 20, 2005 @8:30 AM
Good morning, I
am honored to be here today to have the opportunity to address teachers
and students about the importance of science education. Edwin Powell Hubble,
probably the greatest observational astronomer of our century, renowned
for determining that there are other galaxies in the universe beyond the
Milky Way, once said, “Equipped with his five senses, man explores
the universe around him and calls the adventure Science.” It is professional
learning opportunities such as this one, that allow dedicated and focused
learners like you to achieve higher competency and expand your understanding
of self, role, context and career. As teachers and students who have had
the extraordinary opportunity to practice science, and directly experience
the process of scientific discovery, you are better equipped to understand
science and join in the adventure as the next generation of explorers
and problem solvers. Neil Alden Armstrong
( the first man to walk on the moon), If you said that
they all had degrees in engineering, then you know that throughout the
ages from the builders of the Egyptian pyramids to the inventors of the
personal computer, engineers have been the shapers of progress. Engineers
have been the first to walk on the moon, paint great works of art, and
invent the telephone and light bulb. You also know that engineers convey
ideas graphically and may need to visualize products or processes in three
dimensions and need to see things in terms of graphics, drafting, and
design. In other words, as Theodore Von Karman said: “scientist
study the world as it is, engineers create the world that never has been.” An engineering degree also opens doors to other careers. Many engineering graduates have moved into other professions such as medicine, law, and business where their engineering background has been a valuable asset. Collaborations with colleges and universities such as this allow teachers and students to visit and use labs, research, dialogue with college professors, and explore careers in science and engineering. As educators, we must nurture and expand such collaborations and partnerships that draw upon and join the experiences of superior teachers and scientists to raise the levels of student achievement and provide our youngsters with the intellectual tools necessary to succeed in the 21st century. Our shared commitment to these goals, coupled with the enormous reservoir of talent and dedication present here day, will ensure continued exploration of the excitement, beauty and utility of the adventure called science. |