Growing up as a child I willingly opted for a chemistry set over a doll or a trip to the Pacific Science Center over a day at the movies. I know this probably sounds strange to most kids and I wouldn’t be offended if someone went as far as to say I was a bit of a nerd – I just really loved science.

In fact, I still do and spent four years in college pursuing that passion. So far I haven’t followed down a science career path, but feel that the skills I acquired still play a major part in my daily work and social life.

I enjoyed David Robinson’s post last week on STEM and it really got me thinking about the importance of science education. Of course, I also agree that arts and literature have an important place in education, too.

Science teaches children to use their problem solving skills and think in a methodical manner. They are taught to follow the seven steps of the scientific method - gather data, analyze data and think critically about their results.

Additionally, they learn that there isn’t always one correct answer or way to solve a problem, and learn to appreciate other points of view. They learn that different doesn’t always mean wrong.

Another great thing about science is that it has the ability to fill a child with wonder. It’s gets students to start asking questions about their surroundings and become more involved with the world around them. Science can be taken out of the classroom – in fact, it is best when taken outside – and students can directly apply what they have learned.

Kyle Jones, a high school student at The Villages Charter High School in Florida, used his enthusiasm for science and discovered a possible cure for colon cancer. Kyle said that he is interested in science because of the potential for discovery.

And he definitely did make quite a discovery.  By working with different amino acids found in meat and dairy products, he was able to kill up to 90% of colon cancer cells in a sample within three days.

Kudos to Kyle.

And now, just to keep with the title of this blog, I think it’s important for all students to embrace their inner Bill Nye at some point during their education and participate in a science fair. There are usually different fairs going on throughout the year, so check out this web site full of ideas to get you thinking.

On that note, here is a lesson on static electricity, courtesy of Bill Nye the Science Guy.

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David Robison

12-02-2008 2:03 PM

I completely empathize with your preferences of childhood pastimes (for me it was the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia).

And I think you're spot on with your observations on the power of science to fill young minds with the sheer amazing scope of the universe.  I hadn't heard Kyle Jones's story but I'll be forwarding that one to all the teachers in my address book... that is an inspirational tale for kids AND for teachers.

Show someone a door, show 'em how to open it and they WILL go through.  : )