Information for Parents
In a world economy built on technology, sustaining America's standard of living demands that all of our children receive a world-class science and math education. Although dedicated and talented, our school leaders struggle to meet this goal due to growing class sizes and shrinking resources. Their challenge, and ours, is to find tools and approaches that spark an interest for learning in each of our children. A.K.A. Science (all kids are Scientists) is a powerful tool carefully designed to release and nurture the scientist in every child.
We remember best what we discover for ourselves. A.K.A. Science allows children to explore science first hand by making tools and experimenting with science concepts. Students bring home projects to share what they learn with family and friends. They leave class confident and eager to return. This empowerment sets the stage for future advanced scientific study. Young people's understanding of the importance of science and technology in today's world is critical to their future success. With A.K.A. Science, the fun and fascination of science dispel the myth that science is difficult and uninteresting. A.K.A. Science encourages a continued interest in science.
What is A.K.A. Science?
A.K.A. Science is a fun and challenging after school science program for children in grades K-8. The program was developed and is owned by the Oregon Health Career Center. It uses structured yet playful hands-on activities to encourage observation of the world through exploration.
A.K.A. Science meets for one hour each week and is offered in eight week sessions, three times per school year: fall, winter, and spring (Click here for the program calendar). The program offers a three-year cycle of classes in rotation so students can continually participate without repeating. (Click here to see class offerings) Each class admits 11 to 15 students. Small class size is a hallmark of A.K.A. Science that allows for individual attention and quality interaction between students and adult leaders. Programs are offered in varied school and organization settings and classes are lead by schoolteachers, parents, and other volunteers. A.K.A. Science Class Leaders receive complete training in each subject taught. All materials and curriculum are provided.
Why is the Oregon Health Career Center interested in encouraging elementary students to learn about science and gain confidence in their abilities to pursue scientific interests?
One of our goals is to increase the number of health care professionals now and in the future. Many of these professions are of a technical nature, making a science background necessary to train for these jobs. If the students of today are to become the nurses, surgeons, x-ray technicians and dentists of tomorrow, they need to gain confidence in science today. We believe A.K.A. Science provides that confidence.
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