Rosenbaum James T, Martin Tammy M, Farris Kendra H, Rosenbaum Richard B, Neuwelt Edward A
Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd. L467Ad, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
FASEB J. 2007 Jul;21(9):1954-7. doi: 10.1096/fj.06-7845lsf. Epub 2007 Mar 9.
The preeminence of science in the United States is endangered for multiple reasons, including mediocre achievement in science education by secondary school students. A group of scientists at Oregon Health and Science University has established a class to teach the process of scientific inquiry to local high school students. Prominent aspects of the class include pairing of the student with a mentor; use of a journal club format; preparation of a referenced, hypothesis driven research proposal; and a "hands-on" laboratory experience. A survey of our graduates found that 73% were planning careers in health or science. In comparison to conventional science classes, including chemistry, biology, and algebra, our students were 7 times more likely to rank the scientific inquiry class as influencing career or life choices. Medical schools should make research opportunities widely available to teenagers because this experience dramatically affects one's attitude toward science and the likelihood that a student will pursue a career in science or medicine. A federal initiative could facilitate student opportunities to pursue research.
美国科学领域的卓越地位因多种原因受到威胁，其中包括中学生在科学教育方面成绩平平。俄勒冈健康与科学大学的一群科学家开设了一门课程，向当地高中生传授科学探究过程。该课程的突出特点包括为学生配备导师；采用期刊俱乐部形式；撰写有参考文献、以假设为驱动的研究提案；以及“亲自动手”的实验室体验。对我们毕业生的一项调查发现，73%的人计划从事健康或科学领域的职业。与传统科学课程（包括化学、生物学和代数）相比，我们的学生将科学探究课程列为影响职业或生活选择的可能性高出7倍。医学院应广泛为青少年提供研究机会，因为这种经历会极大地影响一个人对科学的态度以及学生从事科学或医学职业的可能性。一项联邦倡议可以促进学生获得从事研究的机会。
