Describes the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Statewide Systemic Initiatives Program (SSIP) and its intent to improve math and science education at state levels. Discusses changes in the administration of the program, failures, and successes. (WRM)

Discusses some results of the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and responds to criticisms of that study. (WRM)

Discusses the current interest in gifted children and efforts aimed to nurture their abilities. Peculiarities and problems associated with gifted children are also reviewed. (CS)

Discusses implications for the Department of Education with the election of Ronald Reagan to the presidency. The future of the National Education Association (NEA) is also discussed, including its hopes for general aid to education and federal collective bargaining laws. Revision of higher education programs is also discussed. (CS)

Explains the purposes, procedures, and standards associated with the National Science Teachers Association certification program. Describes the criteria used for the different grade levels and subject areas. Discusses future plans for the programs. (ML)

During the past year American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) members have been working with local science museums, giving lectures, helping design exhibits, and meeting with young people to talk about science careers. They are part of a project to improve science education programs of science/technology centers and museums.…

The American Association for the Advancement of Science is involved in projects to capitalize on resources the scientific community can share with schools. Projects and sponsors include "The National Forum for School Science" (Carnegie Corporation), "Challenge of the Unknown" (Phillips Petroleum), and "Science Resources…

Discusses current activities of the National Science Foundation's (NSF) education directorate, including proposed programs to upgrade science and mathematics teaching at the elementary and junior high school levels. Includes comments by Bassam Z. Shakhashiri, NSF's new assistant director for science and engineering education. (JN)

Argues that test score rankings provide little information about educational quality because countries differ substantially in factors such as student selectivity, curriculum emphasis, and the proportion of low-income students in the test-taking population. (DDR)

Described are three science and mathematics educational reform programs--Project 2061; Scope, Sequence and Coordination; and NCTM Curriculum and Evaluation Standards. Discussed are the needs for educational reform and the steps that each program is taking. (KR)

Contends that the state of mathematics education is a crucial predictor of future national strength in science and technology and economic competitiveness. Compares the level of mathematics achievement of the United States with other countries. Advocates a national commitment for improvement and includes specific recommendations. (ML)

Summarizes the activities of the American Association for the Advancement of Science's Office of Science and Technology Education (OSTE) in promoting and improving science and mathematics education. Describes six new OSTE programs that include a national forum for school science, science resource material systems, and science seminars for…