National Science Teachers Association

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The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), founded in 1944 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is an association of science teachers in the United States and is the largest organization of science teachers worldwide. NSTA's current membership of more than 55,000 includes science teachers, science supervisors, administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives, and others involved in and committed to science education. The organization's mission is to "to promote excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all."

The Association publishes a professional journal for each level of science teaching; a newspaper, NSTA Reports; and many other educational books and professional publications. Each year NSTA conducts a national conference and a series of area conferences. These events attract over 30,000 attendees annually. The Association serves as an advocate for science educators by keeping its members and the general public informed about national issues and trends in science education.

Contents

[edit] Position statements

NSTA is engaged in an ongoing effort to "identify the qualities and standards of good science education," publishing its findings in the form of position statements.[1] These position statements are developed by science educators, scientists, and other national experts in science education, and the input of NSTA's membership is solicited before final approval by the board of directors. Over 35 topics are covered, including The Nature of Science, Safety and Science Instruction, The Teaching of Evolution, Environmental education, Responsible Use of Live Animals and Dissection in the Science Classroom, Gender Equity in Science Education, and Use of the Metric System.

[edit] Building a Presence for Science

NSTA runs a number of professional development programs.[2] The program Building a Presence for Science operates state by state and is intended to create a national network of science teachers (one point of contact in each school) and give them professional support and resource materials so they can be a visible representative for science by helping their colleagues.[3]

[edit] Publications

  • Quantum Magazine, a bimonthly science and math magazine.
  • The Science Teacher, a peer-reviewed journal [4]

[edit] References

  1. ^ NSTA. NSTA Position Statements. Retrieved on 2007-12-12.
  2. ^ NSTA. NSTA Professional Development Opportunities. Retrieved on 2007-12-12.
  3. ^ Building a Presence for Science - Frequently Asked Questions (1996-2006). Retrieved on 2006-11-26.
  4. ^ The Science Teacher. Retrieved on 2008-03-30

[edit] External links