Science Education

APEC and the Education Network has prioritized science education among its members for many years, recognizing that an economy's success in many industries of the 21st century requires a firm understanding of the physical, earth, and life sciences.

At the 4th APEC Education Ministerial Meeting held in Lima, Peru in June 2008, the APEC members made several recommendations on how to improve science education capacities.  Among the findings was that economies of the East and West have significantly different levels of achievement and practice in science education.

• Asian educational systems generally produce students with a strong grasp of the content knowledge, with higher scores on the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS).
• Western systems have strengths in applying knowledge to real life situations. Many Western economies are among the most scientifically innovative in terms of such indicators as new scientific patents. 

The pressing issue is how to combine the best of both systems.

• Science Standards
• Science Curriculum and Instruction
• Science Education and Technology

• U.S-China Experts Meeting on Science Education
• International Seminar on Best Practices in Science and Mathematics Teaching and Learning
• Seminar on the Best Practices and Innovations in the Teaching and Learning of Science and Mathematics at the Primary School Level
• International Comparative Research to Identify Unique and Promising Practices in Mathematics and Science Teacher Preparation for APEC Economies

• Mathematics & Science Priority Area: Findings
• Promoting Gender Equity in Mathematics / Science Education
• Achieve’s Analysis of Mathematics and Science Standards from APEC
• International Education Week 2009 Teaching Tip: Acid-Base Titration Experiment
• International Education Week 2009 Teaching Tip: Fair Test and Human Balancing