Electronic Precinct - January 1998

Science education for the 21st century

They will be attending the annual meeting of the Association for Science Education held in The University of Liverpool from 8-10 January.

In welcoming the conference Professor Philip Love, Vice-Chancellor, said 'We are delighted to have the opportunity of hosting such an important conference. The recent Dearing Report on higher education and the Government's expected White Paper on lifelong learning are both likely to lead to more st udents enjoying the opportunity of a University education. As we approach the challenges of the 21st century, it will be important for many of these to take degrees in science based subjects', he said.

'As a major research University, which also offers high quality teaching in a wide range of science subjects, we are keen to play our part in the development of science education, and we are committed to working with our colleagues from schools and colleges to ensure that opportunities are identifi ed and developed wherever possible', he said.

Up to 5,000 delegates are expected to visit Liverpool during the three day event, and around 2,500 will be staying in the University's Halls of Residence or at local hotels. International visitors from 80 different countries will be attending the conference.

Delegates will enjoy a full and varied programme of lectures, talks and discussions, symposia, training courses, workshops and exhibitions indispersed with visits and social events.

Jonathan Ling, the Association's Honorary Annual Meeting Secretary said 'This is the second time that this annual meeting has been held in Liverpool. The last one, in 1978 was a great success and this one is likely to be even more so. The ASE is the largest of all academic subject associations and The University of Liverpool offers us a superb opportunity to provide a complete set of activities for our members. University staff have made us extremely welcome during preparations for the meeting and our local committee has provided what promises to be the best programme we have ever had.'

The Association for Science Education is the independent voice of teachers of science. An international charity, it began when like-minded teachers grouped together to share ideas and support each other. It has over 20,000 individual members, a powerful contingent of industrial corporate members an d strong international links. For information Tel: 01707 267411.