This conference for urban science educators will bring together science leaders in cities across the country to discuss problems and issues related to their elementary science programs and to share solutions and strategies for successful programs. A working team consisting of a science supervisor, a representative elementary teacher, and a principal from each of 20 selected cities will attend. The intent is to begin an on-going dialogue that will continue between these sites and continue to influence new cities. The focus of the conference will be on concepts, pedagogy, and assessment--what concepts should be taught; what pedagogy works with urban children; what are good assessment strategies and how can they trigger changes in teacher behavior; and what training and professional development efforts work and should be implemented.
