Focus | SMEC 2004

Securing The Foundations Of Ireland's Knowledge-Based Economy - Science And Mathematics Education For The New Century

This conference aims to bring together some of the key thinkers and practitioners in this area from around the world, and to develop outline proposals for bringing the fruits of science education research into effect in our classrooms. A panel of national and international experts in the field of science education will discuss and compare best practice worldwide and apply this to the specific constraints and opportunities offered by the Irish educational system. The conference will include participation by students in order to include that essential perspective, and a bursary will be awarded for the best student poster presentation.

The opening address will be presented by the the recently appointed Dr. Barry McSweeney, Ireland's Chief Science Adviser. 

Conference themes:

  1. Teacher education in mathematics and science at all levels.
  2. Informal Education.
  3. Teaching: teaching strategies, metacognitive strategies, resources and educational technology.
  4. Research methods and theoretical issues.

Leaders in the field of Science and Mathematics Education such as Prof. Leon Lederman (Nobel Laureate Physics) from the University of Chicago, USA; Prof. Peter Fensham, Emeritus Professor of Science Education, Monash University, Australia; Prof. Dimitris Psillos from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece; Prof. Svein Sjøberg from the University of Oslo, Norway; Dr. Eckhard Lucius, IPN, Germany and Prof. Jerry Wellington from the University of Sheffield, UK have confirmed their attendance. Additionally Dr. Barry McSweeney, Ireland's Chief Science Adviser and Dr. Paul Kimmelman, Special Advisor to the CEO and Executive Director, Learning Point Associates, USA wil address this conference.

Please browse through the schedule of speakers, presentations, workshops, posters and news items for further information about the conference.