The Center for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Education
at
California State University, Fullerton
Richard Lodyga, Director
The Center for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Education (C.E.S.M.E.) was
established in 1992 to improve elementary and secondary teacher education in science and mathematics. The Center is a joint endeavor between the
College of
Natural Sciences and Mathematics and the College
of Human Development and Community Service and serves to be a focal point for coordinating and promoting collaborative activities among faculty members from education,
science, and mathematics as well as for developing partnerships with schools,
industry, and community organizations. The Center is committed to the belief
that students from all backgrounds can succeed in science and mathematics.
We pursue the realization of this belief through a combination of teacher preparation and development programs, community outreach efforts and participation in
collaborative ventures. We are particularly eager to work with communities
with large numbers of economically disadvantaged students and underparticipating racial/ethnic groups. We believe that proficiency in science and mathematics is a key to breaking the cycle of poverty and helping students embark on rewarding careers.
Because of the influential role that classroom teachers play in mathematics and science education, the Center places special emphasis on developing innovative preservice and inservice programs to help teachers keep abreast of national and state standards. Among the most promising of these programs is our coordinated effort to revise, update and strengthen the science and mathematics content and methods courses that future elementary teachers are required to take. Complementing that endeavor is our program to enhance the student teaching experiences of future teachers by developing a cadre of teacher leaders to serve as classroom role models and coaches.
In order to enhance science and mathematics education, the Center encourages and supports sound educational practices. In accordance with the National Science Education Standards and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' Curriculum and Evaluation Standards and Professional Standards, C.E.S.M.E. believes: