As a tutor at Chicago State University I found that students of all ages both latino and black had a very difficult time acclimating themselves within science courses. Biological Sciences, Chemistry, and Physics gave students the major "flux" (hard time). Although they made the most of class time many found themselves drowning in the jargon of science and didn't understand how to relate their previous knowledge to what it was they were actually learning. For example, the concept of form and function within eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells doesn't sound hard, but cram the historical discovery of cells and microscopes and latin words you have never heard of suddenly a student becomes overwhelmed. This posting isn't to explain cell structure and function but to explain the disdain of minority science students. We are losing future researchers and proffessional scientists because of their lack of understanding. However some of this burden lays upon public school systems, the rest on the individual student. Students become disgusted with their courses, professors, irritated by their tutors and put off by their exams. Usually it is not only the content of the course that must be addressed, but also a collective character boost as well. I found that mentoring and encouragement of a student over all in assisting them with being better people with higher standards, and attainable goals, transforms students into a professional in training. That is why my new self published book directly addresses the downfalls and realities of facing science at the high shool and collegiate level. This book is short, sweet and perfect for returning students or people struggling in their science related courses. Minorities have something to offer the fields of botany, environmental biology, chemistry, ecology, and physics. It is time to begin restructuring student expectations of themselves by first admitting their shortcomings and truthfully preparing them for the rigorous demands of academia. This book can be purchased online at blurb.com. Visit the book preview below for more information.
Friday, January 8, 2010
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