 |
Last updated November 2, 2011
What We Do
The NIH Office of Science Education (OSE) coordinates science education activities at the NIH and develops and sponsors science education projects in house. These programs serve elementary, secondary, and college students and teachers and the public.
Top of Page
Activities
- Develop curriculum supplements and other educational materials related to medicine and research through collaborations with scientific experts at NIH
- Maintain a website as a central source of information about NIH science education resources
- Establish national model programs in public science education, such as the NIH Mini-Med School and Science in the Cinema
- Promote science education reform as outlined in the National Science Education Standards and related guidelines
The OSE was established in 1991 within the Office of Science Policy of the Office of the Director of the National Institutes of Health. The NIH is the world's foremost biomedical research center and the U.S. federal government's focal point for such research. It is one of the components of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Top of Page
Mission Statement
The Office of Science Education (OSE) plans, develops, and coordinates a comprehensive science education program to strengthen and enhance efforts of the NIH to attract young people to biomedical and behavioral science careers and to improve science literacy in both adults and children. The function of the Office is as follows: (1) develops, supports, and directs new program initiatives at all levels with special emphasis on targeting students in grades kindergarten to 16, their educators and parents, and the general public; (2) advises NIH leadership on science education issues; (3) examines and evaluates research and emerging trends in science education and literacy for policy making; (4) works closely with the NIH extramural, intramural, women's health, laboratory animal research, and minority program offices on science education special issues and programs to ensure coordination of NIH efforts; (5) works with NIH institutes, centers, and divisions to enhance communication of science education activities; and (6) works cooperatively with other public- and private-sector organizations to develop and coordinate activities.
Top of Page |
