IOSCIENCE,
DUCATION,
RAINING,
AND
ESEARCH
(BETR) World was started by a group of scientists from Johns Hopkins,
Vanderbilt, and NIH to increase the understanding of scientific methods
and principles by the general public.
Given that science is integrated into virtually every
facet of life, one would think that the general public would take an
active interest in the principles behind scientific discoveries. Surprisingly,
at a time when new technologies have made science more exciting than
ever, the number of students entering science-related fields is actually
decreasing. It is our impression that many individuals leave science
because they become bored and disinterested in the subject matter as
it is often presented. In 1991, a group of scientists, educators, and
students formed the innovative educational partnership known as BETR
World. In particular, the founders sought to emphasize the excitement
and relevance of new scientific developments to capture the attention
of the public, young and old, and stimulate its involvement in science.
Science is not only exciting, rewarding, and fundamental;
its applications may well hold the answer to many of society's problems.
Therefore, we seek to return Participation, Enthusiasm, Relevance, Creativity,
and the Scientific method (PERCS) to the teaching and learning of science
at all grade levels.
Mission Statement-
Our goals are to improve science education, generate new interest in
the disciplines of science, motivate students to pursue science-related
careers, spark innovation and creativity in scientific research, and
facilitate the application of new technologies born from all of the
above.
Where we've been-
BETR has for the last 9 years been offering quality science
camps in partnership with Montgomery County Rec. Dept. This program
has grown from a single camp at one location to eight camps at two different
locations. In addition to our Montgomery County camps, last year we
expanded to the City of Rockville to offer a one week camp that was
a hit. BETR also offers year round classes with the City of Rockville
in both computers and science. These programs are steadily growing and
continue to venture into new territory.
Where we are-
New for the 00-01 school year. BETR has started an adult
computer education program at Twinbrook and Lincoln Park Community Centers.
This summer BETR is expanding to Fairfax County, VA to offer its unique
method of science education to Northern Virginia citizens. Click
here to learn more about BETR's science education phliosophy and teaching
methods.
Where we're going-
The sky is the limit, but the most current up coming adventures
are BETR Field Trips, BETR Parties and the BETR Science Hangout. For
more information about these or other BETR Programs contact us at 301-656-4155
or by email at info@betrworld.com