BETR History

 

Mission Statement

Where
we've been

Where we are

Where
We're Going

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