The Council of Independent Colleges this spring selected four institutions to receive the Council's second annual Heuer Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Undergraduate Science Education. Bethel College (MN), Calvin College (MI), Drury University (MO), and John Carroll University (OH) were chosen out of 60 nominations for demonstrating noteworthy recent achievement in undergraduate science education. (Click here to view description of programs.)
    The CIC/Heuer award program, funded by The Russell Pearce and Elizabeth Crimian Heuer Foundation, builds on the documented achievements of independent colleges and universities in undergraduate science education. Each institution received a $10,000 prize to be used for further enhancement of its science programs. Last year's winners were Benedictine College (KS) and Nebraska Wesleyan University. (Click here to view description of programs.)
    In announcing the winners of the competition, CIC President Richard Ekman said the exemplary programs in the science departments at these institutions "give further evidence of the view that science education in independent colleges and universities is a resource of major importance to the nation's future." These four programs were selected, Ekman said, for "demonstrating that creativity and rigor in science program design can indeed increase student interest and success in the sciences, as well as strengthen programs in K-12 schools."
    Heuer board member James Johnston, chairman of SAGE Scholars, Inc., a college savings program devoted exclusively to private colleges and universities, said, "The Heuer trustees were very pleased with the outcome of the first annual awards program last year. CIC did an admirable job in handling the awards. That success led the trustees to decide to appropriate enough funding for four winners in the second annual Heuer awards program."
    A panel of science educators, knowledgeable about science and mathematics education in private colleges and universities, chose the winners. Panelists included W. H. Bearce (chair), CIC senior advisor and a chemist; Janet Andersen, associate professor of mathematics at Hope College (MI); Daniel E. Bowen, associate professor of biology at Benedictine College (KS); Dennis E. Davenport, program director in mathematics at the National Science Foundation; and William M. Wehrbein, professor of physics and astronomy at Nebraska Wesleyan University.

The 2002 Heuer Awards for Outstanding Achievement
in Undergraduate Science Education

Bethel College (MN) — Physics Department: Over the past decade, the department's program has concentrated on breaking down barriers that separate physics in a liberal arts context from support and cooperation by business and industry, on curricular reform and service for K-12 education, and on mentoring undergraduate research. Work in applied physics has proven to be a particularly innovative means to attract students to the field. The result has been an increase in the number of physics majors, more students involved in undergraduate research, established relationships with area industries, and recognition by national organizations including the American Physical Society. Additionally, the department has been active in outreach to area K-12 schools and has strongly supported the entire science education program at the college.

Calvin College (MI) — Elementary Science Education Program: A four-course science sequence prepares pre-service elementary education teachers in physical and earth sciences, life sciences, scientific inquiry, and science teaching methods. In the methods course, students tutor, assess the learning of elementary students, prepare science materials, and develop and teach science units. There is a particular focus on meeting the needs of schools with high minority enrollment. The college itself has made substantial investments in elementary science education by providing expanded laboratory and research space for the program and by providing funds to enhance the outreach program to local schools.

Drury University (MO) — Science Perspectives Program: An integrated three-course sequence is offered to non-science majors as part of the university's general education program. The courses-Mathematics and Inquiry, Science and Inquiry, and Undergraduate Research Experience-bring together the essential tools of scientific inquiry and require students to apply these tools to specific problems. Results are presented in a public forum. Substantial improvements in student performance on standardized assessment tests in science have been recognized by off-campus organizations as particularly significant. In addition, the program has documented that students who did not originally like science have emerged with understanding, self-confidence, and appreciation for science.

John Carroll University (OH) — Chemistry Department: Since 1990, the department has incorporated undergraduate research as the capstone experience for nearly every chemistry major. Student projects have been presented at regional and national meetings of several professional organizations. Graduating seniors have been awarded national scholarships and have had excellent success in graduate programs. As a reflection of the institutional commitment to service, the department has been active in support of science programs for area K-12 students and teachers by offering workshops and chemistry camps, and by providing lab space for an area high school damaged by fire. The department activities have been focused on the university's mission of educating students to serve others.

Independent
The Council of Independent Colleges
One Dupont Circle NW, Suite 320 • Washington, DC 20036
tel: (202) 466-7230 • Fax: (202) 466-7238 • e-mail: mailto:cic@cicnche.edu • www.cic.edu

Last updated: July 5, 2002
Copyright © 2002 The Council of Independent Colleges