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Earth and space science education is about the planet we live on, the third planet from the sun and the only known place in our universe where life occurs. It is about four and a half billion years of history involving fantastic stories of climate change, evolution and extinction. It is about a planet alive with fiery volcanoes, sudden earthquakes, slow-moving glaciers and fast moving storms. It is about a planet of rich resources, beautiful natural wonders, and amazing plant and animal species.
Earth and space science education at its most basic level is about observing the world around us and asking questions. As young children we taste, touch, smell, see and listen. We ask questions about rocks and sand, about clouds and rain, about the moon and stars. As we grow older and our questions, observations and sampling techniques become more sophisticated, we learn that Earth and space science education is the study of a complex system of interacting chemical, physical and biological processes, constantly changing, ever surprising.
All of us who live on this planet have the right and the obligation to explore and understand Earth's unique history, its dynamic processes, its abundant resources and its intriguing mysteries. As citizens of Earth, with the power to modify our planet's climate and ecosystems, we also have a personal and collective responsibility to understand Earth so that we can make wise decisions about its and our future. The "Revolution in Earth and Space Science Education" is about ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to learn the science of their planet from pre-school through college and beyond. We invite you to join us on this 21st century voyage of exploration, discovery and change.
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