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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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