In order to be more successful with program implementation, state science supervisors need to better understand the systemic nature of their work and to approach it with more utilitarian guidelines. It is necessary to take the intent of the National Science Education Standards and ask the very hard and practical sense question, "What way do the key system elements need to change to implement 'Science as Inquiry'"? In other words, "What needs to change in the professional programs and certification standards for teachers?", 'What different kinds of instructional resources are needed?" "What are the implications for educational leadership?" All these system elements, coordinated around the concept of "Science as Inquiry", will evolve into guidelines and rubrics for instructional resources . An important key to the success of the effort will be the development of a utilitarian instrument, that illustrates the "how to do" of educational reform and not a theoretical set of guidelines reiterating the "what to do" of educational reform.

In essence, this project has already operationally define Science as Inquiry and is using this definition to develop procedures for the alignment of instruction resources. This foundational process, for developing criteria, indicators, and a rubric, lays out the general process as to how all system elements (see graphical below) will be developed and used for appropriately supporting the implementation of "Science as Inquiry"...over time and with adequate recourses. 

The following six systemic areas have been identified as essential components in changing a system.  Our vision will be to apply the foundational "Science as Inquiry" definition and use it to create rubrics over time to objectively align these system areas: Administrative Leadership, Technology Infrastructure, Professional Development, Community Involvement and Designed Facilities.

The image to the right depicts the "Big Picture" of all the systemic elements that will be addressed over the entire life of the NLIST mission. We are currently in Phase 4 of the project. Full explanations of phase one through seven are available by clicking on the hexagon for each. (can't see the picture? get Flash)

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