In today’s modern society, is a 16 or 17 year-old person still a child? Legally, yes, and most of us would still regard such high school age kids as just that—kids, not adults or “grownups.” So, I was amazed yesterday and today to learn about the highly advanced scientific research being performed by an elite group of “children” in high schools throughout New Jersey, USA.
I attended and was a keynote speaker at the 47th annual Monmouth Junior Science Symposium (MJSS). Here is their mission:
* To promote research and experimentation in the sciences, engineering, and mathematics at the high school level.
* To recognize the significance of research in human affairs and the importance of humane and ethical principles in the application of research results.
* To search out talented youth and their teachers, recognize their accomplishments at symposia, and encourage their continued interest and participation in the sciences, mathematics, and engineering.
* To expand the horizons of research-oriented students by exposing them to opportunities in the academic, industrial, and governmental communities.
* To increase the number of future adults capable of conducting research and development.
The presentations [PDF] that I saw were at a level far beyond what I expected. These youngsters truly are doing legitimate scientific research: they are child scientists working today. What that means is that they have an extraordinary head start toward being outstanding college students and making significant contributions to scientific and technological research sooner rather than later.
Such remarkable levels of achievement don’t come forth from a vacuum, of course. In addition to inheriting good genes, students like these are fortunate to have supportive parents, excellent teachers, and access to programs like the MJSS. Sadly, that’s true for only a small minority of American children, not to mention kids elsewhere around the world.
A truly technoprogressive agenda would work hard toward expanding the highest level of educational opportunities for young people in every segment of society and in every nation. Imagine the results!
IEET Blog