Conclusions
Conclusion #1
The first conclusion
is that this type of survey has value in the sense that it highlights
a number of deficiencies such as:
- The fact
that in answer to the questions concerning K-12 activities, in most
cases more than one-half of those responding answered no.
- Evidence
that in several cases the societies contacts within the school systems
in their area is less than adequate.
- Strong evidence
that in many societies, the K-12 effort is an individual effort without
organization. (It is time "to get organized")
- (d) Failures
in publicizing the K-12 activities
Conclusion #2
Expectations
on the number of responses was "way to high". Perhaps a different approach
would have increased the number.
- Part of
the problem is outdated e-mail lists
- Another
problem I believe is that a number of presidents are not members of
the AAPG, which may create a sense of apathy in responding to a survey
with an AAPG background.
Conclusion #3
There is a
lot that the AAPG can do help increase participation in K-12 activities
and since these are affiliated societies, it has an obligation to do
so. A lot of this will be covered under recommendations.
Conclusion #4
Not everything
is negative. Some of the societies (and not always the largest ones)
are doing a very good job. In particular, the East Texas Geological
Society seems to be doing an excellent job.
Conclusion #5
Our approaches
to K-12 are changing with many societies having Web sites, etc.
Conclusion #6
There is a
lot of material available at the State Surveys as indicated by the 30
plus pages in the State Survey Report. In many cases there is a relationship
between the societies and the surveys, but perhaps there is room for
increased cooperation.
Conclusion #7
Many of the
societies are involved with cooperative efforts with museums. This should
be expanded to include more museums and more societies.
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