College Programs Attract Math/Science Majors to Teach

The Edweek.org article appears here.

Fourteen programs across the country are encouraging Math and Science majors to "tryout" the teaching profession before committing to a full, school of education type degree program.  Some schools offer rebates, or one-unit classes to show prospective students what teaching at the elementary or junior high level is like.

As the mom of a Math/Physics major, I can see the value of a program that encourages Math/Physics majors to consider teaching.  And federal financial aid forgives some loans for students that go into teaching, further enticing students who might be interested in teaching.

Do you feel that students should be steered to the department of education, or does the lack of math and science teachers nationwide make options such as these programs necessary?