Serious consequences follow from such views. Many students consider science to be irrelevant, unless it's memorized for the final exam. Furthermore, college students are often ill-prepared for a curriculum in science because science education is seen either an unimportant or as a luxury that most school districts cannot afford, instead of a necessary component of a quality education. It's time scientists and science educators come to grips with the fact that they are at least partially to blame for the public's preception of science. Both researchers and educators need to become effective communicators and tell the public exactly why science is important.
High school is too late to begin a meaningful education in science.
The curriculum should be modified so that students begin receiving a quality science education no later than in early elementary school. Colleges and universities need to modify their criteria for tenure and promotion so that more emphasis and reward are given to teaching abilities and community outreach programs. I am most passionate about teaching science and scientific method. Research is important not only as a means of discovery, but also as a teaching tool. Becoming personally involved with elementary science education requires a considerable input of time and energy, much of it having nothing to do with teaching science.