We have learned many valuable lessons in our three years of experience with workshops on education for the NASA space science community. One of the most evident is that we began by doing workshops for space scientists, but quickly realized that earth scientists, NASA mission engineers, and scientist/educators from Space Grant colleges were also interested in participating. In addition, we have learned the value of having a certain number of younger scientists (graduate students and post-docs) participate alongside the more senior scientists in our workshops. The term "scientists" will imply all of these types of participants.

We have essentially used the previous three workshops to progressively adjust our agenda to challenge beliefs or conceptions that inhibit effective educational outreach. The purpose of these workshops will be to help scientists and engineers become knowledgeable about science education and effective advocates for reform. A variety of experts will lead discussions on:

• the current state of K-12 science education (including ongoing reform efforts)
  
  
• cognitive development in children
  
  
• elements of an effective science education program
  
  
• how to collaborate effectively with schools

Participants will also review and gain hands-on experience with exemplary education materials and discuss how scientists can assist in the development of new (and needed) materials for secondary education. The workshops will be small and the participants will be limited to 30-40 per session in order to encourage meaningful discussions and to foster a strong collegial atmosphere.