Jischke to discuss need to improve American science, engineering education
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University President Martin C. Jischke on Wednesday (June 21) will highlight the need to increase America's production of students proficient in science and engineering to enhance the nation's strength and prosperity.From 2-3 p.m. during WBAA Radio's live call-in show "AM 920 Magazine," Jischke will field questions from host Dan Skinner and the listening audience.
Jischke said that 20 years ago, the United States, Japan and China each graduated a similar number of engineers. By the year 2000, Japan and India were producing more than 100,000 engineering graduates annually and China more than 200,000. Meanwhile, the U.S. rate had fallen by 20 percent to fewer than 60,000 engineering graduates annually, barely more than South Korea, which formerly had produced only half as many as the United States.
"These are disturbing numbers, particularly combined with the decreased interest our middle and high school students are showing in math and sciences," Skinner said. "These trends, especially in light of today's global economy, represent what many educators have referred to as the 'gathering storm.'"
Jischke will emphasize the need for improved education beginning in the home and continuing through university levels.
To ask questions, local listeners can call (765) 496-1999. Listeners outside the local calling area can call toll-free at (866) 922-2101. WBAA's AM signal reaches approximately two-thirds of Indiana and can be heard globally via the station's Web site.
Jischke discusses different topics on every show. Past interview topics have included Purdue's academic ratings, the ongoing capital campaign and research funding. Previous interviews are archived on the station's Web site.
Writer: Jim Schenke, (765) 494-6262, jschenke@ purdue.edu
Sources: Dan Skinner, WBAA station manager, (765) 494-3960, deskinner@purdue.edu
Jim Vruggink, director of special projects, (765) 494-2086, jvruggink@purdue.edu
Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu
Note to Journalists: Photographers and videographers are permitted in the studio for the broadcast by contacting WBAA at (765) 494-5920 in advance. Reporters interested in asking questions before or after the show should contact Jim Vruggink, director of special projects, at (765) 494-2086, jvruggink@purdue.edu.
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