FOSS^® – Full Option Science System^™

Active Learning that Develops Effective Teachers and Engaged Science Learners.

The Full Option Science System^™ is developed at the Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California at Berkeley. The Hall provides public access to scientific ideas and interactive science experiences, and supports the design and development of new methods and materials for teaching and learning science.

FOSS^® emerged from a philosophy of learning that was introduced in the 1960s by the late Robert Karplus, physicist and science educator. The most important principle of that philosophy is a simple one: students should learn science by doing science. When presented to students in a thoughtful and engaging manner, the study of science is an exciting and provocative experience. A great deal of knowledge about science education has been generated since the pioneering days of the 1960s. We better understand how to set up efficient learning systems that engage students in science and engineering practices, organize productive collaboration, integrate reading and writing effectively, and monitor student progress accurately.

These elements, and many more, are incorporated in the FOSS Third Edition Program to guide and support teachers. In developing the program, we listened to the advice of Albert Einstein, "make it as simple as possible…but no simpler." FOSS is designed to open minds and transform learning. You will see it in your students' eyes and hear it whispered around the room. The wonderful message is, "We're doing science now!"

—FOSS Project Staff