In 2011, Let’s Talk Science gathered data that sheds light on science learning and ambitions at all educational levels, employment in STEM-related occupations, the growth of those fields, and Canada’s science culture. The data came from a wide variety of sources: the OECD; the Pan-Canadian Assessment Program; provincial ministries and departments of education across Canada; Statistics Canada; Human Resources and Skills Development Canada; postsecondary applications and enrolment; industry sector councils; science education and outreach organizations;and more. To better understand the state of science learning, we assembled an expert panel (see below). These individuals brought expertise from science teaching, postsecondary institutions, media, industry, youth science learning advocacy and professional associations. This panel met three times to review and discuss data and determine the benchmarks, and had other opportunities to comment on the findings and their implications. Their interpretations and recommendations form the commentary throughout this study. The findings in this study should spark some lively discourse among Canadians. And the data gives us benchmarks to see if Canada is on track to develop the talent needed for the 21stcentury demands of citizenship and employment.

Electronic reproduction. External link. Available online at: http://www.letstalkscience.ca/images/Research/2012/Science_Learning_Booklet_web_version%20(1).pdf.

1. Executive Summary -- 2. Introduction -- 3. Scope and Methodology -- 4. Jobs of the Future -- 5. The Talent Pathway -- 6. Creating a Science Culture -- 7. Conclusion -- Appendix A. -- Appendix B.-- Acknowledgements.