Newsletter - Issue 8, June/July 2009
Public Participation in Scientific Research
During the past two decades, an increasing number of informal science education projects have involved the public directly in the multifaceted and iterative processes of scientific research--covering topics ranging from acid rain to backyard birds. Such projects contribute to awareness and understanding of key scientific concepts and excel in building interest in scientific activities and developing science-related skills, the evidence suggests. That's the conclusion of a CAISE Inquiry Group that has just completed a study of Public Participation in Scientific Research (PPSR) programs, often called "citizen science."
News and Updates
- November 19 is the deadline for full proposals to NSF's ISE program. Approximately 610 preliminary proposals were submitted on June 25. Check the NSF website for the solicitation.
- September 10 is the deadline for full proposal's to NASA's Competitive Program for Science Museums and Planetariums.
Upcoming Meetings and Events
- Thursday, July 23, 2:00-3:00 pm Dimensions of Public Engagement with Science: Building Toward a Framework for Evaluation, Ellen McCallie and Christine Reich; at the Visitor Studies Association (VSA) conference, St. Louis, Missouri
- Saturday, July 25, 9:30-11:00 am Understanding the Value of Public Participation in Research, Rick Bonney and Ellen McCallie; VSA conference, St. Louis, Missouri
- Early September—Join an online discussion with Rick Bonney and other members of the CAISE Inquiry Group that just completed the report featured in this issue of the CAISE Newsletter, Public Participation in Scientific Research; set up an account in ASTC Connect and join the CAISE Forum for details.
- Hold the date—The next CAISE national meeting, the ISE Summit 2010, is scheduled for: March 3-5, 2010 in Washington, D.C.
Resources
- Exploring What Works in Science Instruction: A Look at the Eight-Grade Science Classroom, a study by the Educational Testing Service, confirms the value of characteristics of effective science learning strategies those in the ISE have long encouraged—such as hands-on activities and working with others on projects. The 44-page report can be downloaded free (click on “our most recent publications”).
Image Credits
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology
In the Spotlight:
NestWatch
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, in collaboration with the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, is engaging thousands of citizens in gathering data about nesting birds—helping researchers to better understand strategies birds use to reproduce successfully while building skills and understanding of the process of science and bird biology.
Read more...About CAISE
The Center for Advancement of Informal Science Education (CAISE) works to strengthen and connect the informal science education community by catalyzing conversation and collaboration across the entire field—including film and broadcast media, science centers and museums, zoos and aquariums, botanical gardens and nature centers, digital media and gaming, science journalism, and youth, community, and after-school programs. Founded in 2007 with support from the National Science Foundation (NSF), CAISE is a partnership among the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC), Oregon State University (OSU), the University of Pittsburgh Center for Learning in Out-of-School Environments (UPCLOSE), and the Visitor Studies Association (VSA). CAISE is housed at ASTC’s Washington, D.C. offices.
- Contact CAISE at info [at] caise.insci.org
