The Central Coast Science Center (CCSC) is a newly formed non-profit
organization focused on providing contemporary science education, resources and
retention for students, teachers and the community. The CCSC hopes to provide a unique approach to science communication by not only educating individuals in various aspects of science, but also involving those same individuals in the education methods, thereby bridging
the gap between science and other traditionally unrelated topics.
For example, students could be taught the skills of technical communication, or digital and
video production while conducting science experiments. These skills would be taught for the purposes of
recording the procedure and as a tool for the student to re-teach the science
topics. The idea is that in the process of teaching, the
student retains the knowledge and gains a more in depth understanding of the
topics.
This concept is a way to bridge arts and humanities education with science communication. Potential grant opportunities may exist through funding with the American Association of University Women, the National Science Foundation and other, as yet unidentified, organizations. My goal is to find and apply for funding that could support the efforts of the CCSC as they begin to fulfill their vision.
NEEDS STATEMENT
ReplyDeleteThe Central Coast Science Center (CCSC) recognizes that the general public feels disconnected from science topics as they are currently presented in formal education settings. At the same time, the general public is expected to make ongoing scientific and health decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods. While there are a range of science tutorials available, the creation and production of these tutorials is typically done from the ‘top-down’. That is an expert or instructor creates the material. While those individuals that use these kinds of tutorials may have an immediate benefit, long-term retention and application of the scientific knowledge is generally not accomplished. The problem may lie in the non-participatory role that the general public plays in creating the tutorial materials.
The CCSC plans to involve students and the general public in the creation of materials that can be used to disseminate scientific communication. This innovative ‘bottom-up’ approach will serve multiple purposes towards the advancement of retaining and applying general scientific knowledge. The rationale for this approach is based in part on successful teaching to learn methods. By helping to explain phenomena to others, those creating the materials become more adept at that same knowledge. In addition, this program supports the arts in STEM education movement, or STEAM. By learning the tools of digital and print production, participants will expand their range of knowledge skills while using and applying those skills to create authentic tutorials.
To accomplish these goals, the CCSC will make participation available as an internship option, directed or independent study option or certificate option. Participants will be accepted as cohorts and charged with the production of a limited set of tutorials. All participants will be credited for their work, further adding to the value of the program by rewarding the participants with authorship status. Since CCSC staff members include faculty from local higher education institutions, partnerships with these institutions will be explored as a way to offer the program for the directed study units. Certification will include a merit certificate in the scientific topic, the production method or both. A website will be created that will accept proposals for tutorial topics as well as applications from interested participants.
The CCSC needs funding to purchase the equipment necessary to create these tutorials. While the production will take place at the CCSC facility and/or on-site locations including local laboratories, the CCSC is hopeful that your organization can contribute to the success of this innovative program by providing funding for digital and print production materials including software, computers, camera and other supplies. Together, your organization and the CCSC can contribute to scientific communication and literacy for the general public in both formal and informal education settings.
Might ask during class today about making new blog posts. No doubt others have the same problem.
ReplyDeleteCCSC sounds very interesting. Clearly, it's an important resource for you. I often use the term "infection model" when thinking about bottom up approaches. Social media can be used effectively when taking this approach. So, interested in finding sources to purchase technology... do you start with that problem?
Very nice resource shared during class. I like how you talked about STEM, but also educational funding and awards. The community action grants drop down is especially useful. Very nice find, Tricia. Nice job walking us through key information in the application itself. Especially useful was your discussion about the focus and mission and using it to your advantage.
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