In August, I participated in a panel discussion hosted by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund in North Carolina. To purpose of the event was to share with science education directors ways they can contribute to the public understanding of science and science education. The discussion was moderated by Russ Campbell, BWF Communications Director (and fellow Philadelphian–yo, Russ!).
Here are the presentations of the three panelists, in this order:
- Darlene Cavalier, Science Cheerleader
- Glenn Murphy, author of “Why is Snot Green”
- Troy Livingston, Museum of Life and Science
Hope you enjoy it. Tell us what you would add!
These are excellent presentations (sound could be better- perhaps the use of a wearable mic would account for speaker animated movement- a good thing).
One thing that came to mind is that this forum recognized the issue, but doesn’t really address how to act. While each participant has a clear project that is already in action, what can others to to “bring something to the party”? Personally, I have a lot of ideas on that front (from a scientist’s point of view) like talking about volunteerism, ways to make science more accessible when communicating science, etc… Collaboration and integration are key aspects touched on here, but where are the details for others use to not “reinvent the wheel”!
I would like to know how to find out about such events. I would love to attend or even speak at some, but need some insider info on when and where. I believe I can “bring something to the party” if given the opportunity- can anybody else of you out there?
Hi Paul,
To answer your question I was going to introduce you to my acquaintance/colleague Brian Hart who founded the SoCal Science Cafe, so I looked it up to find his address and saw that YOU are the new director! How funny is that?!?
Looks to me like you are already bringing a lot to this party! Thanks. We need more researchers like you to help us.
Please feel free to email me to set up a time to talk if you’d like to go deeper.
Cheers.
Troy M. Livingston
Vice President for Innovation and Learning
Museum of Life and Science
433 Murray Avenue
PO Box 15190
Durham, NC 27704
(919) 220-5429 x328 (office)
(919) 247-8222 (mobile)
troy.livingston@ncmls.org
Hi Troy,
Small world isn’t it! Darlene got Russ Campbell to respond to my posting on her Facebook page and mentioned I should find a local (Los Angeles) Science Cafe group. I haven’t had time to respond to his other good suggestions yet.
I would love to chat and will e-mail you personally when I have more time. For the time being, please check out my website (www.AlchemEDU.org) to see what all I do and can therefore “bring to the party” (sorry, I love that phrase!).
This problem can only be solved from both ends making a concerted effort and I am certainly willing to help represent the science community. While am nowhere near as pretty as Darlene, I hope to be her counterpart in the effort department on this side of the closing divide. ;-{P
Cheers!
Paul
P.S. There’s an interesting story to explain why Brian selected me as the heir to his Science Cafe baby!