Science Beyond The Classroom

"Like a life without music, art or literature, a life without science is bereft of something that gives experience a rich and otherwise inaccessible dimension."
(The New York Times)

On July 30, 2008, a roundtable took place to discuss how to improve the public understanding of science and technology by going beyond what already occurs in schools, museums, the media and on the web. The moderators were RSA Fellows and leading scientific educators, Dr. Alan Friedman and Dr. Cecily Cannan Selby.

Science in civil society today faces two interrelated challenges: the accepted status quo that science is something separate from the lives of 'regular' citizens and the excess demand for supply of scientific professionals in the workforce. Gaps between public scientific apathy and scientific literacy limit the success of addressing both problems.

The heart of the challenge is connecting the scientific community and society at large, particularly through influences beyond the traditional means of schools and museums. To inspire and recruit the science and technology innovators and leaders of the 21st century, science must be acculturated throughout society. The New York Times observes in a related article, "our educational system fails to teach science in a way that allows students to integrate it into their lives."

To improve its connection and attractiveness, contemporary science education must be conveyed to students, teachers and the broader public as attractive, accessible, and positive for both personal and professional development. Diverse methods, ranging from a more creative use of schools and museums to multi-media and corporate marketing as well as family-wide engagement should be considered to develop a cohesive pro-science platform that marries science with the everyday life of citizens.

A summary of the discussion and next steps will be posted shortly.