January 14, 2021
In 2021, create community engagement as a science activator
Would you call yourself an advocate, and activist, or an activator? All of these classifications and actions under them can make a difference for science and the present and future of Planet Earth.
December 31, 2020
Top Science Stories of 2020 – what would our students say?
If you ask your students what were the major scientific accomplishments in 2020, what would they say? Are they aware of what happened in the previous year, as well as the major concerns and challenges in the sciences?
December 29, 2020
Storytelling + Comedy + Science = LabX Hidden Expert
For storytelling, comedy, and science, the National Academy of Sciences LabX Hidden Expert events have the winning formula for an engaging guessing game along with learning about inspiring science research.
December 28, 2020
Community (citizen) science – latest from NASA and iSeeChange
ISeeChange and the NASA Citizen Science portfolio of programs are excellent for faculty to think about utilizing as a way to engage students in their local environments, especially during remote/online instruction, and can serve as a foundation for undergraduate research efforts.
December 27, 2020
Share with students your sticky notes and storyboards
I encourage all researchers and research mentors to post more about the process of science – the stages of research, the tools we use, how we prepare to disseminate results, etc. All of these are important for students to see and connect with, especially with students doing work during this time of the pandemic away from research labs and face-to-face research communities.
December 2, 2020
State of the Planet, by UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Now is the time to transform humankind’s relationship with the natural world – and with each other. And we must do so together. Solidarity is humanity. Solidarity is survival. That is the lesson of 2020. — State of the Planet, by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, December 2, 2020
November 8, 2020
World Science Day for Peace and Development 2020
By linking science more closely with society, World Science Day for Peace and Development aims to ensure that citizens are kept informed of developments in science. It also underscores the role scientists play in broadening our understanding of the remarkable, fragile planet we call home and in making our societies more sustainable.
October 24, 2020
Priorities for the Future report, from The Public Face of Science in America
We are at a moment in time when the enthusiasm and support for science communication and engagement can be harnessed for greater impact through widescale efforts to build capacity. — Conclusion, The Public Face of Science in America, Priorities for the Future
October 1, 2020
Remote student collaboration via Google Jamboard
Check out Google Jamboard for connection, creation, and collaboration among students in remote synchronous classrooms – useful for icebreakers, laboratory exercises, and more
September 23, 2020
Honoring June Bacon-Bercey and her AGU scholarship for women in atmospheric sciences
It started with contest winnings, and the June Bacon-Bercey Scholarship in Atmospheric Sciences for Women is restarting to “support women students with a demonstrated interest in atmospheric sciences and intersections with meteorology as they establish their studies and build careers in the field.” Learn more about June Bacon-Bercey’s professional achievements and passion for increasing participation in STEM.
Laura Guertin is a Professor of Earth Science at Penn State Brandywine in Media, PA. Her research focuses on how technology can enhance teaching and student learning in introductory-level geoscience courses for non-science majors. Her blog focuses on geoscience education/outreach, science communication, and technology tools in the classroom, online, and in the field.