Identifying Incentives for Scientists
—by Kim Frashure, PhD student, UMass/Boston
One of the goals of COSEE-NE is to increase the capacity of ocean scientists to be involved in education and outreach. We want to get scientists involved in order to help ensure substantive improvements in science education and promote ocean science literacy. At one of our first program planning meetings for the Ocean Science Education Institute (OSEI) I posed the question to our PI, Bob Chen, “What are the incentives for scientists to get involved?” The following is a summary from our strategizing meetings and program follow-up evaluations with scientists that were conducted by Carol Baldassari from Lesley University. Several of the same motives for getting involved in public outreach and education were reported by numerous scientists. Among them were:
Collaborations
The COSEE-NE OSEI brought together a roomful of scientists interested in education during a weeklong institute. Many found the contacts and connections with other researchers who were interested in education to be a powerful experience. Additionally, participating in education and outreach can lead to positive working relationships between teachers and scientists. One scientist noted, “I’ve learned about collaboration and how to work on a project with a team. Usually, I do my research on my own.” Another responded that she met ``…some great people who I feel comfortable in contacting/interacting with—I would like to be able to continue working with these people beyond the COSEE program.” Scientists commented about the dedication, breadth of knowledge, and enthusiasm that teachers have. Scientists previously had had a desire to work with younger students but did not know how or who to contact; they appreciated the opportunity to make contacts with schools, science department heads, and teachers.
Proposal Funding
Many scientists are inspired to get involved in educational outreach because it falls under the review criteria for National Science Foundation (NSF) proposals. Some participating scientists plan to write OSEI into their next NSF grant application in order to address Criterion II, which shows broader impacts. One researcher said, “Honestly, my proposals might fare better if I could definitively show that my participation would yield a broader impact for my science, i.e., impacting a broader audience than typical peer-reviewed papers!” In addition, two teams of scientists and teachers are currently actively looking for funding for additional educational projects.
Scientific Inquiry
Scientists identified a passion for scientific inquiry. They recognized the importance of involving students in ‘real’ scientific investigation. Researchers felt that students would benefit from having real-world experience in applying the scientific method to relevant problems, and that working with researchers gives teachers authenticity in their presentation of the material.
Better Understanding of K-12 Educational Issues
Scientists cited concerns about the current status of science education and had an interest in improving this education. Through their work with COSEE-NE they have a greater understanding of the challenges of teaching (i.e., lack of instructional time and supplies); how curriculum is developed and used; and how students learn. One researcher had previously judged school science fairs but wanted to have more of an impact on students by designing software, a web site, or hands-on activities to better demonstrate scientific concepts.
Connections to Research
Scientists saw an opportunity for infusing their ocean science research into middle school science curriculum. One scientist was keenly interested in developing activities that introduced protists to middle school classes, saying, ``I actually think that some of what I do is fun and would like to be able to share this with students.” Another scientist, a computer modeler, discovered ``…a number of straightforward applications from my research and another scientists’ work that readily apply to the middle school frameworks.’’ He also discovered ways to visualize his work as a teaching/learning tool.
A Love for Teaching
Scientists from both academic and industrial settings say they love to teach, showing a particular interest in working with students and communicating with them about marine science. “Teaching is something I have enjoyed since my undergraduate and graduate careers when I was a teaching assistant,” said one.
Overall, scientists cited both personal and professional reasons for becoming involved in educational outreach. Scientists have the power to have a profound impact on improving science education, while at the same time benefiting from their experience. Many found their experience with COSEE-NE to be rewarding and looked forward to future collaborations.
