Role of Science Centers, what do you think?

What are the most challenging issues facing humanity today and into the future? What is the role of science in helping to solve these challenges? What can science centers do to engage citizens in the debate and action needed?

Tags: center, museum, science, scienceworks

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by myles murphy on April 30, 2009 at 12:41pm

I would like to see science centers engage regular people on science topics. science dialogue often seems to take place in two ways: inside baseball between scientists, difficult for many to digest; or arguments on specific, flammable issues like stem cells or evolution or global warming. science is intrinsic to our way of life in many ways - people shouldn't be afraid of it, or feel overly special if they're in the science game. Even more important is the scientific way of thinking. Come up with a theory, test it, put it to use if the testing provides consistent results. Kids are naturals at this, but adults seem to skip the testing part sometimes. maybe there could be a series of talks with local businesses or industries where they explain the science behind what they make or sell. the science of ... fill in the blank.

Permalink Reply by Mark DiRienzo on May 6, 2009 at 10:54pm