Meeting Abstract
Most researchers are keenly interested in finding new ways of disseminating their work beyond traditional publication routes. Informal educators who interact daily with the public are interested in learning more about mission-relevant scientific research, and see their role as translating science for visitors to increase the public’s intellectual and emotional connections with the natural world. A common form of contact between scientists and public-educators involves a researcher giving a one-time (~1hr) research talk to a group of these educators, with the implicit hope that certain science messages will get incorporated into their interactions with visitors. Unfortunately, this approach leaves the conscientious informal educator with insufficient resources for developing interpretive opportunities for the public. Barriers include: gaps in knowledge, limited scientific background for grasping short lectures or publications designed for science researchers, and limited access to publications. This paper will explore opportunities for scientists to establish mutually beneficial relationships with informal educators to increase the broader impacts of their work. Our proposed model of professional development involves a more balanced partnership where scientist and educators work together to tease out the relevance to public audiences and develop programs about the science. Results from surveys, and interviews indicate that both sides of this partnership benefit from extended contact. The session provides specific techniques and ideas that will support productive ways to collaborate with informal educators and promote the visibility of scientific research to public audiences.
