An Overview of Science Education and Outreach Activities at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory

Abstract

The U. S. Department of Energy's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) has an energetic science education program and outreach effort. This overview describes the components of the programs and evaluates the changes that have occurred in this effort during the last several years. Efforts have been expanded to reach more students, as well as the public in general. The primary goal is to inform the public regarding the fusion and plasma research at PPPL and to excite students so that they can appreciate science and technology. A student's interest in science can be raised by tours, summer research experiences, in-classroom presentations, plasma expos, teacher workshops and web-based materials. The ultimate result of this effort is a betterinformed public, as well as an increase in the number of women and minorities who choose science as a vocation. Measuring the results is difficult, but current metrics are reviewed. The science education and outreach programs are supported by a dedicated core group of individuals and supplemented by other members of the PPPL staff and consultants who perform various outreach and educational activities. IntroductionSince the declassification of controlled fusion research in 1958, public communications efforts have been an important part of Princeton's fusion program. In 1982, in anticipation of the startup of the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor, a formal PPPL outreach program was initiated. The current goals of the program are:• To increase public understanding about PPPL's work, the progress that has been made in the development of fusion energy, and the Laboratory's plans for the future.• To address community concerns about any environmental and safety aspects of PPPL's operations.• To establish close communications with state, county, and local government units and community services.

What Good Is a Scientist in the Classroom? Participant Outcomes and Program Design Features for a Short-Duration Science Outreach Intervention in K–12 Classrooms

“…Although both audiences and presenters are reported to be enthusiastic about their participation (Hood, 1994;Koehler et al, 1999;Swim, 1999), most of the published literature consists of outreach program descriptions and advice from experienced program developers (Hood, 1994;Koehler et al, 1999;Munn et al, 1999;Swim, 1999;DeLooper et al, 2000;Evans et al, 2001;Pelaez and Gonzalez, 2002;Dolan et al, 2004;Halford, 2005). These descriptions provide valuable information from experienced practitioners, especially in helping to improve program delivery, but many of the claims made are not supported by evidence gathered using methodologically sound research and evaluation approaches.…”