AN OPPORTUNITY TO HEIGHTEN GEOSCIENCES RELEVANCE, APPLICATION AND USEFULNESS

Education and research are always in the public service and both are inextricably bound. In a conformable, synergistic way both research and education have, as their ultimate goal, enhanced literacy of the citizenry. Driven by the effective integration of research and education, scientific literacy infuses the acquisition of knowledge with the spirit of inquiry and assures that the findings and methods of research are quickly and effectively communicated in a broader context and to a larger audience.

The way in which geoscience translates knowledge and makes it available to the broader citizenry is critical to its intrinsic societal value and support. The finest programs, both within academia, government and the corporate sector have developed a projectable purpose that allows for ready identification and citizen understanding. This identification is critically important as it works both within the organization and externally clarifying what the progarm is about, the importance of the group’s activities, and what they are striving to accomplish. In turn, a projectable identity is dependent upon the ability to provide useful knowledge within a relevant, practical context. Science literacy’s dependence upon the effective integration of education and research is one that is both good for science and education as researchers are encouraged to consider the wider implications of their work, while educators engage in more authentic instruction. Science literacy's educational and research linkage is the basis of sound public policy and drives progress forward in both economic growth and social reform.

Critical factors essential to achieving science literacy in the geosciences include: increasing the proportional number of students presently exposed to earth science in K-12 education; ensuring that the Broader Impacts, Criterion 2 requirements of National Science Foundation submitted proposals are being implemented in the manner intended by the National Science Board; and, developing a broader perspective of the role and responsibilities of professoriate - especially in terms of student career opportunities and societal needs.