MSU research: global scope, local impact

Jon D. Miller, MSU Hannah Professor of Integrative Studies

Phone: (517) 432-4286
E-mail: jdmiller@msu.edu
Profile: polisci.msu.edu/people/miller.htm
Published Article: "Public Acceptance of Evolution" (Science | August 2006)
Photo: hi-res jpg

Clinic: "Changing Science Education: Run for Your School Board"

Synopsis: This clinic is designed to alert AAAS members to the possibility of running for election to their local school boards. It will begin with a discussion of the need for adults with a scientific education to run for and serve on school boards, including two or three short testimonials from AAAS members who have done so. The major focus will be on the steps necessary to become a candidate and to organize a successful campaign. A handbook will be developed in collaboration with other AAAS members who have been elected to school boards and distributed and discussed during the workshop. The handbook will include information about securing a list of registered voters, securing petitions and obtaining signatures, building a campaign committee, creating literature, campaigning at meetings and door to door, using media, funding a campaign financing, and planning what happens on election day. The workshop will end with a discussion of the challenges and rewards of public service.

Presentation: "Public Understanding of Science: Are Europeans Better at It?"

Presentation: "Civic Scientific Literacy Across the Life Cycle"

Presentation: "The Impact of College Level Science Courses for Nonmajors on Adult Scientific Literacy"

Miller will discuss "The Impact of College-level Science Courses for Nonmajors on Adult Literacy" during "The Critical Role of College Science Courses for Nonmajors," a 90-minute symposium co-organized and moderated by George E. Leroi, retired dean of the MSU College of Natural Science. Duncan Sibley, professor of geological sciences, will discuss "Integrative Science Courses for Nonmajors," as well. The symposium is scheduled for Feb. 18, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.