What is Outreach and Why Should We Do It?

In the session on “Outreach and Public Education” we will discuss the relationship between teaching, research, and outreach. Who should be doing science outreach and why? Often times our outreach efforts have been limited to a narrow definition of one‐directional flow of information with the intent of educating the public about the complex world of science. Therefore, it should not come as a surprise that most people view science as a collection of facts that are not too relevant to their daily lives. Various types of outreach activities are being practiced that allow a greater interaction between students and their communities. These interactions are enriching the science curriculum and the practice of science. Outreach activities that pertain to increasing student engagement with science in turn attract and retain creative and diverse future scientists. Various models for outreach activities will be presented.