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OVERVIEW
In the morning session, we will discuss different examples nationally of university-based initiatives that have created a formal infrastructure by which scientists, engineers and other professionals can apply their communication knowledge and skills to engaging the public and policymakers. In the afternoon session, we will focus on opportunities and resources for building on existing University of Maine public outreach and engagement activities. Discussion will also focus on opportunities to enhance the mission, goals, and profile of the University of Maine as a leading land grant university and international center for research that serves the needs of Maine communities, industries and students.
General Readings and Examples
- Read Chambliss, L. & Lewenstein, B. (2012). Establishing a Climate Change Information Source Addressing Local Aspects of a Global Issue. Journal of Science Communication, 11 (3). [PDF]
- Read Executive Summary of the Knight Commission Report on the Information Needs of Communities. [HTML]
- Browse JLab’s New Media Maker’s report and related videos.
- Read Nisbet, M.C., Hixon, M., Moore, K.D., & Nelson, M. (2010). The Four Cultures: New Synergies for Engaging Society on Climate change. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, 8, 329-331. [HTML]
- Read Hall, D.M, Silka, L., & Lindenfield, L. (2012). Advancing Science and Improving Quality of Place: Linking Knowledge with Action in Maine’s Sustainability Solutions Initiative. Maine Policy Review 21.2, 22-29. [PDF]
- Browse the Ensia web magazine site, read its mission and view its event series.
- See University of Minnesota Educating Leaders site and Environment & Sustainability Portal.
- Browse videos for Climate Wisconsin: Stories from a State of Change.
- See University of Maryland’s Integration and Application Network.
- See University of Montana Climate Change Studies major and minor.
- Browse COMPASS web site and blog.
- Browse TEDX talks on sustainability and read about organizing and hosting a TEDX event.
Building Maine’s Civic Science Network and Bringing the World to UMaine
University of Maine Resources and Examples
- Read executive summary of UMaine’s Blue Sky strategic plan.
- Spend time interacting with CCI’s Ice Core Perspectives; 10Green.org and Climate Reanalyzer web applications and read about the Climate Change Science Day.
- Browse the Sustainability Solutions Initiative (SSI); the Maine Water Conference Agenda and the Margaret Smith Chase Policy Center.
- Browse UMaine Today ; Maine Policy Review; Maine Sea Grant; and COSEE-Ocean Systems web sites.
- Browse the Advanced Structures and Composite Center’s Informer magazine and the DeepCWind Consortium web site.
- See UMaine New Media Design (NMD) Net and plans for digital skills badges.
Other Maine Resources and Examples
- View MPBN stations and browse MPBN’s Sustainable Maine ; Maine Watch and other state TV programming. On the radio, check out Maine Things Considered; Maine Calling; Speaking in Maine .
- Browse MaineBiz ; see list of major Maine newspapers and other publications; and list of Maine public libraries.
- Browse Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting.
- Browse the web sites for the Camden Conference and PopTech!.
- Browse Maine Economic Foundation; Policy Leaders Academy; and the Realize Maine Network.
- Browse the Environmental, Energy & Technology Council of Maine.
- Browse the Working Waterfront and programs of the Island Institute.
- Browse mission and strategic plan of the Gulf of Maine Research Institute and visit their Vital Signs Project.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 – As UMaine institutes and partners plan initiatives aimed at public and policymaker engagement, what are the range of goals and outcomes that can be considered? Who are the relevant publics and stakeholders specific to each of these goals or outcomes? What are the key issues, upcoming events or opportunities that should be targeted?
2- Drawing on strategies and principles reviewed in the workshop, how can these goals or outcomes be effectively achieved?
3 – What are the existing strengths, collaborations, and resources that can be marshaled? What are the challenges or barriers to effectiveness? Where are there gaps or needs in resources or expertise?
4- On campus, across the state, and abroad, who are the likely strategic partners and funders of initiatives? Where are there synergies across campus that are currently missing? How can activities or resources on campus or across the state be aggregated and effectively coordinated?
5 – Which institutions on campus and off, are models to replicate or build on?
6- What role can you play in facilitating these possible goals, initiatives and innovations? What would help you be more effective at this role and to manage your time?
