1. The Franklin Institute Museum Programs Science Presenters Central Presents... What is the Science Presenters Network ... … And Why Do We Need It? 'Click' or 'Enter' for Next Slide >>>

2. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? Introduction The Science Presenters Network currently consists of: A blog (a web page for Liz to publish interesting thoughts) A wiki (a collection of web pages for organizing content) These are examples of 'social media' (also called 'social networks'). More to the point, they are tools that can help us, as Science Presenters, to share ideas, tips, questions and answers and other information in order to better perform our job of interacting with Franklin Institute visitors. In the following pages, we'll present the rationale for the Science Presenters Network. As you will see, it has much to do with who we are; our common goals; our unique challenges; our current practices and how we can use technology to better achieve our goals References to further information are included at the end. Next>>> 14 Slide /

4. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? Our mission All museum visitors are entitled to learn as much science as they choose and as they are able. Our job is to present science to our visitors independent of a visitor's age, social or cultural background, prior science knowledge or experience. We show that science learning can be fun creating a virtuous circle of learning and enjoyment. Next>>> 14 Slide /

5. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? Common Challenges Our visitors span a wide range of ages and prior exposure to science. Our standard programs can be presented on many levels, But this requires a thorough understanding of the materials And presentation techniques. New developments in science and new exhibits continually add to our required knowledge. Next>>> 14 Slide /

6. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? To enhance the experience of museum visitors we must continually learn. We adapt program materials to each visitor's level and interest; a voiding 'one-size-fits-all' presentations. We respond to your visitor's age and learning style. To increase interest, we connect science programs to current science developments. Continual Learning: Content & Method Next>>> 14 Slide /

7. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? But the real question is: Why do we need a network? Besides, if I need to know something, I'll just ask somebody. The big question We already have: Meetings Notes on our schedules Paper hand-outs White board notes Log book Next>>> 14 Slide /

8. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? Managing and communicating with the Science Presenter community in a reliable and consistent way presents some serious challenges. New Forms of communication Not everyone attends the morning meetings. Notes on schedules and white-board are brief. E-mail is already used for a variety of messages. Its use is intentionally kept low. More use would decrease effectiveness. Handouts may not be up-to-date or may not be available when needed. Word of mouth is unreliable. Next>>> 14 Slide of

9. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? The Science Presenters Network is currently a blog and a wiki. These represent a means to communicate that goes beyond the limitations of other methods. New Forms of communication Next>>> 14 Slide /

11. Revisiting previous materials to refresh or learn more

12. Sharing comments and suggestions. Materials in a variety of multi-media formats Add itional in-depth materials and links New Forms of communication Next>>>

13. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? New Forms of communication The blog allows Museum Programs staff (Liz) to engage in more in-depth, unscheduled exploration of a wide-range of topics. Subjects may include: current science topics; the museum; informal education; ... … the sky's the limit! Posts to the blog may include links to science web sites or other relevant blogs. Maybe you'll be inspired to start your own blog to expand the discussion! Next>>> 14 Slide /

14. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? All across the world new forms of communication are reshaping the way people live and work and interact. In the eighteenth century, Benjamin Franklin embraced the new ideas and technology of his era to improve his craft, his community and the new nation he helped to create. One might ask: 'what would Ben do today?' Scientists around the world have answered this question using new information and communications technology. C reating virtual communities speeds the advance of scientific knowledge. Next>>> New Forms of communication 14 Slide /

15. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? Value The value of the Science Presenters Network consists of: Filling gaps of other communication Methods. Using existing computer skills. Building network collaboration skills. Enabling broader and deeper Discussion of science topics. Supporting training in science and Informal education methods. Next>>> 14 Slide /

16. What is the Science Presenters Network, and why do we need it? 14 Slide / Further Please send comments on the Science Presenters Network to Liz (ekelley@fi.edu). 'What is a Blog?' 'What is a Wiki?' To learn more about using the Science Presenters Network see these SPN Lessons: End>>>