Study of the Earth system—its climates, its resources, its hazards, its life—is currently receiving unprecedented attention, and new technology allows us to investigate and see our planet in new and breathtaking ways. Given the growing importance of Earth system science (ESS) in our daily lives and our future, museums, science centers, aquaria and zoos—where a large number of Americans get their only exposure to science—have an essential role in building public understanding of this discipline. These venues can help people understand the Earth’s processes, experience the world as seen from above, join scientists in deep sea explorations, forecast weather, and see the potential impacts of global climate change. Presented well, such experiences are engaging, compelling, and relevant, allowing visitors to connect science with the world around them.
The Earth System Science Informal Education Network (ESSIEN) is an
NSF funded project dedicated to improving Earth system literacy through increased communication and collaboration among providers of informal Earth system education. ESSIEN hosts this website for electronic communications and promotes discussion of informal Earth system education at conferences and standalone meetings. The network includes natural history museums, science centers, aquaria, zoos, and other not-for-profit organizations that offer some combination of exhibits and educational programs and resources. The ESSIEN collection supports the needs of informal educators by providing a diverse set of examples of educational programming, resources, and exhibits on topics of Earth system sciences.
