CNet has a story this that describes how Hawaiian fourth graders cooperated with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists to collect data on humpback whates. I find the story encouraging for several reasons.
First, as an educator, students are using technology in a way that enhances their understanding and appreciation of the subject, not just being entertained. Morevover, their work isn't just part of a classroom project, it contributes to real scientific understanding.
Second, as an environmental scientist, I am delighted to see NOAA take advantage of the eyes and ears of fourth graders to help them collect the data we need. Many of the environmental problems we face require collection of enormous amounts of data, far more than professional scientists can do by themselves. We will increasingly depend on the expertise of dedicated, enthusiastic volunteers. The North American Breeding Bird Survey has done this for decades.
Finally, as a citizen, I am delighted to see young people participating in the collection and analysis of scientific data. Intelligent design creationists and others play on the widespread misunderstanding of science. They claim incompatibility between a scientific understanding of nature and religious faith where no conflict exists, and they massage (or suppress) data incompatible with political positions they favor. The more that citizens participate in science, the more fully they will understand it, the less likely they are to recognize that intelligent design is not science, and the more likely they are to demand that policy decisions are based on the best available science, not on political beliefs.
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