In This Issue

From the Editors:  Amanda Gonczi and Jennifer Maeng

• Sharing Solutions: "Making Research Real by Sharing Visual Displays with Community Partners"  Cheryl A. Lindeman, Ed.D.

Abstract: Twenty years ago a community civic partner established a Research Recognition Program to honor students’ exceptional visual displays communicating their research results. The partnership reinforced the importance of communicating scientific findings beyond lab investigations. The local civic service club members collaborated with the school’s research teachers and determined that students should be able to display knowledge of their topics, effectively communicate the importance of their studies, present visual displays that are easily understood, demonstrate excellence in written communication, and indicate the directions of future research. These attributes align with the current Profile of a Virginia Graduate expectations (i.e., critical thinking, creating thinking, communication, collaboration, and citizen skills). Having a civic/service club partner involved in the evaluation of student work has been beneficial to the school’s science research program. Students who are recognized may not be future scientists, but they possess skills to communicate science to the public. The evaluation questions used by the civic club members can be modified to all levels of upper elementary and secondary science, engineering, or computer science project displays. In the future, we are considering additional opportunities for judges to return to the school and speak with students about the importance of visual and written communication within their respective professions.

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