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ICE STORIES
Short Title: Ice Stories Proposal URL: http://classic.ipy.org/development/eoi/proposal-details.php?id=457 The International Polar Year (IPY 2007-09) gives the public, teachers and students an extraordinary opportunity to experience the process of scientific discovery in action. Ice Stories provides a public face for IPY by using the power of contemporary media to bring current research to mass audiences with unprecedented intimacy and immediacy. Ice Stories includes: -A media-rich, dynamic and continuously updated public Web site -A media-assets database for journalists, media producers, educators, and museum partners -Training program in media production and story-telling for 15 scientist-correspondents a year. Ice Stories provides the public with access to IPY research through the development of a network of Exploratorium-trained polar field correspondents. It makes use of the design, education and production capacity of an informal science center to create a bridge between scientific discovery and interested members of the public. Ice Stories employs sophisticated media production and communication technology as well as strong partnerships with allied research groups and with scientists and international organizations at the poles. The content of Ice Stories reflects the latest research in many diverse fields and demonstrates the interdisciplinary nature of polar research. The Exploratorium has pioneered in translating current science research into exhibits and presentations accessible to museum and Web audiences. It also has long experience creating award-winning Web sites, professional-development workshops, community outreach, and institutional alliances. Beyond the journalistic presence and educational potential of Ice Stories, its lasting legacy grows from its media-literate scientists, the media they create during IPY, and the training model the project introduces. By training scientists early in their careers, the Exploratorium gives them knowledge and tools to make their research widely accessible and to inspire the public and future generations of scientists. The project also models means of direct communication by scientists to the public and ways science centers and scientists can work together to increase public understanding of science.