Science in the Streets

What should science look like when science schools and other science centers don’t exist?  Given the power of increased scientific literacy to the public health, environment, and quality of life an many communities around the world, the lack of these educational resources and opportunities in many parts of the world can lead to the reverse effect.  According to the Global Fund for Children, one in five children or approximately 150 to 200 million children are not currently enrolled in school.  The lack of access to a basic education including science education will likely have profound impacts on their quality of life.  Recently, I have been researching what role educational technologies and programs like the One Laptop per Child Program might play in addressing these issues.   While the solutions for science education “in the streets” is promising, there are many challenges as well.  I hope to be involved in efforts to enhance the educational experiences of children and other impoverished communities around the world in the future.   There are so many possibilities for research and scientific empowerment!