AGU Chapman Conference -- Climate Science: Minda Berbeco (Second Session)
AGU Chapman Conference on Communicating Climate Science: A Historic Look to the Future
08 June 2013 — 13 June 2013, Granby, CO, USA
Presenter: Minda Berbeco
Tuesday, June 11, 2013, 10:45 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Session: Communicating with Policy Makers
Abstract Title: Addressing Climate Change Denial in the Age of "Academic Freedom" Bills
"Academic Freedom" bills introduced at the state level are part of an organized campaign to undermine science education and challenge curriculum involving politically controversial topics, such as climate change and evolution. Under the guise of promoting critical thinking, "Academic Freedom" bills give legal cover for teachers to disseminate misinformation and have their students judge the "strengths and weaknesses" of well-established science. Under these laws, students may also protest low grades for scientifically-incorrect answers so long as they hold a "certain position on scientific theories." The National Center for Science Education uses its 30 years of experience defending evolution to counter climate change denialism, identifying and countering "Academic Freedom" legislation across the United States, including the recently-introduced bills in Colorado, Oklahoma, Missouri, Indiana, and Montana. As climate change science becomes increasingly integrated into public education, a strong network of advocates for accurate science education must debunk myths and provide quality educational materials. This paper addresses past and pending "Academic Freedom" bills across the country, and suggests ways the climate community can support quality science education.
For more information, please visit:
http://chapman.agu.org/climatescience/