Engagement in Geoscience Education Advocacy: How and Why
Leaders
Michael Phillips, Illinois Valley Community College
Taormina Lepore, Western Michigan University
Guang Zeng, Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi
In the workshop, Advocacy leaders from the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) will discuss the importance of geoscientists with strong communication skills engaging in policy advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels. The session will provide an overview of relevant opportunities and pathways for involvement. In addition, participants will be introduced to supportive materials and organizational structures, including advocacy resources and opportunities offered by NAGT and partner organizations such as the American Geophysical Union (AGU) and the Geological Society of America (GSA). Participants will also work in small groups to develop a personal action plan and chart a course for their own advocacy engagement.
Intended Audience
There are advocacy opportunities within NAGT and via our partner organizations. Geoscience educators at all levels and modes are valued in this area because of their skill at communicating complex concepts and their relevance to audiences that may not be well-versed in geoscience. All are welcome at this session.
Goals
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify advocacy opportunities within NAGT and the broader geoscience community that are aligned with their interests, goals, and skills; including: NAGT Advocacy Committee & Advocacy community (email list); GSA Geology & Society Division, GPPC, Congressional Visit Days (CVD); AGU Local Science Partners & CVDs
- Plan for their involvement at a time and level that is synergistic with their work and life.
Program
1:30 Welcome and introductions
1:45 Why engage in advocacy?Discussion and active reflection about participants' interests, goals, and experiences in advocacy.
2:00 Opportunities and avenues for geoscience education advocacy: An overview of supportive materials and structures will be shared, including NAGT (e.g., Phillips & Hummer, 2026), AGU, and GSA materials and opportunities.
2:45 Break
2:55 Participants work in groups to research the historical leanings of their respective legislators and consider how they could tailor their "asks."
3:15 Share and discuss personal action plans, including contacts, supports, and materials for engaging elected officials and staff at the local, state, and/or federal levels.
3:45 Wrap-up and workshop evaluation
4:00 Adjourn
