Science and technology are rapidly emerging as driving forces in society with impacts penetrating decisions of economic development, education, environment and more. Politicians need to be able to understand the implications of technical topics such as a broadband access, cyber-security, nanotechnology, and radar technology. The complex character of these topics makes explaining them to non-scientists very challenging. This seminar will equip academic and industry researchers with the tools and vocabulary to translate and explain emerging science and technology (S&T) issues to state and federal level policymakers.
The programme for this workshop includes:
• An overview of the history of science policy
• Examples of effective and ineffective legislative testimony
• Instruction and exercises in effective communication, written and verbal
• A capstone exercise in which each participant prepares a 1-minute testimony of their research to offer to a mock legislative committee hearing
