MSU prof to tackle science literacy as visiting scholar
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A visiting scholar from Michigan State University will address the issue of science literacy when he speaks this month at Western Michigan University.
Dr. Charles W. (Andy) Anderson is a professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University, where he has been since receiving his doctoral degree in science education from the University of Texas at Austin in 1979. He will speak from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, March 23, in 1920 Sangren Hall on the topic, "Environmental Science Literacy as a Resource for Democratic Decision-making." His presentation is free and open to the public.
In his talk, Anderson will discuss the ongoing challenge of climate change, which will force people to consider controversial changes in their lifestyles and public policies. Inevitably, that response will be more than just leaving things to the experts. In this debate, science educators will play a critical role in preparing future citizens for productive deliberation.
Andy Anderson
Anderson is past president of the National Association for Research in Science Teaching. He has been the co-editor of the Journal of Research in Science Teaching and associate editor of Cognition and Instruction.
Anderson recently served as a member of the National Research Council's Committee on Science Learning, K-8, the National Assessment of Educational Progress Science Standing Committee and the NRC's Climate Change Education Roundtable.
He won the career award for Distinguished Contributions to Science Education through Research from the National Association for Research in Science Teaching. His current research focuses on the development of learning progressions leading to environmental science literacy.
About the program
Anderson's visit to WMU is through the WMU Visiting Scholars and Artists Program. Established in 1960, the Visiting Scholars and Artists Program significantly contributes to the intellectual life of WMU and the community. The program provides funds for academic units to bring distinguished scholars and artists to campus. These visitors meet with faculty and students in their fields and address the community at large.
Since the program began, it has supported more 600 visits by scholars and artists representing more than 60 academic disciplines.
For more information, contact Dr. David Rudge at david.rudge@wmich.edu.
For more news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.