16 research outputs found
Putting the Stars within Reach Using NASA 3D Data-Based Models
This study investigated the quantifiable effects of data-based 3D models and prints on spatial reasoning skills and interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, for n = 100 youths aged 9-12 (99 female and 1 non-binary), primarily from traditionally underrepresented groups in STEM. In a pre-post design, participants engaged in workshops using data-based astrophysical 3D models delivered via computer-based interactions, virtual reality, and 3D prints. Multivariate ANOVAs yielded significantly increased STEM interest but were not significant for increasing spatial ability. The results are discussed in terms of the need to extend exposure and science communications to STEM activities to female youths that are younger than middle school aged
Processing Color in Astronomical Imagery
Every year, hundreds of images from telescopes on the ground and in space are
released to the public, making their way into popular culture through
everything from computer screens to postage stamps. These images span the
entire electromagnetic spectrum from radio waves to infrared light to X-rays
and gamma rays, a majority of which is undetectable to the human eye without
technology. Once these data are collected, one or more specialists must process
the data to create an image. Therefore, the creation of astronomical imagery
involves a series of choices. How do these choices affect the comprehension of
the science behind the images? What is the best way to represent data to a
non-expert? Should these choices be based on aesthetics, scientific veracity,
or is it possible to satisfy both? This paper reviews just one choice out of
the many made by astronomical image processors: color. The choice of color is
one of the most fundamental when creating an image taken with modern
telescopes. We briefly explore the concept of the image as translation,
particularly in the case of astronomical images from invisible portions of the
electromagnetic spectrum. After placing modern astronomical imagery and
photography in general in the context of its historical beginnings, we review
the standards (or lack thereof) in making the basic choice of color. We discuss
the possible implications for selecting one color palette over another in the
context of the appropriateness of using these images as science communication
products with a specific focus on how the non-expert perceives these images and
how that affects their trust in science. Finally, we share new data sets that
begin to look at these issues in scholarly research and discuss the need for a
more robust examination of this and other related topics in the future to
better understand the implications for science communications.Comment: 10 pages, 6 figures, published in Studies in Media and Communicatio
Black Holes and Vacuum Cleaners: Using Metaphor, Relevance, and Inquiry in Labels for Space Images
This study extended research on the development of explanatory labels for
astronomical images for the non-expert lay public. The research questions
addressed how labels with leading questions/metaphors and relevance to everyday
life affect comprehension of the intended message for deep space images, the
desire to learn more, and the aesthetic appreciation of images. Participants
were a convenience sample of 1,921 respondents solicited from a variety of
websites and through social media who completed an online survey that used four
high-resolution images as stimuli: Sagittarius A*, Solar Flare, Cassiopeia A,
and the Pinwheel Galaxy (M101). Participants were randomly assigned initially
to 1 of 3 label conditions: the standard label originally written for the
image, a label with a leading question containing a metaphor related to the
information for the image, or a label that contained a fact about the image
relevant to everyday life. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 image and
compared all labels for that image. Open-ended items at various points asked
participants to pose questions to a hypothetical astronomer. Main findings were
that the relevance condition was significantly more likely to increase wanting
to learn more; the original label was most likely to increase overall
appreciation; and, smart phone users were more likely to want to learn more and
report increased levels of appreciation. Results are discussed in terms of the
need to examine individual viewer characteristics and goals in creating
different labels for different audiences.Comment: 50 pages, 7 tables, 2 figures, accepted by the journal "Psychology of
Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts
Women in STEM Interview Analysis: Encouraging Young Female Learners in STEM Pathways
This study used a qualitative approach to examine potential obstacles to and challenges in working in a STEM field for females from underrepresented groups. Unstructured interviews with 11 adult females representing diverse groups and various STEM careers yielded important historical perspectives, along with recommendations for building STEM careers for young females today. The findings indicated the critical role of having a strong mentor, role model, or support system in place along the STEM pathway; the need to work with and engage females in STEM activities and subjects when they are as young as possible, preferably while in primary/elementary school; and the importance of developing a sense of STEM self-efficacy in young females. Recommendations are given to inform studies in science communication and informal education
Aesthetics and astronomy: Studying the public's perception and understanding of imagery from space
NOTE: This manuscript was preprinted in Online First at http://scx.sagepub.com/content/early/recent and in Instrumentation and Methods for Astrophysics at http://arxiv.org/abs/1009.0772This study examined the scientific understanding of astronomical pictures by experts and non-experts. It explored how both groups perceive astronomical images, and their understanding of both what they are seeing and the science that underlies the images. Data comprised n = 8866 responses from a survey linked to the NASA Astronomical Picture of the Day web site and 4 focus groups held at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. Results indicated that variations in presentation of color, explanation, and scale affect comprehension of astronomical imagery. With those who are more expert, shorter, more technical explanations are effective; however, scales are still necessary for complete comprehension. Experts tend to look at the images from a more scientific, data-oriented perspective while non-experts are more likely to focus, especially initially, on the aesthetic or emotional values of the images. Results provide suggestions for educational outreach to the public.Peer Reviewe