Needs Assessment for Earth System Science (ESS) Engagement, Education & Training

You are invited to participate in a study, entitled “Needs Assessment for Earth System Science (ESS) Engagement, Education, and Training.” The study is being conducted by Keliann LaConte and Marie Faust at the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) in collaboration with its Community Programs (UCP) and the U.S. National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR).

Many science disciplines within ESS have long required a strong foundation in math and science and personal attributes such as perseverance, critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity. In our rapidly changing world, many new ESS specializations continue to emerge. Plus, our paradigms and tools for education and training have also evolved.

The goal of this study is to understand the state of education and training efforts for emerging ESS specializations and help identify ways that UCAR and its collaborators could address priorities and gaps. We recognize that there are various pathways into — and out of — science- and technology-related disciplines, and this work is intended to be inclusive of all entry points and applications of that science in support of ESS. To that end, we welcome input from those who educate students at the post-secondary and post-graduate education levels and those who provide training and/or continuing education for professionals already in the workforce.

We estimate that it will take about 15-20 minutes of your time to complete the survey. All data collected for this study is intended to be anonymous. Individual’s responses will be kept confidential by the investigators and participants will not be identified in the reporting of this study. At the completion of this survey, you will be asked if you would be willing to participate in a follow-up telephone or video conversation. Should you be interested, you will be asked to provide contact information. Your participation in this survey is voluntary. You may decline to answer any question and you have the right to withdraw from participation at any time without penalty. If you wish to withdraw from the study or have any questions, simply skip questions or exit the survey. You do not need to let the investigators know you are withdrawing. Please note, however, that it will not be possible to remove anonymous responses after you complete the survey or interview, since the investigators will be unable to identify your individual data.

This study has been reviewed by the Human Subjects Committee at UCAR. Risks to participants are considered minimal. If you have questions about your rights as a study participant, or are dissatisfied at any time with any aspect of this study, you may contact Keliann LaConte using the contact information below.

By clicking the “yes” radio button below, you give your consent to participate in this project. If you respond “no,” you will exit the survey.