Measuring Public Understanding of Particle Physics and its Applications The University of Chicago...

Measuring Public Understanding of Particle Physics and its Applications

The University of Chicago Survey Lab

Fermilab Office of Communication

June 27, 2008 Measuring Public Understanding of Particle Physics and its Applications

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Communication

More critical than ever for particle physics.What is particle physics? Why does it matter to the nation?


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Fermilab’s special role

As the nation’s only dedicated particle physics laboratory, Fermilab leads the communication effort for US particle physics.

We collaborate closely with other labs around the world, with universities, with funding agencies.


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Communication tools

symmetry magazine, Fermilab Web site, Interactions.org, US LHC, Fermilab Today, brochures, press releases, community presentations, media interviews…..


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To make the tools more effective…

We need data.

Beyond anecdotes.


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We’d like to know…

What do Americans know of particle physics?

What do they think they know?

How do they value the discovery of the physical nature

of the universe? Its applications? Scientific leadership?


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P5 saw the need for systematic data.

“At this time there exist few quantitative analyses of the economic benefits of particle physics applications. A systematic professional study would have value for assessing and predicting the impact of particle physics technology applications on the nation’s economy.”


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Data are hard to get.

Under the Paperwork Reduction Act, federal agencies cannot undertake or fund public surveys without prior approval from the Office of Management and Budget (a complicated process).


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Plan of action

Collaboration of the Fermilab Office of Communication

and the University of Chicago Survey Lab

to carry out a comprehensive national opinion survey.


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Benefits

A more informed communication strategy

More effective communication

More support for particle physics


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Results will benefit…

Fermilab University of Chicagonational labs with basic science programsuniversities funding agencies (already expressed interest)HEPAP policy makersopinion leaders


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Benefits to the University

Data will be useful to University science communicators

Unique opportunity for cross-section of students – Harris School of Public Policy, Social Sciences graduate students and undergraduates– “Real world” study – results have real implications– Broadens the horizons of public policy students beyond social

policy – a goal of the University

Unifies divisions – Social Sciences, Public Policy and Physical Sciences – around a shared goal and project

Puts the university at the forefront of an important policy issue


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The approach

Five stages:

1. Focus group research for questionnaire design

2. Laboratory testing of survey instrument

3. National pilot telephone survey

4. Post-survey focus group discussions

5. Summary analysis and planning


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The team

Judy Jackson, Communication Director, Fermilab

Martha Van Haitsma, Director, University of Chicago Survey Lab

Colm O’Muircheartaigh, Professor of Public Policy, Harris School of Public Policy, University of Chicago


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Questions?

Thanks for your consideration!

Measuring Public Understanding of Particle Physics and its Applications The University of Chicago...

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