Events

Tech to Reconnect presents a discussion with Dr. Gabriel Miller, Director of Research & Development, San Diego Zoo Global, on “A Synergistic Approach to Ecological Literacy and Technological Fluency.” With an introduction by Dr. Tina Grotzer, associate professor of education at HGSE; principal investigator at Harvard Project Zero; and faculty at the Center for Health and the Global Environment at Harvard School of Public Health.

How will future generations connect with the natural world? Human activity has increased rates of species extinction, ecosystem degradation, and natural resource depletion. Simultaneously, students exhibit decreased interest in the crucial STEM disciplines required to address such issues. In response, we are developing a program to revitalize emotional and intellectual connection to natural systems (ecological literacy) through the creation, customization, and practical deployment of scientific and multimedia tools (technological fluency). This two-pronged approach instills both a desire to take action along with an ability to create impact. One of our end goals is to increase empathy with nature while building real-world technical skills. I will outline sample concepts and projects from the zoo, and the audience will be invited to offer new approaches or ideas in a short workshop session.