Descriptive Entry

The Science Media Group (SMG) was founded by Dr. Matthew H. Schneps and Dr. Philip Michael Sadler as an experimental project to explore novel applications of video in the service of science education. In operation at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and the Harvard College Observatory from 1989 to 2013, this accession consists of videotapes and motion picture film of edited programs, camera masters, and supporting materials. The programs focus on classroom teaching and reflect the best practices drawn from research in science teaching and learning. Programs include interviews and on-camera presentations by leaders in the science education reform movement; extensive interviews with students, science and mathematics content experts, and K-12 and information science educators.

Productions, events, and units documented include: "Habitable Planet: A Systems Approach to Environmental Science"; "EarthScope - Volcano Island"; "Crossroads Conference: The Future of Human Life in the Universe"; "Virtual Leaning Magnet"; "Astronomy News Service"; "Initiative for Innovative Computing - Astronomy Medicine"; "Center for Tropical Forest Science"; "Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics - Public Nights"; "Ecosystems on the Edge"; Smithsonian Innovations/Arts and Industries Building; "Institute for Theory and Computation"; Giant Magellan Telescope; National Air and Space Museum; Office of the Chief Information Officer; Encyclopedia of Life; "SHOUT! Partners in Learning"; "Vanished - Smithsonian Center for Museum and Education Studies - Conrad Labandeira"; "Chandra X-ray Observatory"; "NASA Forum on the Structure and Evolution of the Universe"; Sub Millimeter Array; "Black Holes: Space Warps and Time Twists"; "Science in Focus: Energy"; "Looking at Learning...Again"; "Shedding Light on Science"; and "Essential Science for Teachers". SMG partnered with Annenberg/CPB for many years on productions.

Materials include videotapes, transcripts, teacher guides, and images. Materials are in electronic format.