Wayne Clough Addressed the Topic of Scientific Literacy at the 2013 Roe Luncheon

Wayne Clough Addressed the Topic of Scientific Literacy at the 2013 Roe Luncheon Wayne Clough Addressed the Topic of Scientific Literacy at the 2013 Roe Luncheon Wayne Clough Addressed the Topic of Scientific Literacy at the 2013 Roe Luncheon Wayne Clough of the Smithsonian Institution, winner of the 2013 Ralph Coats Roe Medal, stressed the importance of scientific literacy during the Ralph Coats Roe Luncheon at the Annual Meeting in Indianapolis. Speaking on the importance of scientific literacy, Dr. G. Wayne Clough, secretary, the Smithsonian Institution, was the featured keyleide lecturer at the 2013 Ralph Coats Roe Luncheon, held June 25 at the ASME Annual Meeting in Indianapolis. The title of his lecture was Scientific Literacy Why Are We Losing the Battle and What Can We Do About ItBecause science is increasingly complex and compartmentalized, it is increasingly difficult for an average person to understand, even if one is motivated to do so, stated Clough in his remar ks before a full auditorium of meeting attendees. Specialization also means that as scientists and engineers understand mora and more about smaller pieces of our universe, they have less ability to communicate to the public about how the world works. This is a major problem. Clough also indicated that recent surveys revealed that the United States is still not doing enough to ensure a scientifically literate society.In 2009, the Program for International Student Assessment test was given to 15-year-old students in 65 nations, Clough said. It measures reading, math and science skills. Overall, the U.S. finished 17th out of 34 developed nations. On the science portion of the exam, the ranking was a dismal 23rd. Immediate Past President Marc Goldsmith, featured keynote lecturer Wayne Clough and ASME Executive Director Thomas Loughlin at the Ralph Coats Roe Luncheon on June 25. Clough also noted that efforts to bring scientists and people together are important. If we hope to open up dialogue between scientists and the general public, we cannot just expect the receivers of the message to change, he said. We must also make sure that senders speak in a language that people and policy makers on the federal, state and local level can understand.Clough commended ASME for its efforts in professional development, advocacy in Washington, D.C., and the Societys volunteer orientation and Leadership Training Academy programs. Clough warned that if America does not fully appreciate and support science and technology, it runs the risk of squandering the possibilities that lie ahead. We must commit ourselves as a nation to bring science back into the public dialogue. Too many daunting global issues are at stake, he added. Clough encouraged the audience to change the world with their ideas and do their part to build a scientifically literate society. Clough will receive the 2013 Ralph Coats Roe Medal during the ASME Honors Assembly to be held in conjunction wit h ASMEs 2013 International Engineering Congress and Exposition this November in San Diego. The Ralph Coats Roe Medal, established in 1972, recognizes outstanding contributions toward a better public understanding and appreciation of the engineers worth to contemporary society. - Mel Torre, ASME Public Information