Science Forecasting

NYSCI collaborates with Indiana University to explore new ideas about how to increase the public understanding of the science of science (scientometrics). Through the creation of dynamic computer graphic science maps, we can now explore the relationship amongst science disciplines and how those relationships change through time. Its primary outreach component is the Places and Spaces traveling exhibition on science mapping. In 2009, NYSCI, Indiana University and SEED Media Group organized a workshop to explore the feasibility of doing live science forecasts, similar to the way we currently do weather forecasts in the media.

The workshop entitled: NSF/JSMF Workshop on How to Measure, Map, and Dramatize Science took place in October and brought together science mapmakers, researchers and media to brainstorm about the best ways to portray science and technology research forecasting to the public. The result of this gathering of minds was the beginning of relationships with media organizations that the investigators hope will one day bring science forecasting into a prominent role in media such as television. For more information on this event go to the Workshop’s web page.

The NSF/JSMF Workshop on How to Measure, Map, and Dramatize Science was funded by the National Science Foundation and the James S. McDonnell Foundation.