To improve shared understanding between communities of people and UC DANR in regards to science, technology, and environmental concerns. We will accomplish this by establishing multi-disciplinary, multi-perspective research projects and activities across DANR programs that will support literacy development by focusing on thematic issues and related local decision making needs and processes.

Science, Technology, and Environmental Literacy Workgroup Goals:

* Survey existing programs to identify related existing audience, program goals, methods, and evaluation.

* Examine new contexts and delivery methods to integrate science, technology, and environmental programs to reach potential and under-served audiences giving special attention to perspectives of the new audiences.

* Develop and facilitate exemplary science, technology, and environmental education programs that will increase public understanding and ability to apply science, technology, and environmental literacy and promote understanding of critical thinking processes.

* Provide in-service science training for staff, volunteers and other collaborators in order to improve the ability of volunteers and staff to effectively work with groups, especially youth on STEL topics.

* Develop extramural funding proposals for science, technology, and environmental literacy projects.

* Develop ongoing research projects related to each major theme, and conduct formative and summative evaluation related to each theme.