University of Wisconsin-Madison NSEC on Templated Synthesis and Assembly at the Nanoscale

1. Small Science, Big Decisions: Using Deliberation and Consensus to Discuss the Risks and Benefits of Nanotechnology Paul F. Nealey, University of Wisconsin-Madison, DMR 0832760 The Education and Outreach Group from the NSF supported Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center (NSEC) at the University of Wisconsin – Madison has designed a unique and engaging outreach program to help communities learn about social, environmental, and economic impacts of nanotechnology. Small Science, Big Decisions asks participants to investigate different areas of nanoscience and technology research using an interactive website designed by the NSEC. After completing background research participants debate and come to a consensus about how nanotechnology research should be funded in the future. University of Wisconsin-MadisonNSEC on Templated Synthesis and Assembly at the Nanoscale The Education and Outreach group has established a unique partnership the UW-Madison NSEC Societal Implications group to use Small Science as a research vehicle to learn about how groups use deliberation and consensus to make decisions. Primary Strategic Outcome Goal: Learning: Cultivate a world-class, broadly inclusive science and engineering workforce, and expand the scientific literacy of all citizens. Secondary Strategic Outcome Goals: How does this highlight address the strategic outcome goal(s) as described in the NSF Strategic Plan 2006-2011? Learning –The Small Science project helps to cultivate a world-class broadly inclusive science and engineering workforce. Supported by NSF Grant DMR 0832760 Screenshot of the Small Decisions Website