Ariana Eily

Background

About Ariana Eily

Currently, I am focused on science communication, the intersection between art and science, and on developing ways science can be more deeply connected to society. This includes leading an interdisciplinary team exploring STEAM initiatives, using improv to help scientists become better communicators, creating courses to expand our thinking about how science and society interact, and establishing a science-art exhibit called the Art of a Scientist. My career interests center on teaching, outreach, and science communication. My goal is to connect these to make science accessible to everyone. A scientific mindset is a powerful tool, and is available to anyone, but we need a radical shift in how we engage it in people. I ground my view as a teacher in connection and openness to inspire student development. I constantly connect our curricula to their passions, interests, and goals. Having them involved in the teaching process increases their investment, so they become more active participants. I also view the classroom as a community, and encourage my students to help one another grow. This helps the class progress together, and introduces new ideas from the individual minds of the students. I take this approach to scientific outreach as well. I’ve worked to organize events to give children science experiences that actively engage their thinking. Through it, I’ve seen how connecting science with students’ passions sparks their curiosity, regardless of their exposure to formal scientific knowledge. In outreach directed at adults, I find similar techniques work to draw them in so that science discussions can take place. This highlighted the importance of good science communication. It forms the foundation for teaching and outreach, which allow us to open science up to people beyond academia. Part of my work now is with scientists at different career stages to help them connect with different audiences.