A 2008 survey by the California
Academy of Sciences showed that most American
adults can't pass a basic
science test. Only 53% of those questioned knew how long it takes
for the Earth to revolve around the Sun, and only 59% knew that
early humans and dinosaurs didn't live at the same time. Yet we live
in a society that depends increasingly on science and technology--and on the public's
understanding of science topics.
Laurie Schmidt creates engaging, effective, and accurate written materials that communicate scientific findings in language familiar to the general public. Click here to request a brochure via mail, or download a PDF version here.
Services Include:
- Feature articles
- Web content
- Education and outreach materials
- Textbook content and editing
Subject Matter Expertise:
- Earth sciences and geology
- Natural hazards and disasters
- Renewable energy and "green" technology
- Planetary and space sciences
 | |
| Laurie did
an outstanding job writing the “Mars 101” section of our web site.
Working closely with mission principal investigator, Peter Smith,
Laurie created an engaging and informative introduction to polar
science activities occurring on both Mars and Earth. Her ability to
make complex science topics accessible to a public audience was
essential for the site’s success. -Doug Lombardi, Education and Public Outreach Manager, Phoenix Mars Lander Mission |
I've worked with
Laurie on many articles, both for my own work and as a proofreader
for
others. She is excellent at getting the science right and keeping the story
engaging. She has a good perspective on what the educated public
finds interesting and how to get the "adventure" part of the scientific enterprise
into a report. -Ted Scambos, Lead Scientist, National Snow and Ice Data Center |
Updated
1/28/10
More Funding Needed to Detect Asteroids that Threaten Earth
A new report by the National Research Council says the annual U.S. budget to search for near-Earth objects (NEOs) isn't nearly enough to detect asteroids and comets that threaten Earth. A 2005 Congressional mandate states that by 2020, NASA must detect 90% of NEOs greater than 140 meters in diameter that could potentially cross paths with Earth. Impacts by objects in this size range occur on average about every 30,000 years. Click here to read the National Academy of Sciences news release.
Earthquake Education Crucial for Those Living in Seismic Areas
The magnitude-7.0 earthquake that devastated the island nation of Haiti last week was termed a worst-case scenario that should "serve as a wake-up call for the entire Caribbean," according to Jian Lin, a scientist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute. With the death toll in Haiti mounting, Lin says basic earthquake education could help residents learn ways to strengthen their properties and save lives during an earthquake. Click here to read the full news release.
More Funding Needed to Detect Asteroids that Threaten Earth
A new report by the National Research Council says the annual U.S. budget to search for near-Earth objects (NEOs) isn't nearly enough to detect asteroids and comets that threaten Earth. A 2005 Congressional mandate states that by 2020, NASA must detect 90% of NEOs greater than 140 meters in diameter that could potentially cross paths with Earth. Impacts by objects in this size range occur on average about every 30,000 years. Click here to read the National Academy of Sciences news release.
Earthquake Education Crucial for Those Living in Seismic Areas
The magnitude-7.0 earthquake that devastated the island nation of Haiti last week was termed a worst-case scenario that should "serve as a wake-up call for the entire Caribbean," according to Jian Lin, a scientist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute. With the death toll in Haiti mounting, Lin says basic earthquake education could help residents learn ways to strengthen their properties and save lives during an earthquake. Click here to read the full news release.
© 2008, Laurie J. Schmidt