We are a group of graduate students and postdocs in STEM-related fields who seek to enhance exposure to science in voting age populations. While many STEM outreach programs focus on bringing science to children to increase their interest in STEM fields, voting age populations, and more specifically senior citizens, are often overlooked. Senior citizens comprise the most dedicated voting demographic with over 90% of Americans aged 60+ registered to vote. Indeed, based on program surveys we’ve conducted, over 90% of our audience agree or strongly agree that they are consistent voters at all levels of government (n = 202, between December 2018 – December 2019):
Graduate students, postdocs, and professors passionate about educating the most civically engaged age group give half-hour interactive presentations on scientific topics that span a range of topics from solar cells to synthetic biology.
Thus, SPOT began a relationship with the Covenant Home (Chicago, IL):
Currently, Science with Seniors takes place at Belmont Village (Chicago, IL):
As well as the Levy Center (Evanston, IL)
Our programming, so far, have been highly effective! Over the last five years we had over 150 presentations. We collect post-event surveys for presentation quality control, and have noted the following positive trends:
SPOT hopes to continue with this successful program well into the future, edifying all curious senior citizens.
Looking for a fun way to help people in our local Chicago community understand your science? Our program needs more volunteers for 2023-2024! You’ll have the opportunity to present science topics of your choosing to elderly residents in both Evanston and Chicago, and practice your science communication skills along the way. Engaging with our local communities helps fight science misinformation and build public trust and appreciation of research, so we need YOU! Email meaganolsen2026@u.northwestern.edu to sign up.