1997 Sigma Xi Annual Meeting

Communicating Science on Television a Workshop with award-winning broadcaster Bill Kurtis

Veteran television broadcaster Bill Kurtis, who was inducted at the annual meeting as the 22nd honorary member of Sigma Xi, talked about his acclaimed PBS science documentary series "The New Explorers with Bill Kurtis" and an innovative education program based on it called the Electronic Long Distance Learning Network (eldln).

The education project combines problem-based learning in the classroom with parental involvement at home to help students meet new Illinois science learning standards. Science teachers in 13 pilot schools in Chicago and other cities are field testing "New Explorers" materials, interactive CD-ROM, Internet access through a special Web site and teacher guide materials. They also participate in a live satellite electronic field trip.

"For nearly a decade, teachers have asked me to provide them copies of "The New Explorers" video programs," Kurtis said. "In these videos, the scientist is the hero; the story is a mystery and the hero finds keys to the real-life solution. Corporate sponsors have been generous and Public Television has been willing, but at the end of the day, there is always a shortfall when funding priorities change. The only way to get this kind of material into classrooms on a regular basis is to work with the education community itself. I am very proud of the collaboration we have with the Illinois State Board of Education. My colleagues are I are dedicated to bringing quality video to teachers on demand, along with complementary new technologies that enhance learning."

A former anchor for "The CBS Morning News," Kurtis has received more than 20 Emmy Awards over the course of his career from the Chicago Chapter of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.