"All About the Sun" A Webcast With Audience Participation

The NASA-funded Solar Oscillations Investigation (SOI) Team at Stanford University has developed a unique webcast series as part of our educational outreach program. This series addresses solar science through a dialog between scientists and the viewing audience. Not only does the audience learn scientific principles, they get to know the scientists and can participate in the show. The shows are hosted at NASA-Ames through the NASA Quest project and have been broadcast from off-site locations such as classrooms of local schools. Videos shot on location are also included in shows. What makes this webcast particularly effective is the interaction between scientists and viewers. Viewers can participate in the discussion of the topic through a chatroom. Supplemental materials, including lesson plans and suggested activities are available in advance for the audience. Viewers can perform the activities, record their results and submit video, images, or data for inclusion in the show. The level of audience interaction is increased beyond simple question and answer with experts. Audience members can contribute to the substance of the show. We strive to bring Scientists and the public closer through the show up to the limits of the technology and imagination.