essedesignguide.org

• Is partnering important for Earth system science?

Yes. Partnering with external institutions and organizations extends the scope of classroom learning for students and faculty, and integrates community partners into the learning process. This extension simultaneously builds a larger community with awareness of and commitment to both Earth systems and science education. Both of these aspects are essential for evolving greater understanding of the intersection of Earth systems with an increasingly technology-based society. It contributes to increasing capacity building in higher education and developing a scientifically aware public.

• How do I get started?

This section of the Design Guide describes different types of partnerships in order to help you identify the appropriate direction to take. In any partnership, it must be understood that all partners must see value in the exchange. Potential partners are most likely to respond to partnership overtures if their own organizational missions are closely aligned with the goals of the proposed partnership, and if the stakeholders are engaged in a meaningful dialogue. Interpersonal contacts are essential for establishing communication with external organizations. It is also important to understand your own institutional culture in order to obtain the support of academic administrators.

• How do I work outside the university framework?

A critical requirement in partnering is developing awareness of non-academic organizational culture. For instance, it is important to understand the needs and time frames of different partnering institutions or groups with which you wish to interact. Government agencies, NGOs, community organizations, and private industry may have different schedules that make it difficult, though not impossible, to mesh target deadlines. Additional communication challenges include establishing good communication with diverse partners (potentially in large numbers) and keeping everyone up to speed on goals, schedules, and outcomes.