InfoAge Scientists: 

and more...

Experience has shown the process of starting a science center involves the collaboration of a wide range of individuals and groups, all of whom contribute significantly to the creation of the new center.  Teachers, scientists, community leaders and professional groups figure most prominently among the founders of existing centers.  The directors of the center will guide a formation group to enable these various groups and community leaders to work in concert to develop the Information Age Learning Center.  At this point the number of organizations and individuals interested in developing the center is impressive.  Many organizations can meet their educational goals in a more cost-effective manner, make their materials available to a larger audience and do so for a longer period of time at this center.  This can also be done at a location that does not impact their normal business activities.  This delivery advantage will encourage organizations to support the development of this center to help them meet their educational goals. 

This plan addresses the development schedule of the initial intellectual content and its presentation.  The renovation plans and schedule for each building will be prepared and submitted to the National Park Service for approval.   An integral part of this work is the technical support of National Science Center (NSC).  During April of 1998 a briefing was held with Lt. General William Hillman, creator of the NSC and his staff to review current plans.  General Hilsman gave specific advice to improve those plans, suggestions to educate the public, and build financial support for the development of the center.  During subsequent visits the NSC Fort Discovery additional guidance was obtained and 150 hands-on exhibit were seen in operation. 

In addition to the technical assistance of the NSC, the learning center can benefit from other organizations.  As of 2000 there are more than 300 successful science learning centers in the United States.  A quarter of the U.S. population visits a science center each year.  The Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) and The American Association of Museums offer a wide range of services to developing science centers.  They offer extensive materials on all aspects of creating and operating learning centers.  They also endorse proven consultants, list professional learning center directors available for hire and act as clearing houses for traveling exhibits.  In October 1998 ASTC Board of Directors approved INFOAGE as an associate member.  The directors of centers are very willing to share their experience with developing centers.  In preparing information for the Marconi Park Complex Advisory Committee the operating budgets of over one hundred science centers were reviewed, learning centers were visited, and many directors were contacted throughout the country.  The information gathered from other centers gave valuable insight and showed us what a head-start the facilities at Camp Evans give.