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Inside Science, Smithsonian Associates Science Literacy

Science is for Everyone!

Inside Science is an initiative that can help you expand your knowledge and understanding of science in all its forms. This is an ongoing series of expert-led programming. It is also a community of like-minded participants who have the opportunity to participate in a lively online learning exchange.

Whether you're a science fan or curious about the world around you, Inside Science offers a valuable and rewarding way to better understand science in the context of our lives.

Topic Areas & Programs

There are ten science topic areas of interest for you to use as a guideline with Inside Science programming as well as a "Make Your Own" custom category.

These categories will assist you in viewing upcoming programs, tracking your engagement, and more.

Select a topic to view and purchase tickets for upcoming programs:

If you don't see a program listed in a given topic, check back later.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I register?
    Because there is no fee to register, all you need to do is enroll in our Inside Science course on Moodle, the online learning platform.
    Create a Moodle account
  2. Is there a fee?
    It is free! There is no fee to register for Inside Science. Tickets for participating programs are purchased a la carte.
  3. What is "science literacy"?
    According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, science literacy is the “understanding of scientific processes and practices, familiarity with how science and scientists work, a capacity to weigh and evaluate the products of science, and an ability to engage in civic decisions about the value of science.” We believe that everyone has the capacity to be a “science person,” and that when empowered with information, individuals can feel comfortable with scientific concepts and apply their knowledge to the world around them. Smithsonian Associates programs offer opportunities to expand and deepen our scientific literacy.

Other Common FAQs


Moodle

  1. What is Moodle? Moodle is an online learning program that helps guide with different educational sources. On our Moodle, you will be able to contact other Inside Science participants, get bonus resources like videos and research articles, and keep track of programs you've attended already.
  2. How Do I Create a Moodle Account? Create a Moodle account

    You'll be asked to create a username and password, provide your email and name, and agree to the site policy agreement. For Primary museum or unit, select Smithsonian Associates. For Email address of your Smithsonian supervisor or staff coordinator, enter InsideScience@si.edu. You'll receive an email asking you to confirm your registration. Once you have done so, sign in to Moodle again. Under “Courses” choose “Smithsonian Associates”. Then Choose “Inside Science.” The first time you access the Inside Science Moodle, you will be asked for a course key. The course key is associates-science.