Art and science combined to explore the nuclear age at hanford

Increasingly the challenge is not generating new information but organizing and presenting the knowledge we have to enable people to gain insight into complex issues such as the legacy of plutonium production at Hanford. To engage people's hearts and minds we developed a web based curriculum (www.hanfordlessons.org), website (www.WANMEC.org), and traveling exhibit, Particles on the Wall (POTW – www.particlesonthewall.org). During the course students examine Hanford's history, its many stakeholders, and the science behind the dangers of radiation. Traditional readings and assignments are augmented with poetry, art and first hand interviews with people involved in the issue. As a final project, students are assigned to create a work of visual, literary, scientific, or another nontraditional method of responding to information they have learned. Students then display, perform, or show their piece to members of their community. This artwork is used as not only an educational tool but a starting point for discussion of the topic. The goals of this project are for students to take the information they learned and share it beyond the classroom. This method is especially useful when learning about controversial or complicated subjects. By using art the students are able to approach these topics in a manner that does not take sides politically or intimidate people unfamiliar with the subject. It also promotes students who are science minded to rethink information in ways that the general public would understand. Conversely, it promotes students who are more comfortable with the arts to draw inspiration from science.