ASTC: Who We Are
For more than 50 years, the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) has worked to create strategic opportunities, develop intellectual capital, and gather resources to advance the science engagement field globally.
As a 501(c)(3) membership association based in North America, we support our members and allies realize their missions and effectively engage their communities as we pursue three core pillars of work:
- Champion public engagement with science
- Strengthen members and their capacity
- Build a more equitable and sustainable future
To learn more, please visit astc.org.
Our Vision
Increasing understanding of and engagement with science and technology among all people.
Our Purpose
Championing and supporting science and technology centers and museums and the entire science engagement field.
ASTC’s Community Science Initiative
Made up of a set of interconnected programs, projects, partnerships, and resources, ASTC’s Community Science Initiative supports its members in leveraging community science approaches to support local communities in addressing their most pressing science-related needs, challenges, and priorities.
As science engagement, learning, and research organizations, ASTC members often serve as critical liaisons, facilitating connections between communities, scientists and others, such as decision-makers advancing science-driven policy. ASTC’s Community Science Initiative aims to build capacity and advance community science practices among its members so they can effectively play this role. On this website you’ll find:
- Explore: A community science introduction with descriptions of each approach alongside a broad, inclusive set of attributes to explore that form the initiative’s foundation
- Implement: How to employ community science at your own organization with specific approach-based toolkits and tips on getting started
- Connect: Ways to engage professionally in community science with and beyond ASTC
- Resource Library: Numerous resources to inform your work and spark further curiosity
Importantly, this initiative builds on efforts already taking place within ASTC members and partner organizations across the science engagement, science research, and community development fields. We are deeply grateful to our funders and supporters and the many who advised and contributed to this important work.
