NASA is proud to unveil its groundbreaking Open Science 101 curriculum, a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering researchers, early-career scientists, and underrepresented communities to embrace open science practices. This curriculum, designed to democratize access to scientific knowledge and tools, represents a significant stride towards fostering inclusivity and promoting knowledge sharing within the scientific community.
The primary goal of this program is to train an impressive 20,000 scientists and researchers over the next five years, equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to champion open science practices and amplify the impact of their work. This initiative aligns perfectly with NASA’s steadfast commitment to providing equitable access to science data on a global scale.
Developed as part of NASA’s Transform to Open Science initiative, the Open Science 101 curriculum is the result of extensive collaboration with subject matter experts from academia, industry, and government sectors. It caters to individuals at various stages of their scientific journey, including newcomers to open science, established researchers, and aspiring students pursuing careers in the field of science. Moreover, it prepares researchers to seamlessly integrate essential open science data management plans when seeking NASA grant funding.
This curriculum is not just another run-of-the-mill learning program; it signifies the birth of a movement where learners actively contribute to shaping the course of open science. Comprising five modules that cover introductory aspects of open science, it offers definitions, tools, resources, and best practices spanning the entire scientific workflow. Participants can access all modules through an open online platform, offering them the flexibility to learn at their own pace. In addition to this platform, NASA provides virtual and in-person instructor-led training sessions to cater to diverse learning preferences and schedules.
To further encourage engagement and knowledge exchange, NASA has strategically partnered with scientific associations, ensuring that open science takes center stage at major annual meetings, special science team summer schools, and various other events. These collaborative efforts aim to establish a vibrant learning environment where participants can interact with experts, ask questions, and delve into the forefront of open science.
NASA’s Open Science 101 curriculum represents a pivotal step towards building an open, inclusive, and collaborative scientific community. By offering resources, knowledge, and training opportunities to scientists and researchers worldwide, NASA actively contributes to the global effort to advance open science practices, democratize scientific knowledge, and ultimately enhance life on Earth for the benefit of all humanity.
