Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/fanning-the-flame Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Behind the Scenes: Attacking Science Jargon in ‘Flame Challenge’ Science Jun 28, 2012 10:11 AM EDT In 1947, when film star Alan Alda was 11-years-old, he asked a teacher the seemingly innocuous question, “What is a flame?” The answer, “oxidation,” was thoroughly unsatisfying to young Alda. Fast forward to 2012. Out of that interaction has grown a contest called The Flame Challenge, designed to motivate scientists to work on their communication skills. Alda is host, scientists are participants and the judges: 6,000 11-year-olds. Our science correspondent Miles O’Brien reports on the project in a video report that we will post on our website on Friday. Stay tuned for that and the winning entry. But first, Miles joined us for a behind-the-scenes look at the piece, Alda’s Flame Challenge contest and the importance of battling jargon. A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now
In 1947, when film star Alan Alda was 11-years-old, he asked a teacher the seemingly innocuous question, “What is a flame?” The answer, “oxidation,” was thoroughly unsatisfying to young Alda. Fast forward to 2012. Out of that interaction has grown a contest called The Flame Challenge, designed to motivate scientists to work on their communication skills. Alda is host, scientists are participants and the judges: 6,000 11-year-olds. Our science correspondent Miles O’Brien reports on the project in a video report that we will post on our website on Friday. Stay tuned for that and the winning entry. But first, Miles joined us for a behind-the-scenes look at the piece, Alda’s Flame Challenge contest and the importance of battling jargon. A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now