The Science Media Group (SMG) was founded by Dr. Matthew H. Schneps at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA) to investigate new ways to use television and computer media to communicate science to the public at large. A part of the CfA’s Science Education Department, the SMG has grounded its work in state-of-the-art science education research. Among the pioneering works created by the SMG are videos, such as A PRIVATE UNIVERSE, influential in shaping education reform worldwide; television programs, such as the PBS series MINDS OF OUR OWN, designed to alert the public to issues of science learning; and television, museum, Internet, and computer materials for children, parents, and teachers. The SMG also operates the Annenberg Channel, a free television service distributed providing lifelong learning and professional development for teachers nationwide.

Teacher Education
Goal: Improve teaching in the nation’s schools and colleges.

Public Outreach
Goal: Reach people through public media who otherwise might not be informed about science.

Education Research
Goal: Further the understanding of how media can help people learn.

Astronomy Communication
Goal: Advance understanding of the universe through education in astronomy and astrophysics.