Is the CQ staff charging a fee for their assistance?
Not a penny. We hope to raise money from private or foundation grants. We would welcome help from any university in a position to provide financial assistance, but the relationship is really about: If you are interested in establishing a CQ program at your university for summer 2009, how can we help you?
What Universities have already participated?
Four programs took place in Summer 2008:
American University, through the School of Communication.
Furman University through the Bridges to a Brighter Future Program.
University of Washington, though the Program on Climate Change and the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture.
Western Washington University, through the Huxley College of the Environment.
Three programs took place in Summer 2007:
American University, through the School of Communication.
Western Washington University, through the Huxley College of the Environment.
Sonoma State University, throught the School of Extended Education in partnership with the Climate Protection Campaign, a local non-profit organization.
Are there other colleges planning to join?
Right now, there are about a dozen schools poised to create a ClimateQuest program of some kind. We are actively reaching out to them to assist their planning in any way.
Are there specific set criteria for joining ClimateQuest?
Each school will naturally, find the right fit for itself. Some schools, for example, because of their location, will be more apt to provide a room and board program while other schools in large, urban settings may opt for day programs.
The minimum criteria basic necessary to be part of
ClimateQuest:
- Video is the mainstay product.
- College students play some role in the program as mentors to the high school students.
What can ClimateQuest actually provide in terms of services?
Several things: First, our backgrounds are in media and in planning environmental curriculum for schools. That allows us to help new programs plan specific curriculum, where needed and specifically provide counsel and assistance in how to set up a video/editing program.
In the same vein, we serve as a coordinating linkage point between schools, particularly when it's necessary to get information on how existing programs fared.
Additionally, we have deep rooted relationships throughout the college climate community which will help us in networking this program nationwide.