UC Science Connect

Increasing Public Engagement and Confidence In Science

UC Science Connect brings together University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) programs, projects, curricula, and resources that help Californians learn, participate in, use, connect with, and critically evaluate science.

Scientific literacy is more than knowing scientific facts. It includes asking questions, investigating the world, evaluating evidence, applying research to real-life decisions, and understanding how scientific knowledge is developed and revised. UC Science Connect highlights opportunities for youth and adults to build these capacities while seeing themselves as active participants in science.

Through hands-on learning, participatory science, trusted community education, and engagement with scientists and scientific institutions, UC ANR helps Californians develop the knowledge and critical-thinking skills needed to make informed decisions, contribute to their communities, and engage confidently with science.

Learn Science

Build knowledge, curiosity, scientific reasoning, and STEM skills.
UC curricula engage young people in learning science through inquiry, investigation, engineering design, problem solving, and exploration of issues that matter in their lives and communities.

• 4-H Water Wizards – Guided inquiry water education that engages youth in learning about water while doing science. [Grades 4–6]
• Ag from Above × Ag for All – Agricultural science, drones, geospatial technology, and career exploration. [High school]
• iCode – Computer science learning through identity exploration and culturally relevant activities. [Grades 6–8]
• Junk Drawer Robotics – Engineering design, robotics, problem solving, and creative experimentation. [Grades 5–8]
• Sustainable Polymers – Hands-on learning about polymers, plastics, and sustainability. [Grades K–12]
• Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) - an approach in which young people investigate issues that matter to them and use what they learn to improve their communities. [Grades 4-12]
• iThrive: Leadership, Science & Me! – Integrates leadership development with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. [Grades 7–12]
• iGrow: Beyond Ready in Science - Blends positive youth development with engaging science and engineering experiences. [Grades 4-6]

Do and Use Science

Participate in inquiry, research, data collection, and knowledge creation. Apply research and evidence to real-life decisions and problems.
Science is not something people only receive from experts. UC ANR creates opportunities for Californians to ask questions, make observations, collect and interpret data, and contribute to scientific understanding of their communities and environments. Scientific literacy matters in everyday life. UC ANR connects research with practical decisions about food, gardens, pests, wildfire, natural resources, agriculture, health, and communities.

• UC Environmental Stewards – California Naturalist and Climate Stewards courses combine science learning, field experiences, participatory science, communication, stewardship, and community service.
• UC Master Gardener Program – Extends research-based information about home horticulture, pest management, sustainable gardening, and landscapes.
• UC Master Food Preserver Program – Helps Californians use research-based practices to safely preserve food at home.
• UC Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program (UC IPM) – Provides science-based information and decision-making tools for preventing and managing pests while minimizing unintended impacts.
• UC ANR Fire Network – Provides science-based information, training, and tools to help Californians understand wildfire and make informed decisions about preparedness, resilience, and land stewardship.

Connect with Science

Experience science and connect with scientists, organizations, communities, and opportunities.
Positive experiences with science can spark curiosity, build relationships, and help people see how science connects with their lives and communities. UC ANR convenes events and partnerships that make science accessible, relevant, and engaging.

• North Bay Science Discovery Day – A free community science festival where children and families explore hands-on activities and interact with scientists, engineers, educators, and STEM organizations.
• Imagine Science – A national collaboration among 4-H, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, and Girls Inc. that expands access to high-quality STEM learning opportunities.

UC Science Connect is managed by the UC ANR Science Literacy and Critical Thinking Program Team. Questions or suggestions for resources to feature? Contact Steven Worker at smworker@ucanr.edu.