Plateau Science Book Series

There is a great dearth of current scientific literature in the Tibetan language. This project seeks to amend that by producing a bilingual (English/Tibetan) science book reader series. We are currently writing and translating the following materials:

AGES 5-10

We are currently in the process of writing and illustrating age appropriate picture books on the following topics:

1. The basic sciences: biology, math, physics, chemistry, and environmental science
2. Indoor air pollution & climate change
3. Trash burning and waste management
4. Hand washing & sanitation

AGES 11-17

We are currently translating age appropriate science textbooks from English and Mandarin to Tibetan. We are also writing detailed and region-specific explanations of:

1. The scientific method, experimental design, and advanced questioning
2. Indoor air pollution
3. Low smoke stoves: A portfolio of low-tech smokeless stove designs
4. Climate change
5. Harnessing the sun: A portfolio of low-tech solar cooker design
6. Wind and Water Energy: Portfolios of low-tech wind turbine and water wheel designs
7. Trash burning and waste management
8. Hand washing & sanitation
9. Toilet construction & maintenance
10. Aerobic composting procedures
11. Healthy Waters: ground water systems, water preservation, and keeping the rivers clean

AGES 18-university

Currently, advanced study within this age group takes place in Mandarin (a language in which current scientific literature and texts are widely available). Thus, we are focusing our efforts within this age group on a basic region-specific mechanical engineering reference manual for university students wishing to work on development projects in their home villages.

Our hope is that this science book reader series in combination with our Innovation Workshop will motivate many local innovations.

Involvement:

English Teacher Training Program, Qinghai Normal University

Yale Book Club

Trace Foundation

We are currently seeking individuals with pertinent scientific and language expertise. Volunteer inquiries and article submissions should be sent to catlin[at]oneearthdesigns[dot]org along with resume and cover letter.

Coordinators:

Dr Gwen Zhaner, Yale Book Club & Beijing Cancer Institute Epidemiologist

Scot Frank, MIT Computer & Electrical Engineering

Catlin Powers, Wellesley Chemistry & Environmental Studies