Upward and Outward: Scientific Inquiry on the Tibetan Plateau is a twenty-minute educational documentary film targeting high school and college science students. The film shows the process of science as seen through the work of an international team of scientists as they conduct interdisciplinary research on the Tibetan Plateau. As they see the scientists in action, in the field, lab, and computer room, students learn how science is a human process for building knowledge, not just a body of fact. The film aligns with national and state standards on scientific inquiry and the nature of science.

Evidence for the impact of the film on students

Teachers helped us gather data on how the film influenced students' views of scientists and their understanding of how scientists work. We found that the film was successful in challenging stereotypes and showing science as a human process of building knowledge and working together.

What people are saying about the film

We need to educate our students to think critically about the information they come across, whether in class, online, in the movie theatre, etc. They need the tools to understand — Is this science? Is this a debate? What do I think vs. what do I believe? I also think the DVD will inspire our students to pursue careers in science. Teachers can draw from the enthusiasm in the video.
Lisa P., district science coordinator, Colorado

I used the video for both English and science class... they watched the video and wrote about the questions. My 7th and 8th graders have a very narrow view of what you can do with what I am teaching them and how many jobs in the world are related to science. The video really opened their eyes to the many opportunities in the field.
Rebecca H., middle school teacher, Maine

Credits:
Produced by Roslyn Dauber
Written by Roslyn Dauber and Sandra Laursen
Narrated by Peter Furey
Executive Producers Sandra Laursen and Peter Molnar