ISHS Acta Horticulturae 299: Forum on Strategies for Horticultural Societies in the 1990's, XXIII IHC
THE HUMANISTIC ASPECTS OF PROFESSIONAL SOCIETIES |
| Author: | Gary A. Couvillon |
| Abstract:
Professional societies are organizations of professionals joined together because of common work and/or interest. These organizations have played an important role in the advancement of science and education over the years. Our forefathers in science recognized long ago that scientific research findings mean little if they are not widely distributed and preserved in a written form for the benefit of future generations. Thus, professional societies and organizations originally were developed to disseminate scientific discoveries and knowledge through the publication of scientific journals/publications and scheduled meetings. More recently scientific societies have assumed other roles and duties. Today they serve as a base for the encouragement of interest in scientific research and education in the profession and have provided leadership in national/international matters of society interest. Through regularly scheduled meetings, professional societies have not only provided a forum for the discussion of research findings and education topics of interest, but have also been responsible for the development of mutual understanding and cooperation among organizations and individuals concerned with the society's intent and purpose(s). One frequently overlooked, but very important purpose of a scientific society lies in the humanistic qualities of these groups. Scientific societies are organized in a formal manner and generally hold rigidly scheduled meetings. Session moderators are instructed, and rightfully so, to "keep the program on time" and end any paper presentation at the termination of the allotted time regardless if it is complete or not. Frequently there is insufficient time to ask questions. However rigid the meeting, there is always time for its members to discuss in informal settings, research and teaching matters of interest. Informal discussions of this type provided the detail, necessary to properly interpret research results that are difficult to obtain in the short time provided during a presentation. In many cases, the actual meaningful transfer of knowledge invariably occurs during these informal discussions during breaks or in casual surroundings during or following the day's formal meetings. Informal meetings/discussions also serve to bring members closer together resulting in a fostering of cooperation in research and education which frequently develops a camaraderie that transcends political, cultural, racial, and ethnic barriers. Contacts made at professional meetings also provide the opportunity for travel to other areas of the world where marketing and production problems differ. The exposure of scientists to these variables results in a broader research philosophy and problem solving approach. This results in improved research as well as an improvement of the individuals performance in the classroom. Such cooperation can also result in securing bi-national and multi-national research funds provided to solve problems of mutual interest and encourage cooperation between scientists of the countries involved. As a "spin-off", training opportunities result for graduate students, faculty, and other post graduate categories. | |
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