9530173 This planning proposal takes advantage of the ongoing Earth System Science Education (ESSE) program, already funded by NASA, to contribute to the development and the emerging goals of the IAI program. The concept of the Earth as a system is central to the seven research themes already identified for the IAI science agenda. By virtue of its interdisciplinary agenda Earth System Science and Elobal Change topics both place unusual demands and provide for exiting opportunities in the development of classroom educational resources to meet the needs of IAI member countries. The ESSE program will be used as a model for the development of similar collaborative efforts within the IAI member countries; however, tailored to the specific technical capabilities and scientific interests of the participants. In addition, the existing scientific, technical and support resources of the ESSE program will be available to share with the ESSE-IAI team to facilitate an immediate, effective initiation of the proposed program. ***
