IU honors 'Mythbuster' for advancing science ed

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) -- Indiana University is honoring co-host Jamie Hyneman of the Discovery Channel program "Mythbusters" for his work in advancing science education.

IU's College of Arts and Sciences awarded Hyneman its 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award this week. Dean Larry Singell called his contributions to science education "ingenious."

Hyneman and co-host Adam Savage test urban legends, popular myths and online rumors on the program. The two special effects experts have tested pond-skipping sports cars and cellphone germ counts, among other items.

Hyneman was raised in Columbus and graduated from IU with a degree in Russian language and linguistics in 1981. He has worked on films including "Bram Stoker's Dracula" and "Robocop." He has also has worked with the military on vehicle safety designs and holds several patents.