engleski

Popularisation of Science – communication between scientists and general public

In the context of science the meaning of the term “ popular” is slightly different from that used in the context of culture. When we think of popularisation of science we actually mean – filtering of scientific achievements down into the common culture, that is, into the society. The link between science and the society should be stronger for several reasons – bringing more young people to science and to higher education, communication of scientists with the public, responsibility for research results and ethical approach, and dissemination the knowledge through the society and media, knowledge being the most valuable capital a society can have. The social role of universities is almost as important as their educational and scientific impact. In Croatia that role is even more important, considering the unsatisfactory ratio of graduated students in comparison with students enrolled. Regarding the small number of graduates from tertiary education, it is hard to identify underrepresented groups, because of their small participation. Popularisation of science and popularisation of tertiary education, however, is important at all levels and should apply to all social groups. Regarding the reasons mentioned above, we have decided to take small steps toward achiving the goal of increasing participation in higher education and science by organizing events known as sciBArs. A sciBAr is an informal discussion including an expert or several experts on a scientific topic of particular relevance to general public in places such as pubs and cafés. The aim of the project is to link the local community and scientists, to encourage communication between them. Local media supports the project being the main promoter of the project. After every sciBAr held, the participants (public) fill in a survey, intended for the assessment of that sciBAr. In our experience such events are of great importance for adult learners, due to the fact that they enable them to take part in activities intended for gaining insight into science, as well for broadening their general knowledge in their free time.

science; popularization; general public; communication

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