Does attending a large science event enthuse young people about science careers?

Illingworth, SM; Lewis, Emma; Percival, Carl

Abstract

A survey was conducted during the University of Manchester’s 2014 ‘Science Extravaganza’, which saw the participation of over 900 Key Stage 3 (ages 11–14) students in a range of interactive demonstrations, all run by active University researchers. The findings of this study suggest that a new approach is necessary in order to use these large science events to actively engage with school students about the career opportunities afforded by science subjects. Recommendations for such an approach are suggested, including the better briefing of researchers, and the invitation of scientists from outside academia to attend and interact with the school students.

Citation

Illingworth, S., Lewis, E., & Percival, C. (2015). Does attending a large science event enthuse young people about science careers?. Journal of Science Communication, 14(2), https://doi.org/10.22323/2.14020206

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Online Publication Date: May 26, 2015
• Publication Date: 2015
• Deposit Date: Feb 15, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 18, 2021
• Journal: Journal of Science Communication
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 14
• Issue: 2
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22323/2.14020206
• Keywords: Public perception of science and technology,Public engagement with science and technology
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/2736667