PERC 2019 Abstract Detail Page
Previous Page | New Search | Browse All
| Abstract Title: | Bright Approaches to Informal Physics Education for New Audiences |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | Informal learning initiatives need to engage with a diverse range of communities. While well-intentioned, a large number of informal physics programmes are 'preaching to the converted'. Finding formats that achieve diversity of engagement provides both challenges and opportunities for practitioners and researchers of informal learning. This workshop will see participants actively engage with strategies and pedagogies that broaden the reach of informal learning opportunities in physics. Grounded in the experiences and research activities of Dr Jessamyn Fairfield and Dr Shane Bergin, the workshop will ask 'how can your informal physics programmes engage hard-to-reach communities?'. The practical session will blend evidence-based approaches with the informal learning goals of those who attend. Drs Bergin and Fairfield will draw upon experiences with projects like: i) Bright Club: a research/comedy variety night that spans disciplines and brings researchers into informal pub environments in high-production value events across Ireland, ii) Soapbox Science: an international event bringing science to the streets, capturing passers-by and highlighting the active role of female researchers in STEM fields, iii) City of Physics: a 'hack the city' campaign across traditional and new media that sparked conversations on physics in Dublin Ireland This workshop will also include active components drawn from the training for these projects, where participants will learn how to craft written and oral communication about physics to engage diverse communities. Positive outcomes for this workshop might include i) making connections with other PERC attendees who share your goals and wish to grow the potential of their own projects (or ideas for a project), ii) learning about strategies and pedagogies that have engaged broad audiences, iii) a community-level discussion around establishing research norms for best practice. |
| Abstract Type: | Workshop |
| Session Time: | Parallel Sessions Cluster I |
| Room: | Cascade E |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Jessamyn Fairfield NUI Galway |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Shane Bergin, University College Dublin |
Parallel Session Information | |
| Activity Description: | This workshop will also include active components drawn from the training for these projects, where participants will learn how to craft written and oral communication about physics to engage diverse communities. |
