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4SCWC discussed Latin American problematics

Nine years after its first eddition, the Science Centre World Congress took to Brazil a discussion of great importance to latin american museums and science centres - social inclusion. The popularization of science is needed and is being stimulated more and more by museums from all over the world, but it is in Latin America and in some Asian and African countries that it faces its greatest obstacles. The executive director of Red-POP - The Network for the Popularization of Science and Technology in Latin America and the Caribbean -, Julia Tagüeña, has more to say about it.

What
are the main challenges for science dissemination and education?

J.T: Red-Pop has contributed to the formation of a culture of science dissemination in Latin America and the Caribbean since the 1990s. Currently there
are 150 members, from virtually all the countries, sharing experiences in order to develop the region. The Science Museums and Centers in Latin America are on the same level as those of other regions in the world. Our problem is not a lack of talent or creativity, but organization and social justice. We have a lot of difficulty in agreeing on what to do. In Latin America, the public is both interested in and receptive to science. Here, scientists even enjoy more credibility and are more respected than in Europe. The fact that Brazil is hosting the 4th Congress will give us the opportunity to show the work done in our region.

What is the role of Science Museums and Centers in relation to science education?

J.T: The Museums
are important, but they do not replace the school or the state. Science Museums and Centers are places where people go voluntarily, and they thus also reach an adult audience which is no longer enrolled in school. Science Centers have the role, along with public libraries, schools, the media, and other initiatives, as facilitators in science education process. It is also important that teachers take advantage of the resources provided by Science Museums and Centers. Teachers are communicators, and to educate is always to communicate; it is thus necessary to provide better conditions for their professional work and training.

How can scientists act in science dissemination?

J.T: It is important for people to leave the Science Museum or Center and continue to research or obtain information on science-related subjects. The Science Centers linked to Rede-Pop, in addition to playing their role in non-formal education, publish periodicals in order to form a science culture.


*Interviews by Cecília Cavalcanti, journalist and master's degree student in Education, Management and Communication in Biosciences.

Printable Version:
 
"Science Centres: Breaking Barriers, Engaging Citizens"