Section: Theme Areas


Theme areas

The proposed areas are described below:

Management and Sustainability

 

To discuss the challenges for the sustainability and management of science centres and museums in the 21st century. To stimulate the debate about the future of science centre and museum regional networks (will they become a worldwide network?), and the co-operation/relationship of scientific institutions with other partners and interest groups.

 

Models and Perspectives

 

New models and perspectives for science centres.

 

Social Inclusion and Access to Science Centres and Museus

 

Science centres and museums as an area for the establishment of consensus and social inclusion.

 

Science Communication, Science and Society

 

To reflect on subjects related to breaking the barriers between science, scientists and the general public and to investigate the public’s perception of science and the scientists and communicators perception of the public. To debate the forms in which science controversies and conflicts are presented to the public and integrating contemporary scientific issues in exhibitions and activities; the relationship between science centres and museums, universities and research institutions, and their role as a stimulus to science interdisciplinary work. To present practical works related to the popularization of science.

 

Audience Research in Science Centres and Museums

 

To present and discuss the production of knowledge on the different publics that visit science centres and museums (profile, behaviour, habits, opinions, attitudes, perceptions, expectations, motivations, museum experience etc); the specificity of these spaces and the impact science centres and museums in society.

 

Exhibitions, Communication Approaches and Evaluation

 

To reflect on the main approaches and languages used in science exhibitions – for instance, interactivity versus historicity; ways of impressing the public using creative resources; and the relationship amongst the different professionals involved in a scientific exhibition production. Evaluation of exhibitions and interactive exhibits. To analyse historically (and comparatively) the evolution of science centres and museums throughout the world.

 

 

Museum Education, Formal and Informal Learning

 

Extensively discussing education and the role of science centres and museums as informal educational environments, as a mean of promoting scientific culture in society and fomenting education throughout life, stimulating the citizens’ interest and widening their horizons and knowledge. Investigating and discussing the relationship between formal and informal education and the production of educational material. Visitors’ studies about learning in science centres and museums and informal educational environments.

 

Virtual Technology

 

Discussion on how to promote the access to new technologies and increase the institutional reach of its messages. New technologies, their innovations and new means of expression. To discuss the appropriate technology according to different cultural and economical contexts.

 

Science and Art

 

Relationship and similarities between science and art. Science as a field of art study. Experiences of co-operation projects between artists and scientists.

 

 


4th Science Centre World Congress