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Dive into the complex world of research literacy in museums with a focus on frontier science, fast-paced updates, and the potential for controversy. Uncover the exciting opportunities for public engagement and collaboration, while exploring the implications of current research processes. Discover how museums can effectively communicate research content and engage with the public to promote greater understanding and involvement.
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Research Literacy & PUR David A. Ucko, President Museums+more LLC
Challenges • Frontier science vs. Established science Complexity; no "cookbooks" • Tentative results vs. Greater certainty Outcomes, significance less clear • Fast moving vs. Slower pace Requires rapid response, updating Ucko
Challenges (cont.) • Messy process vs. "Sanitized" history More difficult to interpret • Possible consequences vs. Applications Potential for controversy Ucko
Opportunities • Exploring the unknown • Excitement of discovery • Media coverage, resources • Human interest collaboration + competition • Potential for public engagement Ucko
Research Literacy Components: • Content of current research • Process of research • Potential implications Ucko
Content • Exhibitions:the primary medium • Frequent updating; staff intensive • Modularity, digital media cut time, cost Ex (small): ScienceNOW, Science Bulletins Ex (large): Antenna, Current Science & Technology Center Ucko
Content (cont.) • Programs: flexible format, lower capital but ongoing operational costs • Skilled presenters hard to find, train Ex: FAST, Curiosity Corner Ucko
Process • Exhibitions: Process difficult to portray • Story-telling techniques; media helps Ex: Çatalhöyük, Inquiry, Investigate! Ucko
Process (cont.) • Virtual field trips access research sites • Interaction may be limited • Staff mediators increase impact Ex: Jason, Cardiac Classroom, Live@Exploratorium Ucko
Process (cont.) • Hands-on research: inquiry-based learning • Need meaningful activities, partners • Can make research relevant Ex: Citizen science (Cornell, Denver) Ucko
Implications • Programs (same as Content) • Theater effective for raising issues • Integrating art and science is difficult Ex: Copenhagen, Wellcome Trust Ucko
Implications (cont.) • Forums, debates, conferences: local community forums • Civic engagement; "community center“ • Charged topics are challenging • Learn from European colleagues Ex: La Cité, Dana Centre, Café Scientifique Ucko
Collaboration: Scientists • Concept development • Sources for research content, process • Provide validation, diverse viewpoints • Potential presenters, demonstrators • Research projects for citizen science • Sources: PIOs, Sigma Xi, SAS… Ucko
Value for Scientists • “Broader impact” • Student recruitment • Promotion of field, self • Potential data sources • Community involvement Ucko
Collaboration: Media • Concept development • Source for breaking news • Story, story, story • Visual and media resources • Cross-dissemination, promotion • Audience research findings Ucko
Value for Media Site complementary to on-air presence • Meet their audience • Focus groups • Screenings, live shows • Special events • Educational outreach Ucko
Collaboration: Regional & National • Concept development • Meetings with researchers, media • Directories with contact information • Consortia (like exhibits) • Cross-field information sharing • National PUR resource clearinghouse Ucko
Conclusion • Identify Research Literacy “mix.” Content + Process + Implications • Public Engagement in Research (PER) Tool for achieving PUR PER PUR • Collaborate end-to-end Ucko
Resources • Creating Connections: Museums and the Public Understanding of Current Research (AltaMira Press) http://www.altamirapress.com/ • Presentation http://www.MuseumsPlusMore.com/ Ucko