Update: Engaging science conference

6 April 2006

The Engaging Science conference 'Science for all: is public engagement engaging the public?' was held in Manchester on 3 and 4 April 2006.

Organised by the Wellcome Trust to illustrate and explore current methods of public engagement, the conference brought together 300 science communicators, public engagement specialists, scientists, policy makers, educators and artists to share their thoughts and experience.

The conference featured a range of debates, live performances, workshops, activities and discussion groups.

The drama highlights included a dance performance inspired by epigenetics and Indian classical dance (see picture below), and the acclaimed Y Touring play 'Every Breath', which explores the questions raised by the use of animals in medical research.

Issue-based forums covered topics such as 'Science and Culture', which looked at how to engage the humanities in science issues, and 'Education: Contemporary science for all?', on how those involved in education can be more responsive to emerging issues in science.

Alan Friedman, Director of the New York Hall of Science and a keynote speaker at the conference, praised the way the conference had brought together so many different people from a range of sectors, all with a keen interest in public engagement with science.

He noted: "I have been watching the audience and they are busy making notes and having conversations on topics under discussion in the breaks." Dr Friedman also said that he was impressed with the way that European institutions were willing to experiment with different forms of consultation with the public.

See also

• Engaging Science conference programme [PDF 316KB]