Definitions and FAQ's

Public Engagement (PE) describes a two-way interaction between the scientist and the public, for example with room for dialogue or co-creation. Outreach describes a one-way interaction, where the scientist reaches out to the public to share knowledge or information.

In the past decade, PE is the term that is commonly used in the field to describe all science communication activities. However, the terms are also sometimes used interchangeably.

Citizen Science actively engages the public in research, where the public can help to generate new knowledge or data. Giving the public an active role in research can contribute to increasing mutual trust and understanding.

The UG regards societal impact as one of its primary responsibilities. The implementation and translation of education and research activities for and in society is a cornerstone of the academic system. This interaction with society - public engagement - enriches both education and research.

Support for public engagement is mostly organised at the faculty Level. Do you want to know how PE is organised in your faculty? Send an email to pe rug.nl

Faculty of Science and Engineering: Science LinX can help FSE researchers with public engagement in a number of different ways:

• We give advice on writing about ‘outreach’ in grant applications.
• We give PE trainings and workshops on how to measure impact and on how to organise public engagement activities.
• We help you find schools or events (like Zpannend Zernike) where you can showcase your activities.

The article 'From a candle to content creation' gives a short tour through the changing faces of science communication, including dissemination, public understanding of science and public engagement with science and technology to engaged research.

The article 'Is het terecht dat het deficit model een van de meest bekritiseerde modellen in wetenschapscommunicatie is?' gives background information on the traditional one-way science communication vs two-way science communication.