The role of science centres and museums in the dialogue between science and society
In a meta-analysis carried out in 2002, the two main associations of science centres and museums (ASTC, mainly US-centered, and ECSITE, mainly European) gathered all studies analysing the impact of science centres and museums on their local communities1. Four types of impact were identified: personal, social, political and economical. It was noticed that the vast majority of studies concentrated on the personal impact (that is, learning outcome, visitor satisfaction, etc.), while the latter three were largely neglected. The very fact of pointing this out, and many recent experiences - some of which are included in this commentary - show that there is now a shift of attention.
Science museums in a knowledge-based society
What is the role of science museums nowadays? If we want to answer this question, we need to understand the historical period we …
In the Rafael Nieto Auditorium of the National Autonomous University of San Luis Potosi Mexico, few chairs are empty. The room is full …
Being aware of the fact that science is a decisive factor for development and individual well being and a citizen's right, no less …
For the purpose of this article, Science & Society (S&S) is referred to as that current of thoughts and those cultural initiatives aimed …
The Lisbon post-its: how science-in-society issues were reflected in the last ECSITE meetings
ECSITE is the European network of science centres and museums (www.ecsite.net). The ECSITE Annual Conference, attended every year by several hundreds …