About Resource
AAAS defines “Public Engagement with Science” (PES) as “intentional, meaningful interactions that provide opportunities for mutual learning between scientists and members of the public”. As such, this goes beyond just science communication and science education efforts. Their Theory of Change presents a Logic Model for thinking about public engagement with science, by defining the inputs, participants, activities, and intended outcomes for the short-, medium-, and long-term, and an overall vision for how this engagement will impact both science and society. AAAS is one of the largest organizations advocating for public engagement with science for societal change primarily through its Center for Public Engagement with Science & Technology, which has a wealth of resources and a Community of Practice. The framework provides helpful structure for thinking through PES in general and outlines how processes like Dialogue & Deliberation may be combined or used to generate desired outcomes and long-term goals.
How to Use
This resource can be useful to organizations that have broad, long-term goals for desired outcomes of engagement, but are not yet sure how to approach them. While the AAAS Logic Model on page 2 is a quick way to scan the key components, outcomes, and larger goals of engagement, the typology below provides further detail about each component and current lessons from relevant engagement research. For example, those who know that they want to build trust between their institution and a local community may be at a loss for where to start. Beginning on page 4, the detailed typology of this framework defines various outcomes and describes what kinds of activities work towards them, according to existing research. In the case of building trust, a wide range of activities–“from deliberative forums to citizen science” –have been shown to strengthen community relationships with scientists, which in turn builds trust.
Location: United States
Author(s)/Organization: AAAS Center for Public Engagement with Science and Technology
Publication Year: 2016
Tags
Attributes:Centers Community Priorities, Respects Community Strengths
Outcomes:Strong Community Partnerships, Increased Science Agency
Approaches:Dialogue & Deliberation
Type:Guidebooks & Manuals