From Diverse Perspectives to Unified Strategies: European University Alliances and the Development of Adaptable Science Communication Concepts

Abstract

Communicating scientific subjects to non-academic, non-specialist, or very young audiences using various event formats (lecture series, panel discussions, science slams, Children’s Universities, Citizen Universities, etc.) is a key aspect of science communication. In the EURECA-PRO University Alliance, the implementation of these kinds of formats will be given greater focus at all institutions to make significant topics accessible in ways that go beyond the institutional walls of the universities. To this end, approaches are being developed and tested to identify and reduce existing hurdles for the public. At the same time, in an international structure such as EURECA-PRO, it is essential to know individual frameworks to ensure that measures promoting a uniform strategy can be implemented by everyone. In order to develop adaptable strategies for universities with different thematic focuses and locations in Europe, certain conditions for success must be identified and considered. In addition to the needs and resources of target groups, the requirements, and opportunities of the universities—as dictated by their respective circumstances—must also be considered. Using the examples of the EURECA-PRO partners Technical University of Crete in Chania (TUC), Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice (SUT), and Montanuniversität Leoben (MUL), challenges and results will be discussed.

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