Science cafés are live events that involve a face-to-face conversation with a scientist about current science topics. They are open to everyone, and take place in casual settings like pubs and coffeehouses.A science café's casual meeting place, plain language, and inclusive conversation create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for people with no science background.
Each meeting is organized around an interesting topic of conversation. A scientist gives a brief presentation and sometimes shows a short video clip to kick off the discussion. You can leave a café meeting when you want, but you'll miss out if you show up late.
There are many variations on the basic science café. One café might have a trivia quiz. Another might include a panel of scientists. Topics range across all sciences, and some cafés even explore connections between science and other disciplines, like the arts.
What a fun idea! Of course, with my background in education and children's writing, my thoughts always turn to "How can we do something as cool as this for kids?"
Perhaps there could be Science Cafes inside schools--maybe a monthly presentation done by older students to younger ones. Maybe an occasional visiting scientist could come into a school to present a "cafe" to students. This could become a springboard for students to further the learning experience through research of their own. To engage parent involvement, perhaps a science cafe focusing on a topic that would interest parents and students alike could be hosted by a school during the evening hours. There are so many possibilities.
I am lucky enough to have a Science Cafe right in my own backyard (well...sort of) at The Ohio State University. I can't wait to attend an event there!
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