ReCoNnect 3: Building a Community

On the urge to reconnect science and research with the public’s curiosity, but also with its needs and priorities, one has to develop an active and continuous dialogue showing mutual respect, understanding and trust between the different communities.

In ReCoNnect 3 we identify two priorities for the context of the present science outreach status in the country: a) reaching smaller or underprivileged communities, from the educational point of view, and b) strengthening the groups of science communicators and connecting them in common events.

Addressing these priorities by the means of ERN events is one of the most important opportunities to increase the quality of science communication and awareness about the benefits science brings to humans.

The consortium is made up from 5 research institutes, among the largest and most prestigious in the country, 4 universities, with high scientific expertise which is complemented by journalism expertise, and one public scientific body, that have been participating in previous research outreach events and coordinate some of the largest STEM educational networks (teachers and pupils) derived from the European programmes.

By organising each year, 20 NIGHT events, a national science contest, a science caravan in the less developed regions of the country, as well as other 20 local events, meetings and visits of scientists in local schools, we are building the most significant and comprehensive science outreach program in the country.

That ensures that the research and science are more accessible to pupils and schools, while at the same time creates visibility for researchers and science communicating groups and individuals.