BEACON Public Engagement Workshop

Engaging with the public is a central part of what we do as scientists. The majority of scientists engage with public audiences about STEM topics, through classroom visits, leading lab tours, giving interviews, writing blogs, hosting podcasts, conversations over dinner, and more. There are ways to engage more effectively, however, scientists are rarely taught these best practices. This critical gap in the curriculum has consequences not only for the public, but also for professional development. Public engagement builds skills that are fundamental to professional success, including enhanced communication, teaching, and leadership skills and enriched understanding of one’s own research and field. Our Public Engagement Program begins to bridge the gap between scientists and the public by recruiting and motivating scientists, providing engagement training, and connecting scientists with opportunities to engage. Check out our workshops to learn more!