Overview

The Virtual Science Cafés is a series of online and informal talks where anyone can explore the latest ideas in science, research, and technology. These talks, followed by Q&As, are designed to engage the public in learning about recent scientific research. The presentations, which are given by experts in the field, provide an opportunity to stimulate discussion around some of the most exciting topics in modern science.

Challenge

Since many resources, conversations, and workshops have gone virtual due to COVID-19, there has been an increased need for credible sources and professionals to reduce the spread of misinformation; there has been mistrust in expertise. We wanted to provide a platform for scientists and academics to bring their knowledge to the public in a digestible way while using accessible language.

Solution

Our goals are to encourage constructive dialogue between scientists and the public to strengthen communities while respecting physical distancing guidelines. We created an online platform so that participants can join from anywhere around the world and access the resources at their leisure. The objective of these science cafés is to actively engage every participant and give them access to talk to experts in this meddled online space.

Press

ScienceTalks Abbotsford holds online presentations about research and technology. The Abbotsford News

The Story

A science café’s casual meeting place and inclusive discussions create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for people who may not necessarily have a science background. Additionally, participants can put a face to the research, which makes the process of learning about science and current events more personal and memorable. ScienceTalks encourages meaningful (online) face-to-face conversations to create interpersonal connections that will strengthen our community. From our insights, we’ve gathered that science cafés help increase public understanding of and engagement in science and technology issues and navigate through the misinformation that exists online today.

We are grateful to have been supported by the “Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grants,” provided through the Vancouver and Abbotsford Community Foundation to strengthen the community within physical distancing guidelines during COVID. Our team was able to significantly increase the budget from the “seed grant.”

Outcomes and Lessons

To date, we have worked to organize a series of Virtual Science Cafés with the support of different research chairs from the University of Fraser Valley (UFV). The first series started with the four research chairs from UFV. This project received initial financial assistance from the City of Abbotsford, Vancouver Foundation, and Abbotsford Community Foundation through the Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grants Fund, a project that encourages neighborhoods to create positive social connections and build community strength. Other public and private institutions like the Abbotsford Tech District, Envision Financial, and the UFV Alumni Association have agreed to partake in these events as well.

We also worked to set up various social media channels to promote our communities’ talks including, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Twitter. Some highlights included: articles in the local press, tweets by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, and 210 registrants for the last edition of the series.

Do you need help with your science communication project?