The role of engaged learning

In the past couple of years a major buzzword in public engagement, at least in the academic environment, has been engagement with research.  This is not entirely surprising given the requirement of Pathways to Impact to link public engagement activities to the research in the grant.  It’s even less surprising given the current demands for impact in the forthcoming national REF exercise, which again makes the connection between engagement and the underpinning research.  So it was heartening to hear a different form of engagement being discussed at the NCCPE’s Engage 2011 conference: engaged students.

Students doing public engagement as part of their degree was the topic of two sessions I attended on the second day of the conference.  The first session focused on postgraduates at a University of Bath Doctoral Training Centre, which contains a module on public engagement.  The second session (which just happened to be run by us at the Centre for Public Engagement!) considered case studies of engaged learning for undergraduates.  These case studies ranged from sociology at the University of Cambridge through to American students learning language and culture in Siena, Italy (where they talk about it as service learning, but the UK and the US have never been consistent in terminology).  And of course there was our own example of engaged learning in the form of our community-based learning project for 3^rd and 4^th year civil engineering students.  Admittedly, postgraduate students and, to some extent, undergraduate students carry out research so these activities could be considered a facet of engagement with research.  But realistically, many of these projects are just as, if not more, interested in the value of the skills and experiences that the activities offer to the students – particularly in terms of employability.

Engaged learning raises some interesting questions.  Should such engagement be compulsory and, if so, will that lessen the quality of the engagement?  Will it mean that certain students do not pursue a particular degree course because of the public engagement obligations?  Will public engagement become a box-ticking exercise for students rather than something they deliberately invest time and effort in?  Feedback from the projects discussed at Engage does not seem to reflect this rather gloomy outlook.  The students are genuinely motivated to do public engagement and are excited by the opportunities presented to them.  But these are certainly questions to be considered by those of us looking to embed public engagement in the student experience.

Engagers’ Digest 25/11/11

Here is the Engagers’ Digest; please do cascade this bulletin onwards to interested colleagues. If you would like to submit an item for the next Digest, due 19 December, please email: fiona.hyland@bristol.ac.uk

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

1. Invitation to join a working group on paying service users for participation in health research [health; senior academics]

Funding

1. The Wellcome Trust - Arts Awards (UK): large grants deadline 16 Dec; small grants deadline 28 Jan [Arts/STEM; all levels]

Events

1. Invitation to the national launch of ‘A Bristol Curriculum’: 10am 1 December [all fields; all levels]
2. Opportunity to run an activity at ‘Big Wildlife Fair’ in Bristol: 18 February 2012 [all fields; all levels]
3. Bringing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) curricula to life through public engagement: 1 March 2012 [STEM; all levels]

Other news

1. Presentations available from AHRC Public Engagement in the Arts and Humanities 2011 workshop [Arts & Humanities; all levels]

University of Bristol engagement

1. Invitation to join a working group on paying service users for participation in health research
The University of Bristol is part of a new collaboration 'People and Research South West' which is an initiative to support researchers to involve the public in health and social care research, and to support the public in getting involved. This is a partnership of NHS organisations, the University of the West of England and the University of Bristol. One of the issues that the initiative is working on is that of paying the public (service users) for their participation in research projects. Advice from the steering group is that organisations within the group do not have a consistent (or in some cases, any) policies on payments and expenses for patients in health-related research projects. The group is looking to assemble a working group to scope out the options in this area with a view to possibly creating some guidelines for participating organisations and others. The University's representation in the debate on this important issue would be highly valued. If you would be interested in joining the working group please contact Fiona Hyland, Centre for Public Engagement, on email: fiona.hyland@bristol.ac.uk tel: (0117) 33 18324.

Funding

1. The Wellcome Trust - Arts Awards (UK): large grants deadline 16 Dec; small grants deadline 28 Jan
The Wellcome Trust is inviting organisations and individuals to apply for funding through its Arts Awards. The Arts Awards support projects that engage the public with biomedical science through the arts including dance, drama, performance arts, visual arts, music, film, craft, photography, creative writing or digital media. Applications are invited for projects of up to £30,000 through their small & medium-sized grant programme, and for projects above £30,000 through their large grant programme. The aim of the awards is to support arts projects that reach new audiences which may not traditionally be interested in science and provide new ways of thinking about the social, cultural and ethical issues around contemporary science. The scheme is open to a wide range of people including, among others, artists, scientists, curators, filmmakers, writers, producers, directors, academics, science communicators, teachers, arts workers and education officers. Further information from web:
http://www.wellcome.ac.uk/Funding/Public-engagement/Funding-schemes/Arts-Awards/index.htm

Events

1. Invitation to the national launch of ‘A Bristol Curriculum’: 10am 1 December
Julie Finch, Director of Bristol Museums, Galleries and Archives, would like to invite you to the national launch of A Bristol Curriculum at M Shed on Thursday 1st December 2011, 10am - 12.30pm. A Bristol Curriculum is a new model for locally-relevant learning. It uses the power of museum collections to bring to life inspiring BRISTOL examples of the people, places and events that connect us to the big ideas of our world - right here in our city. Please let us know if you are able to attend contacting Jane Hack, Learning Officer jane.hack@bristol.gov.uk by Monday 28th November. If you have not replied by this date and would still like to come, please telephone M Shed Reception on 0117 3526600 on the day of the launch.

2. Opportunity to run an activity at ‘Big Wildlife Fair’ in Bristol: 18 February 2012
To coincide with the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2011 Exhibition, Bristol City Museum will be hosting a 'Big Wildlife Fair' on Saturday 18th February. Perhaps you would like to run an engagement activity to represent your wildlife-related research project at the Fair? Trestle tables will be distributed throughout every floor and gallery within the museum. For further information and to sign up please contact Rhian Rowson, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, tel: 0117 9223598, email: rhian.rowson@bristol.gov.uk

3. Bringing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) curricula to life through public engagement: 1 March 2012
Organised by the National HE STEM Programme and the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement registration for this event opens early December with speakers and workshop list to be announced shortly.
Venue: Aston Conference Centre, University of Aston
Further information from web:
http://www.publicengagement.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/bringing-science-technology-engineering-and-mathematics-stem-curricula-life-t

Other news

1. Presentations available from AHRC Public Engagement in the Arts and Humanities 2011 workshop
The AHRC held a one-day event in central London on the 27th October that explored how academics, researchers and professionals in the arts and humanities and the wider cultural sector can engage the public in innovative and meaningful ways. Speakers included Professor Sarah Churchwell, (Professor of Public Understanding of the Humanities at UEA), Professor Mark Llewellyn (Strathclyde University), Sophie Duncan (Deputy Director of the NCCPE) and Philip Pothen (AHRC), among others. Presentations and resources from the day are now available from web:
http://www.ahrc.ac.uk/News/Events/Pages/PEintheArtsandHumanities2011.aspx

Invitation to contribute to online training materials in Public Engagement - 8 Dec 2011

The National Coordinating Centre for Public Engagement have partnered HE STEM to develop online training materials for researchers who want to engage with the public. The online training materials are targeted at people who are relatively new to public engagement and will provide an introduction to some of the key skills and knowledge that are essential to doing effective public engagement.
They are looking for undergraduates, masters students, PhDs, academics and experts from range of disciplines to talk about their public engagement work. The focus of the videos will be key skills for public engagement, and encouraging contributors to reflect on those skills, what works, what have they learnt and what mistakes they have made.
They are looking for volunteers to take part in short video interviews on Thursday 8th December. Filming location will be confirmed shortly, but it is likely to be a central location in Bristol. The videos will be shot by Picnic Films who specialise in making fun, simple and spontaneous videos that value the contributors, and get the best from their knowledge and experience. You can see some examples of their work here: http://www.picnicfilms.co.uk/?page_id=27
Please email melanie@melaniewindridge.co.uk if you are interested in taking part.

Of cakes and elephants – communicating environmental issues

A reflection from the Communicate conference held on 2^nd and 3^rd November:

“Dost thou think, because thou art virtuous, there shall be no more cakes and ale?”  Thus speaks Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night, my favourite of all Shakespeare’s plays.  But it was interesting to hear these words quoted by Professor Aubrey Manning, the eminent zoologist, at the Communicate conference held in Bristol the other day.  Rather than facing a prim and slightly self-righteous Malvolio, he was facing the equally unappealing prospect of how to communicate difficult environmental issues – the so-called elephant in the room.  A suggestion came from an audience member that the Queen should not be allowed to ship in 500 (or so) horses from around the world for the Olympics because of the environmental impact this will cause, especially considering that horses aren’t exactly thin on the ground in the UK.  

But this is just an extreme example of the issues that all of us face when thinking about our choices in the future.  Will we have to give up our treasured possessions such as the classic cars that Professor Manning admits to being his vice?  Or will it be a lifestyle change – relinquishing the idea that we have a right and the means to have a cheap holiday in the sun?  The idea that life in the future is going to be very different in terms of aspirations, not to mention action, was a major facet of the Elephant in the Room discussion.  But it also ran through the conversations during the rest of the day, in particular the Living with Environmental Change session on communicating across sectors.   Our table struggled to describe examples of effective communication across sectors, especially when communicating scenarios for future behaviour as individuals.  

It seems that many of us, especially those of us who have worked in or alongside those in this research area, are aware of what must be done to minimise our environmental impact.  But that doesn’t mean that we are necessarily able to face up to action ourselves.   Can we really come to terms with the fact that, some day, there may be no more cakes and ale?

Kate Miller (Academic Liaison Officer)

Engagers' Digest 4/11/11

We have a new addition to the Centre for Public Engagement team, Dr Kate Miller has recently taken over the role of Academic Liaison Officer replacing Philippa Bayley and is the first point of contact for academics. She was previously at the Research Councils where she managed EPSRC's public engagement activities as well as doing a stint in the Science in Society team at ESRC. She is looking forward to meeting everyone over the coming months.

Here is the early November edition of Engagers’ Digest.

Please cascade this bulletin onwards to interested colleagues.
In this edition of the Digest:

University of Bristol engagement

1. University of Bristol workshop on public engagement and the REF: 15 November 2011 [all fields]
2. Staff Development courses: various dates [all fields; all levels]
3. The Art of Science exhibition: 17 November 2011, 5-6 pm [all fields; all levels]
4. Music for outreach projects [all fields; all levels]
5. Children of the 90s art exhibition: 10am – 5pm 3 December 2011 [all fields; all levels]

Funding

1. Institute of Physics - Public Engagement Grant Programme (UK) deadline 7 November 2011 [physics; all levels]
2. AHRC call for Research Development Awards: Research for Community Heritage, under the Connected Communities Programme – deadline 6 December [Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences]
   
3. Connected Communities Programme: other calls [Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences; all levels]

Events & event proposals

1. National HE STEM programme event ‘Student involvement in STEM activities: is it a good idea, what works and how can we make it better?’: 14 November 2011 [STEM; all levels]
2. Science Communication Conference 2012: deadline for session proposals 25 November 2011 [all fields; all levels]
3. Impact and Engagement Museums Conference: call for session proposals deadline 27 November 2011 [all fields]
4. NCCPE Engage 2011 29-30 November 2011 – last chance to register [all fields; all levels]
5. People and Research South West training ‘Working together on research’: 8 December 2011 [health; all levels]

Other news

1. Online Media Group for Science [STEM; all levels]

University of Bristol engagement

1. University of Bristol workshop on public engagement and the REF: 15 November 2011
This workshop is relevant for: impact directors, academics who are thinking of putting forward a case study that has a large public engagement component, impact expert support team. The session will cover how impact through public engagement can be described and evidenced for the REF. It will be led by Maggie Leggett, Head of the Centre for Public Engagement, who worked closely with the National Coordinating Centre for Public Engagement and HEFCE to develop the discussion paper that was made available to REF panels to help them develop their guidelines on public engagement. The workshop will include an update on current thinking and an opportunity to discuss case studies in groups.
Date: Tuesday 15 November, 2-4 pm
Venue: University precinct; details will be circulated to attendees.
To register, please email amanda.edmondson@bristol.ac.uk
Further details are available from Maggie Leggett, maggie.leggett@bristol.ac.uk

2. Staff Development courses: various dates
University of Bristol staff may be interested in the following courses:

• Plain English for research communications
• Introduction to the media parts 1 and 2
• In the spotlight - communicating with different audiences
• Science writing for popular publication

Further information from:
Web http://www.bris.ac.uk/staffdevelopment/academicstaff/

3. The Art of Science exhibition: 5-6 pm 17 November 2011
A wine reception and prize-giving hosted by Sir Michael Berry. Come and see a science-inspired art exhibition, from researchers here at the University including all the entries from the 2011 competition. All welcome!
Venue: E29 foyer, Medical Sciences Building, University Walk
Web: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/fmvs/artofscience

4. Music for outreach projects
Original music can enhance public engagement work such as exhibits, lectures, films and podcasts. Jean Hasse from the Department of Music has composed music for several other departments in the University - see web: http://visible-music.com/jh_UnivProjects.htm
Jean also helps University of Bristol MA composers find additional scoring projects (films, website films, computer games) in her role as Tutor for the MA in Composition for Film and Television course. Hear samples of her music on 17 November in the Medical Sciences Building, accompanying the Art of Science exhibition (see item above).
Email: j.hasse@bristol.ac.uk

5. Children of the 90s art exhibition: 10am – 5pm 3 December 2011
As a prequel to its 21st birthday in 2012, ALSPAC will be hosting an exhibition that celebrates the best of ALSPAC, based on stories (told through words, images and video) from everyone connected with the world-renowned study. From 12-4pm on the day, ALSPAC researchers will be on hand to discuss their research on topics ranging from asthma, diet and genetics to sexual health, smoking and psychosis. The event has been programmed as part of the Wellcome Trust's 75th anniversary celebrations.
Venue: M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. Admission free, no booking required. For further information contact Dara O’Hare tel: 0117 3310077
email: dara.ohare@bristol.ac.uk web: http://mshed.org/

Funding

1. Institute of Physics - Public Engagement Grant Programme (UK) deadline 7 November 2011
We distributed this opportunity in the September Digest so this is just a reminder. The first round of the 2012 Public Engagement Grant from the Institute of Physics is open for applications. The grants are worth up to £1000 and aim to support physics-based outreach activities in the UK and Ireland throughout 2012. Activities should provide engaging experiences of physics to public audiences.
web: http://www.iop.org/about/grants/outreach/page_38843.html
email: physics.society@iop.org

2. AHRC call for Research Development Awards: Research for Community Heritage, under the Connected Communities Programme – deadline 6 December
The Centre for Public Engagement is currently scoping interest in this call, and will provide support for the organisation of open days etc. that is required. If you are interested in being involved, please contact Kate Miller, Academic Liaison Officer, email: kate.miller@bristol.ac.uk or tel: 0117 3318321.
Working closely with the Heritage Lottery Fund, and potentially other partners, the aim of this initiative is to catalyse and develop sustainable links between expertise in research organisations in the area of community histories and heritage and relevant community groups. It is expected that this will lead to the development of innovative collaborative or co-produced community heritage research projects led by community groups.
http://www.ahrc.ac.uk/FundingOpportunities/Pages/CCResDevAwardsResearchCommunityHeritage.aspx

3. Connected Communities Programme: other calls

• ESRC/AHRC Tender for Public Dialogue activity – deadline 22 November http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding-and-guidance/funding-opportunities/17540/latest-opportunity-5.aspx

• Supplementary call for scoping studies and reviews focused on Arts and Humanities perspectives on communities – deadline 24 November. This open call aims to add value to the current portfolio of Programme activities by developing further the distinctive perspectives that arts and humanities can bring to our understanding of communities and connectivity, and bring these perspectives to the forefront of wider cross-disciplinary research and debates that have tended become dominated by social science and other perspectives. http://www.ahrc.ac.uk/FundingOpportunities/Pages/CCScopingStudiesAandHPerspectivesonCommunities.aspx
  

• ESRC/AHRC Tender to evaluate the one day Public Dialogue activity – deadline 29 November
  http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding-and-guidance/funding-opportunities/17540/latest-opportunity-6.aspx
  

• ESRC Community Engagement and Mobilisation – deadline 14 December. The ESRC in funding partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), working together under the Connected Communities Programme, invite outline proposals for two large research grants in the area of community engagement and mobilisation. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding-and-guidance/funding-opportunities/17540/latest-opportunity-5.aspx
  

Events & courses / calls for event proposals

1. National HE STEM programme event ‘Student involvement in STEM activities: is it a good idea, what works and how can we make it better?’ 14 November 2011
Through involvement in STEM outreach activities, students gain the experience in communicating their subject to a broad audience, equipping them with important skills for the future and motivating them in their studies. At the same time, the audiences they communicate to, often young people, find the experience of working with young and enthusiastic students a fantastic way of learning STEM material. Student involvement in such activities is now an important part of many university outreach programmes, with a variety of models being used, some offering degree credit and some offering financial reward. The purpose of this workshop is to compare and share good practice in student involvement and to see how we can work together to develop even more effective schemes in the future.
Venue: Wolfson Lecture Theatre, 4 West Building, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY
To register visit web:
http://www.hestem.ac.uk/event/he-stem-event/student-involvement
For other events offered by the programme see
web: http://www.hestem.ac.uk/events

2. Science Communication Conference 2012: deadline for session proposals 25 November 2011
The next Science Communication Conference is 14-15 May 2012 at Kings Place, London and proposals for sessions are now invited. Proposals can be on any topic relating to public engagement but proposals on this year's Conference theme of 'Impact' are particularly welcome. The theme aims to discuss the various ways to measure impact of public engagement activities as well as how scientists will consider the impact agenda of their research. Also proposals are invited under the following broad themes: cultural differences; evaluation; working with business; working with volunteers. To submit a proposal visit web:
http://survey.britishscienceassociation.org/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=l4ML5l4
Further information from web:
http://www.britishscienceassociation.org/web/ScienceinSociety/ScienceCommunicationConference/Call_for_proposals.htm

3. Impact and Engagement Museums Conference: call for session proposals deadline 27 November 2011
The Universities Museums Group and the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement have joined forces to develop a one day conference looking at Impact and Engagement in relation to public engagement in museums. They are currently inviting proposals for taster case studies for this conference, on the 7 February 2012 in Newcastle.
http://www.publicengagement.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/call-proposals-impact-and-evaluation-museums-conference

4. NCCPE Engage 2011 29-30 November 2011 – last chance to register
Venue: The Bristol Hotel, Prince Street, Bristol, BS1 4QF
Further information web: www.publicengagement.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/engage-2011-making-impact
To register visit: https://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/nccpe/engage2011/

5. People and Research South West training ‘Working together on research’: 8 December 2011
People and Research South West is a collaborative initiative to support researchers to involve the public in health and social care research, and to support the public in getting involved. We are a partnership of NHS organisations, the University of the West of England and the University of Bristol. This half day course is intended for both researchers and members of the public involved in research. We will define and discuss the concept of ‘working together’, and also consider wider factors that influence which research projects are conducted. The training will be co-facilitated by Christine Donald (Research Partner), Anne-Laure Donskoy (Research Partner) and Dr Katherine Pollard (Researcher).
Date: 2-5 pm 8 December 2011
Venue: Glenside Campus, University of the West of England, Blackberry Hill, Stapleton,
Bristol, BS16 1DD. Attendance free but booking is required in advance.
Web: http://hls.uwe.ac.uk/suci/people-and-research-south-west.aspx
Email: catrin.richards@uwe.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0)117 3288809

Other news

1. Online Media Group for Science
Online Media Group for Science is a new site for collecting a series of case studies to explore how different people and organisations use online media to communicate science with a range of audiences. The case studies are intended to be honest and interesting examples of how people and organisations have used online media - what has or hasn’t worked, and why. The site is being curated by a varied group of online users, science journalists, communicators, press officers, academics and policy makers with a common interest in helping everyone to get the most from using online media to reach new audiences. There are four easy ways of getting involved: discuss the posts; recommend organisations or people you think would make good case studies; share your story about how you use online media by using the comments section beneath a post; or provide a new case study for the site.
Web: http://www.omg-science.org.uk/

Engagers' Digest 12/10/11

In this edition of the Digest:

University of Bristol engagement

1. Centre for Public Engagement – Engage 2011 slides [all fields; all levels]
2. InsideArts festival including public discussion ‘Art for art’s sake’: 7.30 pm, 20 October 2011, Watershed [all fields; all levels]
3. University of Bristol workshop on public engagement and the REF: 15 November 2011 [all fields]
4. Calls for student nominations, Convocation Awards: deadline 4 November 2011 [all fields; students]
5. The Art of Science exhibition: 17 November 2011, 5-6 pm [all fields; all levels]

Funding

1. JISC Grant Funding: embedding impact analysis good practice in research using business and community engagement practitioners: deadline 31 October 2011 [all fields; all levels]
2. AHRC/ESRC Connected Communities Programme – call to tender to develop a public dialogue activity: deadline 22 November 2011 [Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences]
3. AHRC/ESRC Joint Call ‘Community Engagement and Mobilisation’: deadline 14 December 2011 [Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences]
4. European Commission call for proposals “Researchers’ Night 2012”: deadline 10 January 2012 [all fields; all levels]
5. Science in Society work programme – call for proposals ‘Mobilisation and Mutual Learning Action Plan’: deadline 22 February 2012 [all fields; all levels]

Events & courses

1. NCCPE Engage 2011 29-30 November 2011 – programme now available [all fields; all levels]
   
2. AHRC event ‘Public Engagement in the Arts and Humanities’: 27 October 2011, London [Arts, Humanities; all levels]
3. STEM Outreach Practitioners CoP event ‘Outreach and Widening Participation in Practice: Sharing Activities and Ideas across STEM Disciplines’: 2 November 2011 [STEM; all levels]
4. Communicate 2011 ‘Nature, People, Economics’: 2-3 November 2011 [all fields; all levels]
5. University of Warwick Seminar Series ‘Questionnaires as a method of evaluating impacts of public engagement and non-formal learning’: 16 November 2011 [all fields; all levels]
6. The Royal Society’s Local Heroes programme – a workshop on 22 November 2011, Bristol [all fields; all levels]
7. People and Research South West training ‘An introduction to public involvement in research’: 22 November 2011 [health; all levels]
8. Science Communication Conference – dates announced as 14-15 May 2012; Kings Place, London [STEM; all levels]

Other news

1. School Science Cafes outreach opportunity [STEM; all levels]
2. Call for submission of articles to new journal: DEMESCI [all fields; all levels]
3. INVOLVE membership applications: deadline 31 October 2011 [health; all levels]
4. BNHC - Media and Heritage Placement Opportunity: deadline 11 November 2011 [Heritage; all levels]

University of Bristol engagement

1. Centre for Public Engagement – Engage 2011
The slides of the presentations made by all the speakers at Engage 2011 are now available,
web: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/public-engagement/staff/training/engage2011.html

2. InsideArts festival including public discussion ‘Art for art’s sake’: 7.30 pm, 20 October 2011, Watershed
There are just a few days remaining until the University of Bristol’s first Festival of the Arts and Humanities.
The Festival ends with a public discussion ‘Art for art’s sake’ to discuss the role of the Arts and Humanities in society? To book
email: insidearts-watershed@bristol.ac.uk tel: +44 (0)117 9288515
The full InsideArts programme can be viewed at
web: http://bristol.ac.uk/inside-arts/programme

3. University of Bristol workshop on public engagement and the REF: 15 November 2011
This workshop is relevant for: impact directors, academics who are thinking of putting forward a case study that has a large public engagement component, impact expert support team.
The session will cover how impact through public engagement can be described and evidenced for the REF. It will be led by Maggie Leggett, Head of the Centre for Public Engagement, who worked closely with the National Coordinating Centre for Public Engagement and HEFCE to develop the discussion paper that was made available to REF panels to help them develop their guidelines on public engagement. The workshop will include an update on current thinking and an opportunity to discuss case studies in groups.
Date: Tuesday 15 November, 2-4 pm
Venue: University precinct; details will be circulated to attendees.
To register, please email amanda.edmondson@bristol.ac.uk
Further details are available from Maggie Leggett, maggie.leggett@bristol.ac.uk

4. Calls for student nominations, Convocation Awards: deadline 4 November 2011
Celebrate the success of a student (UG and PG) who has made a positive contribution to university life by nominating them for a Convocation Award. The 2011 Awards will be announced at the Convocation Reception on 8 December 2011 and the winners will each receive a £500 prize. The award may be given for any field and can include public engagement with more details and the application procedure from
web: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/alumni/get-involved/groups/convocation/awards/
The closing date for nominations is Friday 4 November 2011.

5. The Art of Science exhibition: 5-6 pm 17 November 2011
A wine reception and prize-giving hosted by Sir Michael Berry. Come and see a science-inspired art exhibition, from researchers here at the University including all the entries from the 2011 competition. All welcome!
Venue: E29 foyer, Medical Sciences Building, University Walk
Web: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/fmvs/artofscience


Funding

1. JISC Grant Funding: embedding impact analysis good practice in research using business and community engagement practitioners: deadline 31 October 2011
Up to £240,000 available for 8 projects of up to £30,000 each and 6 months duration starting from January 2012. Further information from
web: http://www.jisc.ac.uk/fundingopportunities/funding_calls/2011/09/grantcall15_11.aspx

2. AHRC/ESRC Connected Communities Programme – call to tender to develop a public dialogue activity: deadline 22 November 2011
Up to £15,000 to be awarded inclusive of VAT. Further details from
web: http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding-and-guidance/funding-opportunities/17540/latest-opportunity-6.aspx

3. AHRC/ESRC Joint Call ‘Community Engagement and Mobilisation’: deadline 14 December 2011
The AHRC, in funding partnership with the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), working together under the Connected Communities Programme, have issued a joint call for outline proposals for two large research grants (up to £2.4m fec each) in the area of community engagement and mobilisation. It is expected that one large grant, drawing on insights from across the social sciences and arts and humanities will be made in each of the following areas: Making of Engagement and Regulation of Engagement.
Web: http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding-and-guidance/funding-opportunities/17540/latest-opportunity-6.aspx

4. European Commission call for proposals “Researchers’ Night 2012”: deadline 10 January 2012
The Researchers' Night will be an occasion for a European-wide public and media event for the promotion of research careers. Activities should to be focused on the public at large, and feature researchers being actively involved and directly in contact with the public.
Web: http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/portal/page/people?callIdentifier=FP7-PEOPLE-2012-NIGHT

5. Science in Society work programme – call for proposals ‘Mobilisation and Mutual Learning Action Plan’: deadline 22 February 2012
This call aims to finance Mobilisation and Mutual Learning Action Plans on Societal Challenges under 3 themes: Synthetic biology; ‘Human enhancement’ technologies; Healthy and active aging.
A brochure is available at web:
http://ec.europa.eu/research/science-society/document_library/pdf_06/mobilisation-mutual-learning-work-programme-2012_en.pdf
Further information from web:
http://ec.europa.eu/research/science-society/index.cfm?fuseaction=public.topic&id=1221


Events & courses

1. NCCPE Engage 2011 29-30 November 2011 – programme now available
Venue: The Bristol Hotel, Prince Street, Bristol, BS1 4QF
Further information web:
www.publicengagement.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/engage-2011-making-impact
To register visit: https://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/nccpe/engage2011/

2. AHRC event ‘Public Engagement in the Arts and Humanities’: 27 October 2011, London
The Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) invites you to a one-day event in London to examine both the strategic and the practical challenges for researchers working in the arts and humanities wanting to engage with the public.
The event will also include a session on an upcoming AHRC call on public and community engagement (Research for Community Heritage), part of the Connected Communities programme. In addition, the results of the 2011 AHRC survey on public engagement in the arts and humanities will be presented for the first time.
Date: 10am – 4pm, 27 October 2011
Venue: Avonmouth House, London
Register by 19 October at
web: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AHRCPE
Further information at web: http://www.ahrc.ac.uk/News/Events/Pages/PEintheArtsandHumanities2011.aspx

3. STEM Outreach Practitioners CoP event ‘Outreach and Widening Participation in Practice: Sharing Activities and Ideas across STEM Disciplines’: 2 November 2011
This one day workshop, supported by the National HE STEM Programme, and organised by the University of Exeter, will explore how higher and further educational institutions, schools, professional bodies and other STEM-related organisations can work together to raise pupils’ aspirations, engage pupils in STEM subjects and encourage increased participation in HE.
With a practical focus, this workshop is intended primarily for two audiences: those considering engaging in Outreach and/or WP activities and wishing to find out more about such work; and those already involved in such activities and who would like to review or evaluate their activities.
The event is free to attend but places are limited to 60, and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Date: 10am - 4pm, 2 November 2011
Venue: At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5BD
To register visit web:
http://www.hestem.ac.uk/event/he-stem-event/outreach-and-widening-participation-practice-sharing-activities-and-ideas-across
For a listing of all the events in this series see web: http://www.hestem-sw.org.uk/news-and-events/events/

4. Communicate 2011 ‘Nature, People, Economics’: 2-3 November 2011
Communicate is the annual conference for environmental communicators – bringing together a mix of NGO’s, media professionals, business/CSR, academics and policy makers. Get informed and get involved with the crucial current and upcoming debates in the sector, and get direct feedback on your own communication campaigns.
Venue: The Council House, College Green, BS1 5TR
Web: http://www.bnhc.org.uk/home/communicate.html
Email: Ben Connor ben@bnhc.org.uk

5. University of Warwick Seminar Series ‘Questionnaires as a method of evaluating impacts of public engagement and non-formal learning’: 16 November 2011
Bringing together engagement, learning and communication practitioners, evaluators and academic researchers with a shared interest in 'impact'. This seminar will offer insights into the ways in which questionnaires can be used to access a wide range of outcomes. It also offers 'top tips' that every consumer or producer of questionnaire-based evidence of impacts should know. Date: 11am – 4pm 16 November 2011 Cost: £75 including lunch
Register at: web:
https://jensen.wufoo.com/forms/evaluating-impacts-seminar-series-registration/

6. The Royal Society’s Local Heroes programme – a workshop on 22 November 2011, Bristol
Aimed primarily at smaller organisations that traditionally do not have a science focus, such as museums, galleries, archives and libraries this opportunity may be of relevance to some readers. The focus is on developing science activities for schools. Admission is free.
Venue: SS Great Britain
To book visit: http://royalsociety.org/education/local-heroes/
Email: education@royalsociety.org

7. People and Research South West training ‘An introduction to public involvement in research’: 22 November 2011
People and Research South West is a collaborative initiative to support researchers to involve the public in health and social care research, and to support the public in getting involved. We are a partnership of NHS organisations, the University of the West of England and the University of Bristol. This half day course is intended for researchers who would like to involve members of the public in their research projects more effectively. We will consider different models of involvement including how the public can be involved on research panels, advisory groups, as research partners, peer researchers and user-led research. The training will be co-facilitated by Professor David Evans and Research Partner, Rosemary Davies, of the University of the West of England.
Date: 2-5 pm 22 November 2011
Venue: University Hospitals Bristol Education Centre, Upper Maudlin Street, BS2 8AE. Attendance free but booking is required in advance.
Web: http://hls.uwe.ac.uk/suci/people-and-research-south-west.aspx
Email: catrin.richards@uwe.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0)117 3288809

8. Science Communication Conference – dates announced as 14-15 May 2012; Kings Place, London
A call for proposals will follow shortly.
web: http://www.britishscienceassociation.org/ScienceCommunicationConference

Other news

1. School Science Cafes outreach opportunity
Would you like to share your passion and enthusiasm with the next generation of scientists, engineers and mathematicians? The Gordano School Science Cafes have been running for two years and are always well attended by interested 14 to 16 year olds from North Somerset schools. The format is the same as normal science cafes; a 20 minute presentation by an expert (you!), followed by a short break for refreshments, before finishing with a question and answer session. So if you’re a scientist, engineer or mathematician looking to reach young people in the local area and would like to deliver a science café please do get in contact.
My name is Mark Nelson and I can be contacted at
email: mark.nelson2@n-somerset.gov.uk or tel: +44 (0)1275 885301.

2. Call for submission of articles to new journal: DEMESCI
The Journal of Deliberative Mechanisms in Science (DEMESCI) is an interdisciplinary journal that publishes articles about the relationship between science and the rest of society. Specifically, the journal is dedicated to the mechanisms and methodologies that allow the public to participate in scientific decision-making. The first issue will be available in February 2012.
email: demesci@revistashipatia.com
web: http://www.revistashipatia.com/index.php/demesci

3. INVOLVE membership applications: deadline 31 October 2011
INVOLVE has a key national role supporting public involvement in NHS, public health and social care research. They are looking for people with an understanding and experience of public involvement in research to become members and join their Working Groups. The deadline for making an application for membership of INVOVE is 12 noon on Monday 31st October 2011. Further information from
web: http://www.invo.org.uk/Membership.asp
email: membership@invo.org.uk tel: +44 (0) 2380 651088

4. BNHC - Media and Heritage Placement Opportunity: deadline 11 November 2011
The Bristol Natural History Consortium has been awarded a four year grant (2010-2014) from Heritage Lottery Fund to deliver short placements training new media skills in a heritage context. Applications are now open for the third placement, which will take place from January– June, 2012. Placements are full-time in the BNHC office and trainees receive a monthly bursary stipend of £1200. For further details and an application form please visit
web: http://www.bnhc.org.uk/home/about/skills.html Email: sarah@bnhc.org.uk

JISC funding for embedding impact analysis

JISC Grant Funding: embedding impact analysis good practice in research using business and community engagement practitioners.

Deadline for proposals 12:00 noon UK time on 31 October 2011.
Up to £240,000 available for 8 projects of up to £30,000 each and 6 months duration starting from January 2012.

The Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) has just launched a new funding call to encourage skills sharing between researchers, engagement practitioners and information management specialists. The project, which will be facilitated by the NCCPE, focuses on the highly topical area of research impact. It invites people to form partnerships to synthesise and
share learning about how to embed technology-enabled good practice in impact analysis in research departments, using the expertise of Business and Community Engagement staff.

Further information from:
http://www.jisc.ac.uk/fundingopportunities/funding_calls/2011/09/Grant%20Call%2015_11.aspx

Engagers’ Digest – 19/9/11

Here is the September edition of Engagers’ Digest. Please cascade this bulletin onwards to interested colleagues.

In this edition of the Digest:

University of Bristol engagement

1. Centre for Public Engagement – Engage 2011 and Discover 2012 [all fields; all levels]
2. Talk – ‘Will the real science please stand up?’ - 7 October 2011 3 pm [STEM; all levels]
3. InsideArts – The University of Bristol Festival of the Arts and Humanities 18-20 October 2011 [all fields; all levels]
4. Poetry Translation Competition for students: submission deadline 30 September 2011 [all fields; students]
5. Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition 2012: proposals deadline 24 October 2011 [STEM; all levels]
6. Volunteers to talk to Bristol's older people [all fields; all levels]
7. Volunteers for Black History Day on 1 November 2011 [Arts & Humanities and Education; all levels]

Funding

1. RCUK – update on Catalysts public engagement funding [all fields; all levels]
2. Association of Art Historians - Museum bursary: deadline 19 November 2011 [AAH members; all levels]
3. Institute of Physics Public Engagement Grant Scheme 2012 – deadline 7 November 2011 [physics; all levels]

Events & courses

1. Ri training ‘How to engage with 7 to 11 year olds’: 24 September 2011 [STEM; all levels]
2. Public Engagement Workshops for EPSRC-funded researchers: 30 September 2011 [EPSRC-funded researchers]
3. National Science & Engineering Week Info Sessions – 5 October 2011 [STEM; all levels]
4. Communicate 2011 ‘Nature, People, Economics’: 2-3 November 2011 [all fields; all levels]
5. FameLab science communication competition: 12 November 2011 [STEM; all levels]
6. NCCPE Engage 2011 29-30 November 2011 – registration now open [all fields; all levels]
7. Community of Practice for STEM Outreach and WP Practitioners - Shadowing Scheme [STEM; all levels]
8. Bright Club Bristol: volunteers needed [all fields; all levels]
   

Internships & placements

1. ESRC Cabinet Office internship: closing date 30 September 2011 [social sciences; ESRC PhD award holders]
   
2. ESRC Home Office (UK Border Agency) internship: closing date 30 September 2011 [social sciences; ESRC PhD award holders]
3. STFC/POST postgraduate placement scheme: closing date 10 October 2011 [STEM; STFC PhD students]
   
4. MRC Policy internship scheme: closing date 31 October 2011 [medical research; MRC PhD students]
   

University of Bristol engagement

1. Centre for Public Engagement
Engage 2011 - Just a few days to go until the University’s Engage conference on 29 September so if you’d like to make a last minute registration visit web: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/public-engagement/staff/training/engage2011.html

Discover 2012: Thursday 8 March – Saturday 10 March
Discover is a free, hands-on festival of research that takes place in the heart of Bristol. It is an opportunity for members of the public to come and meet University of Bristol students and academics, to discuss the latest research happening in the city, and get involved in a whole host of demonstrations, challenges and experiments. The aim is to inspire and enthuse local people with University of Bristol research, and open up discussions about the current cutting-edge work and discoveries made in their city.
If you would like to get involved, or are planning your own public event around this time and would like to link with Discover, please contact Dane Comerford on dane.comerford@bristol.ac.uk, tel: +44 (0) 117 3318315

2. Talk – ‘ Will the real science please stand up?’ - 7 October 2011 3pm
A lecture on public engagement with science by Dr Michael Brooks. This lecture will explore the truth about science and scientists and the implications for public engagement with science on fronts as diverse as the media, education, climate change and chats in the pub. Michael Brooks is a New Scientist consultant and the author of Free Radicals: The Secret Anarchy of Science and 13 Things That Don’t Make Sense: The Most Intriguing Scientific Mysteries of our Times.
Venue: Lecture Theatre A1.4, School of Medical Sciences. Admission free.
Further information: phil.langton@bristol.ac.uk

3. InsideArts – The University of Bristol Festival of the Arts and Humanities: 18-20 October 2011
The Arts Faculty is holding the University of Bristol's first Arts Festival, InsideArts. There will be three keynote lectures on themes central to the Arts Faculty, and a range of complementary events and activities such as public talks and workshops, musical performance and a screening of student films.

The Festival culminates in a public discussion at the Watershed on 20 October 7.30 pm - Art for art’s sake? - chaired by Professor Jon Keating, Dean of Science, in which three academics from the Faculty of Arts and three external speakers address the issue of why Arts and Humanities matter.
Further information from web: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/arts/festival tel: +44 (0)117 92 88515, email: inside-arts@bristol.ac.uk

4. Poetry Translation Competition for students: submission deadline 30 September 2011
Fancy your hand at translating poetry? Then why not put your language skills into practice and enter our poetry translation competition. Run as part of the University’s InsideArts festival and open to students at Bristol, Bath and Exeter Universities, the results will be announced at a public event during the festival on 19 October. Modern and classical languages, and British Sign Language are all accepted. Submission deadline: 30 September 2011.
For further information, please see
web: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/arts/festival/poetry-competition.html and http://www.bristol.ac.uk/arts/festival/programme/#poetry-workshop

5. Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition 2012: proposals deadline 24 October 2011
Would you like the opportunity to promote your research to a wide public audience and other key influencers? Each year the Royal Society selects teams from the cutting edge of UK science and technology to showcase their research. The 2012 Summer Science Exhibition will take place from 3 -8 July; why not submit a proposal to be one of the exhibitors in 2012?

For further information see http://royalsociety.org/How-to-exhibit/
Deadline for proposals is Monday 24 October 2011.
Please contact Dane Comerford at the Centre for Public Engagement if you have an idea for an exhibit and are considering applying – we can help you with your proposal, applying for funding and project management; dane.comerford@bristol.ac.uk, tel (0117) 3318315.

6. Volunteer to talk to Bristol's older people
The Students' Union and LinkAge Bristol are looking for volunteers to talk to local older people's groups about fascinating topics (be they academic subjects, personal interests or areas of expertise). If you think you could deliver a talk in an accessible and enjoyable way, and for more information, please email: rachel.miller@bristol.ac.uk.

7. Volunteers for Black History Day on 1 November 2011
The Students’ Union is running a Black History Day on 1 November for school students from 3 local schools. The day will include cultural (music, drama, dance) events and educational workshops. If anybody would like to get involved; to run a workshop, talk or session for year 7 and 8 students that broadly fits the theme of Black History Month, we would love to hear from them. For more information, please email: rachel.miller@bristol.ac.uk.


Funding

1. RCUK – update on Catalysts funding
For information: you may have seen the RCUK call for funding ‘Public Engagement with Research: Catalysts’. We have been informed that the University of Bristol will not be eligible for this funding as Bristol was part of the original Beacons for Public Engagement initiative.

2. Institute of Physics Public Engagement Grant Scheme 2012 – deadline 7 November 2011
The first round of the 2012 Public Engagement Grant from the Institute of Physics is now open for applications. The grants are worth up to £1000 and aim to support physics-based outreach activities in the UK and Ireland throughout 2012. Activities should provide engaging experiences of physics to public audiences. web: http://www.iop.org/activity/outreach/
email: physics.society@iop.org.

3. Association of Art Historians - Museum bursary: deadline 19 November 2011
This scheme aims to create a cross-dialogue between university-level teachers and researchers and museum and gallery curators, and to promote art historical research and its dissemination in museums and galleries through collaboration and individual awards. Awards are tenable for a maximum of 12 months and are worth between £200 and £5,000.
web: http://www.aah.org.uk/page/3248

Events & courses

1. Ri training ‘How to engage with 7 to 11 year olds’: 24 September 2011
The Royal Institution of Great Britain is holding a one day training course to help improve scientists’ and engineers’ abilities to engage with 7-11 year olds. web: http://www.rigb.org/contentControl?action=displayEvent&id=1194

2. Public Engagement Workshops for EPSRC-funded researchers: 30 September 2011
A workshop for full-time academic researchers funded by EPSRC with at least 2 years post-doc research experience. venue: Bristol Zoo web:
http://www.britishscienceassociation.org/web/ScienceinSociety/EPSRC_workshops/index.htm
email: events@britishscienceassociation.org

3. National Science & Engineering Week Info Sessions: 5 October 2011
The National Science & Engineering Week (NSEW) takes place next year from 9–18 March 2012 with the theme “our world in motion.” An information session for NSEW is being run in Bristol on date 5 October 2011 at 6 pm. Come along and find out how you can take part. Venue: SS Great Britain, Viridor Theatre, Western Dockyard, BS1 6TY Further information from web:
http://www.britishscienceassociation.org/web/NSEW/AboutNSEW/InfoSessions/index.htm?source=pscicom&creative=infosess2
To register: http://nsew-bristol.eventbrite.com

4. Communicate 2011 ‘Nature, People, Economics’: 2-3 November 2011
Communicate is the annual conference for environmental communicators – bringing together a mix of NGO’s, media professionals, business/CSR, academics and policy makers. Get informed and get involved with the crucial current and upcoming debates in the sector, and get direct feedback on your own communication campaigns. Join us this year for a special focus on:
• The new models of communication –Robin Ince from BBC Radio 4’s Infinite Monkey Cage on using comedy to make a difference
• Reconnecting Nature and Economics – debated by experts from all fields including Futerra, Juliet Davenport of Good Energy, Coca-Cola, RSPB, New Economics Foundation.
• An overview of the Natural Environment White Paper, and a chance to influence the future third sector and policy cooperation of the “Living with Environmental Change” programme.
• Communicating difficult issues – led by Aubrey Manning and Mark Lynas
• The Psychology of Persuasion – with international guests Zoos Victoria presenting their world leading campaign that forever changed the perspective of zoo visitors in Australia.
venue: The Council House, College Green, BS1 5TR
web: http://www.bnhc.org.uk/home/communicate.html
email: Ben Connor ben@bnhc.org.uk

5. FameLab science communication competition: 12 November 2011
Beacon for Wales is hosting one of six autumn regional heats of FameLab, the UK's biggest competition for new talent to engage the public in science. The Cardiff heat will take place in Chapter Arts Centre on 12 November 2011. The winner of the regional heats will get the chance to take part in a weekend Masterclass with Professor of Science and Society and Science communication, Kathy Sykes, and experienced trainer, specialising in media & communication skills, Malcolm Love before vying for the title of FameLab champion at the National Final on 21 March 2012 at the Royal Institution of Great Britain where they will have the chance to take home £1,750 to further their career. web: http://famelab.org/uk email: beacon@cardiff.ac.uk

6. NCCPE Engage 2011 29-30 November 2011
Registration now open. Venue: The Bristol Hotel, Prince Street, Bristol, BS1 4QF
Further information web:
http://www.publicengagement.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/engage-2011-making-impact
To register visit: https://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/nccpe/engage2011/

7. Community of Practice for STEM Outreach and WP Practitioners - Shadowing Scheme
On offer from HE STEM is a Shadowing Scheme. A school teacher or FE lecturer can spend a day in a university shadowing a lecturer and/or student on a programme relevant to their discipline. In turn, a member of the university's teaching staff can visit a school/FE college to shadow the teacher/ FE lecturer/student for a day. Thereby providing opportunities for schools, FE colleges and universities to develop more collaborative relationships and provide better support for students in their transition to higher education. The scheme will reimburse reasonable travel and out of pocket expenses in return for reflective evaluations of shadowing activities.
web: http://labspace.open.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=6767 email: Laura Bonner at m.l.bonner@exeter.ac.uk

8. Bright Club Bristol: volunteers needed
Following the success of Bright Club in London a similar event is being organised for Bristol. Billed as the 'Thinking Person's Variety Night' if you would like to volunteer to take part please contact Hayley Birch on hayley@soundsofscience.co.uk
web: http://www.brightclub.org/


Internships & placements

1. ESRC Cabinet Office internship: closing date 30 September 2011
This joint initiative is an opportunity for current ESRC PhD award holders to undertake an internship at the Cabinet Office working on a topic grounded in the social sciences. Full-time students will receive a funded extension to their award covering the length of the internship and up to a maximum of £3,000 (based on a three-month internship) for travel and accommodation expenses.
http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding-and-guidance/funding-opportunities/2364/Student_Internship_Scheme_.aspx

2. ESRC Home Office (UK Border Agency) internship: closing date 30 September 2011
This joint initiative is an opportunity for current ESRC PhD award holders in full-time study or part-time equivalent to undertake an internship at the Home Office working on a topic grounded in the social sciences. The aim of the project will be to contribute evidence to answer key policy or operational questions in the area of UK migration.
http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding-and-guidance/funding-opportunities/16975/ESRC_and_Home_Office_UK_Border_Agency_internship_initiative_.aspx

3. STFC/POST postgraduate placement scheme: closing date 10 October 2011
The scheme provides an opportunity for a postgraduate to be seconded to the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology to assist in providing objective briefing material for MPs and Peers for a three months period.
http://www.stfc.ac.uk/Resources/pdf/2012POSTSTFCApplication.pdf

4. Medical Research Council policy internship scheme: closing date 31 October 2011
Under this scheme, MRC-funded PhD students will have the opportunity to undertake a three-month policy internship at the Academy of Medical Science offices in central London. Students will be supported by a three-month extension to their MRC PhD stipend while they are based at the academy.
http://www.mrc.ac.uk/Fundingopportunities/Fellowships/Policyinternshipscheme/MRC008130