11th International Conference on Public Communication of Science & Technology, India

August 25, 2010

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Job Description: Public Communication of Science & Technology (PCST) is important for the economic and social wellbeing of society and for the exercise of participatory democracy. It implies the ability to respond to technical issues and problems that pervade our daily lives. It does not mean detailed knowledge of scientific principles, phenomena or technologies, but rather an appreciation of the way science works and how the community can interact with science to help shape its work. New technologies and new media can trigger and sustain public interest in S&T, allowing a dialogue to developing and preparing the people for change.
The 11th PCST Conference will deliberate on both practical and theoretical aspects of science communication, in a
globalised world with major inequalities and development challenges. Science communication practitioners and analysts from all continents will compare experiences and perspectives on science-based issues of today and tomorrow.
India, one of the most emerging economies, is uniquely positioned to host a discussion on the role of science in modern society. Poised between modern and developing nations, India represents the future: a world where everything is under challenge including the old frontiers.
Objectives :
The aim of 11th PCST-2010 is to consider new ways of thinking about science communication, and new ways of putting the best ideas into practice, models, tools, policy matters and social factors involved in public communication of science and technology. In the footsteps of previous conferences in Malmo/Copenhagen (2008), Seoul (2006), Barcelona (2004), Cape Town (2002) and before, the Conference will provide an opportunity for the presentation and open discussion of all kinds of ideas, experiences and works related to science communication, popularisation and literacy.
Focal Theme and Sub Themes : The focal theme of the conference is ‘Science Communication Without Frontiers’.
Five Scientific Sessions with the following sub-themes will be organized :
1. A Critical Review of Science Communication in the World
Science communication has different functions in industrialized and developing countries. What are some of the
new national approaches being taken in different countries, and how do they compare?
2. Science Communication Studies & Research
This session focuses on practical aspects linking the theory of science communication to practice, including novel
and innovative practices, techniques and models of science communication, besides teaching science engagement to
scientists and communicators.
3. Role of Science Centres & Science Museums
Case studies and success stories on various aspects of science centres and museums. It will include discussions on
science cities, mobile and fixed science exhibitions, science circus, science cafe and planetariums, etc.
4. Science Communication through Mass Media
The session discusses on S&T coverage in mass media, including new media approaches. How can media be
employed to promote societal dialogue rather than one way dissemination a in a media society?
5. Globalizing & Localizing Science Communication
The session examines the global issues with local significance and vice versa, while focussing on networking efforts
at global, regional and local levels to encourage flow of contents, policies, methods and practices in science
communication and their institutionalization.
Special Features : In order to enrich the conference and take optimum advantage of it, following additional features are being planned as part of the Conference :
a) International Exhibition of Popular S&T Information Products & Publications **at the conference venue?
b) Seminar “Towards a Scientifically Aware & Attitudinally Rational World” will focus on critically engaging with science, where science and scientific temper play a role in managing conflicts, crises and uncertainties. The studies covering public attitudes, cross-cultural mapping of public engagement of science and deriving indicators for PCST related aspects will form part of deliberations. This Preconference seminar will take place at Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh) during December 04-05, 2010. The visits of Stone Carving World Heritage at Khajuraho and Panna Tiger Reserve could be yet another point of attraction.
c) Workshop “Training on Science Communication” will offer practical and hands-on experience to scientists, communicators, journalists, teachers and students, etc., to fine tune their skills and abilities in PCST. The Post-conference workshop is being planned at Jaipur (Rajasthan) during December 10-11, 2010. A Heritage Visit of the Pink City, Jaipur and Taj Mahal World Heritage would be an added feature.
d) During the conference, discussions, workshops, and round tables will be organized on specific issues and
aspects, besides a dedicated session for young researchers and students.
e) Interactive Hands-on Science activities during the conference.
f) Encouraging delegates to visit to experience India’s cultural heritage; folk performances; Indian spicy food
recipes and many more.
Call for Proposals :
The PCST Network, founded in 1989, aims at promoting public communication of science and technology,
encouraging discussion on PCST related issues, and linking practices and theories in varied cultures and countries.
The proposals for the 11th PCST 2010 Conference are welcome from individuals, or from groups who wish to
propose a joint session. They may cover any of the following aspects of science communication:
· Public engagement strategies;
· Media representations;
· New media challenges and opportunities;
· Theories and models of science communication;
· Evaluation of public engagement initiatives;
· Public literacy and understanding; and
· Informal learning.
Proposals may be put forward for several forms of presentation, such as a paper that outlines research results, offers substantive theoretical reflection or proposes or evaluates practical initiatives. It may also be a proposal for a seminar on research or theory with details of participants and the topics; a workshop that explores and demonstrates practical techniques; an argument that could be included in a round-table debate; a poster that graphically summarises work-in-progress. Members of the PCST Scientific Committee will review the submitted proposals.
Special consideration will be given to proposals that link theory and practice, incorporate different disciplines, explore cross-cultural dimensions of science communication and encourage discussions. The proposal template can be downloaded from the website.
Who can Participate : The conference is designed for the participants from all possible interest groups including policy bodies, government agencies, universities, media houses, science and technology institutions, research and development organizations, learned and professional societies, etc. It may attract researchers, teachers and practitioners of PCST movement i.e. scientists, technologists, academicians, science teachers, writers, science communicators, journalists, editors, research scholars, science students and faculty members of journalism, public relations and information officers of scientific organizations, science museums and science centres, representatives of media organizations, newspapers, magazines, science producers of radio/ TV channels, science activists from
NGOs; and government officials, policy makers.
How to Reach New Delhi : New Delhi, the capital of India, is one of the most vibrant and metropolitan cities and serves as a commercial, academic, scientific and cultural hub in the northern India. New Delhi is well connected by Air, Rail and Road from all major cities in India. It is also on air route of all major international airlines. For information : www.incredibleindia.org; www.theashokgroup.com; www.delhitourism.com; www.irctc.co.in; www.airindia.com
Weather : Weather would be pleasant in December in India. Temperature in New Delhi would be around 10-20
Degree Celsius. Sufficient woollens are recommended.
Travel Fellowship : There is some provision of travel fellowships for Indian delegates. International delegates will make their own travel arrangements, except specially invited speakers. The organizers may consider providing local hospitality, i.e. stay, meals, local transport, etc., for some selected foreign delegates. Information on travel fellowships for the delegates from developing countries will be available latter on the website in case there is a possibility.