A commentary
Briefly analysed
Citizen dialogue or participation are terms we hear often at the moment and are supposed to be part of events. But are the events really what the terms say? Often not. Often, organisers simply rename previous events. In the long run, the misuse of these terms can be detrimental to public engagement and thus to science. Instead, the potential of citizen dialogue and participation should actually be used.
Terms Are events with citizen dialogue or participation really what they claim to be? A comment.
Citizen dialogue and participation are currently in vogue in the SciComm community, at universities or in cities. But is there really always an exchange with citizens behind it? For some events you could have the feeling that they are just renamed. The programme from five years ago is the same – only with a new title. To make it look like an exchange, the moderators invite one or two people from the audience to the stage. They are allowed to ask a question. Afterwards, they are quickly asked to return to their seats. Where is the exchange?
Consequences of the misuse of the terms
It could be that fewer and fewer people will take part in such events in the future. Because they do not get what they expect. Thus, in the long run, the misuse of these terms has a negative impact on the process of public engagement. Citizens who want to participate and discuss may stay away. They want to be noticed. If this does not happen, it will harm science in the long run. Therefore, it is necessary that a general understanding of public engagement exists. Everyone should understand what dialogue and exchange really means and what potential lies behind it.
Seek inspiration & exchange
Those who do not dare to engage in a real civil dialogue or participation can imitate. There is plenty of inspiration. For example, the MS Wissenschaft. A ship that is currently visiting various cities with its exhibition as part of the Year of Science in Germany. There are regular events for exchange between scientists and citizens, such as “Meet a Scientist”. Or the Cyber Valley, which has already developed several engagement formats. These include a citizens’ consultation hour, but also a Makerspace. In this way, those who are responsible are primarily addressing children and young people. In exchange with the practitioners, imitators can find out what went well. But they also can get tips.
Those who develop civic dialogue and participatory formats with intrinsic motivation benefit. Both as organisers, because many citizens will come. And also as scientists, because they get inspiration for new research projects.
Knowing what’s behind it
Especially when the field of public engagement is still being developed in Germany, it is important not to misuse terms. Some – even those who are responsible – do not know what public engagement means. Therefore, it is necessary to put resources into explaining the field. Practitioners must disseminate what “civil dialogue” and “participation” means. This offers the chance to really do public engagement.
NOTE
Helpful for a common understanding of public engagement is the Public Engagement Code. It was developed by various professionals, including both academics and practitioners. The code is to be constantly developed further, so everyone is invited to join in. If you are interested, please contact Rebecca Beiter from Cyber Valley.