Café Scientifique events provide relaxed settings in which we can talk about the latest thought-provoking science issues. These take place in cafés, bars and restaurants and other non-academic venues. What's more, you don't have to be a scientist or science student to take part. Café Scientifique is about the science of life and how it shapes our world. Because of this, everyone is welcome.
Creating an informal, friendly environment is central to Café Scientifique. It helps to encourage open and interesting debate. Where you can offer your opinions, ask questions or just listen. The informal Café Scientifique network is made up of different individuals, groups and organisations running events around the world.
The Café Scientifique concept is now being brought to UK schools, with the Junior Café Scientifique scheme. Students are empowered to organise the event for themselves. This scheme offers a unique opportunity for students to meet working scientists and explore scientific issues in a relaxed café atmosphere.
The first ever Café Scientifique was held in Lyon, France in 1997. Science Communicator, Duncan Dallas, developed the concept in the UK, organising the first UK event in Leeds in 1998. Since then the network has grown to include members and events across the globe. Topics up for discussion have included AIDS, the Big Bang, biodiversity, cancer, climate change, Darwinism, evolution, genetically modified organisms and nanotechnology.
We've been running Café Scientifique events for the last five years in over 40 countries.We've also been using video conference technology to link events across the world, which brings a great mix of cultural ideas to the conversation.
As well as the speaker, a UK facilitator is always present at our events. The facilitator's role is vital in encouraging a lively free-flowing discussion. We work hard to ensure each event is a group-led inclusive conversation, rather than a question and answer session between the audience and the speaker.
To find out if a Café Scientifique is taking place near you, please visit our events calendar. This provides details about the Café Scientifique events being run by, or in partnership with, our centres around the world.
If you are thinking of running a Café Scientifique event, there are a few basic things you will need, including:
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a dedicated organiser or team |
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an appropriate venue (non-academic) |
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an inspiring speaker and topic |
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a facilitator or chairperson |
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an audience. |
The Café Scientifique network can provide you with practical advice and support. If you would like to run an event in partnership with the British Council, we can put you in touch with our centres around the world, many of whom run a local Café Scientifique programme. Please contact Bethan Everitt for more information.
We have also put together some useful information for anyone wishing to organise a Café Scientifique event.
Find out where we are active in running a Café Scientifique programme. To get a flavour of Café Scientifique, take a look at some photos and reports from some of the recent events that took place in Serbia.
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