The UK government has become increasingly aware of the need for public consultation on a range of scientific issues. The aim is to ensure successful two-way communication with the public and other stakeholders in order to make better policy. Featured below are several ways in which public dialogue informs decision-making in new areas of science and technology.
Aim to give ordinary citizens a stronger role in the decision-making process. Over a short time period, a small panel made up of members of the public hears evidence from a range of experts before discussing the issues and reaching a conclusion on the policy options available. Citizens' juries have been held on a range of scientific issues, including nanotechnology.
A card game with a difference. It is used to inform and stimulate debate on a range of biomedical issues and allows people to state their preferred policy position from a given selection. Players can also add their own policy positions. The Democs game has been used in several policy consultation exercises, for example during the 2003 debate on genetically modified food (GM Nation debate). The New Economics Foundation publish the results of the various exercises on their website. Sheffield Hallam University Centre for science education is developing a version for use in schools.
A UK government initiative that invites members of the public to share their views about new technologies, the future and society. Discussion groups and public events are held regularly throughout the UK and anyone can participate. You can view the results of these meetings, and comments from some of the people involved, on the Sciencehorizons website.
Provide links between universities and local communities. They conduct research on behalf of the community and promote and support public access to, and influence on, science, research and technology. Many universities run a science shop programme.
This programme consists of an annual series of regional workshops and a National Forum to discuss social issues surrounding science or technological development. A range of individuals take part, including members of the public, scientists, social scientists, representatives from media, industry, ministers, policy makers and civil society groups. It aims to have an impact on policy-making and to ensure public and stakeholder engagement in the process.
Aims to research, inform and improve policy, professional practice and public participation in the life sciences. It promotes research and debate on the social and ethical aspects of genetics and other life sciences. This is done with research projects, participation projects and postgraduate and continuing professional development opportunities.
| 
