A game of science: The gamification of science literacy for hard-to-reach groups

2014 Conference

Abstract: In a long-term project partnership between Manchester Metropolitan University and Parkinson’s UK, we are developing a distinct kind of engagement activity. Instead of teaching the public about a research topic, we aim to give the public the tools they need to understand any area of science or health research they wish to engage with. By giving the public these tools we are approaching our aim – to develop a more informed audience – from a different direction to traditional public engagement projects.

Our workshops have been running for several years and have evolved in response to feedback. The workshop style allows the presenter to encourage participants to pull back a curtain and reveal how science is done. Through activities, participants are given opportunities to uncover the research cycle, understand peer review and the primary literature, and to have a go at designing a study for themselves. The skills learnt in these sessions give the audience confidence to find out more about science and engage with research, and may encourage increased patient and public involvement.

Feedback from participants is now directing this project down a new path. We are developing a table-top game – the Game of Science – to teach how science, particularly medical research, is conducted and communicated. Importantly, the table top format of the game makes it suitable for social support groups and those who do not use a computer.

This poster describes the current game prototype and discusses our philosophy for public engagement with research.

Download poster