4. Lesson 1 What is public engagement

Partner readings

For Unit IV partner readings, please refer to the Resource list on the Moodle course homepage (from the menu list on the left-hand side of the page).

Topics

  • Definition of public engagement
  • Differentiating between involvement and engagement
  • Why engage the public in research?

Introduction

Public engagement describes the many ways in which the activity and benefits of higher education and research can be shared with the public, often in a social and entertaining way. Engagement should be a two-way process, involving interaction and listening, with the goal of generating mutual benefit. Public engagement often involves partnerships with other agencies, such as arts groups, museums, schools and community groups.