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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2023.01.28.523869

Talk To A Scientist: A Framework for a Webinar-Based Science Outreach Platform for Children

Mhade, S.·Kadam, S.·Kaushik, K.
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Abstract

Given their future roles as citizens and decision makers, science outreach focused on children is important and relevant. We describe a scientist-led outreach platform (Talk To A Scientist), that uses a webinar-based approach to discuss a range of science topics with children (6-16 years). Based in India and led by two working scientists, Talk To A Scientist has been running for nearly 3 years, with a large and diverse reach across school students. In addition to webinars, the platform regularly hosts archived video content and weekly science activities, along with occasional summer family quizzes and age-specific webinars. We outline the framework used to build Talk To A Scientist, and discuss key considerations and challenges in the development and expansion of the program. We believe that the Talk To A Scientist outreach model focused on children can serve as a guideline for the implementation of similar platforms across diverse settings, and is amenable to a range of modifications to enhance engagement, sustain interest, and tailor outreach to specific groups.

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Mhade, S., Kadam, S., Kaushik, K.. 2023-01-30. Talk To A Scientist: A Framework for a Webinar-Based Science Outreach Platform for Children. https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.01.28.523869

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