Viver Astronomia

Informal education programme in astronomy that makes use of the practice of science communication as a way to enhance formal science education, and stimulate the development of communication skills.

Imagem Viver Astronomia

Objectives

  1. Emphasise, right from the initial academic training, the importance of science communication in the context of scientific research.
  2. Reinforce formal scientific knowledge through the practice of science communication.
  3. Stimulate the development of communication skills.

Reach

More than 500 students, from university and high school.

To nurture a culture of science communication

There is a need for a growing number of motivated people who are able to create a bridge between scientific research and the public, with a strong scientific component and communication skills. Investing and developing these characteristics in science students and future researchers is essential.

The Viver Astronomia is an informal education programme in astronomy that makes use of the practice of science communication as a way to enhance formal science education, stimulate the development of communication skills, and emphasise the importance of science communication in the context of scientific research.

Having initially been designed for students in the first cycle of higher education, currently also include high school students, as well as MSc and PhD students. In addition to these, community members are also involved.

Young scientists communicating science

The programme consists of training aimed at students and their involvement in science communication events. In this format, they receive monthly training given voluntarily by researchers in astronomy and astrophysics, as well as by science communication professionals.

The knowledge acquired by the students is actively put into practice in periodic public outreach activities, where they have an active role in organising events, interacting with the public and communicating scientific knowledge.

To build a community around science communication  

The project began in 2009 with 14 students from the Physics course of the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon. Currently, more than ten years since its creation, it has the active participation of more than 50 students from different areas of knowledge, colleges and universities. With an average enrollment of 2 students per month, it became self-sustained, with more than 500 students that already experienced the programme.

Do you want to join the programme? 

If you want to join the programme or receive more information, please contact us.

 

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Scope:

National

Coordination:

João Retrê (Instituto de Astrofísica e Ciências do Espaço)

Funding:

Instituto de Astrofísica e Ciências do Espaço