"Research Event Mediation" – MEDRECHERCHE

The "MEDRESEARCH" project proposes to develop an innovative initiative aimed at designing, producing, and managing research mediation models for researchers and event-based outreach activities.

The primary goal is to equip researchers with suitable tools and methods to engage in scientific mediation during events such as exhibitions, open days, Science Festivals, Researchers' Nights, school interactions, and public gatherings.

These event contexts present specific challenges: limited visitor time, ambient noise, the bustling atmosphere due to numerous activities, and fluctuating participant attention. Despite these constraints, such events are highly valued by the public, who enjoy the opportunity to meet a wide range of scientific professionals and explore diverse topics in one place.

The "MEDRESEARCH" project aims to reinvent mediation formats to meet the demands of these events. It seeks to design innovative, engaging, and surprising models capable of capturing the audience's attention in such settings. By tackling this challenge, MEDRESEARCH intends to provide researchers with practical and creative ways to share their work effectively, making science accessible, comprehensible, and appealing to all.

The 16 projects within the consortium will be supported throughout the project duration through a collectively designed cycle comprising three components:

1. Developing Event-Focused Research Mediation
The first axis aims to turn the challenges of event-based animation into opportunities by creating innovative, tailored models. It focuses on the development of practical, adaptable tools that allow researchers to diversify their approaches, moving away from traditional top-down methods. These inclusive models aim to actively involve the public in the exploration of knowledge. The project leaders aspire to provide attractive, ready-to-use resources adaptable to various event formats. This will enable researchers to better communicate their knowledge, regardless of the context or time constraints.

2. Training Teams in the Created Models
The project will create scientific mediation tools accompanied by tailored methodological scenarios to offer enriching experiences for the public. An initial training program will enable researchers to acquire mediation skills, understand audience expectations, and learn how to manage activities effectively. Comprehensive support will ensure their mastery of the scenarios, making them confident and creative when responding to participant interactions. These expert-validated models will be accessible and require minimal preparation, promoting smooth and effective exchanges.

3. Animating During a Cycle of Events
The project plans to showcase the mediation models during two major events: the Science Festival and Researchers' Night. These free events provide researchers with opportunities to present their scenarios, interact with the public, and promote research through various immersive activities. These events highlight the projects' achievements while strengthening the connection between science and society. They will serve as the foundation for collective work, enabling the consortium to collaborate and animate together.