Under the motto “Research. Discover. Marvel,” Osnabrück University, schools, kindergartens, and businesses from Osnabrück will present scientific experiments and invite visitors to participate.
The “Experimentiermeile” is organized by the Chemistry Didactics and Science Communication Working Group at Osnabrück University. “Science often takes place behind the walls of the university. However, science itself and its findings are core components of our society and our culture,” says Daniel Becker, a doctoral candidate and organizer of the “Experimentiermeile”. “That’s exactly where the “Experimentiermeile” comes in: it brings science out of the labs and offices and right into the heart of the city. At the “Experimentiermeile”, participation and questions are expressly encouraged!”
The event kicks off on September 18 at 2:00 p.m. with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Kai-Uwe Kühnberger, Vice President for Research, Social Dialog and Outreach at Osnabrück University. Afterward, the Ledenhof will transform into a giant laboratory. How does invisible ink work? How can I easily build my own battery? Will robots be able to care for family members in the future? How does migration actually occur? Around 40 kindergartens and schools, companies from Osnabrück, as well as research groups and institutes at Osnabrück University will present their experiments and research—ranging from activities for the very youngest to applications in the business world.
In addition, the “Experimentiermeile” will be evaluated from various perspectives. “In my research, I focus on how science communication can strengthen trust in science,” explains Becker. The evaluation will be directly incorporated into Becker’s doctoral dissertation. “An understanding of science and research also has a direct impact on trust in this system. By evaluating the event, we can directly measure this effect and further develop such formats.”
“The idea of an “Experimentiermeile” has been with me for many years. I’m very pleased that we can now relaunch and further develop this format in Osnabrück,” adds Prof. Dr. Marco Beeken, head of the research group. “With this event, we aim above all to promote dialogue between science and the public. We especially want young people to carry forward their fascination with science. We hope to inspire the idea that science doesn’t take place far away, but right here among us.”
The “Experimentiermeile” will take place on Friday, September 18, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Ledenhof on Neuer Graben in Osnabrück. Admission is free.
Further information on the program and participating institutions can be found on the website.
Additional information for the media:
Daniel Becker, Osnabrück University,
School of Biology/Chemistry, Research Group on Chemistry Didactics and Science Communication
