Danio adventure. Developmental biology of the zebrafish in science popularisation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Science popularisation festivals attract more and more people every year, showing that there is a need to satisfy public curiosity. Such events are good occasions to disseminate knowledge to a large audience. The results of scientific research bring advances for mankind. Since research mostly depends on public funds, it is important to gain understanding and support for it. Scientists are also responsible for educating people in important aspects of science. In a wider perspective, science popularisation may be relevant to influencing decision-making government agencies e.g. regarding legislation about the use of animals in biomedical research. In this paper, we present one of the approaches to knowledge dissemination, namely the independent educational project, which has a more flexible formula, and may give more benefits than science festivals. Based on our experience in implementing educational projects connected with biology, we provide examples of the workflow of such a project and some useful tips. We show some quantitative data underlining the significant educational effect of this specific approach. Science popularisation in this form not only provides significant benefits both for the participants and the tutor, such as satisfaction and inspiration, but also a well-heard voice in public debate and/or useful preliminary experimental research results.