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Madison's NanoCafes, USA
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Madison's NanoCafes, USA
Method(s) Used
Name of person who posted the project:Karin Gavelin (Involve)
Location of project:United Kingdom
Date when the project started:2005
Date when the project ended/project ongoing:
Background to project:The Citizens' Coalition on Nanotechnology (CCoN) formed as a result of a Consensus conference on Nanotechnology organized at the University of Wisconsin - Madison in the spring of 2005 (see http://www.peopleandparticipation.net/display/CaseStudies/Madison+Area+Consensus+Conference+on+Nanotechnologies ).. This event provided a diverse group of citizens from the Madison-area with the opportunity to work together and influence public policy on this important new technology. Their recommendations are summarized in a report. . Afterwards, several members of the citizen panel wanted to continue engaging with scientists and educating the public about nanotechnology. A professor involved in last spring's conference suggested the Science Cafe idea, having attended one in Europe. . The concept of the Cafe Scientifique originates in 1997 from France (where Cafes Philosophiques were already well established) and in 1998 from England. . Since then, Cafes Scientifiques have sprung up not only in Europe but also elsewhere across the world. Madison's Nano Cafes are slightly different in the sense that they focus only on nanotechnology. . Purpose of project:.Project activities:The Nano Cafe provides a casual atmosphere in which people who want to know more about nanotechnology can listen to experts, ask questions and share ideas.. UW-Madison experts explain their work, answer questions and address concerns from members of the public as part of a lively conversation about the impact of recent research. . The focus of the event is determined by the attendees, most of whom are non-scientists. No science background is required. . In order for Nano Cafes to be as democratic and participative as possible, attendees are asked to point out the themes they want to hear more about during the next Nano Cafes. . Project results:.Contact details:Email: nano.cafes@gmail.com. Website: http://www.nanocafes.org/ . |
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