THE GLOBAL PLATFORM FOR SCIENCE ENGAGEMENT

OUR MISSION

At Falling Walls Engage, we aim to inspire and connect creative individuals who engage communities with science all around the world. We work to build an international community of Science Engagers who develop fresh approaches and innovative formats from the grassroots to the institutional level.

We strive to expand the recognition of Science Engagement practices worldwide together with a strong international alliance of partners and stakeholders, with the belief that a better understanding and appreciation of science can help tackle global societal challenges.

We are proudly supported by our founding partner, the Robert Bosch Stiftung, a catalyst for science on pressing social issues and successful interchange between stakeholders with different expertise and perspectives.

WHAT IS SCIENCE ENGAGEMENT?

We define Science Engagement as activities, events, or interactions bridging the gap between science and society to generate mutual learning and mutual benefits, and belonging to the spectrum between public engagement in science and science communication. Engagement is per definition a two-way process with the goal to shape and co-create scientific process together, to promote active involvement of the public and researchers in scientific knowledge production.

At Falling Walls Engage we seek participatory formats of all levels: from co-productive research and public panels to arts-driven or entertaining approaches – the common ground is the inclusion of and impact on all sides involved.

THE ENGAGE COMMUNITY WORLDWIDE

The Falling Walls Engage community is a dynamic international network made up of former Falling Walls Finalists, partner organisations and events participants. The community takes part in activities all year round, with a focus on co-learning, cross-sectoral exchange and knowledge transfer. These physical and digital events are a unique opportunity for Science Engagers to compare experience from different regional contexts, formulate common challenges, and build intercultural and interdisciplinary synergies.

FALLING WALLS REMOTE 2020

A VIRTUAL PLATFORM FOR THE BEST SCIENCE ENGAGEMENT PROJECTS

As part of the Falling Walls Conference, the best projects in Science Engagement are invited to take part in a pitch competition in front of an international audience on the 8th of November. Last November, Falling Walls Engage 2020 was hosted as a digital event by the Falling Walls Foundation in cooperation with our founding partner the Robert Bosch Stiftung. It formed part of  Falling Walls Remote 2020: a digital format that replaced our physical event in Berlin this year due to Covid-19 restrictions.

This global virtual showcase gathered and celebrated breakthroughs in science and society – the Falling Walls Breakthroughs of the Year. All categories – included Science Engagement – converged on 9 November 2020 in a top-class award ceremony and expert panel discussions.

Out of 112 Finalists, the top 10 Winners in Science Engagement were selected by our distinguished jury and presented during the virtual Winners Session on 8 November 2020. The “Breakthrough of the Year in Science Engagement” 2020 was announced on 9 November at the Falling Walls Grand Finale. Find out more here.

ENGAGE HUBS, EVENTS AND FORMATS

THE FALLING WALLS ENGAGE HUBS

To further Science Engagement worldwide, Falling Walls Engage has launched independent network nodes worldwide – the Falling Walls Engage Hubs – to connect the local and regional scientific community with the global Falling Walls community. The Hubs are an open format with a regional focus which translate into a series of events, conferences and workshops addressing specific topics in Science Engagement.

COMMITMENTS TO ACTION

With a focus on long-term outcomes, Commitments to Action (CtA) are an opportunity for Science Engagers to address a specific challenge and increase impact in Science Engagement. Open in format and collaborative, Commitments to Action serve as a ground for concrete action among supportive peers.

PODCAST

​‘As a scientist, communicator or creator, you know what makes science fascinating. Or do you?’ In the podcast ‘The Science Engage in You‘, we explore the work of scientists who are weaving creative dialogue with non-scientists around them. ‘The Science Engager In You’ is a podcast from scientists to science professionals, educators and curious minds who believe in the power of openness for positive change. We talk about everything human in Science Engagement – successes, failures and faith – and how you never accomplish anything without curiosity and doubt.

NEW COMMUNITY FORMATS

We are continuously working on new and exciting formats and channels to fulfill our mission and further spread the importance of Science Engagement around the globe. Most of our endeavours are directly supported and co-created by many individuals from our valued global community of Science Engagers.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us, if you would like to partner up, host an Engage community event or have an idea we should talk about: contact the Falling Walls Engage team via engage@falling-walls.com.