Problem addressed

Skills in interpreting scientific information and the results of scientific research, or the lack of them, have come to the fore in recent years. Both the news in the media and the publication expectations of the scientific communities mean that we are confronted with a lot of this kind of information and data. Given the increased recognition and reliability of scientific results, many fake news stories have also been published, giving the appearance of scientific credibility. Understanding information, improving critical thinking and problem-solving skills is a priority for all levels of education, including higher education.

Innovative solution

During the Science for All Hackathon (realized within the framework of the Social Innovation National Laboratory, RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00013), participants work through a supported, mentored process to understand scientific results and interpret them in an accessible and easy-to-understand way.

As a result, participants' skills are developed, the competition provides an opportunity for communication between stakeholders (e.g. scientific researchers, media professionals, the general public). In addition, the media attention that accompanies the competition raises awareness of the importance of science communication. Depending on the topic of the scientific communication to be processed, scientific results in a particular field will also be highlighted.

Key results and benefits

Results of the activity is that during its four edition, there were a great interest from the students, and also an interest from the media. 

Benefits include: 

1) For the participants, the competition increases their awareness of scientific publications, improves their understanding of scientific research results, their ability to process information and filter out false information. 

Also for the participants, the competition stimulates their interest in conducting scientific research and in a career as a scientific researcher. It also promotes the recruitment of young researchers and the involvement of younger generations. 

2) The competition improves the dialogue and cooperation between the actors involved - researchers/research centres, the general public, the media. This ensures that scientific results are communicated in a way that is understandable to the general public. 

3) Competition also improves the understanding of scientific results, the processing of information and the dissemination of scientific information on a given topic to a wider audience. 

Potential for mainstreaming

The activity has the potential to organize it in an international environment.