Science Communication, Information and Participatory Methodologies: Key Success Factors in a Public Debate on the Freshwater Crisis

Abstract

The article considers how discrete disciplines such as documentary research, participatory methodologies and the public communication of science can, if used synergistically, provide the necessary elements for a public debate on a scientific issue of current interest. In this instance, the debate formed part of a CNR- British Council, Rome branch and the Civil Protection Department project for the communication of science to young people, and the theme chosen for dis- cussion was the freshwater crisis. It is important to ensure that schools offer suitable learning environments and provide innovative teaching techniques to encourage students to explore the social dimensions of the scientific issues they are dealing with.