Do You Want to Make a Battery? Insights from the Development and Evaluation of a Chemistry Public Engagement Activity

Abstract

Chemistry is often associated with formal learning environments and has been described as overly serious by the general public, lacking some of the fun and energy of other sciences. However, it is difficult to provide hands-on chemistry activities outside the lab and other formal learning environments. Here, a simple electrochemistry based activity has been used for public engagement using household items and play dough to create a fun and playful experience for all ages. The benefits afforded by outdoor learning for developing curiosity and interest in science has also been explored through different event formats. The use of a "Smiley Stand" with "emojis" for gathering participant feedback was successfully deployed alongside interviews with the "Ambassadors" who facilitated the activity. Overall, it was found that the activity encouraged two-way conversations between the participants and the ambassadors, with few negative responses and many positive ones received. The activity also impacted the ambassadors' own view of science.