Factors that Motivate or Deter Scientists to Participate in Science Festivals

Science festivals are becoming increasingly popular in South Africa as meeting places where the public can talk to scientists about their research, as well as enjoy various science-related shows such as science talks or interactive displays. Given that scientists are key actors in representing science at these public events and their participation is voluntary, understanding what motivates or deters their participation at these public events is important in order to advance science engagement strategies in South Africa. Researchers from the Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (CREST) at Stellenbosch University and the University of Warwick explored the reasons and country-specific factors that motivate or deter scientists to participate in public engagements events.