Responsible Research and Innovation – how to develop RRI awareness among young people? European projects proposals and their results

Abstract

The need for research and innovations implemented in a responsible way is nothing new, but so far it has mainly concerned the scientific community. In the twenty first century, however, it is not enough and it is worth involving the entire society in the process. The main challenge is to find effective methods to encourage all stakeholders to participate in the RRI process. This task has been taken up by, among others, the partners of the educational project of the 7th Framework Programme, i.e. the IRRESISTIBLE project. The developed teaching materials are to assist teachers in the implementation of the RRI issues in the context of cutting edge science, using the inquiry-based (IBSE) teaching strategy, and in the development of nonformal education implemented in cooperation with museums and science centres. Module prepared by Jagiellonian University team proposes two ways of introducing the topic of RRI and its individual pillars (6 key issues): some activities are more related to chemistry aspects of the subject matter in the context of air pollution and car industry, and other activities are more located in the field of NoS (Nature of Science) – classes dedicated to the discussion on how Science develops, what the scientific method is, how scientists and research teams work. The results of the research conducted among lower secondary school students in Poland show the need to develop their sense of responsibility and the need of involvement of students in the process of responsible research and innovation, as well as the correction of some alternative conceptions related to that subject.