BU Research Blog

Do you remember the programme ‘Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction’ or today’s ‘Fact or Fiction’?

These two very popular television programmes challenged the audiences and members of the public to identify which one was true, and which one was false. This used to be quite a thought-provoking activity, challenging people’s perceptions and beliefs.

Is your research challenging and inspiring? Will it stimulate debate and discussion on ‘what’s right?’ and ‘what’s wrong?’

A ‘Fact or Fiction’ themed event will not only be enjoyable and insightful for the event organisers, but also for the members of the public who will be a part of this exciting and educational activity. Theming your event and encouraging attendees to participate will help them to learn and remember this one-of-a-kind experience.

Here are some examples for inspiration from other Festivals (including the British Science Festival 2012 and 2013) of ‘Fact or Fiction’ styled events:

Cyber Pearl Harbour: Fact or Fiction? – Organised by Northumbria University

The picture painted by the US Defense Secretary of successful cyber attacks is one of doom and destruction. Is this a picture of cold harsh realities or political hype?

Food Addiction: Fact or Fiction? – Organised by Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen and University of Essen, Germany

There are many complex factors which lead to people being overweight or obese, but the basic question is why do some people eat too much? Are they addicted to food? Join our international panel of psychiatrists and scientists to explore whether eating food can be so rewarding that it leads to a state of addiction similar to that seen with alcohol and drugs.

CSI: Fact or Fiction? – Organised by Robert Gordon University

Internationally renowned forensic scientist David Barclay has over 30 years’ experience and has worked on some of the highest profile cases in the UK and abroad. Discover how science played a key part in investigating these crimes and how scientific evidence is evaluated in the overall context of the investigation. Supplementary workshops at RGU will allow you to see first-hand some of the forensic techniques used.

Will you participate in the Festival of Learning: Fact or Fiction?

If you would like to get involved in the Festival of Learning 2014 by hosting an event like ‘Fact or Fiction‘ and/or have some exciting ideas for any other type of public engagement activity, please register your interest with either myself,  Naomi Kay: or my colleague Harry Gibson

And do remember the proposal deadline is the 19th December