Evaluation of Voyage of Discovery
Client: University of Plymouth
Duration: 2 years
Funder: European Commission - Horizon Europe
Evaluation approach
The Social Research Unit’s evaluation uses a mixed methods approach to assessing the impact of the European Researchers’ Nights and Researchers in Schools activities. The team will develop unobtrusive and innovative tools to glean maximum insight from events and activities, while not detracting from participants’ enjoyment of the activities. Data will be collated and analysed to identify the impacts, outcomes and key learnings across the various activities and events.
Overview
Voyage of Discovery: Exploring Research Together is the University of Plymouth’s European Researchers’ Night programme showing how research drives inclusion, opportunity, innovation and growth. It will inspire citizens across Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall by connecting them with the people and ideas shaping our shared future. In a region marked by high deprivation, rural isolation and low participation in higher education, the project will break down barriers to science by taking research into schools, town centres, coastal communities and online.
The programme combines large-scale public showcases with targeted work in disadvantaged communities. A flagship science and culture festival will bring thousands into central Plymouth to experience hands-on demonstrations, exhibitions and performances. Immersive film and digital storytelling will transport audiences into ocean expeditions, climate science and sustainable cities. A dedicated Researchers in Schools strand will place early career researchers, including Horizon-funded alumni, into classrooms as role models, raising aspirations in schools with the lowest access to higher education.