Café Scientifique is a forum for debating science issues and promoting public engagement with science. Audiences consist of people who are interested in science but generally never have the opportunity to discuss their views with, and ask questions of, someone "in the know".
Meetings generally start with a short talk from the speaker, who is usually a scientist or a writer on science, followed by a short break for drinks. This is followed by a session of about an hour for questions and answers and general discussion. Cafés are free although a voluntary contribution may be asked for to cover any expenses. (It does not pay fees to a speaker).
Meetings take place once a month on the second Tuesday of each month, starting at 7.30pm.
Next Meeting: Tuesday 8th May, 2012
Place: The Conference Room, Hope Street Hotel
Title: The discovery of educational alternatives such as home education: how, why and who?
Speaker: Dr Helen E. Lees, The Laboratory for Educational theory University of Stirling
This talk looks at the moment of discovery of educational alternatives – in particular, contemporary discovery of home education by parents in England. The discussion highlights an empirical and theoretical context for this discovery. Questions include:
How is discovery possible?
What affect does it have on individuals and families?
Is there a moment of ‘conversion’ in people when they discover another way of educating from that of mainstream authoritarian schooling?
Does discovery involve a moment of ‘gestalt switch’ conversion between what can be called different ‘worlds’ of education?
Does this discovery hold surprises about education?
Do parents want information on various educational options to be widely available and provided by the government in the process of choosing education for their children?
Click here to go to the Cafe Scientifique website.
Please contact Michael Jackman, michaeljackman@liverpoolcafescientifique.org, if intending to attend as places may be limited.