We are delighted that ADAPT’s #DiscussAI Think-Ins are one of 47 projects to receive funding through the SFI Discover Programme announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD and Minister for Education Norma Foley TD today. The projects are aimed at improving public understanding of science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM).       

‘Citizens’ Think-Ins: A Multi-Stakeholder Approach To Community Engagement With STEM’ will bring people together to discuss and deliberate the benefits, risks and potential issues facing us in the digital age. The funding will enable us to address AI and data innovation challenges through idea generation, co-creation, transparent public deliberation, discussion and reflection. ADAPT’s Education and Public Engagement Officer, Dr Emma Clarke said “We are excited to continue the conversations about the impact that Artificial Intelligence and technology has on our lives. There will be numerous opportunities for people, organisations and communities to get involved throughout the year.”

Minister Harris TD said: “Through initiatives such as the SFI Discover Programme, we must support the public to have access to, and understand, the issues that impact our collective future, and the role science and technology can play in providing solutions. I wish all the recipients every success in the rollout of their projects.”

The awards will also see two school-focused projects from ADAPT’s #DiscussAI initiative supported:

AI in My Life: This programme encourages Transition Year students to evaluate the social, ethical and privacy implications of Artificial Intelligence, and consider the exciting range of careers available in AI. The workshops are currently being offered to 20 schools in communities via the DCU Access Service.

Technology in my Life: Aimed at primary schools the programme has been designed to provide 5th and 6th Class students and teachers with greater understanding of and appreciation for the technology that they use every day in school and at home.

Commenting on the announcement, Prof Philip Nolan, Director General, Science Foundation Ireland, said: “The SFI Discover Programme is a key part of our education and public engagement strategy and aims to grow opportunities for dialogue between the research community and the public.  Our research improves people’s lives and we can only do that if we work in partnership with the public at all stages of the research process. The programme also aims to improve diversity and inclusion in science, broadening participation geographically and amongst less represented voices in research. 

“STEM is such an exciting area to study and work in and we want to make it more accessible to a wide range of people. We are looking forward to working with these fantastic, creative education and engagement programmes.”