Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ )

  • What is Science Week?

    Science Week Ireland is an exciting and innovative annual event which first took place in 1996. Now in its 14th year, Science Week Ireland has grown to a programme of over 400 events scheduled across the country. Science Week aims to make science more interesting and accessible to children and adults alike. It highlights science, technology and engineering as being hugely relevant to us all in our everyday lives; that it develops cutting edge innovations, leads to interesting and exiting career options and develops creativity in our children.

    What are the dates?

    This year the dates are Sunday 8th – 15th November 2009, however some events are happening around the country on either side of the week. You can read about them on the website, once the calendar of events becomes available during September.

    What is the theme for Science Week 2009?

    The theme for Science Week Ireland 2009 is 'Science – Inspiring creativity and innovation’ which links to the European Year of Creativity and Innovation http://create2009.europa.eu.

    With this theme in mind we will examine and explore the importance of creativity and innovation and the vital role it plays in science, engineering and technology today.

    Who organises Science Week?

    Discover Science & Engineering plays the role of coordinator of Science Week and is responsible for national promotions, development of promotional and resource materials and partner liaison and communication. Event organisers however, work on a local level. They come from varied backgrounds including universities, Institutes of Technology, libraries, schools, community groups and industry. They volunteer their time to organise an event within the local area while the DSE provides support through coordination of all events on a National level.

    Be sure to read through our How to get involved guide (pdf, 158kb).Back to top

    Why should I get involved?

    Science Week aims to encourage an interest and passion for science among children and adults alike. There are a number of unique characteristics that make your association with Science Week Ireland appealing:

    • Personal satisfaction;
    • Image association;
    • Market reach;
    • Specific target audience;
    • Visibility during a certain period of time;
    • Improves staff morale;
    • Increases exposure;
    • Boosts profile;
    • Builds valuable relationships with other partners;
    • Media attention;
    • Reflects positively on your organisation’s name;
    • Highlights your support of the local community;
    • Connects you to youth groups.

    How can I get involved?

    There are no limits to the things you can do during Science Week, from a small Science Week quiz at lunchtime to an open day at your company. No matter how big or small, be sure to read our very own How to get involved guide (pdf, 158kB) or download our activity pack to carry out your own activities at home or in the classroom.

    Where do events take place?

    Events can take place in various locations around the country, from libraries, colleges and open days to your work canteen at lunch time.
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    How do I know what else is going on in my area?

    The online calendar of events will become availabe during September once we've received the details of events for this year's Science Week. At that point, you will be able to find out what else is going in your area.

    When do I need to upload the details of the event?

    As soon as you know the details of the event upload them to the Science Week event submission form . We encourage you to upload your event as soon as possible. Should you need to change an event detail please get in touch with us at info@science.ie or by Tel: 00353 1 607 3031.

    How do I upload details of the event?

    Uploading the details of your event couldn’t be easier! Click here for the ‘Submit Event Details’ form, you can enter all the details such as times, dates, description audience category and admission details online in a matter of minutes. There are hints on the page to help you enter your details.

    How do I upload my event photos?

    If you have taken any photos related to Science Week, please send them to us. Your photos make all the difference and help us to show people just how exciting Science Week is!

    Upload your photos here. You will be asked to enter your name, address and a caption for your picture. Then click on the ‘browse your PC’ button. A small box will pop up where you can look through your computer and find your photos. Once you have found them, select the one you want and then click open. Once this is done click on the ‘Submit your Photo’ Button. Your Science Week photo is now uploaded. Images should be in the .jpg format and be less than 1MB in size.

    How can I promote my event in my local area?

    Promoting your event and getting people interested in coming to your event is just as important as organising the event. Timing is everything when it comes to promoting as there are a lot of events nationwide during the week. It is important to let people about your event so they have enough time and details for arranging to come along.

    There are many easy ways to promote your event: post flyers and put up posters everywhere you can – schools, local businesses, cafés, shopping centres or any local notice board. We have a ready made poster for you to use or indeed design your own and ensure you use the Science Week Logo to tie in with all the events happening around the country and show people that you are taking part in Science Week.

    Another way of getting people interested in an environmentally friendly way is e-mail. Make full use of everyone you know whether they friends, family, colleagues, local community groups, local businesses or schools, send them an email invitation for your event. Ask them to forward the e-mail to everyone they know.

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    How do I get media coverage for my event?

    Once you have ironed out all the details and you know your venue, dates, times and what is going to happen, it is then time to get in touch with all the local newspapers and radio stations. The earlier you do this the better. Find out who you need to send press releases to, exactly what their deadlines are for information going to print or to air. See our example of a press release (doc, 292 kB) and what you should include. This is a professional document that should only display very clear details on the event: a brief description, times, dates, venue and most importantly your contact details.

    A good way to get people interested is to send them VIP invitations. Remember to include all local journalists and high profile members of the community. Remember to include photographers and outline the photo opportunities that there will be on the day.

    Don’t forget to submit the event to the listing section of your local paper!

    Who do I contact if I have any queries?

    You can contact Ellen Byrne on Tel: 00353 1 607 3031 or Donna McCabe on Tel: 00353 1 6073042 if you have any queries about a Science Week event, media query or the Science Week website.

    What Science Week resources and merchandise are available to me?



    How do I register for the Science Week Newsletter?

    You can register for the free Science Week e-Newsletter; simply enter your e-mail address from the panel on the right of the homepage.

    How do I find out how successful my event was?

    Find out how your event went by asking the attendees to fill in a short two minute questionnaire before they leave. Please feel free to use our questionnaire (doc, 325kb).Back to top