Parallel Session 5: Wednesday 10 April 10:15 - 12:00
Using animals in scientific research has been critical to the development of modern medicine. Although there are moves for more openness and transparency in basic research laboratories, animal research facilities remain some of this most inaccessible to the public. The majority of respondents to the 2016 Ipsos MORI poll did not feel well informed about animal research, and 28% also responded that they did not want to know more (Ipsos Mori, 2016, p. 25). Why is this? Does the information lack context, or is it inaccessible or too daunting for a person to explore on their own? What do the public want to know, how do they want to know and what do they not want to know?
What method allows you to lay out scientific, technical, political, historical and ethical strands for a cautious public to explore? How can difficult and challenging processes and concept be transformed into play without trivialising the subject matter or troubling stakeholders
This session will provide a practical overview and critical reflections using Vector; an immersive experience which used elements of performance, game and integrated technology, co-created with interactive and immersive performance makers The Lab Collective, as a case study.
The session shall touch on;
- The R&D phase - building content, managing expectations, and navigating boundaries.
- World Building and play testing - refining content, pragmatism and resourcefulness.
- Performance and pre and post engagement - creating meaningful interactions beyond the duration of the experience.
