DeCiDe: Deliberative Citizens' Debates in European science centres and museums

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DeCiDe (2004-2006) developed a new way to engage the public in debate about ethical and legal aspects of life science research.

The project produced a kit to facilitate structured debate. The kit includes a series of cards representing facts, issues, policies and scenarios (participants can add their own arguments as required) that help participants to visualise the debate on a discussion board and reach consensus. An instruction booklet and background information are also available. 

The kit allows groups of citizens to carry out what DeCiDe describes as a ‘self-supporting deliberative debate on the topic of choice'. The topics covered are: 

pre-implantation genetic testing

stem cell research

xeno-transplantation

new drugs for HIV

brain research 

nanotechnology.

The initial objective of DeCiDe was to engage a diverse audience of adults and young people in several European countries through special events in science museums and other institutions. 

Between January 2006 and July 2006 over 1,200 people attended 64 DeCiDe events in 12 EU countries. The DeCiDe materials were translated into 12 languages.

The kit designed by DeCiDe was subsequently used in the FUND project which further developed the concept of participatory activities and public dialogue in scientific issues.

 

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