Reverse science café
The reverse science café (RSC) is a round-the-table discussion that focuses on the perception of the participants towards a certain topic. The dialogue is started by questions and statements put forward by experts and answered by the audience. Participants work together in small groups to formulate recommendations or indicate societal needs. After a conversation at the first table, the groups move on to the next table. After all tables are visited by all groups, the main outcomes of the RSC can be highlighted in a plenary session.
The main goal of the RSC should be to obtain recommendations from the stakeholders. This feedback is essential to develop the project's solutions and attenuate these to the needs of the stakeholders.
It's very important to carefully select the participants and experts for a RSC, as they will greatly influence the outcomes. The different profiles needed for a RSC are highlighted below:
Head moderator
The host that presents the project and the experts, keeps an eye on the timing and takes the lead in the plenary parts of the program.
Group moderator
Ideally, the group moderator is different from the expert, in order to avoid any hesitation from the participants in stating their opinion. The group moderator can actively participate in the discussion, and is tasked with:
- Introducing the participants and the expert to each other.
- Keeping the discussion ongoing by asking additional questions, addressing people, ...
- Ensuring an open discussion in a positive atmosphere, involving all participants.
- Keeping an eye on the timing of the programme
- Taking notes.
Experts
Experts are scientists, researchers, clinicians... who have certain expertise on the topic. The number of experts that are needed depends on the number of groups and number of participants (ideally 8 participants/table with 1 expert). Experts primarily put forward a question to their group. At a later timepoint during the RSC they also take part in the discussion, carefully ensuring not to dominate the discussion.
Participants
Participants are stakeholders such as farmers, patient representatives, medical doctors,.. that are affected by or have an influence on the project's results. At each table, they provide feedback on the questions raised by the experts. Ideally, the group of participants is balanced with regard to age, gender, education level etc.