MODULE A3

Focus group with (ordinary) citizens

SCIENCE CITY’S PERCEPTION AND IMPACT

Here you will find the main questions that will serve as guidelines for conducting a focus group, but for a more detailed description of this technique please refer to the Methodological Considerations Chapter (p.25).
If after the first question it is apparent that respondents do not know about the concept of a science city, then the moderators should use elements of the definition of ‘science city’ described above on the Basic Concepts Chapter (p. 1) in order to explain it to participants.

Theme 1 – perception about the notion of science city

1A. What comes to your mind when you think of the word ‘science city’ or ‘city of scientific culture? Spontaneous reactions
Probe:
Definitions of a science city given by respondentsNaming of some science cities respondents know ofPositive or negative connotations of science cities

1B. Do you know whether this city [name of city] is a science city? If yes, why do you think it is a science city?
Spontaneous reactions
Probe:

1C. Are there any symbols you know of that successfully present your city as a science city?
Probe:
UniversityScience museumsScience centres

1D . How do you think a particular museum or science event contributes to the notion of the science city or city of scientific culture? [In the case that there is no spontaneous reaction, give an example of a museum or science event]
Spontaneous reactions
Justifications

Theme 2 - Influence of a science city on the citizens' everyday life

[Note that if the respondent does not consider the city a science city or city of scientific culture, questions should be structured conditionally i.e. in the case that X city were a science city….]

2A. Do you think that living in a science city keeps up or has preserved your educational level? If yes, in what way?
Spontaneous reactions


Justifications

Examples

2B. Do you think that it has influenced your choice of profession?
If yes, in what way?
Spontaneous reactions

2C. Does being a science city citizen affect your daily life?
If yes, in what way?
Spontaneous reactions

2D. Do you know if there are any activities that could be considered part of a science city strategy in [name of city]? Do you participate in them? Have you ever brought friends or family to these activities? If not, would you be willing to?
Spontaneous reactions

Rating scale
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