Leading research dealing with key social issues will be explored at a series of events next month. Topics to be examined include the impact of digital technologies on families and mental health during pregnancy. Other themes to be showcased in workshops, debates and exhibitions include living with dementia, protecting children and the value of the arts to society. The events are part of the ESRC Festival of Social Science, which runs from 5 to 12 November across the UK. All events are free and most are open to the public. Showcasing research Events exploring current research into pre-birth child protection, the impact of the youth vote in Scotland, and the risks associated with the misuse of technology, will also be held. Leading scholars of US politics from the universities of Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen will review the outcome of the Presidential election results two days after the vote. On the same day – and with a focus closer to home – experts will discuss the role of local community groups. Wide-ranging programme Two events for schools will allow pupils from local schools to learn how statistics are used in social science. A fun workshop will assess the value of statistics in research while a second will review how crime statistics are used. People can also attend a multi-media exhibition that showcases how technology is changing legal services. We are delighted to offer this programme. It will showcase research that is helping to inform the social, economic and political issues that people encounter in their daily lives.” Professor Lydia PlowmanDean of Research of the College Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences The 14th annual Festival of Social Science takes place from 5-12 November 2016 with more than 250 free events nationwide. Run by the Economic and Social Research Council, the Festival provides an opportunity for anyone to meet with some of the country’s leading social scientists and discover, discuss and debate the role that research plays in everyday life. With a whole range of creative and engaging events there’s something for everyone including businesses, charities, schools and government agencies. You can also join the discussion on Twitter using #esrcfestival. Related links Programme of events Book tickets ESRC Festival of Social Science Image Homepage photo: ©iStock.com/kasto80 Publication date 27 Oct, 2016
