How can we - as the Outreach Department of the University of Amsterdam - trigger citizens of the neighboring neighborhoods to come explore Science Park and find added benefit?
What we did
We first consulted academic texts about placemaking and community engagement to develop a base understanding on the topic.
Next was field research. We interviewed twelve individuals across 3 different locations (Watergraafsmeer, Indische Buurt, and Science Park).
Based on their responses, we were able to determine their impressions and level of engagement with Science Park.
Insights
From our user interviews, we discovered that majority of our respondents had heard of Science Park, but did not see a reason to visit. Some of the main reasons where:
The redundancy of facilities in surrounding neighborhoods - no reason for residents to travel to Science Park.
Preferred separation between work/school and private life - no need to stay at Science Park to build a social network.
Perception of Science Park is unifunctional - no reason to be on a campus built for students.
Long Table Community Dinner
Encourage local residents to share their cultural background and commune together through the medium of food, and allows them to engage with Science Park outside of an academic context.
Pros and Cons
Adaptable
Affordable
Can be implemented in short timeframe
Cultivates continued use of Science Park
Weather-dependent
Food allergies
Need to work out registration process
Waste management
Sleepover Under the Stars
The sleepover is an avenue for familes to interact with the offerings of Science Park in a friendly setting. Kid-friendly activities and games can help to stimulate an early interest in science.
Pros and Cons
Immersive
Introduces children to other children outside their school/social network Not weather-dependent
