A free public event exploring how psychology research is addressing important community challenges will take place on Saturday 25 June (12.00-16.00).
Members of the local community are welcomed to join an afternoon of activities showcasing how Kent psychology research is helping to shape health and wellbeing in the region and to find out how they can get involved themselves.
There will be short talks by University researchers on a range of topics, as well as hands-on demonstrations and panel discussions.
The agenda is as follows:
12:00-12:30 – Arrival, practical demonstrations, and free refreshments
12:30-13:30 – Research talks:
- The relevance of forensic psychological research for local communities
- Knowing me, knowing you: social communication across the lifespan
- Working together to improve support for people affected by neurological conditions
13:30-14:00 – Practical demonstrations and free refreshments:
- Stimulating the brain
- Capturing brain activity
- Virtual reality
- Tasks from the Child Development Unit
- Meet the University’s researchers and browse their research posters
14:00-15:00 – Research talks:
- Can car engine idling be reduced using persuasive messages?
- Revamping NHS mental health services through brief psychological therapies
15:00-15:30 – Panel discussion: What research do you want to see in the future?
Closing comments
Dr Laura Smith, Lecturer in Cognitive Psychology at Kent’s School of Psychology and lead organiser of the community event, said: ‘Our local community is incredibly valuable to the research we do within the School of Psychology. This event aims to show how researchers and members of the community have been able to work together to make an impact, and how people can get involved with areas of research they might be passionate about such as finding new treatments for mental health, encouraging positive environmental behaviours or using technology to help society.’
The event ‘Making Psychology Research Matter: The Importance of our Community’ will be held at Keynes College on the University’s Canterbury campus. For more details and to register interest, individuals can visit Eventbrite.