Scientific Culture and Innovation Units (UCC+i) in Spain: characteristics, impact, and production
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- Alba Lozano+−
- Carolina Blanco Fontao+−
- Fernando J. Pereira+−
- María I. Muñoz+−
- Roberto López+−
- Patricia Castellanos+−
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17979/arec.2025.9.2.11874Abstract
The complexity and decontextualization of science and technology push citizens away from scientific culture, and reduce the latter’s role in social decisions. To tackle this situation, Scientific Culture and Innovation Units (UCC+i) were created by the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT) in 2007. Over the past 15 years, these units have expanded in number, production, and budget. This study uses a non-experimental design to analyze their evolution, characteristics, and activities during that time. The results show the units’ consolidation in both large and small research centers, with teams composed mainly of communication professionals and scientists. Their production is diverse and reaches a broad audience, especially young people and children, with dissemination primarily through digital media.
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References
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