The Research & Discussion Forum
This forum follows the regular Wednesday Lunchtime Lecture during university term time. It has evolved from the former 'Research Circle' where the focus was on engaging in research projects and supporting individuals pursuing personal research objectives.
Mindful of the Continuing Learning Group's aim to promote whole person learning and to encourage engagement at all levels, we have sought to widen participation in our programme by promoting discussions on a range of topics, where all attendees can express their views and benefit from lively rational debate. An active link with research will be retained and use forum time where appropriate.
Those attending the Research & Discussion Forum are offered the opportunity to take further the material and ideas offered during the Lunchtime Lecture. A stimulating lecture invites as many questions as it answers and with the Research & Discussion Forum we aim to explore these further.
On occasion a different topic, suggested by the group, will be explored. This might be philosophical, political or grounded in current affairs.
Everyone who attends the Lunchtime Lecture is welcome to attend. Sessions will take place in the same venue as the Lunchtime Lecture after a short refreshment break (Fylde Lecture Theatre 3) typically concluding at 4.00 pm.
Stay around and explore the themes further.
The Lunchtime Lecture is merely the starting point.
Who knows where we might end up!
Previous RDF Discussions have included...
Opinion Polls: What do they actually tell us? Do they influence voting intentions?
In the run up to the General Election, we looked at the true value of opinion polls. What do they tell us? What value do they have? What part do they play in the overall event of an election?
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The Funding of Political Parties: What is the ideal model?
We discussed why political parties need to be funded, the benefits and pitfalls of the existing system and how it can be improved.
Medical Research - what has it to do with patients?
We discussed public and patient participation and how it might be improved.
Forum Death Cafe.
In Dying Matters Week, we took the opportunity to enjoy tea and cakes whilst sharing thoughts on end of life planning, death and dying.
How Should Overseas Aid be Used?
In this discussion we looked at the relevance of overseas aid and debate how best to use it.
Are Women Still Seen as a Threat to the Social Order?
The role of Woman has changed dramatically in our lifetime. In this session we examined contemporary perceptions.
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