ESRC Festival of Social Science
This year’s Festival of Social Science explores the theme Our Working Lives, celebrating how social science research helps us understand the communities we live in and the forces that shape them. All events are free and open to everyone, with activities led by University of Birmingham academics across the city.
Forging Metal: Black Sabbath and Birmingham
14 October, 18:30-20:30, Elgar Concert Hall, The Bramall Music Building, University of Birmingham Edgbaston Campus
Join the waitlistJoin us to explore the legacy of Black Sabbath and the city that forged them, through the lens of social science. Featuring talks from University of Birmingham researchers, and an ‘in conversation with' special guests Carlos Acosta from Birmingham Royal Ballet and Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi.
Disability and Diversity in a Future of AI
23 October, 15:00-16:30, The Assembly Room, The Exchange, 3 Centenary Sq, Birmingham B1 2DR
RegisterAs artificial intelligence (AI) advancements and adoption continue at a rapid pace, there is a need to ensure the opportunities and benefits to people and workplaces are realised across the workforce. Hear from people with disabilities, business leaders, representatives from non-governmental organizations, and researchers, as we explore and debate the implications of AI on employment opportunities and work experiences for disabled people.
Hope and Change: Revisiting Barack Obama's Historic Presidency
29 October, 17:30-20:00, The Assembly Room, Exchange Building, 3 Centenary Square, Birmingham, B1 2DR
RegisterWhat did Obama’s presidency mean for race and labour? Join academics from the University of Birmingham as we explore the legacy of Barack Obama’s historic presidency and how his campaign message of hope and change resonates still today in modern-day Birmingham.
News Detectives Family Day
29 October, 11:00-15:00, The Exchange, 3 Centenary Sq, Birmingham B1 2DR
Read MoreJoin academics from the University of Birmingham and experts from The Guardian Foundation for a fun, hands-on session designed for children aged 7 to 11 and their grown-ups. This is a drop in session, booking not necessary.
Place Funding: The Local Authority Challenge
5 November, 11:00-16:00, The Vaults in The Exchange, 3 Centenary Sq, Birmingham B1 2DR
RegisterLocal councils often face a tough challenge: competing for limited government funding to support their communities. Join us to play a fast-paced game that puts you in their shoes and discover how decisions get made behind the scenes. Navigate strict criteria, varying objectives and tough competition to win support for your community.
More Than Money: Where Does Financial Wellbeing Start?
5 November, 17:30-18:30, The Exchange, 3 Centenary Sq, Birmingham B1 2DR
RegisterJoin Professor Adele Atkinson, financial education expert from the University of Birmingham, as she explores how families and communities can build economic resilience.
Find out more about the ESRC Festival of Social Science
To find out more about the festival, and events hosted by other institutions across the country, please visit the ESRC website.
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