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Swiss Young Academy SYA
New Publication “Innovative Teaching Formats at the Science-Society Interface: Reflections and Future Directions in Swiss Higher Education” released
The Swiss Young Academy (SYA) is pleased to announce the release of its new publication, “Innovative Teaching Formats at the Science-Society Interface: Reflections and Future Directions in Swiss Higher Education.” The report by SYA members Benjamin Hofmann, Clara Zemp, Sandra Bärnreuther and Project Assistant Morgane Genin highlights how innovative teaching approaches can mobilize students to engage with societal partners - an essential step in promoting science-society dialogue needed for addressing today’s complex societal challenges.
Developed through a combination of an illustrative collection of existing courses from across Switzerland and participatory workshops with lecturers, the report sheds light on how Swiss higher education institutions (HEIs) in Switzerland are fostering student engagement with societal partners. These courses not only enhance academic learning but also prepare students to integrate public perspectives into their research and communicate findings effectively to diverse audiences.
The report introduces a new typology of science-society teaching formats, offering educators a structured way to design and analyze courses across six dimensions, including knowledge flow, engagement type, and target audience. It also features illustrative examples from Swiss higher education institutions - ranging from art-based learning and service-learning initiatives to simulations and co-production projects - showcasing the diversity and creativity of current practices.
In addition, the publication discusses both the opportunities and challenges of implementing such teaching formats. While these approaches promote collaboration, trust, and experiential learning, they also require significant coordination, institutional support, and flexible academic frameworks.
To further advance science-society education, the report identifies three priority areas for action: exchange and networking among lecturers, students, and societal partners; institutional recognition through strategic integration, adequate funding, and appropriate credit systems; and evaluation and feedback mechanisms to improve the effectiveness of teaching formats.
This publication offers valuable insights for educators, program coordinators, and decision-makers seeking to strengthen the connection between higher education and societal partners.