INPUT / … / … / The Art of Turning Science Into Edu-tainment

All of us know that we can't do without science. For a public service broadcaster, educational programmes about science are a must. Every aspect of our life is somehow connected to biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and of course computer sciences. But science has gone much further than any of us suspected and most of us have lost track somewhere. Most of us have lost track somewhere, and by now the majority of our audience do not understand the physical world around us. Would you want to return to school to pick up the lost thread? Broadcasters and scientists have teamed up to show the audience that there is hope, television can help them in understanding at least the basics of science. Blackboards and books are replaced by experiments (action), demonstration (visuals), comparison (competition), personal participation (excitement), and engaging hosts are turning education into entertainment. But can you show the speed of sound for example? Can a scientist be turned into a television star without losing his/ her professional credibility? Or do programme makers just ruin the sacred sanctuary of science and knowledge? Can we really stop half way between education and entertainment?