Intriguing world of social science

Inquisitive researchers from across South Yorkshire have been asking who, what and why? as they explore the intriguing world of social science. The University of Sheffield's Outreach Team hosted a three-day programme of extraordinary events to help youngsters discover and understand research across the social science disciplines. The hands-on event, which was part of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Festival of Social Sciences, gave youngsters a fascinating insight into a range of subject areas including Architecture, Sociology, Education, Geography, East Asian Studies and Town and Regional Planning. More than 100 school pupils and college students attended the innovative workshops which highlighted the engaging, inspiring, and playful nature of research. The University's Department of Politics challenged youngsters to put their debating skills to the test, discussing whether the UK's voting age should be lowered; community artists Nicky Ward and Alex Hallowes helped students create an innovative sculpture inspired by their day; while experts from the Department of Geography took the pupils on an exciting world tour through music. Brandon Ogden, 13, from Clifton Community Arts School, said: "I am really interested in politics and would like to get involved when I am older. I found the debate workshop really interesting and it was lots of fun.