SCAR is pleased to share the Visiting Scholar report by Professor Silvia Dotta from the Federal University of ABC, Brazil. Her Visiting Scholarship was hosted by the Scott Polar Research Institute (SPRI) in the United Kingdom, supported by Naomi Chapman, Learning and Public Engagement Coordinator at the Polar Museum.
The primary objective of Professor Dotta’s visit was to explore and benchmark best practices in polar education within museums, focusing on engagement with diverse audiences. Her activities included guided tours of SPRI’s museum and library, observing workshops and educational activities, and analysing materials related to polar history and science communication. She also met with professionals responsible for polar outreach across several institutions, gathering insights on interactive learning resources, teacher training, and accessibility.
During her stay, Professor Dotta visited all museums within the University of Cambridge to study their approaches to public engagement. She attended classes for children at SPRI and the Museum of Zoology, reviewed archival materials on polar science education, and interviewed key figures in the field, including marine biologist Dr Huw Griffiths. Additionally, she met with Sophie Weeks, President of the Polar Educators International (PEI), to coordinate activities for the upcoming SCAR Conference and discuss new educational initiatives.
Beyond Cambridge, she extended her research to institutions such as the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich and the Wilson Museum in Cheltenham, further broadening her understanding of how polar sciences are communicated to the public.
A key outcome of the visit was the exchange of ideas between Professor Dotta and the SPRI team. She introduced her “InterAntar” programme—a series of Brazilian-led initiatives aimed at fostering a national polar awareness—and shared insights on science communication strategies used in Brazil. Her visit also reinforced the need for increased awareness of Brazil’s Antarctic history, which she has identified as a new mission for her team.
Looking ahead, Professor Dotta plans to maintain collaboration with Naomi Chapman and SPRI’s outreach team. She is also coordinating virtual meetings with specialists from other UK institutions, including Lesley Johnston (UK Antarctic Heritage Trust), Katie Cassels (National Maritime Museum), and Kate Noble (Fitzwilliam Museum), to further develop educational initiatives. Additionally, she intends to enhance Brazil’s public engagement with Antarctic history, using insights gained from her visit to produce new resources for communication and education.
Reflecting on her experience, Professor Dotta noted: