University Park, Pa. -- Charles Dumas, associate professor of theatre, will be the host of "Research Unplugged" from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 15, in the gallery of the Penn State Downtown Theatre Center.
The discussion topic will be "The Emergence of the African Century."
"Research Unplugged" is based on Café Scientifique, a university-town phenomenon that began a few years ago in the United Kingdom. The concept is to create an informal forum, open to all, for exploring ideas — to foster public dialogue and energize conversations about issues that matter. For eight consecutive weeks beginning Oct. 15 and again in the spring semester, participants will gather at noon on Wednesdays in the gallery of the Penn State Downtown Theatre. Bag lunches will be welcome. A Penn State faculty member will introduce the week's topic with a 10 to 15 minute talk, then open the floor to questions and discussion.
"Research Unplugged" is an outreach program sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Research.
The remainder of the October schedule follows:
Oct. 22 — Amy Glasmeier, professor of geography, on "Paradox of Prosperity: The Challenges of Living in America"; and
Oct. 29 — Kevin Furlong, professor of geosciences, "Can Scientists Make Their Research Understandable; and Should They?"