Our Digital Lives: University of Salford hosts free interactive trail exploring digital technology

Taking place on Wednesday 23 October 2024 at Salford Museum and Art Gallery, attendees at the Our Digital Lives event can explore digital technology through arts and crafts, interactive activities, a variety of talks and thought-provoking discussions.

Throughout the day there will be a range of activities to suit all ages, from under fives right through to retirees, all inspired by cutting-edge research at the University of Salford and University of Manchester.

The event will facilitate meaningful conversations with teenagers around the impact of social media on mental health, as well as giving visitors the chance to try their hand at recording a podcast or exploring VR. Attendees can take part in a digital treasure hunt to discover the journey of data to our devices and find out how to train social media algorithms to deliver the positive content we want. There’ll also be the chance to find out if robots can be our friends, with some interactive robots on hand to help participants make up their mind!

There are four trail routes to choose from:

• Little Explorers: Activities and free-play opportunities for Under 5s, including yoga and story time activities all linked to digital technology.
• Young Innovators: Primary school adventurers in Key stage 1 and 2 will enjoy a blend of fun and education, meeting robots and exploring how our lives have developed since the Victorian times due to digital technologies.
• Tech Trailblazers: Young people aged 11 to 17 will delve into deeper discussions and hands-on activities that challenge their understanding of digital in their lives. Record a podcast, learn how to train your algorithm, and explore how data and social media have become woven into our lives.
• Mature Minds: Adults can reflect on the broader implications of technology in our lives, with thought-provoking art, insightful talks and interactive experiences.

Dr Lisa Garwood-Cross is leading the event alongside her colleagues at the University of Salford. She said: “We are thrilled to welcome the community to explore how digital technology impacts our everyday lives through fun, hands-on experiences at Our Digital Lives.

“This event provides a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to engage with cutting-edge research and innovation from the University of Salford in a creative and interactive way. Whether you're a young child just starting your journey with technology or an adult reflecting on its role in modern society, we believe there's something for everyone to enjoy.”

This event is part of the ESRC Festival of Social Science 2024 and was made possible thanks to funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), which is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). Manchester Festival of Social Science, is a proud collaboration between the University of Salford, University of Manchester, and Manchester Metropolitan University.

Stian Westlake, ESRC Executive Chair, said: "The ESRC Festival of Social Science offers a unique insight into UK social science research and its relevance to individuals, society and the economy. There are hundreds of free events taking place across the UK and online, including at the University of Salford. We hope you enjoy the events and finding out more about social scientists’ work."

All activities are free with no booking required.