The science shops originated in in the 1970s and had been developed in many European countries. They differ greatly from the traditional and commercial shops, serve the civil society with new ideas and from the motive of science communication. The science shops use the two-way interactive methods in their science communication projects to support scientific researchers working for the communities with the purpose of broadening their research area and provide the scientific and research service for citizens as well as create the opportunities for university students to understand the society in their practical period, in which all the people involved in the science shops’ projects will gain mutual benefits. From the working mechanism and successful experiences of science shops in Europe, we can draw the inspirations in building our science communication system and network with the support between science and society, in innovating the science communication events and in promoting the public science literacy and enthusiasm engaging in science.

science shop  /  theory  /  practice  /  inspiration