What is public engagement?

Memorial University Public Engagement Framework

The term 'Public Engagement' (PE) is broadly used in a range of sectors, including arts and heritage, the private sector, and various levels of government. As can be expected, each sector tends to define and measure it differently. At Memorial University, PE is defined as "Collaborations between people and groups within Memorial and people and groups external to the University – i.e., the "public" – that further Memorial's mission. Drawing on the knowledge and resources brought by all involved, PE involves mutual respect, mutual contributions and mutual benefits for all participants" (Memorial University's Public Engagement Framework Document, 2012, p. 6). As Newfoundland and Labrador's only University, Memorial's mission is deeply connected to its communities. Our mission inserts us into community in a unique way. Thus, PE for furthering the university's mission means, engaging so that staff, researchers, and students can make this contribution as relevant as possible.

Central to this definition is the idea that engagement is primarily a two-way process that requires trust, or at least, the willingness to develop that trust. Another key factor at the heart of this definition is the idea of mutuality, not only related to benefits, but also to knowledge, skills, etc. As Figure 1 illustrates, engagement is ideally a relationship where all parties make mutual contributions and obtain mutual benefits, and that is implemented through a myriad of activities. It must be noted that the engagement activities implemented at any given time will depend on the objectives that all parties identify.

The two-way nature of PE means that, while Memorial researchers share expertise, knowledge, and resources in response to civic opportunities and needs, the university is also enriched and advanced by the unique perspectives, knowledge, experience, and expertise of communities, industries and other participating stakeholders or partners. 

Adapted from the Memorial University Public Engagement Framework