Once, someone asked our social media manager if the hashtag #BackToSchool could be applied to the world of science and related outreach. Let’s start with a brief explanation of what this hashtag means, and then we’ll share the response from our experts.

#BackToSchool typically marks the return to academic routines and the start of a new school year. It’s a time associated with fresh starts and educational engagement. 

Our experts have examined whether this theme can be effectively used in global scientific outreach. The answer is that, despite the seasonal differences across the globe, the #BackToSchool concept can indeed be relevant. Scientific outreach organisations, regardless of their geographical locations or the season, can use this theme to refresh their educational activities, promote new initiatives, and foster engagement. By adapting content and planning activities to fit various school calendars, these organisations can create a sense of unity and motivation among their global audience.

The hashtag #BackToSchool is often associated with the excitement and preparation for a new academic year. But how can this concept apply to global scientific outreach organisations with members scattered across different continents, including places like Australia where August is winter? Like in IPPOG, many international organisations and laboratories, have members from all overs the world, so, can this be a problem for the usage of the hashtag?

The idea of "Back to School" transcends seasonal differences, representing a time of renewal and readiness for learning. For scientific outreach organisations operating globally, this theme can serve as an opportunity to refresh and promote their educational activities. Even though school seasons vary around the world, the essence of "Back to School" is a universal concept of starting afresh and seizing new opportunities.

Global Adaptation of the Theme

To address different school calendars and seasons, global outreach organisations can adapt the #BackToSchool theme in several ways:

1. Global Calendar Considerations: Since school years differ between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, campaigns and activities can be planned to align with the various school start dates. Initiatives can be launched at different times of the year to accommodate these differences, ensuring relevance for all members.

2. Flexible Content: Educational and promotional content related to #BackToSchool can be designed to be relevant year-round. Online webinars, courses, and resources can be made available at all times, catering to the needs of members regardless of their location.

3. Engagement and Collaboration: The hashtag can act as a starting point for collaborative initiatives among global members. Online scientific challenges, joint research projects, or virtual discussions can be organised to celebrate the "Back to School" period and encourage continuous learning. Using the hashtag on social media helps unify and engage all members, fostering a sense of community.

Benefits of Using the Hashtag

1. Cohesion and Visibility: #BackToSchool helps maintain a sense of unity and visibility among global members. It facilitates communication and interaction between teams worldwide, providing a common reference point for activities and initiatives.

2. Innovation and Adaptation: Embracing the "Back to School" theme prompts organisations to think creatively and adapt their outreach strategies. It encourages innovative approaches that cater to a global audience, enhancing the effectiveness of educational campaigns.

3. Motivation and Energy: The hashtag can bring a sense of renewal and motivation. While the timing of "Back to School" might not align with every local calendar, the concept of preparing for new challenges and opportunities can be universally inspiring.

By adapting #BackToSchool to fit a global context, scientific outreach organisations can create engaging and innovative educational initiatives. This approach helps unify and inspire scientific communities worldwide, regardless of the season. So, friends, in case you want to become a scientific influencer, a social media specialist operating in science or if you want your post engaging with the science world, the use of this digital trend can help you to reach a bigger audience all over the world.

If you have any question related to the social media in the scientific world, ask us in DM on our social media channel, our expert will answer you!