Are We Nearly There Yet?

A collaboration with University of Exeter Data Sciences department, Exeter Science Centre and community groups to explore the topic of transport in Exeter

Date of project: January – September 2024

About

RAMM, University of Exeter Data Sciences Department and Exeter Science Centre worked in partnership with local neighbourhood and community groups to co-produce a series of questions and resources inspired by the themes and content of the ‘Are We Nearly There Yet?’ exhibition. The project focussed on working with people from socio-economically disadvantaged communities and those who do not regularly engage with the museum.

The project explored some of the issues faced by local residents, related to transport e.g. pollution, congestion, public transport, inequalities of transport for people from lower-socio economic backgrounds etc.  The sessions were underpinned by academic research and considered accessibility, affordability and performance of different modes of transport.

Model of Exeter bus

Questions

What public transport do people use to get around the city?

Have people considered alternative forms of public transport/green travel and what would deter them from considering each of these?

What forms of transport/infrastructure are missing from the city?

Participants and partners

The project aims to involve people who do not regularly engage with RAMM.  It also aims to provide opportunities for academics to engage visitors with their areas of research.  Participants in the community sessions and visitors to the exhibition had the chance to contribute to live research projects.  University students also supported the project, providing them with opportunities to gain knowledge about working with the public, in a public setting.

Feedback so far

“It was good to meet you and your great team this morning and we very much enjoyed having you with us. Our Club Members were very positive about the session. They enjoy being stimulated and actively involved and you and your colleagues certainly did that!” Group Lead feedback on the session

“We just want options for transport – this is especially true for people with disabilities who often can’t access public transport so already have limited options.” Participant feedback on transport topic

“Plans and consultations to be co-productive and communities to be adequately, fully and genuinely consulted – there is no substitute for lived experience.” Participant feedback on transport topic

a black table cloth which has been written on with neon pen. in the middle of the tablecloth is the questions 'what's your vision of a positive transport future?' responses are written around the tablecloth - comments include 'park & ride within city boundary'; 'minibuses like we used to have'; more people walking if it's only a short journey'

What next?

The outcomes of this collaboration are shared in the exhibition Are We Nearly There Yet?, through an animation and interactive content which highlight contemporary voices and issues and enrich the experience of visitors.

Further information

Eleanor Coleman, Engagement Officer
[email protected]