Abstract
In this thesis, we shall use astronomy as a case study to consider the effect and impact of transnational collaborations with innovative approaches and centralised coordination in science education and public outreach. The thesis is based on eight years of designing, implementing and evaluating transnational collaborative programmes in astronomy education and public outreach, from the perspective of the practitioner. We shall also show that large global science EPO projects can result in sustainable outcomes that outlive the projects themselves and analyse the various aspects of global science communication project that are necessary for their success. The thesis will focus on two large projects in astronomy EPO, the International Year of Astronomy 2009 and an educational programme for young children, Universe Awareness. n this chapter, we shall set the scene by considering some relevant aspects of science communication and show how science communication has become an activity of two-way public engagement. We shall also discuss key aspects of the relationship between astronomy and society.
