[Swprograms] Programmes I Like ( #14)

[Peter Bowen <peter.bowen@xxxxxxxxx>]

"Quirks and Quarks"--CBC Radio One:

   "Quirks and Quarks" is one of the few programmes on public radio
devoted exclusively to science. It is a weekly show of about 53-54
minutes, hosted by the boyishly-looking Bob MacDonald.

   Each show begins with the typical menu of upcoming items, along
with some audio clips. Occasionally, there are also sound effects as
well as a dramatic element to the intros.

   Almost all of the programme is taken up by a series of interviews.
These are conducted either in the studio or via a landline link. Each
is introduced by the host, who also introduces each interviewee,
usually an academic. Many sound enthusiastic and genuinely interested
in their research. This adds greatly to the allure of the show.

   There is a very wide range of topics covered by those interviews,
very wide indeed, and include not only the fields of "hard" science
(e.g., physics), but also the "softer" social sciences (e.g.,
psychology). This is one show that is not afraid to delve into some
really esoteric stuff. Indeed, most of the topics discussed are
off-beat, bizarre, unusual, or just plain funny.  The topics typically
examine new developments in current scientific research and related
projects.

   There are also occasion full-length features, which usually last
from 25-30 minutes. These take the form of a report/package by the
host, and are a detailed examination of a particular topic. They
usually have sound effects, actuality clips, and maybe some dramatic
elements, to highlight the important points being made.

    Bob seems to ask questions that the average Joe would ask, if he
were attempting to get a grip on what the research and/or project is
all about. He tends to take a "gee-whiz" approach to each interview,
much as a young boy fascinated by the marvels of science. For him, it
seems to be lots of fun, which is quite appealing for the listeners.

   But he can also ask blunt, frank, and occasionally embarrassing
questions as well. His questions show an interest in the topic, as
well as a grasp of what the interviewee is saying. He doesn't follow a
set of scripted questions, after the opening few, but "goes with the
flow" of the conversation.

   The frequent musical stings between items are a welcome relief--the
brain needs a bit of a break after being out through its paces trying
to figure out the hows and whys of the previous item.

   Each programme closes with the "Question of the Week". This is a
chance for listeners to send in questions relating to some scientific
subject, and have them answered by an expert in that particular field.

Website:  http://www.cbc.ca/quirks/

E-Mail:   <quirks@xxxxxx>

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