This is not an original idea, but I was thinking about the idea of making Epcot a functional research institution. I think the investment would be too much for the impact it would make for parkers, but it could happen if Disney didn't have to pay for the whole thing. They could partner with an existing university, either a well-endowed private university or the Florida university system. Perhaps Disney could just build the facilities, and the university would operate them.
Each pavilion in Future World would be associated with a science department. In Innoventions would be an ongoing "grown-up" science fair, where students and professors create displays about the results of their research. Imagineers would collaborate with faculty to periodically update each pavilion with new material reflecting the state of the art in its subject.
Connected with World Showcase could be departments focusing on history, literature, and culture of the different nations.
University buildings would surround Epcot and would be within the gate. All students and faculty have free admission. Epcot visitors can of course visit the campus, and there would be probably be a few public displays to keep them interested, but it's not really billed as an attraction. Students would criss-cross the theme park and be inspired by it.
Each pavilion in Future World would be associated with a science department. In Innoventions would be an ongoing "grown-up" science fair, where students and professors create displays about the results of their research. Imagineers would collaborate with faculty to periodically update each pavilion with new material reflecting the state of the art in its subject.
Connected with World Showcase could be departments focusing on history, literature, and culture of the different nations.
University buildings would surround Epcot and would be within the gate. All students and faculty have free admission. Epcot visitors can of course visit the campus, and there would be probably be a few public displays to keep them interested, but it's not really billed as an attraction. Students would criss-cross the theme park and be inspired by it.