Two-way communication between scientists and the public: a view from science communication trainers in North America

Science Communication Training in North America: Preparing Whom to Do What With What Effect?

“…One recent interview project found that North American–based science communication trainers continue to emphasize knowledge building as a core component of their curricula (Besley et al, 2016). This same project found that training rarely seeks to help scientists identify engagement objectives or goals (Besley et al, 2016) or foster scientist-public dialogues (Yuan et al, 2017).…”

Contribution of Training to Scientists’ Public Engagement Intentions: A Test of Indirect Relationships Using Parallel Multiple Mediation

“…Scientists and the communities in which they are embedded also enjoy benefits from intentional dialogue about scientific research. Many researchers report that they were motivated to pursue science because they wanted to contribute to society, and public outreach provides a pathway through which to help reach this goal (Andrews et al, 2005; Yuan et al, 2017). Outreach done by scientists can foster public trust and awareness in science (Groffman et al, 2010; Nisbet et al, 2002) and can promote the incorporation of science into policy decision making (Meyer et al, 2010).…”

Blending Research, Journalism, and Community Expertise: A Case Study of Coproduction in Research Communication

“…In contrast, journalists’ roles have tended to be positioned relative to how they support researchers, such as providing opportunities to legitimize research (Peters et al, 2008); engaging in dynamic “‘sparring’ relationships with experts brought in to provide information, depth, and perspective” (Albæk, 2011, p. 344); and providing thematic frames for research that improve public reach by chunking information into interpretive packages and storylines (Bubela et al, 2009). Despite promising findings that researchers and journalists are recognizing the value of their interactions for research communication (e.g., Wien, 2014), communities—subgroups of the public with direct stake in one or multiple fields of research—remain more often seen as beneficiaries than partners (e.g., Maillé et al, 2010; Yuan et al, 2017).…”