Fostering Undergraduate Science Communication Skills

Abstract

Science Communication is the communication of technical information from an expert to non-expert audience. Although there is some debate on the exact purpose and format for Science Communication, most agree that its goal is to bridge the gap between those that “do” science and those who “consume” science. To bridge this gap, people who communicate technical and scientific information -- be they scientists, engineers, health professionals, public policy specialists, or communication professionals -- must develop critical and diverse communication skills to broaden their reach and increase uptake and engagement with their discipline specific knowledge. By engaging in conversations about STEM knowledge with non-experts, these discipline experts can: share recent findings and increase public appreciation for science; increase knowledge and understanding of science; influence opinions, behaviours, or policy of people and/or governing agencies; and ensure that a diversity of perspectives are heard when societal decisions are made.

This series of workshops aims to provide instructional support that will help undergraduate students understand what Science Communication is, how and why they should engage in it, where they might encounter it, and how to create their own effective communication depending on purpose, audience, and context. Specific workshop are as follows:

• Fundamentals of Science Communication • Clarity in Science Communication • Communicating Quantitative Data in the Sciences • Exploring Online Science Communication • Sharing Research in the Age of Misinformation