Just in case you’re not yet convinced about the power of science communication, this section will outline the opinions of some experts in the field. This video, from Arizona State University, provides a basic definition of science communication and shows that the communication of science should extend beyond standard metrics like conference presentations or journal articles.
The three “e’s” are highlighted to give reasons to communicate your science: They are “enrichment”, “education”, and “empowerment”. The video is embedded here, but if you have trouble accessing the embedded video on your device or web browser, use this link [link].
Next, BBC Science Communicator Greg Foot gives an argument for why it is important to communicate science to the public.
Food For Thought: Every day the public makes decisions about whether to support a particular environmental policy, or whether to engage in a particular health related behavior, and these decisions are linked to the science. If the public is unaware of the science, they may have difficulty making an informed decision.
In this video, Greg Foot shows that effective science communication requires as much listening as it does writing, video, or speaking skills. This is why you are in the best position to communicate about your science. View the embedded video, or if the embedding doesn’t work on your device or browser, access the video directly on YouTube using this link [link].
Unlike a professional communication department, you are embedded within your communities, and can hear the questions people are asking and the concerns they have, so that you can respond to them. This is supported by research into effective climate communication by Lawrence Hamilton (2011) which recommends scientists speak directly to the public about climate change related topics.