The young field of science communication has developed to address the gap between academic science and local communities. Scientific knowledge has explained most natural process, but some mastered processes remain unexplained to individuals in the community. Instead of just relying on overcommitted professors, scientists with interests in communications have begun careers specifically to fill the gap. In this book, Faith Kearns describes this emerging field’s evolution, challenges, and speculative future.
One common misconception contends that science communicators merely handle media issues. Kearns demonstrates that many instead engage in dynamic dialogue with those most impacted by the science. And the dialogue is two-way – that is, science communicators often learn from community members as much as the community learns from the science advocate. Like religious figures in their faith communities, scientific communicators must posses skills to learn the vernacular, values, and ways of their constituents. The highbrow, technical language of scientific journals is rarely appropriate for wider audiences.
Of course, this field has challenges. No wide professional society advocates for this group. Although many many academic institutions employ science communicators, they are often not given tenure protections. Nonetheless, the sensitive nature of some of their work often necessitate these very tenure protections. Career paths are often ill-defined, and entry paths vary greatly. Still, I’d suggest that in a field like communications, however, different professional paths may actually be beneficial to contribute diverse perspectives.
Many of the biggest issues facing science today are people issues, not technical ones. We deeply understand climate change; we don’t understand how to persuade the public that it is a huge deal. Individuals possess knowledge to address big issues, but they must be stitched together into functioning teams in order for their situations to work. Communication lies at the center of these challenges, and specialized professionals are best suited to the work. As this book shows, the efforts of Kearns and her colleagues can light a way to a better future, a better society, and a better world.
Getting to the Heart of Science Communication: A Guide to Effective Engagement
By Faith Kearns
Narrated by Callie Beaulieu
Copyright (c) 2021
Tantor Audio
ASIN B09FM4S943
Length: 9:06
Genre: Science Communication
www.amazon.com