Concepts and Perspectives of Science Communication and Popularization

Abstract

Science communication and popularization has become an active research topic as well as a keen subject for institutions and researchers out in the field. The public still holds vastly different understandings of many topics in science communication and popularization research. Through a comprehensive literature review on the various conceptions about science popularization and science and technology communication, this chapter seeks to clarify the definition of science and technology communication and popularization (STCP). In this chapter, with the reference of research made both in China and abroad, we give our definition of STCP as: By using proper communications methods, media and activities, STCP means conducting the communication and popularization of S&T knowledge, promotes the S&T diffusion and public sharing of science and technology, stimulates awareness, experience, interest, understanding and opinions on science and technology. We also believe that the terminal ends of science and technology communication and popularization should include two basic aspects. to improve civic scientific Literacy (public aim) and to serve social development (social aim).