Young People’s Recommendations for Accessible, Engaging, and Relevant COVID-19 Research Communication in Australia

Abstract

Research is often communicated in ways that fail to reach young people. This participatory study explored young people’s recommendations for making COVID-19 research communication accessible, engaging, and relevant for young people in Australia. We held eight online Zoom workshops with nine young people (18–21 years). Participants recommended researchers share their findings on platforms young people already use, particularly social media. Young people were more likely to engage with research communicated by trusted sources, particularly medical professionals. To keep young people engaged, researchers needed to clearly communicate one main message and simplify evidence using audio-visual formats. To make research communication more relevant, young people recommended sharing findings that related to their experiences throughout the pandemic and providing young people with opportunities to shape research communication and provide feedback. Findings suggest there are opportunities to make COVID-19 research communication more accessible, engaging, and relevant for young people by incorporating their ideas.