Preparing scientists to be science communicators

Abstract

Science communication is a professional skill increasingly expected of scientists by their own organizations. Several studies have described motivations and challenges for scientists who wish to engage with the public, as well as the abundance of such interactions. However, few studies have systematically examined scientists’ ability to communicate with the public. Nonetheless, many organizations and institutions have created training opportunities to help scientists become better at public communication. Although much effort is being invested in science communication training, a conceptually-based list of specific learning goals has not yet been developed, and the existing training efforts are rarely accompanied by systematic evaluation of learning outcomes. Few programs do sufficient and appropriate evaluation to demonstrate the effectiveness of their approach. This chapter identifies a list of core competencies for effective science communication in terms of skills, knowledge and attitudes; points to effective pedagogies to achieve the relevant learning goals; and specifies assessment practices to measure the attainment of these goals.