Communicating science
July 21 workshop to help scientists, engineers become better communicators
12:58 p.m., June 27, 2011--“So, what do you do?”
It’s one of the most common questions posed in everyday life, but for scientists and engineers, answering can be problematic, requiring a quick assessment of the technological savvy of the questioner, whether that person is a relative, a colleague, a reporter or perhaps even a politician. Replying in an engaging way in language the listener can understand often takes forethought and practice.
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A National Science Foundation-sponsored workshop, “Science: Becoming the Messenger,” aims to help academic scientists and engineers learn to craft responses to this ubiquitous question that are effective in reaching a broad range of audiences through a variety of media.
The workshop will be presented free of charge to faculty, graduate students and postdocs working at universities and institutions in Delaware on Thursday, July 21, from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Clayton Hall on the University of Delaware’s Newark campus. Public information officers working on behalf of universities and institutions in Delaware are also invited to attend.
“Today, across academia and the research community, there is a growing interest in science communication,” says Henry Blount, director of NSF’s Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR). “Scientists are asking how they can share their knowledge and findings across an increasingly challenging information environment. And we’ve assembled an amazing team of experts to help members of the scientific community become more effective communicators.”
The workshop features three accomplished communicators and trainers: Emmy Award-winning television producer Joe Schreiber, former PBS executive Dan Agan and bestselling science author Chris Mooney. Over the course of the day, this trio will lead participants through a series of interactive and hands-on exercises, including writing, live interview and new media training.
For a smaller, specially selected group of researchers, there will be a second day on July 22, in which participants will further refine their messages and skills. Those interested in being considered for the second day should indicate their wishes on the online registration form.
The registration deadline is July 8. More information and links to the registration form and a video about the workshop may be found on the NSF website. Questions may also be directed to the Delaware EPSCoR program at 302-831-6163.
NSF EPSCoR is sponsoring the workshop in each of the 29 states and territories that receive funding through the EPSCoR program, including Delaware.
Article by Beth Chajes
Photo courtesy of NSF