COMMUNICATING SCIENCE

The aim of research is to contribute to knowledge, so that every new result adds to the previous state of knowledge, forming a basis for new thinking and interpretation, new implications, identification of needs for further research, etc. Research results, however, do not contribute to knowledge and development unless they are communicated effectively. Effective communication of science, to scientists and to other audiences, is an important component of the research process.

Communication is needed, not only to spread research results, but also to articulate results. Writing or talking about your research helps to clarify your thoughts and to put your research into a deeper and wider context. Therefore, start writing and talking about your research early in the research process.

Scientific communication occurs in many forms, such as papers in scientific journals, reports, conference papers and abstracts, theses and dissertations, review papers, proposals, popular science and newspaper articles, computer-mediated information, oral and poster presentations, interviews and discussions. Various forms of communication may differ, e.g. in purpose and audience addressed, but they also have a great deal in common – they communicate science. A good knowledge of how to handle various forms of scientific communication is needed in many professions, not only for scientists. It is essential, therefore, to include training in scientific communication at every level of education.

THE ABC OF SCIENCE COMMUNICATION

Communicating science usually means communicating new knowledge or summarising the present state of knowledge. It is important, therefore, that what is written or said is unambiguous, so that the audience understands the message.

The ABC of science communication is that it should be:

• Accurate and Audience-adapted

• Brief

• Clear

Science is international. This means that many of those who read a scientific paper or listen to a scientific presentation will be doing so in a foreign language. This further emphasises the need for clarity and for the presentation to be logical, consistent and coherent. Communication is a two-way process. Information cannot merely be delivered - it must be received and understood as well. The message delivered may be accurate, brief and clear, but may still not be received and understood. This can happen if what you write or say does not relate to the frames of reference of the audience. Adapting to the audience, therefore, is important.

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