Considerations for effective science communication
Steven J. Cooke,
Austin J. Gallagher,
Natalie M. Sopinka,
Vivian M. Nguyen,
Rachel A. Skubel,
Neil Hammerschlag,
Sarah Boon,
Nathan Young,
Andy J. Danylchuk
Affiliations
Steven J. Cooke
Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute for Environmental Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
Austin J. Gallagher
Beneath the Waves, Inc., Miami, FL 33149, USA; Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33149, USA
Natalie M. Sopinka
Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON N9C 1A2, Canada
Vivian M. Nguyen
Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute for Environmental Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
Rachel A. Skubel
Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33149, USA; Abess Center for Ecosystem Science & Policy, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33146, USA
Neil Hammerschlag
Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33149, USA; Abess Center for Ecosystem Science & Policy, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33146, USA
Sarah Boon
Creekside Communication, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L6, Canada
Nathan Young
Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
Andy J. Danylchuk
Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
It is increasingly common for scientists to engage in sharing science-related knowledge with diverse knowledge users—an activity called science communication. Given that many scientists now seek information on how to communicate effectively, we have generated a list of 16 important considerations for those interested in science communication: (1) Define what science communication means to you and your research; (2) Know—and listen to—your target audience; (3) Consider a diverse but coordinated communication portfolio; (4) Draft skilled players and build a network; (5) Create and seize opportunities; (6) Be creative when you communicate; (7) Focus on the science in science communication; (8) Be an honest broker; (9) Understand the science of science communication; (10) Think like an entrepreneur; (11) Don’t let your colleagues stop you; (12) Integrate science communication into your research program; (13) Recognize how science communication enhances your science; (14) Request science communication funds from grants; (15) Strive for bidirectional communication; and (16) Evaluate, reflect, and be prepared to adapt. It is our ambition that the ideas shared here will encourage readers to engage in science communication and increase the effectiveness of those already active in science communication, stimulating them to share their experiences with others.
