Where Science Communication Isn’t Happening
Environmental professionals who work independently move through their communities and lead programs at locations that extend far beyond the footprints of zoos, nature centers, gardens, and other informal science learning organizations. Even so, they do not engage with the public in every place or in every way possible. Today's research brief is about neglected spaces. Clare Wilkinson, a professor of science communication at the University of the West of England Bristol, introduces professionals to how science communication is happening in communities and, more importantly, how it is not happening.
Her article, Neglected spaces in science communication, serves as a gateway to ten articles about science communication and social inclusion. Topics addressed are:
The cultural narrowness of science communication.
How a pop-up science center brings science to vacant retail spaces.
How a science and arts festival engages with underserved and underrepresented communities.
What it means to be an LGBTIQA+ person working in science communication.
Dismantling the stereotypes of STEM careers and empowering girls.
Escape rooms as an approach to science communication.
Fotonovelas, radio, theatre, and games as science communication.
Marine science communication
Science communication and women’s health.
Science communication in faith communities.
Dr. Wilkinson’s paper and the articles above can be read online and each is available as a PDF download.
Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash
Literature Cited
Wilkinson, C. (2021). ‘Neglected spaces in science communication’. JCOM 20 (01), C01. https://doi.org/10.22323/2.20010301.
