Public engagement isn’t science fiction, so why does it feel so alien?
Despite science-fiction concepts like aliens appealing greatly to the general public, relaying scientific research can be alien to both the public and scientists. This should not and does not have to be the case. So how can we bring our scientific research to ‘life’?
Having attended a public engagement (PE) course at the Royal Society in London in October (run by Dr Steve Cross: Wellcome Trust Public Engagement Fellow), and being involved in other PE events, I wanted to share my experience and relevant information and to help and encourage researchers with public engagement.
Public engagement communication
Firstly, communication is the major barrier in PE. As researchers we often use language that the majority of others don’t speak. Imagine you are someone to whom science was alien; would you want to hear scientific terminology, or language which was easy to comprehend and relate to? The key to effective communication with others is finding common ground. Finding the level of their scientific education and cater to that level, whilst introducing something new. Can you explain your point using metaphors or analogies? If possible, find out more about the individual and explain by incorporating their interests.
Catering to the right audience
Not all communication is verbal. Everyone’s learning style is unique and is a mixture of auditory, visual, kinaesthetic, logical, social, solitary, or verbal stimuli. We have all been in social situations, interviews, family gatherings, or work where we have had to explain our work to others. You might not believe it, but these are all different forms of PE. Use these opportunities to practice different means of engagement to gauge which stimuli suits their learning style to effectively help them understand. It is important to consider factors like age, gender, socioeconomic background, and ethnicity, as each will contribute to finding ‘common ground’ and accommodate to their learning style.
Getting involved & public engagement opportunities
PE shouldn’t feel entirely like work. In fact, most people do it because it’s rewarding and fun! You develop key personal skills whilst socialising. Scientific funding bodies and job prospects expect researchers to do more PE and now is the best time to get involved. If you’re new to PE, contact a PE co-ordinator, or get involved with an upcoming event (there are always plenty being advertised). Alternatively, PE introductory courses are available and funding bodies have large pots of money set aside (which are waiting to be used) specifically to support PE events!
Attached are a list of useful contacts, national schemes, and opportunities to get you started, but don’t be afraid to take initiative and organise something yourself or in a group. PE can take place virtually anywhere.
Patient groups/ in hospitals
Outreach centres
Schools and colleges
Summer Science Exhibitions
(Science/ Arts/ Music) Festivals
Food fairs
Radio or Podcasts
I got involved with PE events during my PhD and have now been involved with various PE events organised through the University and Wellcome Trust, from national competitions to patient conferences. I also teamed up with colleagues in my lab to encourage college students in Italy to pursue research by engaging them with Biomedical Research principles. This was kindly funded by Marie Curie. For me, PE has always been enjoyable and stress-free. It has enabled me to meet new people and help them engage with the science in a fun and interesting way.
There are so many opportunities available that cater to and suit different types of people. So have a look at what might suit you, get involved and make PE feel less like ET!
