Improving Scientific Literacy: Best Practices for Communicating Scientific Information

Effectively Communicating Scientific Information
Oral Presentation

Prepared by

Contact Information: [email protected]; 951-505-3120


ABSTRACT

Let’s face it: scientists are not typically known for their communication prowess. This is unfortunate because scientists have important—sometimes critical—information that needs to be shared with and understood by nonscientists. As if the scientific literacy of the American public wasn’t already lacking, recent events have brought to light additional barriers to the effective communication of scientific information. These challenges directly affect the environmental monitoring and testing industry, particularly since many agencies, utilities, and laboratories serve the public. This presentation will first identify common challenges associated with communicating highly technical and complicated scientific information to data users and the public. This presentation will then provide best practices for effectively communicating scientific information and improving scientific literacy.