Most science engagement activities have objectives and characteristics that reflect a mix of those theorised for deficit, dialogue and sometimes participatory activities. This coexistence of models in practice appears to be not merely an unintentional lucky accident but a necessity for science communication activities to achieve their objectives, especially when the science is controversial.

The models proposed by scholars do not appear to take into account the extensive nature and mix of objectives for initiating or participating in science communication activities.

My research of practice improves our understanding of how theorised science communication models might be further shaped to better reflect and even influence practice. I propose the new nexus model for science communication and describe how this can be implemented within the practical contexts of considering the objectives for engagement, who is involved in the engagement activity, and how positive relationships can be fostered among those participating.

 

How will your session be structured?
Presentation of research with questions at the end.

 

What type of session will this be?
Research presentation.

 

What will participants gain from attending your session?

This presentation and poster will introduce a new model for science communication that has emerged from my PhD: the nexus model. This new model is designed to get both scholars and practitioners to think differently about how they research or practice science communication.

 

Presenter

Jenni Metcalfe, Director, Econnect Communication

 

When: In session Wednesday 19th February, 11:00am–12:50pm
Where: Room G01, Learning and Teaching Building, 19 Ancora Imparo Way, Clayton
Hashtag: TBC