HR: 0830h
AN: ED51C-1219    [PDF]
TI: Communicating Complex Concepts: A Guide For Scientists
AU: * Unger, H
EM: marijke@nsidc.org
AF: National Snow and Ice Data Center, 449 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309 United States
AB: This essay argues the importance of identifying gaps in communication between the "information producers" and "information consumers." These two contingents are defined as the scientific community on the one hand, and policy makers, the media, educators, and the general public on the other. Lack of communication between these two sides makes policy and resource management decisions challenging. We will identify communication gaps, examine ways of addressing and resolving them, and discuss the importance of ensuring adequate information flow. Possible solutions involve dedicating resources to encourage the development of professional programs and integrative initiatives for both contingents to find a common language of communication, or to accept third-party negotiation as a means of improving communication. This discussion is set in the context of a research institution seeking to establish an outreach program that successfully disseminates scientific information to a broader audience.
DE: 6605 Education
DE: 6610 Funding
DE: 6620 Science policy
DE: 6699 General or miscellaneous
SC: Education and Human Resources [ED]
MN: 2003 Fall Meeting