Science communication has been challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the past, new scientific results were published in academic publications that were not accessible to non-scientists and were not intended for the general public. As a result of the pandemic, new results were quickly grabbed upon by the media, lawmakers, and social media users alike. Because they were more accessible than ever before, they were often miscommunicated, with messages and data simplified or twisted to serve political or media objectives.
Because to this so-called “infodemic,” scientists’ credibility and financing have been weakened, and early career researchers’ careers have been made even more susceptible. What went awry in this situation?
The presence of multiple channels of communication. Keeping scientific knowledge clear and credible in the age of social media is incredibly difficult. Political, economic, legal, sociocultural, psychological, educational, and ethical considerations can all affect social media content.
Inadequate management of communication. In science communication, there is a lack of technique. This has resulted in conflicting information coming from government scientists and institutions. Illicit attention-seeking in the name of money has also become more common.
Monopoly on knowledge management. In the past, scientific organizations haven’t taken the time to cultivate their public-facing partnerships. Their stranglehold on how knowledge is produced and communicated has not been challenged or debated.
Inaccurate depiction of scientists in the media. They are generally depicted as all-powerful and capable of solving any crisis in the film industry and popular media. The scientific process is sometimes misunderstood by the general public since it includes questioning, testing, and rewriting one’s findings.
When we consider the damage done by the COVID-19 epidemic to science, how do we begin to restore it?
Nurture a collaborative relationship between scientists and the general population
It is imperative that members of the general public (including policymakers, journalists and educators), as well as representatives of industry, foundations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), have access to top scientists whose work has undergone rigorous peer review. Scientists, on the other hand, must devote themselves to making their research accessible to a wider audience. In order to effectively manage this relationship, institutions’ departments of communication and public outreach should offer their assistance.
Enhance training in science communication
Scientists need to pay greater attention to their ability to communicate. Because of their persistence, tact, and ability to listen and empathize, they can influence the audience. They must be able to appreciate and respect the way the media operates, as well as its internal mechanics. Because not all journalists have a background in science writing, they need to be aware of this fact. A working knowledge of how to use diverse communication platforms (news media, microblogs like Twitter and podcasts) efficiently and the possible dangers of each is also required for scientists.
What is the purpose of the Young Scientists Group?
Every year since its founding in 2008 the Young Scientists Community (YSC) brings together the brightest minds from across the globe in an effort to promote young scientists’ careers. Their goal is to help leaders better understand the role of science in society and how they may use it to their advantage.
Consider the’storyline’ in this regard.
An elevator pitch or lightning talk with an eye-catching title, a clear and succinct overview, an illustrative instance, and a memorable take-home message are all necessary in any form of communication. Art and sound have been used by science communicators to spread the word about their work. They must be concise and accurate at the same time.
Researchers and scientific organizations should work to cultivate a respectful connection with the general population. Take communication seriously and construct a public relations portfolio; comprehend and respect the numerous types of the media landscape. They will be able to deal with COVID-19 and other health and well-being issues more successfully as a result of this.
