Research Guides: Biology 315: Communicating Natural Science: The Public

Speaking and Writing to the Press

When speaking with the press it is important to keep in mind two audiences: the direct audience and the intended audience. The direct audience is the journalist or interviewer you are speaking with. The intended audience consists of the people that will read the article or listen to the interview published by the journalist. There are numerous tools and tips to help communicate science to the press. Below are links to some of those resources.

Tips for Communicating Science to the Press
General tips for speaking with the press about science.
Working with Journalists
Tips for working with journalists to make sure science is correctly communicated.
Writing an Op-Ed
Tips for writing op-eds; examples of op-eds; and other resources for writing, reading and thinking about op-eds.
Quick Tips for Sharing Science in the News
Tips for preparing to speak with the press and eliminating jargon.

Public Outreach

These resources provide ideas, tools, and resources for both communicating science and engaging the public through outreach.

The Plainspoken Scientist
This blog provides ideas and opportunities for community outreach and useful ways to promote and communicate science within your community.

Pathways to Engagement
A flow chart for best ways to engage your community in science.

Tips for Creating a Plain Language Summary
When speaking to people who may not have a strong background in science it is important to be able to communicate ideas in a way that they understand and do not find alienating. This page can help.
Engage the Public with Social Media
"With 79% of Americans on Facebook and half of Twitter users looking for news (as of Sept. 2017), social media is a powerful way for scientists to engage the public. This introductory workshop for scientists and engineers covers the latest research on social media use, why and how scientists should engage on social media, using Twitter, and basic best practices."
Science Communication and Public Engagement Fundamentals
"Effective scientist-communicators who foster respectful information-sharing are essential for true science-society engagement. This introductory workshop for scientists and engineers covers science communication and public engagement fundamentals, including identifying public engagement goals, engaging relevant audiences, developing resonant messages, and considering engagement opportunities."