WORKSHOP: Science Communication & Policy Translation | Workshop

Science communication aims to bridge the gap between those researching and working in science and the public. It ensures that the scientific discourse does not stay confined to its respective discipline or the academy, but that the evidence and data it produces can create real-world impact. Being able to generate engagement with independent, high-quality research by different stakeholders is crucial to translating it into evidence-based public policy. However, it is a skill that is often neglected. Low-quality or insufficient science communication can lead to a lack of understanding and trust in crucial evidence, resulting in missed opportunities to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Over the last couple of years, we have been able to observe this, for example, in the public discourse around climate change. For a long time scientists tended to say: “There is no evidence that the current rise in temperature of our atmosphere has non-human causes,” rather than: “Global warming is definitely the consequence of human production of greenhouse gases.” This form of measured argument can result in appearing less convincing – which shows that language matters.

Effective policy engagement requires strong communication skills alongside an appreciation of how government works in practice. This often means that there is an appetite for the thrust of what research has discovered or confirmed as against the methods by which this has been found. Government end-users are also eager to develop a narrative around the research so that it can be championed politically.

During this interactive workshop, our speakers will provide their insights on how to communicate science in a way that is accessible, practical and fit for purpose in order to drive policy impact.

Benefits of attending:

*Learn how to communicate scientific complexity to non-specialist audiences

*Gain a better understanding of the time sensitive needs of the media

*Find out about practical ways to insert scientific know-how into current public policy debates Look at examples of research that has been successfully used by government