Advocacy and Research - Effectively Communicating Your Story

Science communication is defined as, “the processes by which the culture and knowledge of science are absorbed into the culture of the wider community” (Mason & Merga, 2019; Bryant, 2003). In a 2021 study, out of 8,800 respondents only 57% stated science has a “mostly positive” impact on society (Viswanathan, 2023). Due to various factors, research is not effectively communicated to audiences outside the science community. In today's dynamic social landscape, access to accurate information empowers individuals, leaders, and organizations to make informed decisions. While researchers generate valuable knowledge, effectively communicating it to diverse audiences remains a significant challenge. This session presents actionable insights for researchers navigating information curation for wider engagement. By mastering effective communication strategies, researchers can transcend the constraints of scholarly journals, generating awareness across various markets and fostering collective advocacy for impactful local and federal policies. Remember, clear and concise communication bridges the gap between research and real-world impact, leading to positive change on both local and national levels.