You want to switch to science communication. What research skills do you need to make it happen?

Science communication is a rewarding and challenging field that requires you to translate complex scientific information into engaging and accessible stories for various audiences. Whether you want to write articles, produce podcasts, create videos, or design educational materials, you need to have some essential research skills to succeed as a science communicator. Here are some of the most important ones and how to develop them.

1 Finding reliable sources

When undertaking any science communication project, one of the first steps is to find credible and relevant sources of information. It is essential to evaluate the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of the data and arguments used to support the story. Furthermore, you should be aware of any limitations, uncertainties, or biases that may affect the interpretation of evidence. To improve your source-finding skills, you can use reputable databases and search engines like PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, or Google Scholar. Additionally, you should check the credentials and affiliations of authors as well as the reputation and impact factor of journals or outlets where they publish. It is also important to look for peer-reviewed, original, and recent articles that report on primary research instead of secondary or tertiary sources that summarize or review existing studies. Finally, you should compare and contrast different sources and perspectives on the same topic to identify any gaps, inconsistencies, or controversies in the literature.

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Megha Rungta

Senior Analyst | Customer Experience | Quadrant Knowledge Solutions
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To transition to science communication, core research skills I should develop include synthesizing complex information, qualitative interviewing, survey design, data visualization, and audience analysis. Being able to distill scientific subjects for broad audiences requires strong written and verbal communication abilities. Interviewing researchers to understand their work and building surveys to gather public perspectives will be crucial. Data visualization and creative presentation talent will allow me to make science relatable and compelling. Overall, combining research expertise with storytelling and audience empathy will enable me to produce engaging science content for non-expert readers and viewers.

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Stanley A.

A Medical Doctor and Researcher helping individuals navigate mental health crises and promoting overall well-being.
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✓Develop the ability to identify credible and trustworthy scientific information. ✓Practice efficient literature review techniques for accurate source selection. ✓Personal Experience: Skill in sourcing reliable information ensures the foundation of credible science communication.

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Nino Gvalia 🔬🎓

🔬Empowering Lives Behind the Lab Scene | 🧪 Passionate Biochemistry Enthusiast |🏛️ Salk Institute | Gage Lab | Exploring the Wonders of Science
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Venturing into science communication requires a toolkit of key research skills! 🧰 Critical evaluation of scientific literature, polished communication (both written and verbal), proficiency in multimedia tools, and a knack for tailoring content to diverse audiences are essential. 📚🎙️🖥️ Understanding current scientific trends ensures your messages are timely and impactful. 🌐 Master these skills, and you'll be ready to captivate and educate through the exciting world of science communication! 🌟

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2 Analyzing data and statistics

A key skill for science communication is analyzing and interpreting data and statistics relevant to your story. You should understand the basic concepts and methods of data collection, analysis, and presentation, such as sampling, variables, types of data, descriptive and inferential statistics, graphs, tables, and charts. Additionally, you should be able to critically assess the validity, reliability, and significance of results while avoiding common pitfalls and errors such as correlation vs causation or confounding factors. To improve your data analysis skills you can take online courses or workshops on data analysis and statistics for beginners or intermediate learners. You can also use online tools or software to visualize, manipulate, and explore data such as Excel, Google Sheets, Tableau, R, or Python. Finally, practice analyzing and interpreting data from real-world examples or case studies related to your field or topic of interest.

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Stanley A.

A Medical Doctor and Researcher helping individuals navigate mental health crises and promoting overall well-being.
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✓Gain proficiency in interpreting scientific data and statistical findings. ✓Understand basic statistical concepts to convey accurate information. ✓Personal Experience: Competence in data analysis enhances the ability to communicate research findings effectively.

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3 Synthesizing information

To be a successful science communicator, it is essential to have the ability to synthesize and summarize information from various sources. This includes identifying the main points, themes, and implications of the research and how they relate to your story and audience. Additionally, you must organize and structure your information in a logical, coherent, and concise way that follows the conventions and formats of your chosen medium and genre. To improve your synthesis skills, you can use online tools or templates to outline, draft, and edit your science communication products. It is also beneficial to follow best practices and guidelines for writing, speaking, or producing effective science communication such as using clear language, avoiding jargon, providing context and examples, and using visuals and analogies. Finally, seek feedback from peers, mentors, or experts in your field or topic to revise and improve your science communication products.

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Stanley A.

A Medical Doctor and Researcher helping individuals navigate mental health crises and promoting overall well-being.
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✓Hone skills in condensing complex scientific concepts into understandable content. ✓Practice creating engaging narratives that convey key messages. ✓Personal Experience: Synthesizing information is crucial for making scientific content accessible to a broader audience.

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4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You want to switch to science communication. What research skills do you need to make it happen?

1

2

3

4

1 Finding reliable sources

2 Analyzing data and statistics

3 Synthesizing information

4 Here’s what else to consider

Research

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You want to switch to science communication. What research skills do you need to make it happen?

1

2

3

4

1 Finding reliable sources

2 Analyzing data and statistics

3 Synthesizing information

4 Here’s what else to consider

Research

Rate this article

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