Whose Job is it Anyways? A Study of Attitudes and Perspectives among Canadian Science Communicators with a Comparison to Global Practices

Abstract

Science communication is essential in sharing and discussing scientific research with people outside of specialized scientific audiences. Diversity among science communicators, researchers, and audiences is evident on both a local and global scale, necessitating training programs that serve to enhance communication skills, thereby improving overall communication effectiveness. This study seeks to enhance our understanding of science communication in Canada, including barriers and challenges the field currently faces. An online questionnaire was conducted to compare attitudes and approaches of Canadian communicators from various backgrounds, fields, and disciplines including scientists, journalists, podcasters, online content creators, and artists. Most Canadian science communicators had a background in science (rather than journalism or communication), had limited training in communications prior to starting their careers, and indicated that scientists in particular should be trained in science communication. Diversity was listed as both a positive aspect of Canadian science communication, and a challenge needing to be overcome (specifically that diversity is still lacking). The findings suggest that greater emphasis on communication training is needed, especially for young, early career scientists, and that equity, diversity, and inclusion were important. Gaps in knowledge were identified regarding the accessibility of science communication, as well as the impact of older practices such as Indigenous oral histories. A better understanding of the Canadian science communication landscape can help to design and enhance training, support, and outreach initiatives, for improved public engagement with science across the country.