Annotated Table of Contents Getting to the Heart of Science Communication A Guide to Effective Engagement By Faith Kearns
Introduction The introduction provides an overview of the authors’ background and inspiration for writing the book.
Part I: The Evolution of Science Communication Chapter 1: Science Communication from the Ground Up The science communication landscape in the U.S. has changed vastly in the last two decades. Normative science communication practices focused on delivering a rehearsed message from an elite scientist to an elite audience are not adequate, and can even be harmful, in situations where emotions, conflict, and power must be navigated. Science communication practitioners are dealing with a wide variety of issues that have not been part of the normative discussion in the field and that should lead to an adjustment in advice given to science communicators. In addition, they are increasingly in nontenure track positions and are not protected in working on these contentious issues that they often feel strongly about or have moral or ethical obligations to address. These changes invite new approaches to science communication practice, including emphasizing protecting practitioners instead of incentivizing the unwilling. The chapter includes two full narratives and several shorter anecdotes based on practitioner interviews, as well as questions for self or group exploration and reflection. 1