Opinion Piece from the Science Communication Workshop
By Siyamthanda Ndinisa, Lucky Dlamini & Mbali Ngulube
What good is scientific knowledge if it remains locked away in journals, understood only by a select few? Science has the potential to shape policies, improve lives, and address global issues, but only if it is successfully communicated. Despite its relevance, science communication frequently takes a back seat in research. Why is this the case, and what can we do to change it? However, for research to have an impact beyond academia, it must be effectively communicated.
Overcoming Challenges in Science Communication
There are often various misconceptions related to science communication and challenges that scientists face in their attempts to communicating their science. As NRF-SAIAB’s Communications and Stakeholder Relations Manager, Lucky Dlamini, pointed out, “One misconception is the perception that there is no time for science communication, as it is seen as an additional task rather than an integral part of the research process. Another challenge is that some researchers lack confidence in communicating their work and require training. Lastly, many researchers believe they must complete their research before they can start communicating it, which is not the case.”
This mind-set limits the impact of the scientific project beyond the scientific endeavour. Science does not exist in isolation, it affects policy, education, and everyday life. Therefore, researchers must recognise the value of consistent engagement with diverse audiences.
NRF-SAIAB communication intern, Mbali Ngulube adds that another challenge in science communication is accessibility. Scientific jargon and technical language often create barriers, making it difficult for non-scientists to understand and appreciate scientific findings. While researchers aim for accuracy, their communication style may unintentionally distance the very people who stand to benefit from their work. Simplifying complex scientific concepts without oversimplifying or misrepresenting the scientific facts is a delicate balance that many struggle to achieve.
To address these challenges, Lucky designed an interactive and practical workshop for students. “I always follow the principle of keeping workshop presentations short, simple, and at a basic level, especially for students with no prior training in science communication. The goal is to help them understand the practice and realize that science communication is both achievable and a skill they can develop. I also involve established researchers who integrate science communication into their work, as well as young postgraduate researchers, students, and interns. This provides role models for participants, showing them that science communication is both feasible and valuable.”
The Way Forward
The benefits of science communication extend beyond public engagement. Researchers who effectively communicate their work gain recognition as experts in their field, helping to establish credibility and trust from none experts. “I hope the students will grow into responsible researchers who understand the importance of communicating their science to society, especially to those impacted by their research who are not experts in the field” Lucky explained.
His advice to young scientists: “They must first be passionate about their research projects. Only when they are passionate will they be enthusiastic about communicating their work and sharing it with society. They should also identify their preferred communication niche or the mediums that excite them and use these to their advantage whether through discussing science, posting on social media, creating visuals, or engaging directly with the public.”
Mbali’s opinion to overcome these challenges: “science communication should become more strategic and audience-centred. Scientists and communicators should prioritize storytelling to make science more engaging and relatable. People connect with stories, and framing research within personal narratives, and real-world applicationscan foster greater public interest and understanding.”
Science communication plays a crucial role in ensuring that scientific knowledge benefits society. Through workshops like this, NRF-SAIAB is actively shaping the next generation of scientists not only as researchers, but also as effective communicators who can make science accessible, engaging, and impactful for all.
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