Comparing science communication theory with practice: An assessment and critique using Australian data

Area of Science:

• Science Communication
• Public Engagement with Science

Background:

• Over 20 years, scholars have proposed various science communication models.
• There's been limited assessment of these theoretical models against actual science communication practices.
• Dominant models include deficit, dialogue, and participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare theoretical science communication models with practical engagement activities.
• To assess the prevalence of deficit, dialogue, and participation models in Australian science engagement.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 515 science engagement activities from a 2012 Australian audit.
• Comparison of activity objectives against the characteristics of deficit, dialogue, and participation models.

Main Results:

• Most engagement activities exhibited objectives mixing deficit and dialogue approaches.
• A scarcity of participatory science engagement activities was observed in Australia.
• Existing participatory activities, such as citizen science, often coexist with deficit-based activities.

Conclusions:

• Science communication models should account for the mixed objectives found in practice.
• Recognizing that engagement often blends approaches is crucial for model development.
• Participatory science activities might be supported by deficit-based communication strategies.