Going Online in Pandemic Time: A DivulgaMicro Workshop Experience
Laura Maria Andrade de Oliveira1, Eric Cordeiro-Spinetti2, Felipe Piedade Gonçalves Neves3
1Departamento de Microbiologia Médica, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education
|May 6, 2021
Summary
The DivulgaMicro Workshop successfully adapted to a virtual format, enhancing science communication skills. Participants reported significant learning gains and high satisfaction, recommending the online science outreach program.
Area of Science:
- Science Communication
- Scientific Outreach
- Virtual Education
Background:
- The DivulgaMicro project is a Brazilian science communication and outreach initiative.
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the transition of the DivulgaMicro Workshop to a virtual format in 2020.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the adaptations made for the virtual edition of the DivulgaMicro Workshop.
- To assess the effectiveness and participant satisfaction with the virtual workshop format.
Main Methods:
- A 3-day virtual workshop was conducted, covering manuscript writing, poster design, oral presentations, and public communication strategies.
- Daily pre- and post-session surveys assessed learning, complemented by a final opinion questionnaire.
- Active learning through interactive and cooperative activities complemented short lectures.
Main Results:
- Post-session surveys showed significantly higher correct answers (p < 0.01) daily, indicating knowledge acquisition.
- 97% of participants would recommend the workshop.
- Participants found the online format suitable for learning and were satisfied with content clarity, organization, dynamics, and interactivity.
Conclusions:
- The virtual DivulgaMicro Workshop was successful due to a blend of concise lectures, active learning, and effective virtual communication platforms.
- The online format proved suitable for science communication training and knowledge acquisition.
- Participants highly valued the content, particularly public communication strategies and manuscript writing skills.
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