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Examining science communication on Reddit: From an "Assembled" to a "Disassembling" approach.
Michelle L Edwards1, Caden Ziegler1
1Texas State University, USA.
Public Understanding of Science (Bristol, England)
|January 13, 2022
Summary
This study explores how scientists communicate on Reddit, finding that social media interactions involve more than just scientists and the public. It reveals hidden factors influencing science communication online.
Area of Science:
- Science Communication
- Social Media Studies
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Traditional science communication models may not fully capture social media dynamics.
- Understanding scientist-public interactions on platforms like Reddit is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze science communication strategies used by US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists on Reddit.
- To propose an alternative approach for studying science communication on social media platforms.
- To identify human and non-human factors influencing online science communication.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of "Ask Me Anything" sessions hosted by scientists on Reddit.
- An "assembled" approach to explore themes in scientist posts.
- A "disassembling" approach, drawing on actor-network theory, to identify mediators in science communication.
Main Results:
- Scientist posts reflect elements of both "deficit" and "dialogue" models of science communication.
- The "disassembling" approach revealed "hidden" human and non-human "actants" shaping communication.
- Science communication on social media is not solely a direct interaction between scientists and the public.
Conclusions:
- The study challenges the assumption of direct scientist-public communication on social media.
- An actor-network theory-inspired approach offers a more nuanced understanding of online science communication.
- Recognizing "mediators" is essential for effective science engagement in digital spaces.
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