Engaging Scientists in Policy Discourse.
Priyanka N Bushana1,2, Christopher Szlenk3, Shannon Kozlovich3,4
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington.
Current Protocols Essential Laboratory Techniques
|June 29, 2022
Summary
Scientists must communicate research effectively to policymakers for informed decision-making. This guide offers strategies for engaging with science policy, from simple actions to complex organizing, to drive evidence-based change.
Area of Science:
- Public policy
- Science communication
- Scientific advocacy
Background:
- Science funding relies heavily on taxpayer dollars, necessitating clear communication.
- Effective science communication is crucial for informing policy and legislative action.
- Formal scientific education often lacks training in policy engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline strategies for scientists to engage with the policy landscape.
- To empower scientists to translate research into actionable policy.
- To bridge the gap between scientific research and policy-making.
Main Methods:
- Describes a range of policy engagement strategies.
- Includes simple actions and complex organizing tasks.
- Focuses on practical skill development for scientists.
Main Results:
- Provides a framework for scientists to interact with policy.
- Offers methods for advocating for evidence-based policies.
- Enhances scientists' ability to influence policy and STEM education.
Conclusions:
- Practicing science policy engagement builds confidence and facilitates change.
- Effective communication ensures research impacts policy and funding.
- Scientists play a vital role in shaping evidence-based policy and the future of science.
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