Increasing culturally relevant science media coverage: exploring the outcomes of a collaboration in Puerto Rico

Area of Science:

• Science communication
• Sociology of science
• Hispanic/Latine studies

Background:

• CienciaPR is a major network of Puerto Rican and Hispanic/Latine scientists.
• El Nuevo Día (END) is Puerto Rico's leading newspaper.
• There is a need for increased culturally relevant science stories.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify and compare culturally relevant elements in science articles.
• To analyze content differences between CienciaPR-authored articles and other sources in END.
• To assess the impact of collaboration on science journalism.

Main Methods:

• Content analysis of science articles in El Nuevo Día.
• Comparison of articles authored by CienciaPR members versus other sources.
• Identification and quantification of culturally relevant elements (e.g., location, language, figures).

Main Results:

• CienciaPR-authored articles showed a higher frequency of culturally relevant elements.
• These elements included references to Puerto Rico, local landmarks, and slang.
• Articles by other sources (END, news agencies) contained fewer culturally specific references.

Conclusions:

• Collaboration between CienciaPR and END successfully increased culturally relevant science content.
• CienciaPR's involvement enhances the connection between science reporting and the local Puerto Rican audience.
• This approach can serve as a model for improving science communication in diverse communities.