Tag: Science Communication

Tips and Tricks for Interdisciplinary Research with Dwarsleggers

Post author By administrator
Post date 24/06/2024

Researchers, especially those at junior level, are often encouraged to step out of their comfort zone and collaborate with others from different disciplinaries. Being capable of connecting and cooperating with others in an inter- and trans-disciplinary environment therefore becomes an X factor for their academic career development.

Addressing that topic, Forum for Young Scientists organized a Science Communication workshop in which Geertje Tijsma, Marijke Visser and Tessa Roedema – or the so-called the “dwarsleggers” – offered young researchers tips and tricks for interdisciplinary research. During the four-hour interactive workshop, the three inspiring “connectors” helped participants explore one’s thought patterns and feelings, as well as develop valuable tools tor turn conflicts into constructive collaboration based on mutual understanding and respect.

The workshop was well-received by the participants who came from different schools/faculties of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

“The setting was cozy, the trainers were super friendly and nice and helpful, and just everything really!”
Anonymous participant

“Though interdisciplinarity is challenging, it is also full of unique opportunities. And it’s possible changing our own behaviour, both to alleviate the challenges we face and to improve communication.”
Anonymous participant

Tags Interdisciplinary research, Science Communication, Soft skills development

Marketing your Research by Lennart Wesel

Post author By administrator
Post date 29/05/2024

As researchers, we are deeply invested in our work, yet presenting our findings in an accessible and engaging way to diverse audiences, both online and offline, can be quite challenging. Striking a balance between avoiding overly technical language and not oversimplifying the significance of our research is essential.

During this 4-hour workshop, PhD candidates and Postdocs participated in a series of dynamic exercises that integrated group discussions, writing tasks, and creative thinking activities. They practised delivering self-introductions in a speed-dating format, identified the fundamental values of their research and discussed what platforms are useful for scientists to engage with the public on.

You can find more information about Lennart Wesel on his website: https://expertexpert.nl/

“Communicating with the general public is probably more important (and more easy) than one thinks!”
Anonymous participant

“I liked that the workshop was tailored to what the participants requested.”
Anonymous participant

Tags bHertz, Science Communication, Soft skills development

Soft skills development

Engaging in Public Conversations by Sem Barendse

Post author By administrator
Post date 18/11/2023

As a scientist, one of your responsibilities is to report your findings and communicate them to your desired audience. This is often done through scientific articles published in journals. However, sharing your science with a non-scientific community can be challenging. It requires simplifying your findings, omitting important nuances, and negotiating your position as an expert, which may risk engaging in "false balance" conversations.

The workshop provided valuable tools to address these dilemmas. Initially, we explored various roles of a science communicator. Are you inclined to be a "fact-maker," solely reporting new studies, or would you consider participating in talk shows, podcasts, and engaging in public debates? Subsequently, we identified crucial factors, including uncertainty, values, emotions, framing, and more, essential for delivering your message effectively. Finally, the workshop concluded with a discussion on current opportunities for becoming a science communicator, highlighting the VU's significant efforts in acknowledging science communicators and education.

“Good informal setting! Lots of interactions”

Anonymous participant

“Interactive discussions/"games" ”

Anonymous participant

Tags Science Communication