Sharing Science Through Shared Values, Goals, and Stories: An Evidence-Based Approach to Making Science Matter

Authors

Bethann Garramon Merkle, University of WyomingFollow
Evelyn Valdez-Ward, University of California, Irvine
Priya Shukla, University of California, Davis
Skylar R. Bayer, Roger Williams University

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Abstract

Scientists in and beyond academia face considerable challenges to effectively sharing science, including lack of time and training, systemic disincentives, and the complexity of the modern media/attention landscape. Considering these constraints, 3 achievable shifts in mindset and practice can substantively enhance science communication efforts. Here, we provide evidence-based and experientially informed advice on how to center shared values, articulate science communication goals, and leverage the power of stories to advance our communication goals in connection with the values we share with our stakeholders. In addition to a discussion of relevant, foundational principles in science communication, we provide actionable recommendations and tools scientists can immediately use to articulate their values, identify shared values between stakeholders, set science communication goals, and use storytelling as a means of building and reinforcing relationships around shared values, thereby working productively to achieve those goals.

Recommended Citation

Merkle, Bethann Garramon; Valdez-Ward, Evelyn; Shukla, Priya; and Bayer, Skylar R. (2021) "Sharing Science Through Shared Values, Goals, and Stories: An Evidence-Based Approach to Making Science Matter," Human–Wildlife Interactions: Vol. 15: Iss. 3, Article 27.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.26077/9wss-av78
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/hwi/vol15/iss3/27