CONFERENCEScience Communication Practices in the Fundamental and Applied Research Programme of Latvian Council of Science in 2023
https://doi.org/10.22364/ms24.01 | pp. 4-19 | PDF
Darja Aksjonova
University of Latvia
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1512-5533
Abstract. Science communication plays a crucial role in attracting public money for science, promote scientific careers and shaping policy accordingly. Very few studies have been particularly dedicated to the ways how Latvian scientists communicate their research to public audiences. The current study will attempt to fill this gap and offer analysis of scientists’ perception of communication and the models they choose to communicate effectively. One must take into consideration the claim of many scholars that definition of science communication remains elusive and multifaceted, often described as vague and fuzzy. This forestalls a clear understanding of what results are expected and how are they to be achieved. At this point, science communication models are of great help to guide and measure expected results. Although the models are usually presented as an evolutionary form, in real life situations they often transpire as a mix and cannot be identified straightforwardly. However, they are usually declared in forms that are separated not only according to the way activities are carried out but also according to the evolutionary forms of transfer. Meanwhile, as evolution implies, there is a need to be ready for change, hence, it is pivotal for society, as well as scientists. This study encompasses projects (n = 47) funded by Latvian Council of Science in 2020, whose implementers have submitted their final reports in 2023. Qualitative thematic analysis has revealed that the focus of project proposals and reports lies in the Deficit model of science communication, often leaving behind Dialogue and Participatory models. This paper aims to explore the nuanced definitions of science communication and contribute the analysis of the progression of its models in relation to societal and scientific readiness. By examining these models, we can gain insights into how science communication practices have adapted to meet the changing expectations and needs of both society and the scientific community.
Keywords: science communication, Fundamental and Applied Research programme (FARP) project proposals, qualitative analysis, thematic analysis, models of science communication
In: Media and Society, 2024. Proceedings of Scientific Papers = Mediji un sabiedrība, 2024. Rakstu krājums. Riga, University of Latvia, 2025. 137 p.