[Audio] Good morning everyone, today where going to present our CASE ANALYSIS With the title CHALLENGES OF COMMUNICATING SCIENCE: PERSPECTIVE FROM THE PHILIPPINES presented by Group 8.
[Audio] INTRODUCTION To close the information gap between the scientific community and the general population, science communication is essential. The public is well-educated and capable of making informed judgments on issues that have an influence on their life when scientific concepts and conclusions are effectively communicated, according to research. Due to cultural, societal, and economic disparities, a sizable percentage of science communication research has been done in Western nations, where it may not necessarily be directly transferable to poorer countries. This case study focuses on the difficulties experienced by scientists and science communicators in Manila, Philippines, illuminating the difficulties they face when communicating science..
This study's main goals are to comprehend the unique scientific communication issues that Manila, Philippines, faces and to emphasize the significance of adopting country-specific science communication techniques. The study intends to shed light on the challenges faced by scientists and science communicators in effectively communicating scientific information to the local audience using semi-structured interviews and an online survey. A questionnaire was created to collect quantitative information on the behaviors, preferences, and difficulties faced by researchers and science communicators in Manila for this study. The methodology was an online survey. In addition to Semi-Structured Interviews, wherein In-depth interviews were held with a selection of participants to go deeper into their experiences and viewpoints, the survey was circulated online to a varied group of participants, including scientists, educators, journalists, and policymakers. The interviews' semi-structured format allowed for free-flowing conversation and the investigation of subtle discoveries..
PREPARED BY. ALFREDO TORRES. SWOT ANALYSIS. CHALLENGES OF COMMUNICATING SCIENCE: PERSPECTIVE FROM THE PHILIPPINES.
STRENGTHS. Existing Research Base. Global Relevance.
WEAKNESSES. Cultural and Contextual Variability. Limited Resources.
OPPORTUNITIES. Local Customization. Collaborative Efforts.
THREATS. Misinformation. Resistance to Change. Lack of Coordination.
ALTERNATIVE COURSES OF ACTION Studying the difficulties in science communication from the standpoint of the Philippines can provide important insights into enhancing science communication in the area. Here are some alternative actions you might think about:.
The three best ACA for us are. ACA A - INTERACTIVE SCIENCE EVENTS.
Participants can actively study scientific concepts through practical exercises and experiments. These activities can be created to dispel myths, highlight practical applications, and pique interest. Interactive scientific events frequently feature Q&A periods where participants can ask professionals specific questions. This promotes open communication and aids in dispelling any doubts or misunderstandings. To efficiently communicate their ideas to the general audience, the scientists and researchers taking part in these events may undergo training in scientific communication. This entails employing straightforward language, relatable examples, and narrative tactics. To gauge the success of the event, organizers also solicit participant feedback. By using this feedback, future events may be made better, content can be tailored to audience preferences, and any problems can be solved. Interactive scientific events can help guests who are interested in the same things feel more connected to one another. This sense of community can continue after the event by promoting continuous conversations and participation..
These events can raise public knowledge of scientific achievements, improve science literacy, and contribute to a more informed and involved society by offering a vibrant and participatory platform for science communication. They also give scientists the chance to meaningfully engage with the public, removing obstacles to communication and fostering a sense of trust..
3. Demystifying Science. 4. Addressing Misconceptions.
DISADVANTAGES:. Even though interactive scientific events have many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks and difficulties with choosing this alternate strategy. These elements must be considered to guarantee that the events are properly planned and carried out. Here are some potential disadvantages:.
9. Event Promotion. 10. Competition with Other Activities.
ACA B - EVALUATION OF EXISTING INITIATIVES - Analyze the effects of the Philippines' current science communication programs. Determine effective tactics and areas for development, which can direct the creation of future communication plans..
The main objective of assessing current science communication programs is to learn more about their effects on target audiences, their outcomes, and their general efficacy in attaining their intended aims. By identifying a variety of science communication initiatives currently operating in the Philippines, such as science exhibitions, educational programs, media campaigns, public lectures, podcasts, and online platforms, this assessment offers useful information for fine-tuning strategies and enhancing future initiatives. Pick projects that span a range of platforms, demographics, and scientific disciplines it Define clear criteria for evaluating the initiatives. These criteria could include factors such as reach (audience engagement and numbers), relevance to target audiences, accuracy of information, engagement methods, innovation, sustainability, cultural sensitivity, and alignment with communication objectives..
A variety of techniques, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, content analysis, social media engagement metrics, and observation, are used to collect data. Gather information that is both quantitative (such as statistics on attendees, website traffic, and social media engagements) and qualitative (such as participant, stakeholder, and expert input). Analyze the efforts' effects on audience science knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. Check to see if the participants' attitudes toward science altered, if their comprehension of scientific topics improved, and if they were motivated to study more. Discuss the efforts' strengths and flaws with a variety of stakeholders, such as the organizers, participants, scientists, educators, and policymakers. Their perspectives can offer a comprehensive picture of the initiatives' effectiveness, and comparison and benchmarking can compare the results of other efforts and point out best practices or effective tactics that other initiatives could use. Benchmarking can be used to find opportunities for innovation and improvement. And identifying the gaps to see if there are any areas of science communication that are not being sufficiently served by current programs. This might show where there are openings for new initiatives or programs..
These suggestions can involve changes to the content, engagement strategies, communication platforms, or focused outreach initiatives. Inform the initiative's planners and stakeholders of the evaluation's findings and recommendations. This feedback loop encourages openness and teamwork, which can result in better implementation and alignment with communication objectives. It uses the evaluation results as a starting point for an iterative process. Apply the lessons learned to refine existing initiatives or design new ones, with a focus on addressing the identified strengths and weaknesses. By evaluating existing science communication initiatives, organizations and stakeholders can make informed decisions about how to allocate resources, adapt strategies, and create impactful initiatives that effectively communicate science to diverse audiences in the Philippines..
ADVANTAGES OF THIS ACA:. 1. Informed Decision-Making.
12. Customized Strategies. 13. Capacity Building.
8. Resistance to Evaluation. 9. Influence on Creativity.
DESCRIPTION OF THIS ACA:. The alternate strategy known as "Longitudinal Studies" entails collecting data over an extended period to monitor alterations, trends, and developments pertaining to the difficulties in explaining science from the viewpoint of the Philippines. This method offers insights into the tempo of perception, attitude, and communication techniques. Here's a more detailed description of this approach.
The main objective of longitudinal research is to track long-term changes in scientific communication practices, public perceptions, and the efficacy of initiatives. This method enables a deeper comprehension of the evolution of communication difficulties and offers insightful information on trends. Create a study strategy that includes periodic data gathering at different points in time. This may involve conducting surveys, conducting interviews, conducting content analyses, making observations, and using other techniques to gather data. Depending on the research objectives, the study may last for several years or even decades. To begin, a baseline assessment of the current state of science communication issues, public comprehension, and attitudes is taken. The basis for tracking changes over time is provided by this initial data..
Data collection utilizing standard procedures at regular times (e.g., annually, biannually). To study changes in public attitudes about science, scientists, and science communication, trends, shifts, and patterns in science communication practices and views can be identified. Measure elements include the readiness to interact with scientific content, curiosity in scientific themes, and trust in scientific knowledge. Analyze the development and adaptation of science communication tactics to shifting technological, cultural, and societal contexts. Examine the efficiency of various communication methods and channels. Keep tabs on shifts in the opinions and perspectives of various audience groups, including students, decision-makers, teachers, and the broader public. Recognize any changes in preferences or requirements for communication..
Analyze the results of initiatives for science communication that were started throughout the study period. Check to see if these initiatives affect the knowledge, attitudes, or behaviors of the public. Think about outside influences on science communication, such as significant scientific advances, societal developments, technological innovations, and shifts in the media environment. And analyze both quantitative data and qualitative information from focus groups and interviews. As a result, the context and causes of observable patterns are better understood..
When gathering and utilizing participant data over an extended period, abide by ethical standards. Ensure privacy, data security, and informed consent. Use the right statistical techniques to analyze the gathered data and find patterns, correlations, and noteworthy changes. To make meaningful inferences, compare outcomes over many time periods. In reports, papers, or presentations, summarize the results. To inform science communication strategies, and share insights with stakeholders, policymakers, and the public. And be flexible to adapt the research plan as needed based on unforeseen developments or changes in research priorities over the study's duration. The Long-Term Impact gained from longitudinal studies can inform the development of sustainable, adaptable, and effective science communication strategies that address evolving challenges over the long term..
ADVANTAGES A greater understanding of issues, trends, and the efficiency of communication techniques can be achieved by conducting longitudinal research in the context of science communication. Some of the main benefits of using the "Longitudinal Studies" alternative course of action (ACA) include the following:.
9. Improved Resource Allocation. 10. Evaluation of Long-Term Impact.
6. Researcher Bias. 7. Complex Data Analysis. 8. Data Interpretation.
RECOMMENDED ACA. Depending on your unique objectives, the resources at your disposal, and the setting of your study, you should choose the appropriate alternative course of action (ACA). The three ACAs you named each have their own advantages and strengths. However, combining "Longitudinal Studies" with "Evaluation of Existing Initiatives" may be particularly efficient due to the possibility for thorough insights, practical influence, and adaptability. This is why:.
Evaluation of Existing Initiatives: The assessment of current science communication activities offers a useful and implementable perspective. You can learn what works well, where adjustments are required, and how to adapt techniques to local circumstances by evaluating the efficacy, strengths, and weaknesses of ongoing efforts. This method provides a solid grasp of how science communication activities are currently being conducted in the Philippines. Combining these two ACAs allows you to leverage the benefits of both. Here's how they complement each other: Longitudinal Studies, you can monitor an initiative's influence and efficacy over time by performing longitudinal studies concurrently with the evaluation of current efforts. This method would allow you to spot patterns, evaluate the viability of tactics, and comprehend the long-term effects of science communication initiatives..
Whereas longitudinal studies offer insights over time, a review of existing initiatives offers quick practical suggestions for changes. You can find currently effective tactics and get advice for improving ongoing efforts by using the evaluation process. Together, these ACAs provide a holistic approach that combines long-term insights with practical strategies for improvement. You can use the findings from both approaches to inform decision-making, refine science communication initiatives, and create a more effective and adaptable framework for addressing the challenges of communicating science in the Philippines..
PLAN OF THE ACTION Here's a general outline of a plan that combines the "Longitudinal Studies" and "Evaluation of Existing Initiatives" alternative courses of action (ACAs) to address the challenges of communicating science in the Philippines: Plan for Longitudinal Studies and Evaluation of Existing Initiatives: Phase 1: Planning and Preparation Phase 2: Longitudinal Studies Phase 3: Evaluation of Existing Initiatives Phase 4: Synthesis and Recommendations Phase 5: Adaptation and Implementation Phase 6: Continuous Learning.
This approach intends to offer a thorough understanding of the difficulties in science communication in the Philippines by integrating longitudinal studies with the evaluation of current activities. The plan's iterative structure enables customization in response to change trends and continual input, ultimately resulting in more potent and successful science communication techniques..
Proverbs 18:15 (NIV) "The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.".