How to Communicate Science to the Public? Recommendations for Effective Written Communication Derived From a Systematic Review
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In: Zeitschrift fur Psychologie / Journal of Psychology, Vol. 233, No. 1, 01.01.2025, p. 40-51.
Research output: Journal contributions › Scientific review articles › Research
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TY - JOUR
T1 - How to Communicate Science to the Public?
T2 - Recommendations for Effective Written Communication Derived From a Systematic Review
AU - Konig, Laura M.
AU - Altenmüller, Marlene S.
AU - Fick, Julian
AU - Crusius, Jan
AU - Genschow, Oliver
AU - Sauerland, Melanie
N1 - Publisher Copyright: © 2024 Hogrefe Publishing.
PY - 2025/1/1
Y1 - 2025/1/1
N2 - Abstract: Communicating research findings to the public in a clear but engaging manner is challenging, yet central for maximizing their societal impact. This systematic review aimed to derive evidence-based strategies for science communication from experimental studies. Three databases were searched in December 2022. Experimental studies published in English or German were included if they tested the effect of providing written information about science to adults aged 16+ years by assessing the impact on at least one of four domains of science communication aims (understanding and knowledge, attitudes and trust, intention and behavior, engagement). A total of 171 publications were included. Derived strategies include avoiding jargon, carefully structuring texts, including citations and expert sources, being mindful about how and when to indicate conflict or uncertainty in science, using neutral language, and highlighting Open Science principles and replicability. They can be used to communicate science effectively to lay audiences, benefitting the society.
AB - Abstract: Communicating research findings to the public in a clear but engaging manner is challenging, yet central for maximizing their societal impact. This systematic review aimed to derive evidence-based strategies for science communication from experimental studies. Three databases were searched in December 2022. Experimental studies published in English or German were included if they tested the effect of providing written information about science to adults aged 16+ years by assessing the impact on at least one of four domains of science communication aims (understanding and knowledge, attitudes and trust, intention and behavior, engagement). A total of 171 publications were included. Derived strategies include avoiding jargon, carefully structuring texts, including citations and expert sources, being mindful about how and when to indicate conflict or uncertainty in science, using neutral language, and highlighting Open Science principles and replicability. They can be used to communicate science effectively to lay audiences, benefitting the society.
KW - media psychology
KW - public engagement
KW - science communication
KW - scientific communication
KW - trust in science
KW - Psychology
UR - http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=85203846160&partnerID=8YFLogxK
U2 - 10.1027/2151-2604/a000572
DO - 10.1027/2151-2604/a000572
M3 - Scientific review articles
AN - SCOPUS:85203846160
VL - 233
SP - 40
EP - 51
JO - Zeitschrift fur Psychologie / Journal of Psychology
JF - Zeitschrift fur Psychologie / Journal of Psychology
SN - 2190-8370
IS - 1
ER -