There is Little Value to Science Without Inclusive Communication

Abstract

It is critical to provide the general public with access to scientific knowledge because it allows them to form educated opinions, and inspires a new generation of future scientists.  This paper argues that institutions should provide inclusive scientific communication training and raise awareness outside of academia about the importance of standard guidelines for lay summaries for scientists. According to a 2019 study conducted by Scheufele and Krause, lay explanations of research are typically created to entice clicks rather than to disseminate information (Scheufele & Krause, 2019). The solutions presented in this paper include scientists receiving training in inclusive science communication, developing related seminars and courses taught at universities across North America, and publishers providing lay summaries. The way scientists, journalists, and the media use inclusive science communication in their work needs to undergo drastic change to promote inclusive science.