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Using science communication research to practice iterative engagement in collaborative nutrient management
Citation:
Canfield, Katherine AND C. Chatelain. Using science communication research to practice iterative engagement in collaborative nutrient management. JCOM: Journal of Science Communication. SISSA Medialab, Trieste, Italy, 23(3):N01, (2024). https://doi.org/10.22323/2.23030801
Impact/Purpose:
Problem-solving is foundational to science yet considering the human impacts and communication of solutions can often be left out of research practice. Collaborative projects that integrate science communication research, social and biophysical sciences, and practitioner knowledge provide opportunities to bridge research and practice approaches to problem-solving. In the Nutrients Solutions-Driven Research Pilot, a collaborative approach was taken to address excess nutrients on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Integrating researcher and practitioner interest, expertise, and goals requires thoughtful planning and execution of science communication. To achieve success both scientifically and collaboratively, it is important to evaluate the experiences of all the key players in a solutions-driven project. This allows for identifying what went well and and what was learned that can improve future solutions-driven projects. This paper presents a longitudinal evaluation approach to improve engagement experiences throughout a solutions-driven project. Using interviews and researcher reflection both during and at the end of the project, we present benefits of this multi-stage process and recommendations for effective science communication evaluation in collaborative research.
Description:
Thoughtful science communication is essential for the success of collaborative, transdisciplinary environmental research. We present an innovative evaluation of a four-year pilot project that took a highly engaged and collaborative approach to managing excess nutrients in the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts, USA. The evaluation approach included mid- and end-of-project interviews with researchers and project partners and a reflection from the lead science communication researcher. We found that an effective science communication evaluation needs to be (1) adaptive, (2) multistage, (3) holistic and objective-based, and (4) democratic and reflexive. Results demonstrate that formative and end-of-project science communication evaluation of research projects lead to improved engagement that better meets all collaborators’ needs.
URLs/Downloads:
DOI: Using science communication research to practice iterative engagement in collaborative nutrient management