Communicating Your Research in a World of Misinformation

An Interactive Workshop

120 minutes, in front of live audience

With the rise of misinformation, it has become harder for many researchers to communicate their work effectively with the public. Distrust in science has been on the rise, and the COVID-19 pandemic has added to the gap between researchers and the public.

Welcome to our Interactive Workshop on Science Communication: Communicating Your Research in a World of Misinformation. Hosted by Dr. Shahir Rizk from Indiana University South Bend and Maggie Fink from the University of Notre Dame, this transformative workshop is designed to empower researchers with the skills they need to bridge the communication gap and engage with the public meaningfully.

Want to learn how to communicate your science better? Frustrated by the growing public distrust in science?

In this interactive workshop, we address these challenges. Participants will learn how to effectively communicate their research, face the rising public distrust in science, and combat misinformation that plagues our world today.

Our workshop combines hands-on activities, group discussions, and engaging games to help PhD students, postdocs, and early career scientists identify their strengths and expertise. By recognizing and harnessing their unique skills, participants will gain the confidence to communicate complex scientific ideas effectively.

 

As researchers, it is essential to engage with the public in a way that fosters meaningful conversations about research. Through curated games and group activities, participants will develop the ability to connect with diverse audiences, making science accessible to all.

 

Effective science communication goes beyond just speaking in scientific jargon. Our workshop equips participants with techniques to communicate ideas in-person, through writing blogs and op-eds, and even how to use the power of art and storytelling to captivate a wider audience.

 

With successful sessions conducted since 2021, Dr. Shahir Rizk and Maggie Fink have reached hundreds of participants at various institutions and conferences. The positive impact and feedback from attendees highlight the workshop's effectiveness in enhancing science communication skills.

Feedback

“I liked the flow of the workshop and the balance between practical and more philosophical concepts. I loved that the structure was loose and allowed for ideas from the audience to shape the experience

 “The activities were very valuable to push us out of our comfort zone to participate and practice our communication skills”

Institutions that have hosted the workshop:

Contact Us

If you're interested in empowering your researchers with effective science communication skills and combating misinformation, bring our Interactive Workshop on Science Communication to your institution. Inquire today by contacting us.

srizk@iu.edu

mfink3@nd.edu

 

FAQ

 

Who is the ideal audience for this workshop?

The ideal audience for this workshop is early career researchers seeking to improve their science communication skills. However, experienced scientists can also benefit from honing their abilities to engage with the public effectively.

 

Is the workshop limited to scientists?

No, the workshop is open to researchers from all disciplines. Whether you're in the field of science, humanities, or social sciences, our workshop will equip you with the tools to communicate your research effectively.

 

What skills will the participants gain?

Participants will gain essential skills to combat misinformation and build trust with the public. They will learn to identify their expertise and leverage it to their advantage in communication. Moreover, the workshop will develop their writing skills, enabling them to convey complex information in an approachable manner through blogs, op-eds, and other written forms. Lastly, participants will explore alternative forms of communication, including art and storytelling, to engage a wider audience in their research.

 

What is the cost of hosing the workshop at my institution?

We strive to make the workshop affordable. We believe that cost should not be prohibitive to anyone who wants to engage the public in meaningful discussions about research. We ask for travel and lodging for the speakers and an honorarium at a level that fits the budget of the institutions. Please inquire by contacting us through e-mail.

  • • "I gained such great tips on creating a hook, writing and describing my research to a general audience. Really loved all of the games we played!"

  • • "[The workshop] Helped me think anew about how I communicate to non science people and feel empowered about prioritizing my artistic endeavors as much as my scientific work,"

  • • "I enjoyed hearing the personal connections of the speakers to ways that their own experiences have made them better science communicators."