Thread by @ComSciCon

We’re incredibly honored to have @frkearns joining us for a discussion about a part of her book “Getting to the Heart of Science Communication” #ComSciCon21 #scicomm

To create this book, Faith interviewed a variety of practitioners as she wanted to only speak to her experience - so important because while we may be an expert at something, we’re not experts at everything!

This book also has some #ComSciConnections to our alumni! #ComSciCon21

Some one line gems in the chat:

“Relating to people’s emotions is where the #scicomm work is at”

“Communicating isn’t just talking, it’s listening too”

But what is listening exactly? It’s not just about empathy and compassion, but also about justice and accountability.

Scientists cannot separate their place in society! Ethics is involved!

“If conflict is one thing that scientists dislike talking about, another thing is power”

Let that sink in.

Are you avoiding these discussions as a scientist? As a communicator? As an institution? We are not separate entities from society (had to say that again)

#ComSciCon21

Dr. Kearns says that through her interviewing, one thing folks wished scientists knew more about is trauma research.

What we communicate have consequences and are connected to real people.

#ComSciCon21

It’s also important to note that we ALL have our own traumas and we bring this to whatever work we are doing!

Now the attendees are going off to breakout rooms to further the discussion. Here are the questions if you’d like to ponder them as well!

#ComSciCon21 #scicomm

We’re back and asking questions:

Any advice to approach audiences with a open heart when their misinformation harms others?

@frkearns reminds us that relationships are important. Relationships first, point second. YOU may not be the right person to make point #ComSciCon21

“Do you find the need to approach conflict differently in person vs online? Are there things to do/avoid?”

While relationships are important are they are not one-size fits all. Think about if you’re engaging conflict for yourself or to serve a greater purpose.

#ComSciCon21

“How do we talk about the importance of emotions with our colleagues if they are resistant to mixing ‘feelings’ with science?”

You shouldn’t go into things thinking that you can or should convert others. So showing by doing, but sometimes it’s a lonely place. 1/2
#ComSciCon21

Having community is important, so if you’re not receiving the support you need, it’s alright to seek them out somewhere.
#ComSciCon21

That wraps up this session! We’re taking a break and then afterwards the attendees will be networking their Write-A-Thon pieces!