"Communicating Science" Workshops Help Develop Public Outreach Skills

SAN JOSE, Calif.—After the biologist had finished practicing a verbal summary of her research intended for public audiences, other scientists in the room pointed out that she was using some technical language and speaking slightly too fast. The remedy was straightforward, said workshop facilitator Denise Graveline: Slow down a bit, and try to avoid jargon.

The biologist joined with other academic scientists and engineers in the Silicon Valley seeking to improve their communication skills for media interviews and public outreach activities at a free workshop on 14 March at San Jose State University. The workshop was sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the AAAS Center for Public Engagement with Science and Technology.

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