In a world of pandemics, climate change, artificial intelligence, and more, it is important that the general public is informed about scientific knowledge and participates in the public debate on how to put this knowledge to use when making political decisions, large or small.

Yet disseminating research is far from easy, particularly on digital media where public debate takes place, because we access and use information differently depending on our values ​​and attitudes and do not just voluntarily or passively receive the knowledge presented to us.

That is why it poses a problem when scientists, science journalists, influencers, and others only communicate one way without engaging the public in a dialogue about the research. At the same time, there is a lack of education and systematic, evidence-based training in science communication focused on reaching broader target groups.

Those are the findings of a major pan-European research project named RETHINK.

But how bad are things in Denmark? Are Danish universities also characterized by one-way science communication to the usual target groups? And what can we do to raise awareness of science-related topics?

These are some of the issues we will be addressing when the Board of Technology and the Royal Academy hold a joint debate on the future of science communication.

➔ Monday, 7 February 2022, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. (15.00-18.00)

The meeting will take place at the Royal Academy of Sciences in Copenhagen and is also open for online participation.

At the meeting, the Board of Technology as one of the partners in RETHINK will present the project findings and several recommendations on how to improve science communication. Additionally, Cissi Askwall from Vetenskap & Allmänhet (Public & Science) will be presenting initiatives in Sweden to systematically improve science communication there. The presentations are followed by a discussion on whether we need to rethink Danish science communication.

During the debate, we will include experiences and suggestions from the participants, so that everyone may be heard. Please attend and take part in finding solutions!

SIGN UP FOR THE MEETING:

The meeting will be in Danish. Find the link to the registration form in the Danish article HERE.

The meeting is open for everyone, and participation is free. Only a limited number of physical seats are offered for the event. Should you be prevented from participating, please cancel your reservation no later than 1 February so that your seat may go to someone else. Seats are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. The debate will be held in accordance with current Covid-19 recommendations.

Registration deadline: 31 January.