Connecting people through scientific or engineering gateways requires effective communication. All gateway users – researchers, educators, public audiences – must understand the purpose, utility, and significance of the gateway if it is to be successful. Therefore, establishing effective communication practices to explain the project becomes critical to developing the gateway and ensuring its longevity. Fortunately, communication skills can be learned and practiced by anyone. Developing communication efforts with goals that align with those of the target audience, using storytelling to convey clear messages, and using appropriate language and visual elements are all key skills of a successful communication strategy. Putting these skills into practice can maximize the utility and benefits of your gateway for all parties involved.
Slides are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.5613217 (19MB).
Elyse L. Aurbach is a co-founder and co-director of the science communication and public engagement organization, RELATE (www.learntoRELATE.org). She uses evidence-based research, active learning techniques, improv exercises, and best practices to develop curricula to teach communication skills and facilitate public engagement. Aurbach holds a PhD in neuroscience from the University of Michigan, and her current research uses informatics techniques to examine network changes in the brain associated with psychiatric illnesses.
