The first resource is a matter of attitude. We need a cultural mindset that sees science communication as the basic skill of any good research. It must be an integral part of good research, just like teamwork, research design, methodological and statistical competence, ethical competence and technology assessment.
We strive for a change of culture in science: Every researcher’s DNA of skills should contain a gene for communication competence.
Communication should be part of the daily business of a scientific career.
Currently the main arguments against science communication are:
- I don’t have time
- I don’t have money
- I’d rather do research
- I can’t do that/I don’t know how to do that
Opponents of science communication do not perceive its advantages as such. They may discount all advantages like higher acceptance in society, of donors and in politics or the investment in their own competence. Why? Well, communication does not result in directly measurable benefits (e.g. with applications), but rather in long-term results. It makes success that much harder to see and feel.
Despite of this, good communication may even be the deciding factor: Take this example: there are three projects on a similar topic. All three projects are scientifically sound. However, only one of them actively presents itself to the scientific community and society through good communicative work. The other two do not communicate more than the minimum required – which one is most likely to receive further funding?
So there are many reasons for science communication. What do you need specifically, though, apart from the fact that the respective organization or research institution should be open for it?
Time
You don’t have time, you take it. If you perceive the time for WissKomm as part of your time for research (like the time for attending conferences and the time for writing papers and proposals), then you don’t feel like you have to cut something for WissKomm.
Lack of time for something usually means that one deprioritize that “something”. If you want, you can include communication work into your schedule. After all, attending congresses is established as part of your schedule, even though it is often a waste of time.
Communication can be built into everyday life like brushing your teeth. By delegation (“Bring some photos with you”) and batching you can also work in a time-efficient way. And of course through experience and routine.
Budget
Let’s not kid ourselves: Of course, a budget helps. But if you don’t have a budget, that’s no excuse not to communicate! Many tools such as software or social media are available free of charge. Instead of buying an expensive camera, you can also take photos and videos with your smartphone.
With a budget, researchers can commission the editorial and technical translation of their research. Of course, this is more convenient. The results may be available more quickly or more professionally. In short, money for science communication is not a prerequisite, but a facilitating factor.
Competences
Some people have a natural talent for writing, presenting, designing or explaining – others can acquire it.
In trainings, workshops and last but not least by practicing everyone can increase their skills..
It also helps to think of communication as craftsmanship rather than a given talent beyond your control.. You can learn many techniques, for example:
- How do I build a story?
- How do I introduce protagonists?
- How do I build transitions?
- How do I develop a story?
- How can I arrange beginning or end?
- How do I alternate scenes and information?
- How do I make my text more pleasing?
Other skills that contribute to successful science communication include dealing with people: research, trust building or leadership. They are just as easy to learn as communication skills. The more you practice, the faster you will progress!