A European network for science communication excellence
Science communication is a vital link between research and society. In order to make informed personal and political choices on issues such as food, technology, medicine, health, the environment, and many more, the public needs access to the best scientific knowledge, communicated effectively. Yet citizens’ access to science faces evolving challenges, both in Europe and around the world. These include a rise in disinformation, a fragmentation of the media landscape, and a general polarisation of views regarding scientific discourse. In addition, science communication itself is an increasingly varied and democratised practice, with research findings more easily accessible and a proliferation of ways to communicate this to a range of audiences, including via social media, podcasts and blogs. In recognition of this, the COALESCE project was launched to build a sustainable European Competence Centre for Science Communication, and an associated Science Communication Academy. Together they will foster connections between scientists, journalists, policymakers and citizens across Europe and beyond, and act as a focal point for training, discussions and collaboration in science communication activities. Coordinated by Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands, COALESCE brings together a consortium of 13 European partners. The project draws from a broad section of scientific input, incorporating social sciences and indigenous knowledge, and will work beyond project partners in Europe, with contributions from academics and practitioners in countries as far away as South Africa and New Zealand.
A European-wide network for excellence
Working together, COALESCE partners will create a virtual Competence Centre represented by national and regional hubs across Europe. The Competence Centre will gather relevant expertise, including projects funded through the EU Science with and for Society (SwafS) programme, as well as other EU-funded and national science-communication projects. Working with relevant stakeholders, COALESCE will transform this knowledge into tools and best practices to achieve high-quality, evidence-based and interdisciplinary science communication, made available through open access resources. Recognising the essential role of journalists, editors, press officers, film and audio producers and other creators of scientific content, COALESCE will also set up a Science Communication Academy under the umbrella of the Competence Centre. This will provide bespoke, tailored science communication training, both self-guided and delivered by experts, directing practitioners to best resources and advice. To support these twin projects, COALESCE will also establish a library of resources, tools, handbooks and training opportunities in the EU. The COALESCE project will additionally work to translate research, materials and resources, making them available to a broader array of EU citizens and strengthening international connections. COALESCE acts as a beacon for the future of science communication in Europe, lighting the way to a more connected, informed and engaged society, where citizens are able to access and make use of scientific knowledge in their daily lives. Ultimately the work will ensure a wide range of scientific evidence is more effectively integrated with policymaking across Europe, improving citizens’ lives.
Keywords
COALESCE, science communication, excellence, competence centre, academy, training, resources, tools, engaged