99th ESA Annual Meeting (August 10 -- 15, 2014)

WK 7

Overcoming Obstacles: Working with Journalists to Get Your Science “Out There”

What skills do you need to successfully communicate your science with journalists? What exactly is “successful” communication? How do you deal with complex topics and ideas? Communicating science is a crucial, but often challenging task. To complicate matters, the media landscape has shifted in the digital age. Journalists are not necessarily tied to specific media outlets and are often free to pursue diverse stories. Capitalizing on these new opportunities for media communications requires an understanding of the culture of journalism as compared with the culture of science. This workshop will help participants interact with journalists to communicate their science. Specifically, the goals of this workshop are (1) to provide insight into the journalistic enterprise; (2) to help participants understand their role in science-based journalism; (3) to help participants craft their message; and (4) to provide an opportunity to engage with practicing environmental science journalists.

After a discussion of the obstacles most scientists encounter when working with journalists, participants will work with award winning environmental science journalists and communication specialists to tackle the challenges and bridge understanding. One component will be designed to assist participants in crafting their message and communicating their science. The workshop will include round-table discussions, small group work, as well as interactive role play. By the end of the workshop, participants should have an improved understanding for communicating with and engaging journalists in their work.