the-BA : Scientists

One of the aims of the community x-change is to provide dialogue opportunities for non-specialist scientists.

Whilst many scientists in universities and research institutions desire to be involved in science communication activities, many feel they do not have the time, skills or resources to do so. Of course, many scientists do give science communication a high priority but in many areas of the country these individuals are the exception rather than the rule.

Scientists are often called upon in engagement processes such as citizens' juries, generally being invited to provide expert opinions. In the community x-change workshops, a small number of scientists are being recruited as participants, or non-experts. They will have the chance to experience a dialogue process from the inside, seeing how complex science issues can be framed in ways that allow anyone to express an opinion and taking part in that process.

In East Anglia, eight scientists were involved in the workshops as non-specialists. Some of them wrote diaries (pdf 157KB) detailing their experiences. It was both encouraging and very interesting that both scientists and non-scientists co-existed in the workshops without any apparent friction.

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