Explaining Scientific Research to
General Audiences
METR 4433
Mesoscale Meteorology
Spring, 2016 Semester
Kelvin K. Droegemeier
School of Meteorology
University of Oklahoma
Many Resources Are Available
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Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science
(http://www.centerforcommunicatingscience.org/)
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American Association for the Advancement of
Science
(http://www.aaas.org/pes/communicatingscience)
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National Geographic
(http://voices.nationalgeographic.com/2013/10/11/5simple-tips-for-communicating-science/)
The Need is Great
How to Do It!
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Do not “dumb down” the science but use special
techniques to make it understandable
Know the background and interests of your
audience
Begin by providing a context for why the topic
is important – the “so what” factor – in ways
that resonate with the audience
Be well versed in your subject and make no
more than three points
Be enthusiastic and engaging, not too serious
How to Do It!
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Capture the audience in a dramatic way at
the start, e.g., ask a question, make a
compelling comment, do a show of hands
Use analogies to which people relate
Use props (including your body)
Tell a simple story to make a point that is
relevant and meaningful to everyday life
Use graphics/cartoons that aren’t complicated
Involve your audience via questions
Practice with non-experts