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COMMUNITY:
Peer-reviewed article

Public science communication in Africa: views and practices of academics at the National University of Science and Technology in Zimbabwe

November 29, 2016 | Media and Technology, Informal/Formal Connections
This study of the science communication views and practices of African researchers ― academics at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) in Zimbabwe ― reveals a bleak picture of the low status of public science engagement in the developing world. Researchers prioritise peer communication and pay little attention to the public, policy makers and popular media. Most scientists believe the public is largely not scientifically literate or interested in research. An unstable funding environment, a lack of communication incentives and censoring of politically sensitive findings further constrain researchers' interest in public engagement. Most NUST academics, however, are interested in science communication training. We suggest interventions that could revive and support public science engagement at African universities.

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Heather Ndlovu
    Author
    Stellenbosch University
  • Marina Joubert
    Author
    Stellenbosch University
  • Nelius Boshoff
    Author
    Stellenbosch University
  • Citation

    ISSN : 1824-2049
    Publication Name: Journal of Science Communication
    Volume: 15
    Number: 6
    Resource Type: Research Products
    Discipline: General STEM
    Audience: Administration/Leadership/Policymakers | General Public | Scientists
    Environment Type: Media and Technology | Broadcast Media | Websites, Mobile Apps, and Online Media | Informal/Formal Connections | Higher Education Programs

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