Riding the Waves of Science Communication

Last weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to speak at a science communication workshop at The Hatchery, located just north of Durban. This wasn’t just any workshop; it was a gathering of marine biology students who are part of the Ocean Stewards programme which focuses on nurturing the next generation of ocean advocates and marine scientists.

Picture this: a beautiful coastal setting, the sound of waves crashing in the background, and a room full of eager students ready to dive into the world of science communication. My session was all about helping these future marine biologists communicate their research and findings in a way that would be easily understood by the general public. We kicked things off by discussing the foundation of effective communication. Here are some key points we covered:

1. Know Your Audience: Understanding who you’re talking to is crucial. Whether it’s policymakers, fellow scientists, or the general public, tailoring your message to your audience is the first step to effective communication.

2. Clarity is Key: Science can be complex, but your message doesn’t have to be. We talked about breaking down complex ideas into simple, digestible pieces without losing the essence of the message.

3. Find the Connector: Once you know who your audience is, find something that can connect them to you before presenting your topic - it could be children, food or the latest news trending globally.

   
   

One of the highlights of the workshop was the hands-on activities. We had the students get into small groups and practice explaining a complex story in a manner that would be easily understood by imaginary audiences like pre-school children, radio show listeners and friends. It was amazing to see how quickly they adapted their communication skills.

Communication, no matter what profession you find yourself in, is the lifeline of your career development. It should be treated as such. Effective communication is more important than ever, especially in the field of science. By helping these students learn how to share their knowledge in an accessible way, we’re not only empowering them but also contributing to a more informed and engaged public.

Communication, no matter what profession you find yourself in, is the lifeline of your career development.

The workshop at The Hatchery was a fantastic experience, and I left feeling inspired by the passion and dedication of the Ocean Stewards. It’s events like these that remind me why I love what I do. If you’re interested in learning more about the Ocean Stewards programme, check out their work here