Communicating Science: Engaging Policymakers
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Communicating Science Workshop’s goals include building scientists’ communication skills and confidence in engaging with public audiences and providing best practices for use of different communication methods and mechanisms. The program uses empirical evidence from research in science communication and public engagement with science and maintains an evaluation program that confirms workshops are meeting defined goals.
The one-hour Engaging Policymakers module illuminates the policy landscape, illustrating where and how policy happens and the many roles scientists and engineers can play in decision-making. Participants develop an individual engagement goal, strategically identify a target audience and identify key ideas around which to center conversations. Facilitators guide participants through thinking critically about mechanisms for engaging policymakers, encouraging dialogue, and evaluating their activity to inform future engagements. Participants analyze a real-world example that informs their engagement plans.