“Content is King” and other Myths around Science Communication
A 2016 Innovation Week event
Dr Andi Horvath
Media Advisor, Podcast Producer and Communications Trainer
The University of Melbourne
The so-called information age we live in could just as well be called the “misinformation age”. The public awareness of science and capacity for critical thinking seems more important than ever before.
One key to the public understanding of science and scientific thinking is scientists’ understanding of the media. Insights into what gets on screen, on air, online or in print, and why and how, is useful for crafting tomorrow’s messages for various media and audiences.
There is a chorus of scientists saying they don’t have time for science communication or to ‘up’ their media skills. And why should they? Things get “dumbed-down” anyway, media get it wrong, and some people don’t respond to logic. However, researchers can overcome all of these issues. But be warned – some approaches will be counter intuitive and it will involve dispelling some myths around science communication. An important thought: are we now in an era where context is the new King?
About the speaker:
Dr Andi Horvath is currently a guest lecturer for Science in the Media, a Podcast producer and Pod Hub Coordinator for the University of Melbourne.
Seven things about Dr Andi Horvath:
- Andi has a PhD in Medicine, an MBA and qualifications in Media and Science Communication.
- Andi won an international award for her podcast series Access All Areas made for Museum Victoria where she was a Senior Curator.
- Known as Dr Andi, she was a science producer and broadcaster on 3RRR for over 20 years and has also worked for ABC and SBSTV.
- She has produced exhibitions, videos, audio, public programs, training programs, blogs and articles for organizations including the University of Melbourne and CSIRO.
- She is a seasoned public speaker and has lectured and tutored in Science Education, Science Communication and Science in Society.
- As a former member of a Science Circus she is prone to exploding into interpretive dance when explaining the actions of molecules.
- Andi trains scientists in communication skills and mind-sets through her program Science Communication Gym ©.
