Dissemination Versus Dialogic Science Communication: How Do the Deeply Involved Wish to Engage?

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study explores whether the emphasis of science news websites on dissemination over dialogue corresponds to the actual preferences of their science-oriented audiences. Based on interviews with science news website administrators (n = 8) and readers (n = 20) and two reader questionnaires (n = 89; n = 55), we found that readers favor dissemination, yet certain readers may also desire interactive discussions. Readers perceive the ability to comment as beneficial for readers and administrators; however, they do not expect administrators to engage in dialogue. Younger audiences showed a somewhat greater preference for online dialogic communication than their older counterparts.

Original languageEnglish
JournalScience Communication
DOIs
StateAccepted/In press - 2024

Keywords

  • dialogue
  • dissemination
  • reader motivations
  • science news websites
  • science-oriented audiences

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Sociology and Political Science

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